Exfoliating Cleanser: What it does and why your skin needs one

Photo by: @simoneschoemanprinsloo

Skincare doesn’t need to be complicated.

Exfoliating face washes, like our Exfoliating Cleanser, simplify your routine by combining two essential steps in one: cleansing and exfoliation. With one product, you can clear away dirt and oil while gently removing dead skin cells that make your skin look dull or congested.

At Upenya, we believe skincare should be gentle, effective, and science-based, especially for teen and acne-prone skin. Here’s everything you need to know about exfoliating cleansers and how they help your skin stay clean, calm, and healthy-looking.

What is an Exfoliating face wash?

An exfoliating face wash is a cleanser that does more than just clean. It removes dirt, sweat, and excess oil, but also contains ingredients like fruit acids (AHAs) that help your skin shed dead cells naturally. Unlike harsh scrubs, these chemical exfoliants dissolve buildup instead of scratching your skin, making them suitable for most skin types [1].

How does it work?

Your skin constantly renews itself, but dead cells sometimes stick to the surface, trapping oil and bacteria inside pores. Exfoliating cleansers speed up this natural process by helping skin shed those dull cells. This not only prevents blackheads and breakouts but also keeps your complexion smoother and more even [2].

Top benefits of an Exfoliating Cleanser.

1. Simplifies Your Routine

It’s a cleanser and exfoliator in one - perfect for busy mornings or post-sport showers. No extra steps needed.

2. Clears Away Oil and Impurities

Washing twice daily removes the buildup of sebum, bacteria, and sweat that can clog pores [3].

3. Helps Prevent Blackheads

By keeping pores clear, exfoliating cleansers reduce the risk of blackheads and small breakouts. Fruit acids like lactic and malic acid are especially effective in preventing comedone formation [4].

4. Reveals Smoother, Brighter Skin

Exfoliating removes dull, flaky cells and promotes a softer texture and natural glow [5].

5. Balances and Protects

A good exfoliating cleanser respects your skin barrier. Ingredients like Aloe ferox, marula oil, and Jojoba esters soothe, hydrate, and help reduce redness [6].

Who should use an Exfoliating Cleanser?

Almost everyone can benefit - especially if you have:

• Oily or combination skin

• Blackheads or congestion around the nose, chin, or forehead

• Rough or uneven texture

• A dull complexion that needs a refresh

  
  

How to use it.

1. Apply a small amount to damp skin.

2. Massage gently with your fingertips for 30–60 seconds.

3. Rinse well with lukewarm water.

4. Pat dry and follow with a light moisturising gel or blemish treatment.

5. Always wear sunscreen in the morning, as exfoliation makes skin more sun sensitive.

The Upenya approach.

Our Upenya Exfoliating Cleanser uses plant-based surfactants, mild fruit acids, and botanical actives like marula and aloe ferox to deeply cleanse without stripping moisture. It supports the skin barrier; balances oil and helps reduce the appearance of blackheads and blemishes - ideal for teens and sensitive skin types.

References

1. Ditre, C.M. et al. (1996). Improvement of photodamaged skin with alpha-hydroxy acids. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 34(2), 187–195.

2. Tsai, T. & Lee, W. (2014). The efficacy of fruit acids in acne-prone skin. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 7, 125–132.

3. American Academy of Dermatology. (2023). Guidelines of Care for the Management of Acne Vulgaris.

4. Zouboulis, C.C. et al. (2014). Sebaceous gland activity and acne in adolescence. Dermato-Endocrinology, 6(1), e980541.

5. Murad, H. (2008). The role of exfoliation in healthy skin maintenance. International Journal of Dermatology, 47(7), 612–617.

6. Aboyewa, J.A. et al. (2020). Phytochemical content and activities of Aloe ferox. Journal of Medicinal Plants for Economic Development, 4(1), 1–10.