To Scrub or To Wash First? My Honest Skin Diary
“Pehle wash karoon ya scrub karoon… mujhe lagta hai meri skin bhi soch rahi hoti hai — yeh ladki kab seekhegi?” 😅I’m literally writing this sitting on my bathroom floor with a towel on my head. My hands still smell of face wash and my scrub is sitting open on the counter, staring at me like “pick me already”. If you’ve been in the same spot — confused, tired, wanting good skin but not a ten-step manual — this post is for you.
Why the Order Actually Matters 🧩
I used to think it didn’t. “Product toh product hai,” right? Wrong. Using your scrub before washing is like dusting your furniture before moving out the junk. You end up just spreading the mess around. Washing first clears the muck so exfoliation can really do its thing. The difference shows up over time: fewer breakouts, smoother texture, less irritation.
Face Wash — My Everyday MVP 🧼
Face wash is my daily detox. In Delhi’s dust, it’s the only thing standing between my pores and a mini apocalypse. A decent cleanser takes off sweat, sebum, pollution and leftover sunscreen so the rest of your skincare isn’t just sitting on top of yesterday’s grime. Without this step, even the fanciest scrub feels like a waste.
Scrubs — The Little Polishers 🌿
Scrubs are like a mini facial at home. They buff off dead cells, give you that “soft cheeks” feel and help products sink in. But they’re also the easiest thing to overdo. Been there, scrubbed that, ended up with red, cranky skin. These days I stick to gentle scrubs (oats or rice powder based) once or twice a week, not every day. My skin has literally thanked me for it.
Scrub First or Wash First? My Verdict ⚡
I’ve tried both. Scrubbing first felt like rubbing dust into my skin — not cute. Washing first, then scrubbing? Game changer. Most derms I’ve spoken to agree. You’re clearing the canvas first, then polishing. It’s cleaner, safer, and you don’t end up with random zits after “exfoliation day.”
Skin Type Guide 💁♀️
How I Actually Do It 🚿
Step 1: Wash
I wet my face with lukewarm water, massage my cleanser for a good minute. This alone makes my skin feel alive.
Step 2: Scrub
Then I go in with my scrub, light circles, no pressure. Focus on nose and chin, skip cheeks if they’re moody.
Step 3: Rinse & Dry
Cool water, soft towel. Pat, don’t rub.
Step 4: Moisturize
Hydration is non-negotiable. Exfoliation without moisture is like chai without sugar — pointless.
Mistakes I’ve Made ❌
- Scrubbing daily (my skin revolted).
- Using harsh walnut scrubs (micro tears galore).
- Forgetting sunscreen after exfoliation.
- Mixing scrub + strong acid toner on the same night (hello redness).
What Happened When I Got It Right 🌟
- My skin texture smoothed out.
- Fewer whiteheads and breakouts.
- Serums started working better.
- People actually asked if I was “doing something new.”
TL;DR 📝
- Wash first, scrub second — that’s the sweet spot.
- Scrub gently 1–3 times a week max.
- Always moisturize and protect afterwards.
- Treat your face like silk, not a dirty plate.
FAQs 🙋♀️
Q. Can I scrub daily?
Nope. I learned the hard way — it just irritates your skin.
Q. Is scrubbing safe for acne?
Yes, but only very gentle scrubs and once a week.
Q. Should I double cleanse before scrubbing?
If you’re wearing heavy makeup or SPF, yes.
Q. Can I use scrub and chemical exfoliants together?
Don’t, unless a derm tells you to. It’s overkill.
That’s it. Next time you’re stuck in your bathroom with a scrub in one hand and face wash in the other, do what I do: wash first, scrub later, and finish with a good moisturizer. Simple. Effective. And your skin won’t hate you for it. 😌✨