Have you ever come across a very good face scrub commercial where the model was having trouble with an oily, dirty and messy-looking face situation, and all of a sudden she stumbled upon the greatness of face scrub—after spending a few moments lathering her face with that good face scrub and a splash of water?

The reality is, of course, face scrub or face exfoliation serves more than just helping you to get that glowy skin. And given the fact that there are over hundreds of face exfoliators available in the market, how are we supposed to know which are good at getting their job done? The secret is that it all lies in the ingredients. A good face exfoliator should always be able to remove all the dead skin cells that are trapped underneath, clean out the excess sebum and most importantly, leave your skin feeling fresher than ever. 

Check out Beauty Insider’s choices of the best face exfoliators available in the market today. Scrub all the dirt away, honey.

(Source: Google)

Why Exfoliators Are Important? 

Listen, we all have one face. There’s a reason why most people referred to their face as the biggest ‘’asset’’ out of all body parts—because our face is priceless, they do the talking before we could introduce ourselves, so it is vital for us to take care of its appearance. As we age, the stress and foul environment that we are constantly exposed to can build up clogged pores, dull skin and worse, fine lines. And that’s when face exfoliators come to play. 

We need to properly prep, smoothen, moisture and maintain them to look as healthy as possible. Exfoliators will help to shed all those dead skin cells called keratinocytes, that are trapped underneath your skin, clearing all the dirt to make a way for better and healthier skin to the surface. Not to mention, with a cleaner and smoother base, it’ll be much easier for your skincare products to absorb and penetrate into the deepest layer. Bottom line? Exfoliating is important to not only help brighten your complexion but also to allow skincare and makeup applications to be more effective. 

What To Look For In An Exfoliator?  

If you’re having severe breakout problems, we suggest you look for exfoliators with Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs). They work wonders in removing dead skin cells, and dissolving any acne buildups from within. However, if you have dry skin, look for something that has Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA), to restore back moisture in your skin muscles and lock in hydration. Last but not least, if you’re dealing with combination skin (lucky you), we recommend a physical-chemical hybrid. Also known as sandy, but not too harsh in texture, it can clean, clear and remove sebum build-ups without bothering your dry areas. 

(Source: Google)

Two Types Of Exfoliators

Believe it or not, there is actually more than just one type of exfoliator available. The first one, which is the common one, is a chemical exfoliator, which generally contains ingredients like acids and enzymes. This category is known to be the strong type of exfoliator, which usually can help to dissolve even the most stubborn acne problems. The second one is physical exfoliants. They’re jam-packed with ingredients that are kinder to the skin like seeds, powder or beads. If you have combination skin, this is what we’re suggesting. To be honest, both categories should be harmless to your skin, it’s a matter of how often you use them. 

16 Best Face Exfoliators In Malaysia 

1. Garden of EDEN Gentle Exfoliating Facial Scrub

This brand needs no introduction. Known for prioritizing natural ingredients, this Garden of Eden Gentle Exfoliating Facial Scrub will help to brighten and smoothen your complexion by washing away all those dead skin cells trapped within your skin. Leaving only the freshest and glowy radiance. If you have acne-prone skin you need to try this one. 

Why we love it: 

  • Free from harsh chemicals 
  • Only use skin-friendly ingredients 
  • Non-irritating 

Price: RM14.80 (Original price RM17.36)

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2. Cetaphil Daily Exfoliating Cleanser

Who says you can’t exfoliate your skin daily? They’re wrong. We are often exposed to a dirty environment, pollution and stress, so of course, daily exfoliation should be a normal thing. Like this facial scrub for Cetaphil. They’re very gentle and lightweight, suitable for your daily use. They will help to lessen any excess oil, dirt and sebum after spending the whole day sweating. A must-have for you with oily skin. 

Why we love it: 

  • Suitable for everyday use 
  • Suitable for oily skin 
  • Lightweight, non-irritated 

Price: RM32.19

Where to buy: Watsons

3. AXIS-Y Mugwort Pore Clarifying Wash Off Pack

AXIS-Y Mugwort Pore Clarifying Wash Off Pack is arguably the most coveted face exfoliator on the market. Harnessing the power of 61% mugwort extract, this wash-off pack permeates deep into the pores to clear out impurities. Its formulation is jam-packed with soothing properties for inflamed and irritated skin, while also retaining its hydration level. Thanks to the adzuki bean granules, it gently sloughs off dead skin cells and accelerates skin cell regeneration, revealing a healthy glow that you’ll adore. To experience its wonders, simply apply an even layer to your skin, allowing it to work its magic for approximately 15 minutes before rinsing your face.

Why we love it:

  • Deeply cleanses 
  • Calms irritated skin
  • Provides an Instant brightening effect

Price: RM85.00

Where to buy: Shopee, Watsons and TikTok

4. Hada Labo Softening & Exfoliating Face Wash

Containing skin booster elements such as Jojoba Beads, Salvia Sclarea Extract and Hyaluronic Acid, this softening and exfoliating face wash from Hada Labo is a  must-have for you with any skin type. It helps to hydrate, cleanse and exfoliate all dead skin and excess oil to create a way for better-looking skin.

Why we love it: 

  • An eco-friendly product 
  • Gentle on all skin types 
  • Smells refreshing

Price: RM26.50

Where to buy: Watsons

5. Kayman Beauty HoneyGlo Facial Exfoliant

With tons of positive reviews, it is no surprise that Kayman Beauty HoneyGlo Facial Exfoliant was crowned the winner of the Beauty Insider Malaysia Beauty and Wellness Awards 2022 for Best Face Exfoliator and Beauty Insiders’ Choice. This revolutionary hybrid exfoliator delivers three-factor exfoliation of fruit enzymes, physical exfoliant and chemical exfoliant.

These powerful exfoliating agents work collectively to gently eliminate dead skin, revealing a brighter and smoother-looking complexion. It has a gel-like texture that is gentle on the skin, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin. This highly rated product can be used in two different ways, on dry or damp skin, which is to ensure optimal results while adapting to the user’s personal preferences.

Why we love it:

  • Ideal for all skin types
  • Helps brighten dull-looking skin
  • Gentle formulation

Price: RM55.00

Where to buy: Kayman Beauty’s official website

6. OUTIN FUTURES NEOGEN Dermalogy Bio-Peel Gauze Peeling Green Tea Pads 

Easily exfoliate your skin with OUTIN FUTURES NEOGEN Dermalogy Bio-Peel Gauze Peeling Green Tea Pads. It has a serum formula that is soaked in Green Tea, along with other ingredients like Centella Asiatica extract.

Thanks to the cotton gauze peeling pads, it leaves your skin feeling refreshed and revitalised. What’s more, is that these cotton gauze pads are hypoallergenic and provide a dual texture layer which also exfoliates dead skin cells gently. Furthermore, it is also our Beauty Awards Winner for Best Skincare, Best Facial Exfoliator and Bloggers’ Choice 2022.

Why we love it:

  • Improves the condition of the skin
  • Moisturising effects
  • Exfoliates sebum

Price: RM120.62

Where to buy: Neogenlab

7. Simple Soothing Facial Scrub

Known for its soft, lightweight and kindness to skin texture, the soothing facial scrub from Simple will immediately cleanse and exfoliate your skin by removing all impurities, just to keep your skin looking brighter and feeling smoother than ever. Your makeup application will feel a lot smoother after washing your face with this exfoliator. 

Why we love it: 

  • No additional artificial ingredients 
  • Chemical free
  • Very lightweight texture 

Price: RM27.30

Where to buy: Watsons

8. Origins GinZing™ Refreshing Scrub Cleanser

This is a two-in-one exfoliator from Origins that acts both as a scrub and also a daily cleanser. It is packed with natural ingredients and skin booster elements like Panax Ginseng, Caffeine, Jojoba Oil and Carnauba Wax. They will help with the total elimination of dead skin cells and unclog pores. To make sure hydration sails smoothly into your skin. As a result, your skin feels smoother and brighter.

Why we love it: 

  • Jam-packed with skin nutrients 
  • No artificial ingredients
  • Suitable for everyday use 

Price: RM120.00

Where to buy: Sephora

9. Fresh Sugar Face Polish

Another two-in-one product! But instead of a daily cleanser, this Fresh Sugar Face Polish is both an exfoliator and also a face mask. Refine, buff and hydrate your skin to the deepest layers. Consist of brown sugar and strawberry seeds that are known to formulate your skin to make it even brighter than ever!

Why we love it: 

  • Rich in brown sugar and strawberry seeds
  • Smells refreshing 
  • Resulting in a brighter complexion

Price: RM280.00

Where to buy: Sephora

10. Clinique 7 Day Scrub Cream Rinse-Off Formula

This is by far the most trusted daily exfoliator because not only it is dermatologist tested and approved, but this Clinique 7 Day Scrub Cream is suitable for all skin types, ages and skin concerns! Seriously, what’s not to love about this product? The cream scrub is very hydrating and lightweight. You wouldn’t be able to feel irritated. 

Why we love it: 

  • Suitable for all skin types 
  • Suits all ages 
  • Creamy in texture, very lightweight 

Price: RM130.00

Where to buy: Sephora

11. Ole Henrikson Lemonade Smoothing Scrub

Lemon has always done the work in bringing your skin back to justice. That is why Ole Henriksen came up with this Lemonade Soothing Scrub product, which helps to exfoliate, restructure and polish the appearance of your skin. They will lift and clean all the remaining dead skin, leaving your skin purified and detoxified with a smoother appearance.

Why we love it: 

  • Contain lemon peel powder and sugar exfoliation 
  • Help to soothe and smooth your skin
  • Non-irritating

Price: RM156.00

Where to buy: Sephora

12. Neutrogena Deep Clean Blackhead Eliminating Daily Scrub

If you’re dealing with a blackheads problem, try this Neutrogena Deep Clean Blackhead Daily Scrub. They work like magic when it comes to removing blackheads, whiteheads and acne. If you’re prone to oily skin, you must try this one. 

Why we love it: 

  • Suitable for oily skin types 
  • Contains microbeads and cedrus atlantica bark extract
  • Freshen up  your face 

Price: RM26.90

Where to buy: Watsons

13.Himalaya Clear Complexion Whitening Face Scrub

This Himalaya Clear Complexion Whitening Face Scrub is compact with skin enhancers like Licorice Yashti-Madhu, Yashti-Madhuka, White Damer and Apricot. This face exfoliator will restore the skin’s glow and brighten your complexion that was once lost due to stress and pollution. Suitable for all skin types.  

Why we love it: 

  • Contain skin booster ingredients 
  • Brighten your face
  • Promote youthful glow

Price: RM36.70

Where to buy: Watsons

14. St. Ives Nourished & Smooth Oatmeal Face Scrub and Mask 

Those with sensitive skin will love using the St. Ives Nourished & Smooth Oatmeal Face Scrub and Mask. This 2-in-1 face scrub and mask helps nourish and soften the skin, as well as soothe any dryness to achieve more radiant-looking skin. Furthermore, its formula is made from 100% natural exfoliants and is also hypoallergenic! 

Why we love it: 

  • Cruelty-free
  • Dermatologist-tested
  • hypoallergenic

Price: RM21.50

Where to buy: Guardian

15. Kiehl’s Facial Fuel Energizing Face Scrub 

Kiehl’s Facial Fuel Energizing Face Scrub is the perfect product if you are in the habit of shaving every day. Not only does it help soften facial hair, but it also gets rid of any dirt, oil and impurities. Aside from that, the caffeine within its formula helps re-energise your skin, as well as reduce dullness and moisturise your skin. Furthermore, its formula also contains vitamin E to help combat UV damage. 

Why we love it: 

  • Smooth-texture
  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Non-drying 

Price: RM115.00

Where to buy: Kiehl’s

16. Aveeno Positively Radiant Skin Brightening Daily Scrub 

Achieve radiant-looking skin when you use the Aveeno Positively Radiant Skin Brightening Daily Scrub! It helps exfoliate the skin, brighten dull skin and evens out texture and skin tone. Its formula contains ingredients like jojoba oil, castor oil and soy extract to clarify and rebalance the skin. Thus, helps you achieve moisturised and smooth skin. 

Why we love it: 

  • Leaves no residue
  • Gentle on the skin
  • Better absorption of skincare products

Price: RM25.80

Where to buy: Shopee

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