How to Use Body Scrub: 4 Amazing Benefits of Using Body Scrubs

 Following a skincare routine is an essential part of life to keep it moisturized and exfoliated to get rid of dryness and remove dead skin cells. But when thinking about skincare, the primary focus goes to face only. Then what about our whole body? Do you want dull, dry skin or softer and brighter skin? This article will guide you on how to use a body scrub to have healthy skin.

Our bodies’ skin deserves the same care we give our faces. There are countless products available in the market for the body, starting from body cream, body lotion, and body butter to body scrubs. Different skin types must follow a proper technique to use them.

According to statistical data from Impactful Insights (Imarc Group), the global use of body scrub will grow at the rate of 4.6% from 2023-2028.

Here we study a body scrub¹, its benefits, and how to use them to attain the best results for our bodies. So, let us first understand what a body scrub is. Are we ready to learn how to use a body scrub to have beautiful skin?

1. What Is a Body Scrub?

Body Scrubs are skin care products or exfoliators that help you get rid of dead cells from the body. No doubt, you would think, what does the term exfoliator ²mean? Exfoliating body scrub means washing off or rubbing out a part of the body to remove dead skin cells. To gently exfoliate the body, a body scrub is the best method.

How does this exfoliation take place? They include prime constituents like sugar or salt in crystal form that act as abrasive ingredients with a base of oil or gel. The salt and sugar particles have an oil base like olive oil, avocado oil, coconut oil, or jojoba oil. Many body scrubs do come in powder form and have a water base.

1.1. Origin of Body Scrubs

Ancient Egyptians used body scrubs thousands of years ago. They used an exfoliating body scrub immersed in scented oils to keep the skin soft and supple to withstand the desert heat. Those ancient people understood the significance of using body scrubs as a part of their skincare routine.

1.2. Sugar Scrub or Salt Scrub

Sugar scrubs suit dry and sensitive skin. Sugar scrub is less abrasive and gentle than salt and forms a natural glycolic acid³ source. This acid is suitable for dry skin as it speeds up rehydration. So the skin remains moisturized, smooth, and conditioned.

The salt scrub is suitable and better for rough skin, especially for elbows and feet soles. Its trace minerals act as natural purifiers that drag out pore-clogging toxins and relieve clogging. It also revitalizes the skin and helps boost circulation and skin cell turnover.

In the presence of these ingredients, this physical exfoliant clears off the older skin cells from the skin’s surface and makes the skin supple. It restores the skin cell turnover to give softer skin and prevent future acne ⁴breakouts.

Body Scrubs are available plenty in the market for varied skin types. But you have to choose one that works better for your skin type.

2. Advantages of Using Body Scrubs

2.1. Clear and Smooth Skin

Dead skin cells⁵ make your skin look dry and give you dull skin. While you remove the dead skin cells, you get clear and healthier-looking skin, and ultimately you can deal with breakouts.

2.2. Bright and Radiant Skin

Exfoliating regularly will give the body a sparkling glow and make it look brighter. You get rid of the dark spots on the body, boosting your complexion and an even skin tone.

2.3. Prevents the Appearance of Bumps

Bumps refer to swelling on the skin due to some injury or illness. Typically, you would experience razor bumps on your hand or legs after shaving them with a razor. If you exfoliate before shaving a few days before, it will make hair removal effortless. The oils present in the scrub make the hair softer.

Also, if the upper layer of the skin undergoes proper exfoliation, the existing ingrown hairs will grow rightly from the hair follicle⁶ in place of inward growth.

2.4. Aids in De-Stress

One of the best benefits of body exfoliation is that it helps to de-stress and unwind to make you feel relaxed. A full body scrub is when you spend time on body care and loosen yourself more.

3. How to Use Body Scrub?

Now we are aware of what a body scrub is and its benefits. Let us now discuss the methods of using body scrub following a few simple steps. 

3.1. Cleanse Your Skin

A perfectly prepped skin looks clean and is free of dust or dirt particles. On clean skin, the body scrub can show its magical result effectively. Lukewarm water gives soft skin and promotes better exfoliation.

So, rinse your skin with lukewarm water for at least 10 minutes to remove all the sweat and other impurities and open the pores on the skin. Your skin must be cleansed using a body wash or a soap and keep it damp. Avoid using hot water as it will be harsh and clear the body’s natural oils.

3.2. Apply the Body Scrub

Take an adequate amount of body scrub on your palm and gently rub it on the damp skin in circular motions. Start applying the scrub on the skin with gentle pressure in a circular motion from your feet, fingers, and toes, and move upwards to your arms and chest towards your heart. This process helps improve circulation.

Scrub each portion of your body skin gently for a minimum of 30 seconds or as per the instructions given on the product. Just be aware while applying the scrub to the feet, as it might be slippery. Alternatively, you can use a brush or a mitt (a thick glove) to increase and improve exfoliation.

3.3. Rinse the Skin With Warm Water

Once the scrubbing is complete, rinse your skin well with warm water. Utilize gentle circular motions that aid in removing the dead skin cells. Keep thoroughly rinsing until you remove all the product residue or excess exfoliating particles from the skin.

Gentle massaging motions work well for dry areas like the elbow, knees, and ankles. If you have dry skin, the results will be excellent after you use a body scrub with softer skin.

3.4. Shave Your Skin

You have the option of shaving the skin based on your personal preference. As hair follicles open, shaving after you use a body scrub will prevent ingrown hair growth.

3.5. Pat Your Skin Dry

If you have rinsed your skin, then with a towel, gently pat it dry. Avoid rubbing it roughly or harshly, as it will irritate the skin. Gently patting the skin will keep it much softer and cleaner for a longer time.

3.6. Moisturize the Skin

Apply body lotion or a suitable moisturizer after exfoliating your skin since body scrubs temporarily disrupt the skin barrier. It can lead to dry skin. Skin moisturizing assists in restoring the skin’s natural moisture levels.

While moisturizing, ensure that the skin is slightly damp. Damp skin is already hydrated, and applying moisturizer to wet skin provides hydration and seals in more moisture. Some people prefer to use body butter as it traps more moisture in your skin.

4. When to Use Body Scrubs?

The next question comes as to when to use a body scrub. Is it preferable to use it after or before washing the body?

Let us understand the pros and cons of body scrub use after and before washing the body.

4.1. Body Scrub Use After Body Wash

Washing your body leaves your skin cleansed, prepped, and more ready for exfoliation. Hence, applying the body scrub after a wash makes the process easier and more effective.

4.2. Body Scrub Use Before Body Wash

Your body will already have accumulated dirt and sebum on the skin. Body scrub application before washing the body deposits excess exfoliating particles on the skin and does not help in exfoliating better.

4.3. What is the Recommended Frequency of Using Body Scrub?

The frequency of using a body scrub varies from person to person and on the skin type. Refrain from using the scrub daily, as excessive exfoliation can damage the skin cells.

Experts recommend using the scrub around 1 to 2 times per week during baths is advisable to maintain soft and clean skin. However, it is vital to consult a dermatologist based on skin tone and type.

It is best to use the scrub once every two weeks in case of sensitive skin. Performing a patch test to check how it reacts can be a good start.

In the case of oily skin, exfoliating too often is not judicious as it will generate an overproduction of sebum than usual. In cases of oily skin, salicylic acid dissolves sebum and dissolves impurities. Also, it is wise to avoid using scrubs if you have sunburn or irritated skin.

4.4. Precautions – Visiting the Dermatologist

For skin conditions like eczema, wounds, hyperpigmentation, psoriasis, scars on the skin, skin infections, or active acne, it is apt to visit a dermatologist.

If you are using prescribed creams by your physician or any product with retinol, ask the dermatologist for advice before you use the scrub.

5. Final Note 

So, how to use Body Scrub? A scrub is an excellent product that gives you results, providing a complete refreshment for the mind and body. Finally, you end up with glowing and charming skin.

Don’t you feel that your body deserves such a polished, hydrated, and even look? Ensure to follow the steps given above on how to use Body Scrub. Go ahead and include body scrub usage as a routine of your skincare.

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Last Updated on July 29, 2024 by Sathi Chakraborty, MSc Biology