WHAT IS A BODY SCRUB?
Put simply, a body scrub is a skin care product whose main function is removing dead skin cells through exfoliation as well as cleansing the skin and increasing the body’s blood circulation. Somtimes a body scrub is referred to as a body exfoliant, body gloss or body polish. The exfoliating component needs to be abrasive enough to achieve this but not too strong so as not to damage healthy skin.
BENEFITS OF A BODY SCRUB
Body Scrub
Skin Rejuvenation
As body scrubs remove dead skin and impurities, they leave your skin feeling soft and revitalized. This is especially important in rough areas like elbows and knees.
Prevents Ingrown Hair
The exfoliating action of the scrub helps prevent ingrown hair and makes hair removal easier.
Younger Looking Skin
Exfoliating dead skin cells removes dullness from skin and increases blood circulation. Thus, getting a body scrub regularly will help make your skin look more vibrant and youthful.
Moisturizes Your Skin
Exfoliation opens up your pores which allows easy absorption of moisturizer into it
Stress Relief
Scrubbing has a relaxing feeling which helps relieve stress.
Improved Self Tanning
More and more people are using self tanners rather than increase their risk of skin cancer through exposure to the damaging effects of too much sun. The important thing to know here is that to achieve a realistic “fake” tan using a self tanner is to exfoliate with a gentle body scrub first. If you don’t do this to remove any dead skin cells then you run the risk of ending up with a blotchy look as the self tanner will darken areas where more dead skin cells acculate (such as the elbows and knees). If you want a natural looking tan and you use a self tanner then using a suitable body scrub before applying the tanning product is essential.
Drawing out impurities and clearing congestion
Body scrub exfoliates and also moisturizes the skin and sometimes loofah’s are a bit harsh for skin , but body scrubs are gentle yet exfoliating
TRY THIS HOMEMADE SCRUB:
¼ cup olive oil
½ cup white or brown sugar
½ cup ground oatmeal (or coffee grounds for a more invigorating scrub)
1-3 drops essential oil (try lavender, almond, citrus or peppermint oils)
Whisk together all ingredients and pour into a mason jar or other airtight container. Use just a quarter-sized amount at a time, storing the scrub in a dry place for up to three weeks.