Exfoliant or scrub: what’s the difference?

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By :Eshop Nohèm 0 comments

Exfoliant or scrub: what’s the difference?

Wondering what the real difference is between an exfoliant and a scrub? You're not alone. It's a question we get asked a lot at Nohèm , and for good reason: these two treatments seem to have the same goal—softer, clearer, brighter skin.
But in reality, their mode of action is quite different . To help you choose the right exfoliating treatment for your skin, here is a clear, simple and expert guide.

Why exfoliate your skin?

Every day, your skin naturally renews itself: it eliminates dead cells to make way for new ones. This process, called desquamation , takes on average 28 days .
But with age, pollution, stress, or even hormonal imbalances, this mechanism slows down. The result: dead cells that accumulate , a dull complexion, clogged pores, and skin that is less receptive to care.

This is where exfoliation comes in!

Why include an exfoliating treatment in your beauty routine?

Stimulate cell renewal
Smooth the skin texture
Revive the radiance of the complexion
Prepare the skin to better absorb moisturizing and anti-aging treatments

Exfoliation: a mechanical exfoliation

Scrubbing is a form of mechanical exfoliation . It contains exfoliating particles that work by rubbing to loosen dead cells on the surface of the skin.

How does a scrub work?

By massaging the skin in circular movements , these micro-grains (from crushed argan shells, sugar or rice, for example) gently eliminate impurities and refine the skin texture.

How often should I use a scrub?

1 to 2 times a week , depending on your skin type
Apply to wet skin, massage gently (without rubbing too hard!), then rinse with lukewarm water
Always finish with generous hydration

At Nohèm , our scrubs are designed to respect the skin's balance, even for the most sensitive skin. Their sensory textures, combined with natural ingredients, offer a unique moment of care and comfort , for both the face and the body.

Exfoliating: a gentle chemical or enzymatic action

Unlike scrubbing, exfoliation requires no rubbing. It acts on the surface thanks to exfoliating active ingredients that dissolve dead cells and promote their natural elimination.

What are the types of exfoliants?

AHAs (fruit acids such as glycolic or lactic acid): ideal for reviving radiance
BHA (salicylic acid): perfect for oily or blemish-prone skin
Fruit enzymes (papaya, pineapple): very gentle and suitable for sensitive skin
Retinol : works deeper to refine the skin and stimulate collagen production

Why choose a chemical exfoliant?

No need to rub: ideal for reactive skin
More uniform action across the entire skin surface
Can act in depth depending on the formulation

Exfoliator or scrub: which should you choose according to your skin type?

Here are some tips for choosing the right exfoliating treatment:

Skin type	Recommended care
Sensitive or reactive skin	Gentle, grain-free enzymatic exfoliant
Mature skin	Light chemical exfoliant
Dull or tired complexion	Gentle scrub to revive radiance
Combination to oily skin	Alternating scrub + BHA exfoliant
Normal skin	Exfoliation once a week

Give your skin a new glow with Nohèm exfoliating treatments

At Nohèm , our face and body scrubs are formulated with natural and organic ingredients . Their promise: to reveal the natural radiance of your skin, without damaging it .

✅ Scrubs with sensory textures
✅ Natural and certified organic ingredients
✅ Treatments available in institutes or at home

✨ Discover our collection of scrubs online or book an appointment at one of our partner institutes for a personalized moment of well-being.

In summary: exfoliant or scrub?

The scrub exfoliates by rubbing , ideal for an immediate effect on skin texture.
The exfoliant acts gently, thanks to chemical or enzymatic active ingredients.
The two can be complementary, depending on your skin's needs.