It’s simple, it’s all about the body scrub!
And if you are listening and singing along to Sade at the same time, then kudos to you!
A firm favourite tune of mine!
What is body scrub?
A body scrub is a physical exfoliant that is usually either salt or sugar-based, used to remove dead skin cells from your skin. The abrasive ingredients (sugar, salt) are worked into the skin and work as a natural exfoliant, clearing the skin of older skin cells so your skin feels soft, supple and nourished.
Body scrub works by stimulating skin cell turnover for smoother, brighter skin, and can help restore’s skins natural moisture, prevent future body acne breakouts, and make you feel great!
Body scrubs are a great addition to any skincare routine. There are plenty of body scrubs out there on the market, for whatever your skin type may be, so you can find one that works for you to remove the dead skin cells without doing any harm to your skin.
When should you use a body scrub?
If you’re wondering when to use an exfoliating body scrub, make sure you use after you have used shower gel, soap or body wash in the shower or bath. This ensures your skin is clean and prepped for exfoliation, and the warm water ensures your skin is damp and soft. Warm water also opens your pores to ensure your body scrub can be as effective as possible in removing any unwanted skin cells.
How often should you use a body scrub?
You shouldn’t use a body scrub every day; exfoliation can be harsh on the skin, and over-exfoliation can damage the skin cells and prevent natural restoration. You don’t want to overly strip the skin of moisture, or compromise the skin barrier.
Aim to use body scrub 1-2 times a week at the most.
Once a week is a good idea as this is easy to build into a weekly self-care routine. I usually do mine on a Friday morning, then if I am going over the weekend, my skin is lovely and smooth.
If you like to self-tan, or even go for a spray tan, then using a body scrub is an absolute must, and you should exfoliate 24 hours before applying the tan, unless you have been advised otherwise by who is applying your spray tan or by the instructions on your self-tan product.
How to use body scrub
When you exfoliate, it’s best to prep your whole body by having a good old soak. You can shower, or bath, just ensure you’ve washed your body with soap or body wash before you use a body scrub, and make sure your skin is damp, soft and supple to ensure the best results. Use warm water but not too hot and allow your skin to soak for at least 5-10 minutes.
Put the required amount of scrub on your hand and gently rub it into your skin. Use circular motions so it absorbs into the skin well, and apply a generous amount of body scrub across your whole body. I always begin with my upper body and working my way down. Apply in circular motions across your chest, on your arms, torso, legs – don’t forget the back of your limbs!
Getting your back can be tricky! If you have someone to call on that’s a good idea, although I sometimes use a exfoliating mitt on a long handled loofah! Alternatively add a wee back or full body exfoliation on to your appointment next time you book a massage!
Remember to exfoliate your feet last, and be mindful of slippery bathroom surfaces.
Lightly scrub your skin for 30 seconds, maximum, maintaining a gentle pressure throughout.
You are not using Ajax or Vim on a dirty bath,vthere is no need for any kind of elbow grease - gentle is best.
Rinse your skin thoroughly using warm water ensuring it is not too hot. This helps remove any of the dead skin cells the body scrub has picked up through reacting with your skin. Wash off the exfoliator in massaging motions to remove any excess particles.
If you use a razor to shave your legs, underarms or other body parts, this is when you should do so!
Pat you skin dry with a towel. Patting the skin gently will help your skin feel softer and cleaner for longer. Please don’t rub! Your skin may be sensitive!
Apply body lotion or moisturiser. Moisturise your skin while your skin is slightly damp, to ensure it works into the skin properly. Body scrubs temporarily disrupt your skin barrier and can dry out your skin, which is why it’s important to moisturise after and restore your skin’s natural moisture levels.
What is a good body scrub?
A good body scrub will use non-toxic ingredients that are kind to your skin and will use natural exfoliants such as salt, or sugar. The fine, coarse qualities of natural ingredients are enough to remove dead skin cells without using manufactured or synthetic ingredients.
There are many body scrubs available for different skin types, with premium, fine particles used in good body scrubs to protect your skin from unnecessary exposure to harsh chemicals or toxins.
TOP TIP
When using any products containing naturally occurring acids on the skin, be sure to start slow, and be aware of overuse and skin reactions. Using acids in skincare can work well for some people, but it’s important to read up on the options before you use them liberally.
What’s the difference between a sugar scrub and a salt scrub?
Sugar body scrub
Sugar-based body scrubs are less abrasive than salt. They are a gentler exfoliant and a natural source of glycolic acid (hail all those with dry skin!). Sugar is great for speeding up rehydration, and the particles are rounder so less tough on your skin.
Salt body scrub
Salt-based body scrubs are comprised of gritter particles. This means they are harsher on skin and great for attacking rough areas like feet and elbows. The detoxifying properties in salt (the trace minerals) are natural purifiers, too. This makes them great for relieving congestion, drawing out pore-clogging toxins, and skin restoration.
What are you waiting for?
So there you have it. Soft, smooth skin in no time! You really will notice a difference after the first time you use a scrub on your body, and over time, with weekly exfoliation your skin will look more radiant and healthier.
It's also great for tanning in the sunshine too - your tan will last longer when your skin is in good condition with regular exfolation!
What are you waiting for? Get scrubbing!
And as always, please don't hesitate to get in touch if you would like any advice on choosing a body scrub. I am always happy to hear from you.
Much love Fiona