I've had quite a few people ask me what to do with a body scrub. Exfoliation is a very important part of skin care. And I'm not just talking about facial skin, our ENTIRE bodies need exfoliation from time to time.
The term exfoliation refers to the "peeling or sloughing of the horny (outer) layer of the skin, known as the corneum". This simply means removing the top layer of skin, that can become dull, dry and dehydrated. The skin can be exfoliated via chemical (think chemical peels) or mechanical (think scrubs, something that is done manually) methods. The method we will focus on today will be mechanical.
Exfoliating the skin mechanically, or manually, involves using a product with an abrasive material. You may find a scrub made with salt, sugar, or crushed nut shells. This type of scrub can be used all over your body. But, when you use a scrub on your face you want to be especially careful. Personally, I prefer to use a scrubbing pad on my face. They are gentler and safer for sensitive facial skin.
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| Facial scrubbing pad |
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One of the number one questions I get from customers trying out Ámbreöse Collection is "What do I use a scrub for?". I have to admit, the first time I heard this I was really surprised. I thought everybody knew what a scrub was and what it was used for. But then I started getting this question more and more, and I realized many people really don't know or understand what a scrub is or it's importance.
I recommend using a scrub 1 - 2 times per week. I like to use my Whipped Shea Butter Scrub every Monday and Thursday night all over my entire body (except for my face, or course). The most effective way to use a scrub is after cleansing but before shaving or waxing. After cleansing, stand back from the water (or stand up, if you're taking a bath) and starting at your ankles, apply a generous amount of scrub and work your way up your legs, scrubbing in small, circular motions. With this particular scrub, I like to really rub it in, to make sure I get the Shea Butter into my skin. I move on to the other legs, the work my way up my body. I focus on my knees and elbows because the tend to get very rough. I like to save my feet for last, since the scrub can cause the tub to get really slippery. And for my feet, I need something a little more aggressive, so I like to use the Body Polish instead.
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| Body Polish |
Since following this twice weekly regimen, I can honestly say my skin is smoother and less elephant-like. So, please, don't be afraid of exfoliation. It is necessary, and you skin will thank you. Trust me.
So how do you really feel about scrubs? Do you use them? Do you think they are unnecessary? Let us know!
