How Scrubbing Helps You To Make Your Body Shine
Scrubbing is a form of physical exfoliation that involves using a product or a tool to remove the dead skin cells from the surface of your skin. Scrubbing can help you achieve a smoother, brighter, and healthier skin, as well as improve the appearance of your body. In this article, we will explain how scrubbing works, what are the benefits of scrubbing, how to scrub your body properly, and what are the best products and tools for scrubbing.
How scrubbing works?
Your skin is constantly renewing itself, shedding the old and damaged cells and replacing them with new and healthy ones. This process is called desquamation, and it happens in a regular cycle that lasts about 28 days. However, sometimes this process can be slowed down or disrupted by various factors, such as age, skin type, environment, or lifestyle. When this happens, the dead skin cells can accumulate on the surface of your skin, making it look dull, dry, rough, and uneven.
Scrubbing can help you remove the excess dead skin cells from your skin, and reveal the fresh and radiant skin underneath. Scrubbing can also stimulate the blood circulation and the lymphatic drainage in your skin, which can boost the oxygen and nutrient delivery to your skin cells, and enhance the natural detoxification and regeneration of your skin. Scrubbing can also unclog your pores and prevent ingrown hairs, which can reduce the chances of acne, blackheads, and razor bumps.
Benefits of scrubbing
Scrubbing can provide several benefits for your skin and your body, such as:
- It can make your skin smoother and softer, by removing the rough and flaky patches of dead skin cells.
- It can make your skin brighter and more even, by reducing the hyperpigmentation and the discoloration caused by sun exposure, aging, or inflammation.
- It can make your skin firmer and more elastic, by stimulating the collagen and elastin production in your skin, which are the proteins that give your skin its structure and resilience.
- It can make your skin more hydrated and nourished, by allowing your skin to absorb the moisturizers and the nutrients more effectively, and by preventing the water loss from your skin.
- It can make your skin more healthy and resilient, by enhancing the skin barrier function and the immune system, and by preventing or treating the skin infections and inflammations.
- It can make your body more relaxed and refreshed, by providing a massage-like effect and by releasing the endorphins, which are the hormones that make you feel good and reduce stress.
How to scrub your body properly
To get the most out of scrubbing, you need to follow some steps and tips, such as:
- Choose the right product or tool for scrubbing, depending on your skin type, your preference, and your budget. You can use a body scrub, which is a product that contains abrasive particles, such as sugar, salt, coffee, or oatmeal, that can exfoliate your skin. You can also use a body brush, a loofah, or a sponge, which are tools that can scrub your skin with their bristles, fibers, or textures. You can also make your own scrub at home, using natural ingredients, such as honey, yogurt, lemon, or olive oil
- Prepare your skin for scrubbing, by rinsing it with warm water, which can soften your skin and open your pores, and by cleansing it with a mild soap or a body wash, which can remove the dirt, oil, and bacteria from your skin. You can also steam your skin, by taking a hot shower or a bath, or by using a sauna or a steam room, which can further loosen your dead skin cells and make them easier to remove
- Apply the scrub or the tool on your skin, using gentle and circular motions, and focusing on the areas that are more prone to dryness or dullness, such as your elbows, knees, heels, or back. You can also scrub your hands and feet, which can improve the texture and the appearance of your nails and cuticles. You can also scrub your face, but make sure to use a gentle and suitable product or tool for your facial skin, which is more delicate and sensitive than your body skin
- Rinse your skin with cool water, which can close your pores and calm your skin, and by patting it dry with a soft towel, which can prevent the irritation or the damage of your skin. You can also shave your body hair, if desired, after scrubbing, which can give you a closer and smoother shave, and prevent the razor bumps and the ingrown hairs
- Moisturize your skin, by applying a lotion, a cream, or an oil, that can hydrate, nourish, and protect your skin, and by doing it while your skin is still damp, which can lock in the moisture and the benefits of the scrub. You can also use a product that contains ingredients that can soothe, brighten, or firm your skin, such as aloe vera, vitamin C, or retinol.
Best products and tools for scrubbing
There are many products and tools available in the market that can help you scrub your body, but some of them may be more suitable and effective for your skin than others. Here are some of the best products and tools for scrubbing, according to the experts and the reviews:
- Tree Hut Shea Sugar Scrub. This is a body scrub that contains sugar, shea butter, and various natural oils, such as almond, avocado, macadamia, orange, and grape seed, that can exfoliate, moisturize, and nourish your skin. It also comes in different scents, such as coconut lime, tropical mango, or Moroccan rose, that can invigorate your senses and make you feel pampered.
- Frank Body Original Coffee Scrub. This is a body scrub that contains coffee, sea salt, almond oil, and vitamin E, that can exfoliate, detoxify, and rejuvenate your skin. It also claims to reduce the appearance of cellulite, stretch marks, and scars, by stimulating the blood flow and the collagen production in your skin. It also has a strong and addictive coffee aroma, that can energize you and make you feel awake.
- Dove Exfoliating Body Polish. This is a body scrub that contains crushed macadamia nuts, rice milk, and moisturizing cream, that can exfoliate, hydrate, and soften your skin. It also has a creamy and whipped texture, that can glide smoothly on your skin and make you feel luxurious. It also has a mild and pleasant fragrance, that can relax you and make you feel refreshed.
- Dry Brushing Body Brush. This is a body brush that has natural boar bristles, that can scrub your skin and remove the dead skin cells, dirt, and toxins from your skin. It also has a long and detachable wooden handle, that can help you reach the hard-to-reach areas of your body, such as your back or your feet. It also comes with a pair of exfoliating gloves, that can help you scrub your face or your hands.
- Loofah Bath Sponge. This is a loofah sponge that is made of natural and organic plant fibers, that can scrub your skin and make it smooth and clean. It also has a large and fluffy size, that can create a rich and foamy lather with your soap or body wash, and make you feel comfortable and cozy. It also has a looped rope, that can help you hang it and dry it after use, and prevent the growth of bacteria or mold.
These are some of the best products and tools for scrubbing, but you can also experiment with different ones and find what works best for you and your skin.
Can body scrub brighten skin?
Yes, body scrubs can help brighten the skin by removing dead skin cells, dirt, and impurities from the skin’s surface, revealing smoother and more radiant skin underneath. Body scrubs typically contain exfoliating ingredients, such as sugar, salt, or coffee grounds, which work to slough off dead skin cells and promote cell turnover.
Regular exfoliation with a body scrub can help improve the texture and tone of the skin, making it appear brighter and more even. Additionally, exfoliation can stimulate circulation, which may further enhance the skin’s appearance and radiance.
However, it’s essential to use body scrubs properly and avoid over-exfoliating, as excessive exfoliation can irritate the skin and lead to dryness, redness, or sensitivity. It’s generally recommended to exfoliate the body no more than 2-3 times per week, depending on your skin type and sensitivity.
In addition to using a body scrub, maintaining a consistent skincare routine that includes moisturizing and protecting the skin from sun damage can also help promote a brighter complexion.
Is it OK to use body scrub everyday?
Using a body scrub every day is not typically recommended for most people, as it can be too harsh on the skin and may lead to irritation, sensitivity, and over-exfoliation. Excessive exfoliation can disrupt the skin’s natural barrier, causing dryness, redness, and increased sensitivity.
It’s generally recommended to use a body scrub no more than 2-3 times per week, depending on your skin type and sensitivity. This allows for adequate exfoliation to remove dead skin cells and impurities without causing irritation or damage to the skin.
If you have sensitive skin or are prone to irritation, you may need to use a body scrub less frequently, perhaps only once a week or even less often. Pay attention to how your skin responds to exfoliation and adjust your routine accordingly.
In addition to using a body scrub, it’s important to follow up with a moisturizer to hydrate and protect the skin after exfoliation. This helps maintain the skin’s moisture balance and prevents dryness or irritation.
Overall, it’s best to listen to your skin and adjust your exfoliation routine accordingly. If you experience any signs of irritation or sensitivity, reduce the frequency of exfoliation and consider using a gentler exfoliating product or technique.
How many minutes should I scrub my body?
While body scrubs can be beneficial for many people, there are certain individuals who may need to avoid or use caution when using them. Here are some situations in which it may be best to avoid using a body scrub:
- Sensitive skin: Individuals with sensitive skin may be more prone to irritation and allergic reactions from exfoliating products. If you have sensitive skin, it’s essential to choose a gentle body scrub with mild exfoliating ingredients and patch-test it on a small area of skin before using it on larger areas of the body.
- Inflammatory skin conditions: People with inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis may find that exfoliation exacerbates their symptoms and causes further irritation or inflammation. It’s best to consult a dermatologist before using a body scrub if you have a chronic skin condition.
- Active acne: Exfoliating products, including body scrubs, can potentially worsen acne by irritating the skin and spreading bacteria. If you have active acne or acne-prone skin, it’s best to use gentle exfoliating products or consult a dermatologist for recommendations.
- Sunburn or broken skin: Exfoliating products should not be used on sunburned skin or skin with cuts, abrasions, or other open wounds. Exfoliation can further irritate these areas and delay healing. It’s essential to allow the skin to heal completely before resuming exfoliation.
- Recent hair removal: Avoid using body scrubs on skin that has been recently shaved, waxed, or subjected to other hair removal methods. Exfoliating products can irritate freshly shaved or waxed skin and increase the risk of irritation, redness, or ingrown hairs.
- Pregnancy: Some exfoliating ingredients, such as salicylic acid or retinoids, may not be recommended for use during pregnancy due to potential risks to the fetus. It’s essential to consult a healthcare provider before using exfoliating products if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Allergies or sensitivities: Individuals with allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients in body scrubs, such as fragrances, preservatives, or botanical extracts, should avoid products containing these ingredients or patch-test them first to assess for potential reactions.
If you have any concerns about whether a body scrub is suitable for your skin or condition, it’s best to consult a dermatologist or healthcare provider for personalized recommendations and guidance. They can help you choose the right exfoliating products and develop a skincare routine that meets your needs and goals.
Does body scrub remove tan?
While body scrubs can be beneficial for many people, there are certain individuals who may need to avoid or use caution when using them. Here are some situations in which it may be best to avoid using a body scrub:
- Sensitive skin: Individuals with sensitive skin may be more prone to irritation and allergic reactions from exfoliating products. If you have sensitive skin, it’s essential to choose a gentle body scrub with mild exfoliating ingredients and patch-test it on a small area of skin before using it on larger areas of the body.
- Inflammatory skin conditions: People with inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis may find that exfoliation exacerbates their symptoms and causes further irritation or inflammation. It’s best to consult a dermatologist before using a body scrub if you have a chronic skin condition.
- Active acne: Exfoliating products, including body scrubs, can potentially worsen acne by irritating the skin and spreading bacteria. If you have active acne or acne-prone skin, it’s best to use gentle exfoliating products or consult a dermatologist for recommendations.
- Sunburn or broken skin: Exfoliating products should not be used on sunburned skin or skin with cuts, abrasions, or other open wounds. Exfoliation can further irritate these areas and delay healing. It’s essential to allow the skin to heal completely before resuming exfoliation.
- Recent hair removal: Avoid using body scrubs on skin that has been recently shaved, waxed, or subjected to other hair removal methods. Exfoliating products can irritate freshly shaved or waxed skin and increase the risk of irritation, redness, or ingrown hairs.
- Pregnancy: Some exfoliating ingredients, such as salicylic acid or retinoids, may not be recommended for use during pregnancy due to potential risks to the fetus. It’s essential to consult a healthcare provider before using exfoliating products if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Allergies or sensitivities: Individuals with allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients in body scrubs, such as fragrances, preservatives, or botanical extracts, should avoid products containing these ingredients or patch-test them first to assess for potential reactions.
If you have any concerns about whether a body scrub is suitable for your skin or condition, it’s best to consult a dermatologist or healthcare provider for personalized recommendations and guidance. They can help you choose the right exfoliating products and develop a skincare routine that meets your needs and goals.
What are the disadvantages of body scrub?
While body scrubs offer benefits such as exfoliation and smoother skin, there are some potential disadvantages and risks associated with their use:
- Over-exfoliation: Using a body scrub too frequently or vigorously can lead to over-exfoliation, which can cause irritation, redness, sensitivity, and dryness. Over-exfoliation can disrupt the skin’s natural barrier, making it more susceptible to damage and inflammation.
- Skin irritation: Some exfoliating ingredients, such as coarse particles or harsh chemicals, may irritate the skin, especially if you have sensitive skin or conditions like eczema or psoriasis. It’s essential to choose a body scrub with gentle exfoliating ingredients and avoid products with harsh abrasives or irritants.
- Risk of cuts or abrasions: Coarse or abrasive particles in body scrubs can potentially cause micro-tears or abrasions in the skin, especially if applied too forcefully. This can increase the risk of infection or inflammation, particularly if the skin is already compromised.
- Skin sensitivity: Exfoliation can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight and other environmental factors. After using a body scrub, it’s essential to apply sunscreen to protect the skin from sun damage and minimize the risk of sunburn or skin damage.
- Allergic reactions: Some ingredients in body scrubs, such as fragrances, preservatives, or botanical extracts, may cause allergic reactions or skin sensitivities in some individuals. If you have a history of allergies or sensitive skin, it’s essential to patch-test new products before using them on larger areas of the body.
- Not suitable for certain skin conditions: Body scrubs may not be suitable for individuals with certain skin conditions, such as active acne, open wounds, sunburn, or inflammatory skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis. Exfoliation can exacerbate these conditions and cause further irritation or inflammation.
- Environmental impact: Some body scrubs contain microbeads or synthetic exfoliating particles, which can contribute to environmental pollution and harm marine ecosystems when washed down the drain. Opting for body scrubs with natural exfoliating ingredients or biodegradable exfoliants can help reduce environmental impact.
Overall, while body scrubs can be beneficial for exfoliating the skin and improving its appearance, it’s essential to use them judiciously and choose products that are suitable for your skin type and condition. If you have any concerns or experience adverse reactions, discontinue use and consult a dermatologist for further guidance.
Who should not use scrub?
While body scrubs can be beneficial for many people, there are certain individuals who may need to avoid or use caution when using them. Here are some situations in which it may be best to avoid using a body scrub:
- Sensitive skin: Individuals with sensitive skin may be more prone to irritation and allergic reactions from exfoliating products. If you have sensitive skin, it’s essential to choose a gentle body scrub with mild exfoliating ingredients and patch-test it on a small area of skin before using it on larger areas of the body.
- Inflammatory skin conditions: People with inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis may find that exfoliation exacerbates their symptoms and causes further irritation or inflammation. It’s best to consult a dermatologist before using a body scrub if you have a chronic skin condition.
- Active acne: Exfoliating products, including body scrubs, can potentially worsen acne by irritating the skin and spreading bacteria. If you have active acne or acne-prone skin, it’s best to use gentle exfoliating products or consult a dermatologist for recommendations.
- Sunburn or broken skin: Exfoliating products should not be used on sunburned skin or skin with cuts, abrasions, or other open wounds. Exfoliation can further irritate these areas and delay healing. It’s essential to allow the skin to heal completely before resuming exfoliation.
- Recent hair removal: Avoid using body scrubs on skin that has been recently shaved, waxed, or subjected to other hair removal methods. Exfoliating products can irritate freshly shaved or waxed skin and increase the risk of irritation, redness, or ingrown hairs.
- Pregnancy: Some exfoliating ingredients, such as salicylic acid or retinoids, may not be recommended for use during pregnancy due to potential risks to the fetus. It’s essential to consult a healthcare provider before using exfoliating products if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Allergies or sensitivities: Individuals with allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients in body scrubs, such as fragrances, preservatives, or botanical extracts, should avoid products containing these ingredients or patch-test them first to assess for potential reactions.
If you have any concerns about whether a body scrub is suitable for your skin or condition, it’s best to consult a dermatologist or healthcare provider for personalized recommendations and guidance. They can help you choose the right exfoliating products and develop a skincare routine that meets your needs and goals.
Conclusion
Scrubbing is a simple and effective way to make your body shine, by removing the dead skin cells, improving the blood circulation, and enhancing the skin health and appearance. Scrubbing can also make you feel relaxed and refreshed, by providing a massage-like effect and by releasing the endorphins. Scrubbing can also make your body more receptive to the moisturizers and the nutrients, by allowing them to penetrate deeper and work better on your skin. Scrubbing can also make your body more prepared for the shaving or the waxing, by preventing the ingrown hairs or the razor bumps. Scrubbing can also make your body more beautiful and confident, by giving you a smoother, brighter, and healthier skin.
To get the most out of scrubbing, you need to choose the right product or tool for scrubbing, prepare your skin for scrubbing, apply the scrub or the tool on your skin, rinse your skin with cool water, and moisturize your skin. You also need to scrub your body regularly, but not too often, as over-scrubbing can damage or irritate your skin. You also need to take care of your skin by drinking enough water, avoiding smoking and alcohol, using a sunscreen, and eating a healthy diet.