Kriti Sanon says ‘don’t use physical scrubs’: here’s why they are ‘really bad’

Let’s decode what are physical scrubs and why are they ‘really bad’ for your skin.

Why are physical scrubs used?

Exfoliation is the removal of dead cells from the outermost surface of your skin by physical or chemical methods. Physical scrubs are a popular choice when it comes to exfoliating the skin to achieve a radiant complexion. These scrubs contain small, gritty particles designed to physically remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. “These particles can be made from natural substances like crushed walnut shells, apricot pits, or synthetic materials like microbeads,” said Dr Vichitra Sharma, consultant, dermatology, Amrita Hospital Faridabad.

Why are they not good for your skin?

Microtears and skin damage

The coarse nature of physical scrubs can cause microtears in the skin, leading to irritation, inflammation, and an increased risk of infection. Over time, this damage can compromise the skin’s barrier, making it more sensitive and prone to redness and breakouts, shared Dr Sharma.

Over-exfoliation

Regular use of physical scrubs can result in over-exfoliation, stripping the skin of its natural oils. This can disrupt the skin’s balance, causing dryness, excessive oil production, or acne, shared Dr Sharma. Dermatologist Dr Atula Gupta said that manual scrubbing is incompatible with certain skin diseases such as rosacea, acne, or sensitive skin which may flare up symptoms of these conditions. “Ironically, over-exfoliation can trigger breakouts as the skin compensates by producing excess oil, leading to clogged pores. Consistent use of harsh physical scrubs can cause long term skin damage,” said Dr Gupta.

Persistent inflammation and damage to the skin barrier can trigger skin thinning causing premature ageing leading to loss of elasticity and fine lines, mentioned Dr Gupta. “Repeated trauma to the skin may form dark spots also known as post inflammatory hyperpigmentation especially in darker skin tones,” said Dr Gupta.

Environmental impact

According to Dr Sharma, many physical scrubs contain plastic microbeads, which do not biodegrade and can cause significant harm to marine life when washed down the drain. “While many countries have banned these microbeads, alternatives often still have environmental concerns,” said Dr Sharma.

Should you be using scrubs? (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Uneven exfoliation

Natural exfoliants like nut shells and pits can have uneven edges, making them more likely to cause scratches and uneven exfoliation compared to uniformly shaped particles, shared Dr Sharma.

What can be done?

Dr Sharma said that switching from physical scrubs to “gentler, more effective alternatives” can help maintain healthy, glowing skin without the risks associated with harsh exfoliation.

*Chemical exfoliants include alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid and lactic acid and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) like salicylic acid. Dr Sharma described that chemical exfoliants work by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to be shed more easily. “They offer a gentler and more controlled exfoliation process without the risk of physical abrasion. There are varying strengths of the chemical peels, milder peels with strengths less than five per cent may be used at home but after consulting a dermatologist according to your skin type and condition. Stronger and higher-strength peels should be done by dermatologists only,” said Dr Sharma.

*Derived from fruits such as papaya, pineapple, and pumpkin, enzyme exfoliants break down the keratin in dead skin cells. They are typically milder than both physical and chemical exfoliants, making them suitable for sensitive skin types.

*Keratolytic agents like retinol creams and body lotions can be used for exfoliation of the face for anti-ageing , fine lines, and also for thickened areas of skin like over elbows, strawberry legs, and arms (keratosis pilaris), etc., but these are all to be used under your dermatologist guidance.

*Exfoliating procedures like microdermabrasion, and Medi facials which are done by dermatologists according to skin concerns

*Keeping the skin well-moisturised can naturally aid in the exfoliation process. “Ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin can help maintain the skin’s moisture balance, encouraging cell turnover without the need for abrasive scrubbing,” said Dr Sharma.

Dr Shareefa Chause, dermatologist and cosmetologist, Shareefa’s Skin Care Clinic said that one should avoid scrubbing more than once or twice a week to prevent the risk of over-exfoliation. “Be gentle and use light pressure while applying scrub especially around sensitive areas like around the eyes, or lips for effective results,” said Dr Chause.

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