I tried this Trader Joe’s facial cleanser. I have such a love hate relationship with this product. Sometimes, I felt like it was really getting in there and cleaning my face. Others? It felt too abrasive, like sand rubbing around on my face but somehow without actually doing anything to exfoliate. I sort of used this for daily use as the backside says is acceptable to do — but I get the feeling it’s not meant to be an everyday cleanser. It didn’t necessarily exfoliate and help get rid of any acne scarring, prevent or reduce acne, brighten, etc.
When I used The Ordinary Glycolic Acid Toner right after it, I was still picking up a decent amount of dirt/dead skin off my face so perhaps it wasn’t cleaning my face as well as I thought it would. When a product really does a good job cleaning, my cotton pads stay white when I use it. I’ve had facial cleansers in the past for which I used glycolic acid afterwards and had that happen.
I really wanted to like this product, and sometimes it really did give me that deep exfoliating feeling. But I think it did a whole lot of nothing was ultimately too harsh for my skin. Maybe this will work for someone else’s?
7/9 Edited to
... Read moreIt's tough when a much-hyped product, like a popular exfoliating scrub, doesn't quite live up to expectations, right? Many of us are on the hunt for that perfect facial cleanser or scrub that promises glowing, clear skin. When I first heard about the Trader Joe's Microdermabrasion Scrub, especially seeing it labeled as 'dermatologist formulated' and packed with 'fruit extracts,' I was intrigued, hoping it would be a game-changer for my skin texture and occasional breakouts.
But what exactly is a microdermabrasion scrub, and how should we approach using one? Essentially, these are physical exfoliants designed to gently buff away dead skin cells from the surface of your skin. The idea is to reveal brighter, smoother skin underneath, and over time, help with things like uneven texture, dullness, and even the appearance of acne scarring. However, the key word here is 'gently.' If a scrub feels like 'sand rubbing around on your face,' as some have experienced, it might be doing more harm than good.
My personal journey with physical scrubs has taught me a lot about listening to my skin. While the allure of instant smoothness is strong, excessive or harsh scrubbing can lead to irritation, redness, and even compromise your skin's protective barrier. If you're using a microdermabrasion scrub and finding that your cotton pads still pick up dirt after toning, or if your skin feels raw rather than refreshed, it’s a clear sign to reassess. Consider adjusting how often you use it – perhaps not every day – or applying less pressure during your cleanse. Many 'dermatologist formulated' products focus on efficacy, but individual skin types react differently.
For those who find physical scrubs like the Trader Joe's option too abrasive or simply not effective enough for concerns like stubborn acne or brightening, there are fantastic alternatives. Chemical exfoliants, such as those containing AHAs (like glycolic acid or lactic acid, often derived from 'fruit extracts') or BHAs (like salicylic acid), work differently by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells. These can often provide a more even and less irritating exfoliation, making them a great choice for sensitive or acne-prone skin. I've personally found that incorporating a gentle AHA toner a few times a week can achieve that sought-after glow without the harshness of a physical scrub.
Ultimately, finding the right exfoliating routine is a personal quest. Whether you stick with a physical exfoliant like the Trader Joe's Microdermabrasion Scrub or explore chemical options, always prioritize your skin's health. Pay attention to how your skin feels, introduce new products slowly, and don't be afraid to switch things up if a product isn't delivering the results you hoped for. Every skin journey is unique, and sometimes, a product that works wonders for one person might just be a 5/10 for another.