Face Wash vs Face Scrub: What Is the Difference?

Face wash and face scrub are often treated as the same thing, but they do different jobs.

A face wash is for regular cleansing: removing the day’s sweat, oil, dirt and sunscreen without giving your skin a full sanding-down. A face scrub is an exfoliator. It helps lift away dead skin cells and can leave your face feeling smoother, but it is not something most people need to use every day.

For a simple men’s skincare routine, face wash is the regular step. A natural face scrub is the occasional reset.

What Does Face Wash Do?

A face wash is designed to clean your skin gently. It is useful after training, commuting, working outdoors or simply getting through a normal day.

Using a cleanser regularly can help remove surface build-up and leave your skin feeling fresh without the tight, stripped feeling that harsher products can cause.

The best face wash is not necessarily the one that makes your face feel squeaky-clean. If your skin feels dry, sore or uncomfortable afterwards, it may be a sign that the product is too harsh for you or that you are cleansing too often.

What Does Face Scrub Do?

A face scrub uses fine particles to exfoliate the skin. In simple terms, it helps remove dead skin cells sitting on the surface of your face.

Used gently, a face scrub can help with rough-feeling areas and leave skin looking and feeling smoother. It can be especially useful around the nose, forehead and beard area, where skin can feel a little more congested or uneven.

The important word is gently. Scrubbing harder will not give you better results. It is more likely to leave skin irritated.

Face Wash vs Face Scrub: Which One Do You Need?

Most people will benefit more from a regular gentle face wash than from using a face scrub all the time.

Think of it this way:

• Face wash: for keeping your face clean as part of your regular routine.

• Face scrub: for occasional exfoliation when your skin feels dull, rough or in need of a refresh.

You can use both, but they do not have to be used at the same frequency. If you are new to skincare, keep it simple: cleanse regularly and add a scrub carefully when your skin feels like it needs it.

How Often Should You Use a Face Scrub?

There is no one answer for everyone, but once a week is a sensible place to start.

If your skin is comfortable with it, some people may prefer to use a gentle face scrub up to twice a week. If your face becomes red, dry, tight or irritated, take a break and use it less often.

Avoid using a scrub on sunburnt, broken, inflamed or irritated skin. If you have very sensitive skin or a skin condition such as eczema or rosacea, it is best to be especially cautious and speak to a healthcare professional if you are unsure.

How to Use a Face Scrub Without Overdoing It

Use light pressure and let the scrub do the work. There is no need to push or scrub at your face as if you are cleaning a dirty pan.

Wet your face, apply the scrub gently in small circular movements, then rinse thoroughly. Follow with a moisturiser if it suits your routine.

Be careful not to pile on lots of exfoliating products at once. A scrub, strong acids and other active skincare products can be too much for some skin types when used together.

How to Make a Face Scrub Last Longer

A little goes a long way with Bare Bar’s Botanical Cleansing Face Scrub. It is a dry powder scrub, so you can mix only what you need each time rather than squeezing out more product than necessary.

Use a small pinch in the palm of your hand and mix it with an equal amount of water before applying it to a damp face. This gives you enough for a gentle exfoliation without wasting product.

Keep the jar dry and use clean, dry fingers or a small spoon when taking out the powder. Water getting into a dry product can affect its texture and how long it stays at its best.

Because it is designed for occasional use and only needs a small amount each time, a jar should last much longer than a product you use every day. Exactly how long depends on how much you use and how often you exfoliate.

A Simple Routine That Makes Sense

You do not need a shelf full of products to look after your skin.

Start with regular cleansing, moisturise if your skin feels dry, and use a face scrub occasionally for a smoother, refreshed feel. Pay attention to how your skin responds rather than following someone else’s routine exactly.

Bare Bar’s Botanical Cleansing Face Scrub is made with a dry blend of oatmeal, apricot kernel powder and botanicals. It is a practical option for anyone looking for a natural face scrub to use as part of a straightforward skincare routine.

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