Sugars, salts, even coffee. The variety of body scrubs that have emerged over the years makes for a long list and haven’t we all tried some of them at one time or another? In an effort to have smoother skin and a healthier glow, are these scrubs really good for you? The answer is yes!
Exfoliating removes the dead skin cells from the outer layer of your skin, leaving it smoother and over time looking younger. Stimulating blood flow and circulation, exfoliating nourishes your skin and improves its elasticity while bringing about radiance. It can also temporarily reduce the appearance of cellulite as it increases the blood flow, reducing inflammation. That sounds like a win!
By scrubbing your skin, you enable it to absorb moisturizers and other skin products better. With our sunny days, sunscreen is on the top of that list, all the better for protection from the sun’s UV rays.
So how often should we do this? Experts say 2-3 times a week is enough to keep your skin in top condition. Jump in the shower with your favorite scrub but make sure the water is lukewarm and not too hot as to dry out your skin. Gently scrub your exfoliation scrub in a circular motion over your body. Scrubbing too hard can have the opposite effect and actually damage your skin.
All scrubs are created equal. Well, not really. There are many different types of scrubs. Some slough off dead skin and other surface impurities, while others work more like a facial cleanser as they clean your skin and exfoliate it at the same time. Nice double-duty!
For those with more sensitive skin or if you want to skip a daily scrubbing, think about grabbing a soap bar with regenerating ingredients. While cleaning they also moisturize, leaving you with glowing skin from head to toe.
But the key is to do it properly so as not to do more harm than good.
Step 1: Make sure your water temperature is warm and not too hot. While we all may love a hot shower, our skin does not due to its drying effects. Step in and give your skin a good drenching. If your exfoliator does not have a cleanser in it, suds up first, exfoliate, and follow with a warm rinse.
Step 2: Rub a Dub Dub. If using a creamy exfoliator, use your hands to apply and gently scrub in a circular motion. Gels do better with soft loofah. Bar exfoliators can be used directly on your skin. Give a good rinse and you’ll notice your skin immediately feels more smooth and supple.
Step 3: Once you’ve gently towel-patted your skin so it’s still slightly damp, it’s time to moisturize. Applying body lotion helps lock in moisture, which softens your skin and leaves it hydrated and healthy.
There are four common types of body scrubs – read on to see which is a fit for you!
Coffee Scrubs: Ground coffee beans are the main ingredient. Notes: Rich in antioxidants, improves circulation, and assists in reducing the appearance of cellulite.
Salt Scrubs: Salt crystals are commonly from Pink Himalayan salt or Dead Sea salt. Notes: Provides a more intense exfoliation, works well for coarse areas like elbows and heels.
Sugar Scrubs: Sugar granules from white or brown sugar. Notes: A gentle exfoliation that’s better for sensitive skin, sugar dissolves as it exfoliates, commonly mixed with oils or butter.
Herbal Scrubs: Think Grain, Fiber, Nut & Seed. Notes: Abrasives are ground nut shells & seeds for a more intense exfoliation, fruit fibers for a milder exfoliation.
L e t ’ s G l o w !
EDOBIO Masu Soap Bar
$39 / edobio.com
Colombian Coffee Scrub
$27.99 / wholesomehippy.com
Trader Joe’s Brazil Nut Body Scrub
$9.99 / walmart.com
Himalayan Salt Body Scrub
$26.95 / purescrubs.com
Activated Charcoal Face & Body Scrub
$26.99 / wholesomehippy.com
Cactus Flower Exfoliant – Mandarina
$32 / nopalera.co
