What's the difference between a scrub, a peel and an exfoliant?

For many people, beauty industry terminology can be quite confusing. And we get it! At Food for Skin, we like clarity too ☺ In the blog below you'll read more about what the official definitions are, what the main differences are, and how to choose the right product for your skin condition (at Food for Skin we prefer to talk about skin condition rather than skin type, because your skin condition can change throughout the year).

What is a scrub and what does scrubbing actually do?

A scrub is a skincare product that contains fine granules or particles. These granules work mechanically, buffing away dead skin cells as you massage the skin. The result is a softer, smoother skin that's better able to absorb nourishing ingredients.

Scrubbing stimulates blood circulation and promotes cell renewal.

Do note: scrubbing can sometimes also damage the skin barrier, the skin's protective layer, which makes it extra sensitive to, for example, UV radiation and therefore sunburn. So don't scrub too often, and do it before bed, preferably when UV intensity is at its lowest, because your skin really needs to recover.

In the past, tiny plastic granules were used as a scrub, which thankfully is no longer allowed. If you choose a scrub, make sure the granules have a nicely rounded shape, so they roll over the skin instead of scraping it.

Food for Skin doesn't have a scrub, because we know from experience that not everyone pays close enough attention to the risks. We don't want to take any risks with your skin, so we decided not to include one in our range, and to go for the alternative instead: the Peeling.

We do have a Loofah, which can be used as a scrub in the shower together with the Body Bar(s) or the Elderberry Shower Oil. Moving it gently over the skin in circular motions stimulates blood circulation and promotes cell renewal. Want to know more? Read it here.

What is a peel and how do you use it on your face?

A facial peel can be synthetic, natural, or even mechanical. A mechanical peel again involves granules. However, the term "peel" generally refers to a product without granules (a mechanical peel), which instead uses active ingredients that weaken the bond between skin cells, making them easier to shed.

A synthetic (artificial) peel uses active ingredients such as AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) or BHAs (beta hydroxy acids). Many clinics and salons now offer deep synthetic peels. Look carefully into the pros and cons of these peels. They can work so deep into the skin that your entire skin barrier is removed to stimulate cell renewal. At Food for Skin, we feel this is too big an intervention in the fantastic natural way the skin maintains itself. With this kind of treatment, you're temporarily very susceptible to sunlight and free radicals from outside, which could cause other problems. Your skin really needs that skin barrier, so if a deep peel isn't really necessary, we wouldn't be quick to recommend it.

A natural peel also uses these active AHAs and BHAs, but derived from natural fruit acids, such as from apples. These are generally much milder peels and therefore "gentler" on your skin. The Apple Peeling also contains enzymes that essentially dissolve dead skin cells and make them easy to remove. So remove the Peeling after 10 minutes with a soft cloth and lukewarm water, taking it off with gentle circular movements. Don't scrub hard!

This results in a more even, radiant complexion without the rough scraping motion of a scrub. However, the same warning applies here: after use, your skin is more sensitive to sunlight. That's because dead skin cells normally also offer protection against the sun. If you remove them, your natural protective layer is gone too. So always apply plenty of at least factor 30 sunscreen in the days after using the Peeling, even if you're "only" cycling for 10 minutes!

What is an exfoliant or exfoliator?

Exfoliant is an umbrella term for all methods and products that remove dead skin cells. This can happen mechanically (physically) – so with granules – or in a synthetic or natural way. Exfoliants help renew the skin, reduce clogged pores and improve the overall texture and appearance of the skin.

So what are the differences between a peel, a scrub and an exfoliant?

There are many similarities and a few differences. All these products aim to remove dead skin cells, leaving the skin feeling soft, fresh and clean.

The fundamental difference between a peel, a scrub and an exfoliant lies in how they work:

• A scrub uses physical, often coarse particles to mechanically remove dead skin cells.

• A peel uses active substances that weaken the bond between skin cells. This often makes the peel gentler on the skin and allows it to achieve a more even exfoliation.

• An exfoliant is the umbrella term or collective term for both scrub and peel.

Choosing between a peel or a scrub depends on your skin's needs, the desired intensity and your personal preference.

How do you choose the right method for your skin type/skin condition?

For healthy skin, it's important to choose a method that suits your specific skin type and condition:

• Sensitive skin: Choose a gentle peel or a mild exfoliator that works without too much scrubbing.

• Normal to dry skin: A gentle scrub can help remove dead skin cells without irritating the skin.

• Oily or combination skin: Consider an exfoliant that combines both mechanical and dissolving actions, so you cleanse the pores effectively without excessive irritation.

Remember that over-exfoliating can damage the skin. Use a mild exfoliant, and really no more than twice a week at most. Always listen to your skin's signals. Does it feel red? Irritated? Getting too dry? Then this isn't the product for you!

Then consult a skincare expert. Here you can find a list of Food for Skin skin specialists.

If you're now thinking: I'm looking for a nice, mild and natural peel, then we recommend the Food for Skin Apple Peeling combined with a washable face cloth. Afterwards, always protect your skin extra for a few days with an SPF, for example our Kakadu Plum SPF30.