The Best Facial Exfoliator Tool and Methods of 2024

Do you exfoliate your skin? Exfoliation is a little contested these days, with many people asking “does exfoliation cause breakouts?” or “is exfoliation really necessary?” 

We think the reason these question marks hover over exfoliation is that many of us simply don’t know how to exfoliate properly. In reality, gentle exfoliation has so many benefits and is key to revealing radiant, healthy skin. It buffs away dead skin cells, encourages collagen production, and allows your skincare products to work more effectively. 

With the right exfoliation method, you can brighten your complexion, improve skin texture, and keep your skin glowing. But it’s crucial to find the best facial exfoliator for your skin type and concerns—and to learn how to exfoliate properly without overdoing it!

First, let’s do a quick recap of how to correctly exfoliate step-by-step:

1. Step 1—Cleanse first: Begin with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, makeup, and impurities from your skin.
2. Step 2—Apply your exfoliator: If using a physical exfoliator, gently massage it onto damp skin using circular motions. For chemical exfoliants, apply evenly and let it sit for the recommended time.

OR

1. Step 3—Use the Dr Tanya NuSonic Facial Exfoliator 2.0: For optimal results, switch your exfoliation formula for our handheld NuSonic tool. Glide the device over your face in upward, circular motions. Adjust settings based on your skin type. You can even combine this with step 2 (cleanse) for a faster skincare process.
2. Step 4—Rinse thoroughly: Wash off the exfoliant and/or cleanser with lukewarm water.
3. Step 5—Post-exfoliation care: Follow up with a hydrating serum and moisturiser, and apply SPF in the morning.

We’re going to single this one out because, unfortunately, sensitive skin can be tricky to exfoliate—but it is possible, and it still needs gentle care to stay smooth and clear. 

The challenge is finding the balance between removing dead cells without causing irritation. The best facial exfoliator for sensitive skin is one that’s gentle but effective.

Opt for enzyme-based exfoliators or low concentration alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), which dissolve dead skin without harsh scrubbing. 

Physical exfoliators can work too—just ensure they have smooth, rounded particles like those in the NuSonic Facial Exfoliator 2.0, which is designed to be non-abrasive yet highly effective. 

Remember, the key to exfoliating with sensitive skin is gentleness. Start slow, just once a week, and observe how your skin reacts. 

We recommend exfoliating no more than once a week if you have sensitive skin. If you notice any adverse reactions, switch up to a gentler exfoliant or ask a dermatologist about what kind of product you should use.

[Read Full Article: The Best Exfoliator Methods Based on Your Skin Type]

Incorporating exfoliation into your morning or nightly skincare routine doesn't have to be a hassle. There are so many products and formulas and tools on the market, and so much contradictory advice, that it can feel easier to simply throw in the (face) towel and forget about exfoliation altogether.

Stop right there and take a pause! There are easy ways to exfoliate your skin that fit into even the busiest schedule, and that cut through the skincare advice noise online:

• Exfoliating cleansers: One of the simplest approaches is using exfoliating cleansers. These multitaskers cleanse and exfoliate simultaneously, saving time and effort.
• Exfoliating masks: Another option is an exfoliating mask—apply it once or twice a week to give your skin a more intense treatment.  
• Two-in-one exfoliating brushes: Combine two skincare steps in one for the ultimate no-brainer, quick and easy exfoliating ritual. With a gentle exfoliating brush like our NuSonic, you can apply your cleanser to the soft bristles and buff in circles to knock over two steps in one. The cleanser will activate and sink deeper into your pores as the dead skin cells are gently buffed away at the same time. Easy!

Knowing when to exfoliate your face is crucial for healthy skin, and this is an element to exfoliation that many of us get wrong—which is where the problems lie. The solution starts with knowing your skin type and using that to determine your exfoliation ritual.

• For most skin types (like combination skin), exfoliating 2-3 times per week is ideal. 
• If you have oily or acne-prone skin, you can exfoliate slightly more frequently (but never daily!). We recommend 3 times per week. Keep in mind that if you’re prone to acne, you’ll be best off choosing a very gentle exfoliant.
• Those with dry or dehydrated skin will want to cut back a little to exfoliating 1-2 times per week.
• As we mentioned before, exfoliating with sensitive skin should be limited to once a week to avoid irritation.

Always pay attention to how your skin feels post-exfoliation. If it’s feeling too tight or looks red, pull back on how often you exfoliate. Your skin will tell you when enough is enough!

Once you've exfoliated, your skin is more receptive to treatments (which we love), but it’s also more vulnerable. Always follow up with ultra-hydrating products to replenish moisture. 

Consider soothing serums like the Holy Basil Face Serum, which calms the skin, or the Radiant Day Cream to lock in hydration.

And don’t skip the sunscreen—exfoliated skin is more sensitive to UV damage, so proper protection is a must. But that goes for all the time, so it’s not news to you, we’re sure!

When choosing products for your post-exfoliation care, opt for formulas which contain these key ingredients: 

• Hyaluronic Acid: A hydration powerhouse that draws moisture into the skin, leaving it plump and supple. 
• Ceramides: These lipids help restore and protect the skin barrier.
• Aloe Vera: Soothes and calms the skin, reducing redness and irritation.
• Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Helps improve skin texture, reduce inflammation, and boost moisture levels.
• Squalane: A lightweight oil that deeply hydrates without clogging pores.

There are several do’s and don’ts of facial exfoliation. Over-exfoliation is one of the most common “don’ts”, and it can lead to issues like redness, sensitivity, and even breakouts. 

It can also give exfoliation a bad rap, as some may think they’re exfoliating correctly when they’re actually overdoing it, leading them to believe that this vital skincare step is damaging.

Signs you’re over-exfoliating? Your skin feels tight, dry, or has become unusually sensitive. If you’re prone to acne and you notice breakouts in the days after you exfoliate, that could be another sign you’re doing a little too much.

Avoid using harsh, abrasive scrubs or tools that may tear the skin. Instead, stick with gentle exfoliators, like the best facial exfoliator tailored for your skin type. And always err on the side of less when in doubt—slow and steady wins the race for healthy, glowing skin.

Okay, call us biased—we’ll accept it! We just can’t go past the holy grail of facial exfoliators—Dr Tanya’s NuSonic 2.0—for every skin type.

Here’s why the NuSonic is the best facial exfoliator you can use:

• Ultrasonic vibrations: Gently buffs away dead skin, dirt, and buildup without damaging the skin barrier.
• Customisable levels: Adjustable settings cater to sensitive, dry, normal, or oily skin.
• Promotes collagen production: Stimulates collagen to reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
• Improves texture and tone: Leaves skin smoother, brighter, and more even.
• Gentle and versatile: Exfoliate more frequently without overdoing it.