When, where & how to use body scrub (& why you should!)

Want to glow from head to toe? Regularly using body scrubs will do the trick! But when, where and how should you use them?

Starting off with what body scrubs are – they’re exfoliating products that help remove dead skin cells, leaving your skin feeling smoother and looking brighter. They come in many different formulations, including liquid, cream or bar (like our luffa Body Scrub Bar). And for what it is that actually exfoliates, it can be anything from sea salt and sugar to other natural ingredients like fruit extracts.

Body scrubs are often left out of many people’s body care routines, but they shouldn’t be! They do your skin a whole world of good and can completely transform your skin.

Why you should use a body scrub

The obvious biggie as to why you should use body scrub is that it helps you achieve smooth, glowing skin. But the benefits go beyond just surface-level results.

Prevents clogged pores

Removing dead skin doesn’t just make your skin look better, it also helps prevent clogged pores.

When dead skin cells, oil and dirt build up on the surface of your skin, it can block pores and lead to breakouts. By exfoliating regularly, you’re preventing this build-up from occurring and keeping your pores clear and clean.

If you’re someone who experiences body acne, regularly using a body scrub can help keep those annoying bumps at bay.

Encourages skin renewal

When you rid your skin of the dead cells, you’re revealing the fresh, new skin cells underneath. This encourages the skin’s natural renewal process, which helps keep your skin looking youthful and radiant.

…your skin will regenerate itself approximately every 27 days. Proper skin care is essential…

Poonam Sachdev, MD

Improves skin texture

Leading on from the previous point, regularly exfoliating with a body scrub can also improve the overall texture of your skin. It helps smooth out any rough or bumpy areas, leaving you with silky soft skin from head to toe.

Improves circulation

The act of exfoliating itself also helps improve circulation in the body. Massaging the scrub onto your skin stimulates blood flow, which carries nutrients and oxygen to your skin cells. This can result in a brighter, healthier complexion.

How often to use body scrub

Whilst body scrubs and exfoliators certainly do provide lots of skin wins, it’s important that you use them correctly. Overusing scrubs on both your body and your face can potentially lead to damaging your skin, especially if you’re using an intense formula.

Generally, one to three times a week is a safe and effective frequency for using body scrubs.

Consider your skin type

Of course, everyone’s skin is different, so the number of times you should whip out the scrub will depend on you. For example, people with oily skin may benefit from more frequent exfoliation than those with dry skin to help control excess oil production.

A dermatologist might advise you to use a scrub daily or every other day if you have acne-prone skin. However, if you’re unsure, stick to the one to three times a week rule and adjust accordingly based on how your skin responds.

Different types of body scrubs

The type of body scrub you’re using will also determine how often you should use it. We’ve formulated our luffa Body Scrub Bar with coconut oil, shea butter and cocoa butter to create an exfoliator that’s gentle enough for daily use.

On the other hand, a salt or sugar scrub can be more abrasive and should be used in moderation. The exfoliants in these scrubs can be rough on the skin, so it’s best to limit usage to once or twice a week or as directed.

How to use body scrub correctly

To achieve gorgeous, glowing and glistening skin, follow our simple steps for using a body scrub the right way:

Step 1) Always start with clean, damp skin. Make sure you’ve washed your body using your favourite body wash and properly rinse away any suds.

Top tip: if you plan on washing your hair, do this before using your body wash and scrub. Shampoo and conditioner can leave residue on your skin – particularly on your back and shoulders – and the scrub will help remove this build-up.

Step 2) Take your body scrub bar or chosen scrub and apply it to your body in circular motions. Apply some pressure, massaging the product into your skin to help slough off dead skin cells. Start from the soles of your feet and work your way up to your shoulders, taking time to focus on any rough areas like elbows or knees.

Step 3) Once you’re satisfied you’re scrubbed and polished, rinse away the product with warm water. Make sure all residue is removed by running your hands over your skin.

Step 4) Hop out of the shower and pat your skin dry with a towel. Try to avoid scrubbing your skin with a towel to avoid irritation.

Step 5) Complete your routine with a body moisturiser and body oil to re-nourish and hydrate your skin. This step is crucial to lock in moisture and keep your skin soft.

How to use body scrub when shaving

Using a body scrub as part of your shaving routine can help you achieve a closer, smoother shave. But there’s a big debate over whether you should use a scrub before or after you shave.

Our recommendation? Use your body scrub before shaving.

If you try to shave before exfoliating, the razor will have a harder time getting through those pesky, dead skin cells. By exfoliating first, you create a smoother surface for your razor to glide against. And you’ll get a closer shave, which lasts longer!

As far as the process goes, simply follow the same steps as above, but make sure to rinse off all scrub before lathering up with a shave bar or applying shave gel.

  • ërgo Body Razor Kit x 1

    ërgo Body Razor Kit x 1

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  • Zero plastic
    lyx Body Moisturising Bar – Deep Nourishment | 50g

    lyx Body Moisturising Bar – Deep Nourishment | 50g

    Original price was: £12.00.Current price is: £7.00. available on subscription from £8.00 every month
  • Body
    luffa Body Scrub Bar - Soften & Smooth | 50g

    luffa Body Scrub Bar – Soften & Smooth | 50g

    Original price was: £10.00.Current price is: £7.00. available on subscription from £7.50 every month
  • Zero plastic
    når Shave Bar - Aloe Vera | 95g

    når Shave Bar – Aloe Vera | 95g

    Original price was: £9.00.Current price is: £6.00. available on subscription from £6.00 every month

The best body scrub for every skin type

We’ve created the ultimate body scrub bar – the luffa Body Scrub Bar – Soften & Smooth. This powerful yet gentle exfoliator works to remove dead skin cells and leave your skin feeling silky smooth without drying or irritating your complexion.

Our formulation includes:

  • Sweet almond kernels and luffa fruit particles – naturally buff away dead skin cells and encourage new cell growth
  • Coconut oil nourishes and repairs your skin’s barrier
  • Cocoa butter and shea butter lock in moisture
  • Lavender and rose geranium – calm your body and mind

We’ve specially selected these ingredients to cater for all skin types, including sensitive skin, so it’s the perfect addition to everyone’s body care routine.

Add it to your next Subscribe & Save order or the next time you need to restock your body care essentials.

Summary: Using body scrub the right way

To sum it all up, here are the key points to remember when it comes to using body scrubs:

  • Body scrubs are exfoliating products that help remove dead skin cells and improve your skin’s texture, appearance and overall health.
  • They should be used 1-3 times a week for best results, depending on your skin type and the type of scrub you’re using.
  • Make sure to use your body scrub before shaving for a closer, smoother shave.

Head on over to our blog for more skincare tips, and be sure to shop our entire body care range for the ultimate head-to-toe glow!

Love, grüum.

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Facebook | @gruumHQ

FAQs

Can you use body scrub on sensitive skin?

Using a gentle body scrub on sensitive skin shouldn’t cause any irritation. Be sure to massage the scrub gently onto your skin, and don’t use it more than one to three times a week.

Is it OK to use body scrub every day?

Unless labelled as a daily exfoliator, you shouldn’t use a body scrub daily. Using a body scrub too frequently can cause irritation and damage to your skin – one to three times a week is recommended.

Can you use a body scrub in the bath?

Yes! It’s perfectly fine to use a body scrub in the bath. Make sure to apply the scrub to damp, clean skin and massage gently in circular motions.

Do you use scrub before or after body wash?

After. The body wash will wash away any surface dirt and oils, leaving your skin clean and ready for exfoliation. The body scrub can then work its magic to remove dead skin cells and reveal smoother, brighter skin. Using a scrub before a body wash won’t prove as effective.

Is it better to exfoliate in the morning or at night?

Our skin repairs and renews overnight, so exfoliating in the morning will be really beneficial for revealing healthy, smooth skin. However, exfoliating at night is also great for removing the build-up of dead skin and dirt throughout the day.

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