Daily Scrubs

I use a granular scrub on my face every day. I want to make sure that my skin is really clean. Is it OK to do this every day?

The purpose of granular scrub is to remove dead skin and polish the surface of the skin, not to cleanse. Although some cleansers do contain buffing grains, using a mild granular scrub a few times per week is plenty. Too much manual exfoliation can irritate the surface of the skin, cause redness and inflammation, and create an unhealthy environment for skin cells. It is surely possible to feel clean without abrasive scrubs, but you will need to find a more effective system. Purchase an active cleanser with AHA's (like glycolic acid) in a liquid or gel form that rinses clean with water and avoid thick, creamy cleansers or bar soaps that may leave a residue behind. An alcohol-free toner is an optional step that may also help you feel fresh if you have a tough time adjusting to life without that daily scrub. Your routine should also include products that will encourage cell turnover (like Vitamin A derivatives or AHA's) that remain on the skin. These daily treatment agents will help prevent that dead skin build up that makes you want to reach for the gritty scrub each morning.