Which of the following can be classified as a form of physical exfoliation?

The practice of physical exfoliation involves the removal of dead skin cells through mechanical means rather than chemical actions. Scrubs with granules are specifically designed to physically slough off the outer layer of skin, making this option the clear example of physical exfoliation. When using a scrub, the granular particles provide textural resistance, helping to lift away the dead skin while improving blood circulation and promoting cell turnover.

Chemical peels, on the other hand, operate through the application of acids or enzymes that dissolve dead skin cells and improve skin texture without the need for scrubbing. Clay masks primarily draw out impurities and absorb excess oil but do not physically abrade the skin. Essences are used in skincare for hydration and skin treatment but do not involve exfoliation at all. Thus, scrubs with granules stand out as the quintessential representation of physical exfoliation due to their mechanical action and immediate effect on the skin's surface.