Microbeads might be banned, but exfoliation is still key in skincare

Liz Earle’s Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser, with emollient cocoa butter and purifying eucalyptus, is a gentle option that can be used daily – make your first purchase the one that comes with two soft cotton cloths (£18) that you use to polish off the cleanser – sorry Mum, your flannel wasn’t so crazy after all.

I love exfoliating face powders that you mix with water to activate, often combining a mechanical component with an enzyme that works in tandem. New from Björk and Berries is its Exfoliating Face Powder (£20), made from birch bark that acts as a scrub , while pineapple extract has a mild peeling action thanks to its bromelain content.

And I adore Tatcha The Rice Polish: Classic (£60) made from finely ground Japanese rice bran and papaya enyzmes, plus silk protein.

Liquid exfoliators are chemical alternatives and Ren’s effective Ready Steady Glow (£28) contains lactic acid, willow bark and an azelaic acid precursor derived from olives. It’s designed to be used daily, but I’d use it two or three times a week; like all exfoliators, tailor to your skin’s own reaction. For dehydrated or mature skin, Willowberry’s PHA Liquid Exfoliator (£28.99) is a great option. It incorporates polyhydroxy acids, which have a larger molecular structure to AHAs and BHAs, dissolving the bonds of dead cells gently.

One rule remains: go easy. Your skin’s epidermis is there for a protective reason. While it’s tempting to overdo it when you can see (often instant) improvement, you can have too much of a good thing. As for dos and don’ts , do use sunscreen. Don’t feel the need to wear a white fluffy robe. These exfoliators work regardless.

This I am mostly…

Enjoying

Skandinavisk’s eau de toilette collection, particularly Kapitel 12, (£45 for 50ml). Inspired by the freedom to roam, it has a green and berry freshness. A quick spritz can take you out of the city in seconds.

Eschewing

Wash bags that look pretty but aren’t practical, with zips that don’t open the bag wide enough for easy rummaging or have gloomy interiors that hide products. The White Company Travel Cosmetics Case (£35) is transparent and has double-ended zips. Sorted.

Envying

People with naturally thick brows. But Glossier Brow Flick (£15) is a fab detailing pen in three shades that you can use in a feathering action to fill in any gaps.

Read last week’s column: You can wear blush in your 40s – but it’s all about texture

Is exfoliation a part of your skincare routine? Tell us in the comments section below