Finding the Best Body Scrub for You

Body scrubs are intended to provide a gentle, all-over exfoliation. However, many go above and beyond and are specially formulated to suit the special needs of your skin. Here’s how to select the ideal scrub.

The importance of exfoliation

What sets body scrubs apart from other all-over cleansers, such as body wash and shower gel, is that they have the ingredients and texture to provide a gentle and effective exfoliation — and all in the comfort of your own shower!

Exfoliation is essential for your skin’s health, because it:

• Removes dead skin cells


• Promotes the appearance of vibrant skin


• Prevents clogged pores


• Prevents breakouts


• Allows better absorption of cream and other skin care products

Selecting your scrub

In addition to exfoliation, you’ll find a number of other advantages to using a body scrub. Some specialized scrubs are formulated to combat your toughest skin care challenges, while others pamper your skin with sweet-smelling aromatherapy.

So, how do you select the right product with scores of scrubs on the market? Here’s the scoop on what scrubs offer, so you can determine which ones will target your skincare needs.

• Hydration. Many body scrubs contain ingredients that heal dry skin and replenish moisture. If parched skin is one of your top concerns, try these products:
  • Whish Almond Three Whishes Sugar Scrub contains almond oil — an ingredient that hydrates even the driest of skin.
  • The natural extracts in Philosophy Amazing Grace Hot Salt Scrub will moisturize and smooth dry skin as it exfoliates.
• Aroma. Body scrubs are often associated with aromatherapy and many brands offer soothing smells designed to add pleasure to your shower experience. Whether you prefer sugary-sweet scents or botanical blends, you can easily create a spa-like ambiance with an aroma-inspired scrub.
  • Who says that sweet and sensible can’t go together? The deliciously sweet smell and powerful antioxidants featured in B. Kamins Maple Sugar Body Scrub will pamper your skin and your senses.
  • Molton Brown Warming Eucalyptus And Ginger Body Scrub combines pure eucalyptus oil, ginger and exfoliating sea salts to create a unique aroma that will enliven your senses while rejuvenating your skin.
• Specialized care. When choosing a body scrub, keep in mind that some are specifically created for certain parts of the body.
  • Feet. H2O Plus Pumice Foot Scrub is the perfect scrub for tackling tough dry skin and calluses.
  • Face. Dr. Michelle Copeland Honey Almond Scrub contains vitamin C to stimulate cell renewal as well as almond and honey extract to slough away dead skin. Facial scrubs are always gentler than products formulated for the body, so never use a body scrub to exfoliate your face — unless the directions say you can.
  • Lips. Gently exfoliate dry, flaky lips with Philosophy Kiss Me Exfoliating Lip Scrub, which gives your pout a smooth, supple appearance.
• Specific solutions. You can also choose from scrubs that target specific skin problems.
  • Cellulite and stretch marks. Juara Skincare Invigorating Coffee Scrub contains coffee, which not only provides the perfect pick-me-up for those early morning showers, but also helps to tighten loose skin.
  • Discoloration. MD Formulations Face And Body Scrub improves skin texture and is great for preparing the skin for a self-tanner. It’s particularly helpful for mature, photo-aged skin.
  • Acne. DDF Acne Scrub is a foaming cleanser that helps to reduce clogged pores and prevent blemishes.