What is the Difference Between Scrub and Cleanser

The main difference between scrub and cleanser is their function. Scrubs exfoliate the skin and remove dry, dead skin cells from your face, whereas cleansers gently clean the skin on the face.

In brief, cleansers and scrubs are two essential skincare products in one’s daily routine. Both help to clean and clear the face. But you should remember to use the cleanser before you use the scrub on your face.

Key Areas Covered

1. What is a Scrub
– Definition, Features
2. What is a Cleanser
– Definition, Features
3. Difference Between Scrub and Cleanser
– Comparison of Key Differences

Key Terms

Cleanser, Scrub

What is a Scrub

A scrub is a cream-based skincare product with tiny exfoliating particles. Massaging this product across the skin removes dry, dead skin cells and helps to smooth the skin. When choosing a scrub, it is better to choose a scrub with artificial grains like polyethylene grains and jojoba beads instead of scrubs with natural seeds or shells or ingredients like apricot kernels, which may cause irritations. This is especially true for sensitive and acne-prone skin.

Moreover, a scrub is an added step to the basic cleanser–toner–moisturizer routine. It can deeply cleanse your face, remove blackheads, and tone your face by reactivating your skin’s microcirculation. You have to apply it to slightly damp skin and massage it in a circular motion for about a minute. Avoid pressing too hard on the skin, as it can cause irritation.

What is a Cleanser

A cleanser is a skincare product that removes dirt, oil, makeup, and other pollutants from the skin. Cleansers can unclog pores in the skin and help to clean the top skin cells. They can be used daily to clean your face. It’s important to cleanse your skin in the morning as well as in the evening.

Cleansers come in different forms; there are differences in their consistencies and even the way to use them. Some types of cleansers have to be rinsed, while others can be used with a cotton pad. Moreover, they can be creams, foaming gels, balms, and micellar waters. It’s important to choose the type of cleanser that best suits your skin type. Gel cleansers, which have a gel-like consistency, usually have deep-cleaning and exfoliating properties, and they are good for oily, acne-prone skin. Cream cleansers, on the other hand, are typically thicker and have the ability to moisturize the skin; they are perfect for dry or sensitive skin. Moreover, foam cleansers are lightweight solutions having a foamy lather. They are effective as gel cleansers in removing excessive oil and are also pleasant to use. Foam cleansers are good for combination skin.

Difference Between Scrub and Cleanser

Definition

A scrub is a cream-based skincare product with tiny exfoliating particles, while a cleanser is a skincare product that removes dirt, oil, makeup, and other pollutants from the skin.

Function

Scrubs exfoliate the skin and remove dry, dead skin cells from your face, whereas cleansers gently clean the skin on the face.

Order of Use

A cleanser should be used before a scrub.

Regular Use

Cleansers can be used every day, even multiple times a day, but scrubs should be used once every few days.

Conclusion

The main difference between scrub and cleanser is their function. Scrubs exfoliate the skin and remove dry, dead skin cells from your face, whereas cleansers gently clean the skin on the face. You should always cleanse your face before you use a scrub.