When indulging in self-care, don’t stop at skincare. Body exfoliators, often used occasionally, work wonders if you want to achieve smooth, supple skin. While they aren’t a mainstay in one’s beauty regimen, they truly deserve staple status owing to their myriad benefits. Read on, for we investigate what body scrubs are, how often one should use them, and more.
What is a Body Scrub?
A buy scrub of a body is a physical exfoliant that helps get rid of dead skin cells in an instant. While some exfoliators contain harsher abrasives such as sugar and salt, others comprise synthetic microbeads and fine seed powers that lend gentle exfoliation. If you possess sensitive skin, reach out for milder body scrubs, as the harsher variants may cause micro-tears and strip your skin’s natural moisture barrier, leading to skin irritation and dryness.
Benefits of Using a Body Scrub
Body scrubs lend ample skin benefits—with the primary goal of removing dead skin cells and giving way to smoother, softer skin.
- Encourages Skin Rejuvenation: By getting rid of dead skin build-up, physical exfoliators pave the way for new, rejuvenated skin.
- Unclogs Pores: For those of you prone to bacne (acne that develops on your back), using a scrub is paramount. Doing so can help unclog pores and prevent further breakouts.
- Eliminates Ingrown Hair: Ingrown hair is a hassle for anyone who shaves or waxes regularly. Body scrubbing can help prevent and get rid of this nuisance.
- Allows For Deeper Penetration of Products: Exfoliation gives way to clear, rejuvenated skin, which allows for better absorption of body oils, lotions, and creams.
- Facilitates Blood Circulation: Body exfoliation also helps promote blood circulation, making your skin appear more radiant and firmer.
Types of Body Scrubs
Body scrubs can be categorized based on the ingredients they contain. While sugar and salt exfoliators are the most common, there are a plethora of scrubs on the market that promise even-textured, glowing skin. Sugar and salt are natural exfoliants and their abrasive texture helps banish dead skin cells. Besides, sugar is a humectant and lends ample hydration to your skin.
- Coffee Body Scrub: Coffee is a natural exfoliant, too. Plus, it is known to soothe inflammation and smoothen your skin while improving circulation.
- Lavender Body Scrub: Lavender-based body exfoliators not only soothe irritated, inflamed skin but also calm and relax your senses.
- Charcoal Body Scrub: Charcoal is endowed with powers to absorb dirt and grime, giving way to instantly refreshed and rejuvenated skin.
Homemade Body Scrubs
If you don’t wish to invest in a body scrub as yet, why not make one at home? Ground coffee, sea salt, coconut oil, and other essential oils are all you need to prepare this magic concoction—minus the chemicals!
How To Pick a Body Scrub For Your Skin Type
Your skin type and concerns should determine the type of formulation you turn to when shopping for a physical exfoliator. If you possess sensitive skin, opt for a sugar scrub, as the detoxifying properties of salt scrubs tend to be harsh on delicate skin. Meanwhile, if you have dry skin, reach for a formula imbued with essential oils or any other moisturizing agent. Alternatively, if your body is prone to acne and bumps, pick a concoction that boasts active ingredients such as salicylic acid or glycolic acid. For more frequent body scrubbing, invest in a mild exfoliator with fine granules.
How Often Should You Use a Body Scrub?
While facial exfoliants must be used not more than twice a week, mild body scrubs can be incorporated into your daily body care routine. However, stick to exfoliating twice a week for smoother, supple skin. Steer clear of broken, irritated, or burned skin.
How To Use a Body Scrub Effectively
Begin by stepping into a warm shower, and allow the steam to open your pores effectively. Take a generous amount of body scrub onto your palms and massage it onto the skin in gentle, circular motions. Cover your back, neck, arms, and chest, and rinse off the exfoliator after 5-10 minutes of application. Moisturize your skin after scrubbing using a cream or body oil to ensure deeper penetration of the product.
Side Effects of Using a Body Scrub
Using physical exfoliators may have a few downsides, such as over-drying of the skin, skin irritation, micro-tears, and disruption of your skin barrier. Over-exfoliation or massaging the scrub harshly onto the skin may also cause redness and inflammation. If you have super-sensitive or dry skin, limit body scrubbing to once a week. Else, you can exfoliate twice a week.
Conclusion
Reaching for a body scrub once or twice a week is recommended for anyone who desires smooth, even-textured skin. Besides, consistent scrubbing also improves the appearance of skin discolourations and enhances skin clarity. So while it may take you a bit longer in the shower, it is certainly worth the effort!