How To Use Body Scrub

You'll be surprised at how much effect body exfoliation has on the skin. Our skin is constantly exposed to daily irritants and impurities which can prevent us from having healthy and smooth skin. Most people tend to focus more on the face and pay less attention to their skin, and this isn't right!

The same care you give to your face should be applied to your body as well. In fact, that's why there are tons of body soaps, body creams and body scrubs in the market.

Using an exfoliating body scrub helps remove dead skin cells from your skin so you can have smoother skin. However, you don't just purchase any exfoliating body scrub you see in a local store, you need to be sure of its components and of course application.

In this article, we'll be giving you the latest skincare tips which include; how to use a body scrub, what to look out for in exfoliating products and the benefits of incorporating body scrubs into your skincare routine.

What Is Body Scrub?

Body scrubs are categorized as skin care products that are used to remove dead cells from the skin without being harmful to your skin. Body scrubs are is a must-use in your body care routine if you want healthier-looking skin.

A body scrub is a physical exfoliant with a thick but consistent texture that is applied to the skin in a circular motion to cleanse the skin of older skin cells and stimulate new skin cell turnover. Yes, the skin naturally sheds, but you can use body scrubs to boost circulation and speed up the process of achieving beautiful skin.

Scrubs are usually salt or sugar-based, and they are mostly suspended in different oils. There are different skin types; salt-based scrub is for soft and sensitive skin, while sugar-based scrubs are used for areas on the skin with tougher texture, like the knees, elbows, soles, etc.

Ancient Egyptians understood the full benefit of regular exfoliation, and the importance of body scrubs as skincare products.

Do I Use A Body Scrub Before or After Body Wash?

Everyone is different, and not everyone is particular about when to use a body scrub. However, it's more effective to use a body scrub after your body wash, and that's because a body wash leaves you with perfectly prepped skin that'll make exfoliating more effective.

When you apply a body scrub before a body wash, you'll leave your skin with more dirt and sebum. Although, using a body scrub after your wash might leave your excess exfoliating particles and other grainy ingredients on your skin.

So, to make a perfect balance, you can use a body wash before and after your body scrub.

How to Use Body Scrub?

Knowing how to use body scrub the right way will make your skin supple. The process is in simple steps, and it'll take you nothing to get it right on your first try.

Prep Your Skin

The key to getting the best results out of exfoliating is making sure your skin is cleansed properly. To magic in getting your body scrub to work perfectly is getting your skin pores opened, so the dead skin cells can remove easily.

You can decide to soak yourself in a bathtub full of lukewarm water for 10 minutes, or you can decide to take a bath. Regardless of what you decide, ensure you have wet/damp skin before you exfoliate.

It doesn't matter what skin type you have, it's important you are mindful of the water's temperature, so you don't use hot water to soak your skin. Yes, you might feel it'll help de-stress, but you'll only strip your body of its natural oils.

Apply a Generous Amount of Body Scrub

Rub the body scrub in circular motions into your skin; to prevent it from being messy, start from your neck all the way to your feet. In case you have rough patches on your skin, consider paying attention to that area. This improves circulation and will gently exfoliate those areas.

When applying your body scrub in the shower, be careful when rubbing the scrub on your feet, so the floor doesn't get slippery.

Use A Brush/Loofah To Work The Scrub

The next process is massaging the scrub into your skin. However, before doing this, check if there's any special technique written on the label; some body scrub brands have unique instructions on usage, so the best way is to follow their direction to get the most out of your scrub.

To avoid overworking your fingers, use a brush or loofah to massage your skin's surface gently, as aggressive scrubbing might even cause further irritation to your skin. Make use of massaging motions to target the dark spots and rough areas on your skin.

Using gentle, circular motions will have all the dead skin cells falling out in no time.

Rinse With Warm Water

After you have let your exfoliating body scrub penetrate your skin for about 10 minutes (or more, depending on the directive written on the product label), you can now rinse off with lukewarm water.

Repeat the rinsing process again to be sure there are no buildup particles on your skin. If you have a dry skin, you'll notice that exfoliating with most body scrubs will leave your skin soft immediately after use.

Once you are done rinsing, it's bath time again. Showering is not a necessary step, but it'll further help remove other impurities from your skin.

It's Time To Shave

Shaving just after you have done a full body scrub will help prevent ingrown hairs, and that's because your hair follicles are opened. Some people make sure of body scrubs on only areas they want to shave, and that's okay too!

Apply your shaving cream after you have exfoliated your skin, and watch how you'll have zero breakouts. Alternatively, you can try the dry brushing method of exfoliating, if you don't want to go through the hassle of having to use a body scrub before shaving.

Exfoliating helps brighten your appearance, and can combat the self-tanner effects. So, if you are unsatisfied about your color, or you feel you have a dull skin, using an exfoliator is the way to go!

Pat Your Skin Dry & Moisturize

After you have had your bath, use a towel and pat-dry your body. Make sure you don't rub it roughly on your skin or you are at risk of irritating your skin. Regardless of how much hurry you may be in, it's wrong to rub your skin aggressively, because at this point, your skin is sensitive and scrubbing hard might cause irritation and dryness.

The last step is using your favorite body lotion or a good moisturizer to lock in moisture. Most people use body butter for this because it has a greater ability of retaining moisture. Body scrubs usually have hydrating ingredients, and using body butter will help trap the moisture into your skin.

Whether you are battling dry desert heat or cold weather, use body scrubs to boost circulation and keep the top layer of your skin smooth and healthy.

To get the most out of body scrubs, avoid scrubs with abrasive ingredients, most especially if you have rough skin or acne-prone skin.

Your skin concern should be a major priority; a little trial using physical exfoliants like scrubs will convince you. Exfoliating is a must, and to give your skin that summer glow, you need to incorporate it into your skincare regime.

When Do You Need To Use A Body Scrub?

If you usually pay attention to your skin, you'll be able to tell when to use a body scrub. During winter, you can exfoliate less often, and if you have oily skin it might help to exfoliate regularly. The trick in exfoliation is understanding what your skin needs, and being consistent with it, so you can achieve a radiant complexion.

However, skin type differs, and your skin cell turnover rate might be fast. Exfoliating every day will hurt your skin layers, as you aren't giving it enough time to breath.

So, if you notice you are having a rough and dull skin, then it's the best time to use a body scrub.

How Long Do You Leave Body Scrub On?

To get a brighter and youthful glow, you need to wait for your scrub mixture to sit on your skin at least for 1 minute. Washing it off quickly means it might not fully penetrate your skin's surface.

Don't be in a hurry, as your skin care should always come first. Allow your scrub soak in according to the instructions on the product label

What Should I Use After Body Scrub?

You can take your bath with a soap after using your body scrub. Showering will help remove all dead skin cells and leave your skin free of toxins and dirt.

After that, apply a lotion or body oil so your skin doesn't become dry or flaky. If you used a facial scrub, remember to moisturize your face as well.

How Often Should You Use A Body Scrub?

Ideally, you need to scrub your skin twice in a week, and if you have a rough skin, scrubbing thrice might be what you need to soften your skin texture.

But, if you notice any reactions on your skin like eczema, active acne, or psoriasis, kindly discontinue usage. Also, you might need to see your dermatologist if you are having regular breakouts that don't seem to go away.

Can I Use Body Scrub Everyday?

No, you can't. Using body scrubs everyday will strip your body of it's natural oils, and when that happens your skin becomes flaky and dry. Even if you have rough patches on your elbows, knees or legs, using a body scrub everyday won't give you the radiant skin you want.

It's essential you stick to exfoliating 2-3 times every week to get your desired results.

What Are The Different Types of Body Scrubs?

There's a plethora of various body scrubs in the market, and your preference should be dependent on your skin type and what skin tone and texture you want to achieve.

• Sugar scrubs - Sugars are natural sources of glycolic acid, and the sugar particles help break down dead skin cells and keep the skin's surface smooth.

• Coffee scrubs - Coffee grounds have natural anti-inflammatory properties making it great for dealing with acne prone skins.

• Salt scrubs - Salts' abrasive texture helps to slough dead skin cells, to reveal a smoother and soft skin.

What Are The Benefits of Body Scrub?

When you use body scrubs for exfoliation your skin becomes smooth and bright. However, you get to enjoy other benefits like;

• It helps remove excess dead cells to give you a softer skin

• When applied on the skin gently, body scrubs can help loosen and open up your pores

• It can restore your skin's natural radiance

• Body scrubs will enable your skin smell better

Are There Any Precautions To Be Aware Of When Using Body Scrub

Body scrubs are safe and usually don't come with any prescription, but there are certain instances when you might need to see a dermatologist first.

Retinol or Benzoyl Peroxide

If you are using any product that contains retinol or benzoyl peroxide, you might need to consult a skin care expert.

Skin Conditions or Injuries

If you have open injuries, using a body scrub that contains perfumed oils might be too harsh on your skin.

Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation might worsen with exfoliation especially if you have a dry skin. If you must use a body scrub, visit your dermatologist to recommend a coconut oil scrub, or maybe a sugar scrub to help make your skin brighter.

Sensitive Skin

If you have a sensitive skin, you'll most likely use a gentle, non abrasive scrub. You can choose an oil base scrub for exfoliation.

Oily Skin

If you have an oily skin, using a lavender or coconut oil based scrub might not be the best for you. So, you can try out brown sugar scrub, but make sure to test it out on a small patch of your skin first.

Conclusion

Body scrubs are important, and exfoliation should be a part of your skin routine if you intend to glow and rid your skin of toxins. Certain spas offer exfoliation services, so you can always visit your favorite spa and have them work their magic.

FAQ

Should i use body scrub before or after shaving?

Exfoliate with your body scrub before you shave, because dead skin cells can easily get stuck in your follicles.

Can you use body scrub on your face?

You can't give the same treatment to your face and body, as the skin on both areas differs. So, no you can't use body scrub on your face because you'll most likely ruin your facial skin.

Can I use body scrub on my lips?

The skin on your lips isn't tough, so body scrubs might be too harsh for your lips.
Can I use body scrub on my armpit?
Yes!. Ensure you always exfoliate your armpit, underarms, chest and bum.