What are products called that remove dead skin using abrasive action?

Products that remove dead skin through abrasive action are known as mechanical exfoliants. These typically contain physical particles or granules, such as sugar, salt, or microbeads, that physically scrub the skin's surface when massaged in. This process helps to slough off dead skin cells, revealing fresher, smoother skin underneath.

Mechanical exfoliation is beneficial for enhancing skin texture, promoting cell turnover, and can boost the absorption of subsequent skincare products. The tactile nature of these products allows users to have control over the intensity and the duration of the exfoliation process, making them a popular choice in both professional treatments and at-home skincare routines.

In contrast, chemical exfoliants use acids or enzymes to dissolve dead skin cells without physical scrubbing, enzymatic peels use specific enzymes to break down the bonds holding dead skin together, and hydrating masks generally focus on moisturizing rather than exfoliating.