Do you know why body scrubs are so beneficial for the skin?
Not only are they super easy to use and leave your skin soft and smooth, but skin exfoliation with a body scrub also provides several important benefits:
Exfoliation removes dead skin cells from the outer layer of the skin, allowing for new healthy skin cell generation. Every 30 days or so your skin undergoes a natural turnover cycle. When this happens, the upper layer of your skin (epidermis) sheds, revealing new skin from the middle layer of your skin (dermis). However, the cell turnover cycle isn’t always so clear cut. Sometimes, dead skin cells don’t fully shed, leading to flaky skin, dry patches, and clogged pores. You can help your body shed these cells through exfoliation.
Supports blood circulation- if you've noticed that your skin is a bit red after exfoliation, it is the result of increased circulation in the areas you've been exfoliating. Your body is simply pushing more blood to those areas.
Encourages lymphatic drainage- all blood carries lymph fluid, which filters through the lymph nodes. The method of exfoliation speeds up the rate of blood pumping, which helps get the lymph through the body, therefore removing toxins and pathogens more easily.
Leaves you feeling fresh and invigorated- you will feel a nice energetic boost as your blood circulation increases. If you are feeling blocked or lethargic, exfoliation can help release stagnation and get you moving!
Can unclog pores- regular exfoliation is important for preventing both razor bumps and ingrown hairs. It helps unclog your pores and moisturizes your skin enough to help prevent any future irritation.
Quicker absorption- by removing dead skin cell buildup, any moisturizer applied afterward will soak into the skin more thoroughly. When dead skin remains on the body it creates a barrier that prevents moisturizing ingredients to be absorbed by the skin.
Soft, silky and glowing skin! Since you’re opening up your pores with a body scrub, you’re allowing your moisturizer to penetrate deeper.. Rather than just having your body lotion or oil sit as a layer on the surface of your skin, it will reach well beneath that and the ingredients will be even more effective.
Methods & Tools for Exfoliation
There are different methods for exfoliation with a body scrub. It is typically done in the bath or shower so you can easily wash yourself off with warm water. You can use an exfoliating glove, a wash cloth or your hands. I like to use an exfoliating glove or in a pinch I use a wet washcloth. I normally exfoliate my body with damp skin. You can also exfoliate with dry skin but I find it a bit too rough.
How to Exfoliate
Start at your feet and move up your body towards the heart (this supports increased blood flow).
Use wide, circular, clockwise motions and apply more body scrub to your body glove or wash cloth as needed.
Use light pressure in areas where your skin is thin and harder pressure on thicker skin, like the soles of your feet.
Exfoliate your arms after you have finished your feet, legs, and mid-section. You should move upward towards your armpits.
After exfoliating, rinse any excess off with warm water to help remove the dry skin. Do not use soap as this will remove the oils from the skin.
After you dry off, feel your skin to see if it needs more moisture. If it is still dry then apply one of SAVA`s beautiful body oils or consider applying a natural plant oil, such as coconut oil or grapeseed oil, to add additional moisture.
Frequency of Exfoliation
I try to exfoliate once a week but as the type of skin varies for each person you should see how your skin responds. If you see any irritation, then you should stop or reduce the frequency of exfoliation. I try to set aside time for a self care afternoon once a week so I can take my time, also enjoy a nice long bath and really enjoy the process.
Choosing a Body Scrub
What is important to be aware of is what kind of body scrub you use. Check the ingredients and make sure they are natural or naturally derived. When you exfoliate, your skin will more easily absorb what you are applying to it. These ingredients can also be absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream so stay clear of scrubs that have parabens, artificial fragrance, mineral oils and any other ingredient you can't identify.
With natural body scrubs they are often made with sugar or salt. I prefer the sugar based scrubs as salt can sting if I have a small cut or scrape.
At SAVA Living, we make our body scrubs by hand using the finest natural ingredients including pure, therapeutic grade essential oils. Not only do you receive the benefits of exfoliating the skin, but you also enjoy an aromatic spa like experience from the essential oils that leave you feeling relaxed and happy. Pure essential oils also have their own benefits for the skin. For example, our new Sunny Citrus Body Scrub contains Lemon, Grapefruit and Wild Orange that provide detoxing benefits (great for cellulite) while the grapeseed oil nourishes and rejuvenates the skin. Our Luxurious Spa Body Scrub contains a blend of essential oils that promote circulation, release tension and provide a comforting and relaxing effect. And our Lavender Rose Body Scrub provides soothing and relaxation benefits to the skin, muscles as well as the mind. You can find all of the products you need for exfoliating your skin in the healthiest way by clicking here.
Important Notes
When exfoliating, avoid sensitive areas and anywhere the skin is broken. These include areas with rashes, wounds, cuts or infections. Never exfoliate an area with Psoriasis or Eczema.
After you exfoliate your skin will be more sensitive to the sun. Apply a natural sunscreen if you are planning to be out in the sun.
If you are using a body scrub that contains citrus oils, avoid direct sunlight after use. Citrus oils are photosensitive and can cause a skin reaction if exposed to direct sunlight.
If you haven`t used an all natural body scrub before it`s definitely time to try it out. Let us know your favorite way to exfoliate and the benefits you receive from this wonderful self care practice.