Body Scrubs

From LoveToKnow Skincare

Body scrubs are a fantastic addition to any beauty regimen. Using granules, they serve to exfoliate the skin and eliminate flakes and scaly patches.

A jar of scrub for the body

Adding Body Scrubs to Your Routine

You may already have a set beauty routine. But do you count freshly exfoliated skin as one of your best traits? If not, it's time to add some body scrubs to your regimen. This is one of the best skin care products available. Used in the shower or bath, these scrubs make getting rid of unsightly dead skin a snap. An enormous selection of scrubs is yours for the taking. Containing everything from fruit extracts to crushed nuts to moisturizers, these bath treats are not only fun to use, they also make picking one nearly impossible!

Why to Scrub

Most people use body scrubs to achieve softer, smoother skin. Scrubs work to exfoliate dead skin cells from the surface, leaving behind a fresh palette of revitalized skin. Many scrubs also provide the following properties:

  • Moisturizing: A scrub that moisturizes as it exfoliates it ideal, because it infuses the renewed skin with much-needed hydration.
  • Revitalizing: You're probably familiar with the recent phenomenon of gradual tanners, which promise to slowly build a natural, lit-from-within glow. In its own way, even a scrub can do this. Freshly scrubbed skin is the key to a luminous, radiant glow because it exposes a healthy layer of skin.
  • Aromatherapy: Breathe in deeply and enjoy the fragrant, indulgent aromas that many scrubs offer. Many are designed specifically to alleviate a particular ailment or symptom – stress-busters and mood-lifters are especially popular.
  • Firming: Reduce the appearance of cellulite with a firming scrub. Vigorous scrubbing stimulates and improves the circulation in areas where cellulite is prevalent.

Ingredients

Possibly the greatest challenge involved in choosing a scrub is finding one that is fit for your skin's unique, individual needs. Fortunately, finding an appropriate scrub isn't as tricky as, say, selecting a facial skin care regimen. That's because the only major deciding factor in choosing a scrub is selecting one with the right ingredients. This is as easy as determining what your desired result is.

Of course, everyone wants softer, smoother skin. As warm weather approaches, there's nothing sexier. But what if you'd rather not deal with excess moisture, potentially harsh granules or overpowering fragrances? The secret is in the ingredients.

The Little Scrubbies

The most crucial part of any scrub is the granulated ingredient that exfoliates the skin. A wide variety of natural additives are used to achieve this skin-friendly benefit. Some, like salt and apricot kernels, are stronger and well-suited to those who have tolerant skin; others, like brown sugar and rice, are gentler and work wonderfully on those with sensitive skin. Among them are these common scrub ingredients:

  • White sugar
  • Brown sugar
  • Sea salt
  • Epsom salt
  • Dead Sea salt
  • Apricot kernels
  • Strawberry seeds
  • Ground nuts
  • Rice
  • Ground coffee

The Base

The granules in a scrub are typically suspended in a base that is either creamy and thick or lightweight and gel-like in consistency. The base is infused with a rich concoction of therapeutic, healing and beneficial ingredients. Many are formulated with particular skincare needs in mind. Among the many ingredients more commonly added to scrubs are the following:

  • Shea butter – Known as one of the world's richest moisturizers, this conditioning agent leaves the skin as soft as it can be. It is often combined with one or more of the following, which add additional moisture:
  1. Cocoa butter
  2. Coconut oil
  3. Wheat germ oil
  4. Sweet almond oil
  • Honey – This natural moisturizer is thick and luxurious. It is ideal for those with sensitive skin, and especially for anyone sensitive to fragrances; the mild, inoffensive honey scent is unobtrusive and gentle.
  • Squalene – Lately, squalene has been found in more and more skin and body care products across the board. It's no wonder why – the silky oil is not only moisturizing, it's also a perfect partner for the skin's natural oils. This olive-based oil is one to keep an eye out for, especially if your skin is on the dry side.
  • Vitamin E – Known for being both a powerful moisturizer and antioxidant, vitamin E is an essential ingredient in many skincare products. In scrubs, it serves the dual purpose of making the skin soft while restoring vitality and a youthful, healthy glow.
  • Avocado oil – The most moisturizing fruit oil available, avocado oil is rich and exceptionally soothing to the skin. Dry skin soaks up the moisture instantly.

The Sniff

If your skin is especially sensitive, you're better off avoiding harsh scrubs. Likewise, a fragrance-free scrub will likely suit you better than one infused with aromatic fragrance oils.

If sensitivity is not a concern, consider the therapeutic and aromatic benefits of a scrub. Many are infused with natural oils. Some of the more commonly used scents include:

  • Lavender – This is the most common relaxation scent.
  • Peppermint – Along with eucalyptus, this eye-opening fragrance stimulates the senses, clears out the sinuses and provides a serious wake-up call on those early mornings.
  • Tangerine – This, along with other citrus scents like lemon and lime, is ideal for lifting spirits.
  • Vanilla – Soft, sweet and feminine, this gentle fragrance is romantic and leaves the skin tinged with a light aroma.
  • Cinnamon – This spicy scent improves circulation.

It is important to note that many fragrance oils should be avoided if you are pregnant or nursing. Consult with your doctor prior to use.

Where to Purchase

Scrubs are available at a wide variety of national retailers, including major drug and grocery chains. Additionally, they are available at these online boutiques:


 


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