Something I learned the hard way -

I use an exfoliating face wash everyday, just before I shave. As long as my razor is sharp it is fine, off razors irritate my skin though.

I used to come back from a long run all sweaty and let my cat lick all the sweat off my body. Well, not ALL of it but what was on my exposed areas. It used to result in some irritation, but it was worth it to me at the time. I don't know if it did much for the cat.

i think that scraping a sharp piece of steel across my face is exfoliating enough.