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But no one can deny the enduring popularity of scrubs like these, from the classicSt.
Getty / TanyaRow
So how risky is it really to use a scrub like this?
As usual, the answer is nowhere near as simple as its made out to be.
Lets talk about exfoliation.
In healthy skin, this process takes about six weeks.
You cannot have healthy skin without an intact, functioning stratum corneum.
If its broken or too thin, it can cause dryness, irritation, and even infection.
But swinging too far in the other direction is also problematic.
acnesbacteria, both of which contribute to acne.
This is where exfoliation comes in.
So scrubs = prime exfoliation, right?
Scrubs areoneway to exfoliate your skin, but theyre not the only way.
Aside from their different mechanisms, the main difference between chemical and physical exfoliants is potency.
But regardless of the exact method, all exfoliation is just intentional, controlled skin damage.
If you overuse them, youll get more damage than you bargained for.
OK, but what about micro-tears?
When overused, all exfoliants have the potential to irritate or straight-up damage your skin.
So why do scrubs get so much hate?
The concept of micro-tears was at the center of a2016 class action lawsuitagainst Unilever, which owns St. Ives.
First, the potential for exfoliation-related damage isnt exclusive to scrubs.
Finally, remember that scrubs are ultimately superficial.
Heres how to know if youve over-exfoliatedand what to do about it.
If youve damaged your stratum corneum, there are a few common signs.
So if your usual moisturizer or sunscreen stings when you put it onand it usually doesntyou may be over-exfoliating.
If this happens to you, dont panicyour skin will heal in time.
Until then, stop using everything except a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen.
You’ve got to be careful about what you’re applying onto that compromised skin, Dr. Obagi says.
You should be back to normal in six to eight weeks.
When used correctlysparingly and with gentle pressurescrubs arent inherently dangerous.
Theyre just another way to achieve smooth, glowing skin.
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