Have you ever done a Scrub? If yes, on which part of your body?
There are indeed various types of Scrubs, but the key is to understand when and where to use it in order to make the most of its potential!
Let’s start with the basics...
What is a Scrub?
The term "Scrub" can have several meanings depending on the context; you might not know this, but it is also used in computing ("scrubbing" as the verification and correction of errors in stored data), in gaming (a less competent or unfair player), and in the medical field (related to disinfection and preparation of surgical instruments), in addition to its common use in the beauty industry, which is what concerns us!
In our world, Scrub refers to a skin cleanser or exfoliator: a Scrub is a cosmetic product containing abrasive particles designed to exfoliate the skin, removing dead cells and impurities.
It can be used as part of a skincare routine to make the skin smoother and brighter.
But let’s dive deeper into its function: what is a Scrub used for?
Why use a Scrub?
In the beauty field, Scrub is a cosmetic product designed to exfoliate the skin.
Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells and impurities from the surface of the skin.
It helps to clean the skin deeply, promoting a brighter, smoother, and healthier appearance.
Here are some of the benefits of Scrub:
- Removal of dead cells
It contains abrasive particles, such as sugar, salt, or microspheres, that help remove the dead cells from the surface of the skin. This promotes cell renewal, leading to fresher and younger-looking skin.
- Improvement of circulation
By gently massaging the Scrub into the skin, blood circulation is stimulated. This can help improve nutrient and oxygen distribution to skin cells.
- Preparation of the skin for other treatments
It is a product that prepares the skin by removing surface barriers, which can enhance the effectiveness of other subsequent cosmetic treatments, such as masks or moisturizers.
- Reduction of clogged pores
It can help prevent or reduce the formation of clogged pores, which can lead to skin issues like acne and blackheads.
- Smoother and brighter skin
After using Scrub, the skin tends to look smoother, brighter, and feel softer to the touch.
Exfoliation with Scrub should obviously be done in moderation, as excessive or too vigorous use could irritate the skin or cause damage.
The recommended frequency can vary depending on the skin type, but generally, one or two uses per week are considered adequate.
What is the difference between Scrub and Gommage?
Scrub and Gommage are both cosmetic products designed to exfoliate the skin, but there are some key differences between them in terms of formulation and application.
- Texture and formulation
- Scrub: usually has a granular texture due to abrasive particles like sugar, salt, or microspheres. It may come in the form of a gel, cream, or oil, with the granules contributing to the exfoliating effect.
- Gommage: has a creamier or gel-like consistency and often does not contain visible granules. Instead of abrasive granules, gommage relies on chemical ingredients or enzymes to remove dead cells from the skin's surface.
- Application and removal methods
- Scrub: is massaged onto the skin in circular motions to remove dead cells, then generally needs to be rinsed off with water.
- Gommage: is applied to dry skin and gently massaged. Unlike Scrub, Gommage does not necessarily require rinsing. After massaging, the formula can simply be patted or wiped off the skin.
- Choosing based on skin type
- Scrub: may be better suited for those with thicker, more robust skin, as the mechanical action of the granules can be too harsh for sensitive skin or skin prone to irritation.
- Gommage: is often considered gentler and may be a better choice for those with sensitive skin, as the exfoliating action is more delicate and does not rely on abrasive particles.
- Application and Removal Methods
- Scrub: it is massaged onto the skin in circular motions to remove dead cells, and is generally rinsed off with water.
- Gommage: applied to dry skin and gently massaged. Unlike Scrub, Gommage does not necessarily need to be rinsed off. After massaging, the formula can simply be wiped or removed from the skin.
- Choosing Based on Skin Type
- Scrub: may be more suitable for those with thicker, more resilient skin, as the mechanical action of the granules can be too harsh for sensitive skin or skin prone to irritation.
- Gommage: often considered gentler and can be a better choice for people with sensitive skin, as the exfoliating action is more delicate and does not rely on abrasive particles.
Both Scrub and Gommage help to achieve smoother and brighter skin by removing dead cells, but the choice between the two often depends on personal preferences and skin type.
The feeling and desired result can vary based on individual needs.
But let's get back to the topic...
To better understand how and when to apply Scrub, we need to focus on the specific area of the body you're treating: the entire body, legs, face, scalp, and so on...
Body Scrub
If you're looking for a complete and rejuvenating action for your overall skin, a body Scrub is obviously the right choice. However, it’s often the case that many questions arise due to its versatility.
Here are the most common questions we receive.
- How long should the Scrub stay on the skin?
The body Scrub is generally massaged onto the skin for 1-5 minutes, depending on the product's instructions.
- How long should you leave the body Scrub on?
Body Scrub is usually not left on as long as a mask. After applying and massaging it well into the skin, it is rinsed off with water within a few minutes.
- When should you use a body Scrub?
You can use a body Scrub once or twice a week, depending on your skin's needs. Avoid over-exfoliating, as it could irritate the skin.
It’s not necessary to wait for "symptoms" to apply it—regular exfoliation is a good practice to maintain.
- When should you NOT use a body Scrub?
Avoid using a body Scrub if you have open wounds, skin irritations, or conditions like eczema.
There are also several myths surrounding Scrubs and tanning!
Of course, it’s not advisable to use a Scrub on freshly sunburned skin, but it’s important to note that—contrary to what is often believed—a GOOD BODY SCRUB DOES NOT REMOVE TAN!!
Tanning is not a layer sitting on the surface of the skin that can be washed away, but occurs in the deeper layers of the skin, and therefore cannot be affected by a simple Scrub (thankfully).
- What are the real benefits of a body Scrub?
As mentioned, body Scrubs help remove dead skin cells, but they also improve blood circulation, reduce clogged pores, make the skin softer, and promote better absorption of moisturizers and treatments that follow.
Additionally, regular exfoliation—even in the summer—contributes to the health of your tan!
- What should you do AFTER using a body Scrub?
After using a Scrub, it's always a good idea to moisturize your skin with a specific cream to help retain moisture and soothe the treated skin.
- How to scrub your back?
Scrubbing your back can be tricky on your own, but you can ask for help from someone or use a back washer or scraper, making sure to massage gently to avoid irritation.
- How to exfoliate the skin on your legs?
It’s recommended to massage the Scrub onto the legs in circular motions, paying particular attention to drier areas like the elbows and knees.
- When should you scrub—before or after the shower?
You can do the Scrub either before or after the shower.
Many prefer to do it during the shower since the steam and warm water help soften the skin, open the pores, and facilitate exfoliation.
Hopefully, we've answered at least some of your lingering questions. But always remember that everyone's skin has different needs, so adjust the frequency and method of Scrub use according to your skin's characteristics.
Facial Scrub
Now, let’s focus on more delicate areas, such as the face.
- What is a facial Scrub used for?
A facial Scrub is a cosmetic product designed to exfoliate the skin on the face. Facial Scrubs help remove dead cells from the skin's surface, making the face brighter, smoother, younger, and fresher. Some benefits include cleaning the pores, stimulating blood circulation, and promoting cell renewal.
- How do you use a facial Scrub?
Here’s a general guide on how to apply a facial Scrub step by step.
- Cleanse: Start by washing your face with a gentle cleanser to remove makeup, oil, and impurities from the skin.
- Warm water: Use lukewarm or warm water to open the pores and soften the skin (which makes exfoliation easier).
- Apply the Scrub: Take a small amount of facial Scrub and apply it to the skin. Massage gently in circular motions, avoiding the eye area.
- Avoid excessive force: Don’t apply too much pressure. The exfoliation should be a gentle gesture to avoid irritation or skin trauma.
- Rinse: After massaging the Scrub for about 1-2 minutes, rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
- Moisturize: After exfoliation, apply a moisturizer to keep your skin soft and hydrated.
- When should you do a face scrub?
The frequency with which you should do a face scrub depends on your skin type. In general, a scrub can be done once or twice a week. However, if you have particularly sensitive or dry skin, you may want to reduce the frequency to once every 10-14 days.
Avoid doing a scrub too often, as it may cause irritation.
- When should you NOT do a face scrub?
Avoid doing a face scrub if you have irritated skin, open wounds, or skin conditions such as eczema or noticeable acne.
The key is always to listen to your skin and adjust the frequency according to your needs!
Try the WALNUT SCRUB from The Unique Form and put into practice what you’ve learned so far!
Lip Scrub
A lip scrub is a cosmetic product designed specifically to exfoliate and soften the skin of the lips.
Here’s some additional information to answer the most frequent questions on the subject…
- What is a lip scrub for?
The purpose of a lip scrub is to remove dead and dry skin cells from the surface of the lips, leaving them smoother and softer.
This is especially useful if your lips are chapped or dry.
After the scrub, your lips are ready to absorb hydration better from lip balms or other specific products.
Goodbye to lipstick otherwise! ?
- How do you do a lip scrub?
To do a lip scrub at home, you can follow these simple steps:
- Apply a small amount of scrub with clean fingers and massage it gently onto your lips in circular motions. Be careful not to apply too much pressure to avoid irritation.
- Rinse after massaging the scrub onto your lips for a few minutes, rinse with lukewarm water or gently dab with a cotton pad.
- Moisturize by applying a good lip balm or natural oil to hydrate your lips after the scrub.
- When should you do a lip scrub?
You can do a lip scrub when you feel your lips are dry or need an exfoliating treatment.
However, don't overdo it: once or twice a week should be enough to keep your lips healthy.
- When should you NOT do a lip scrub?
Be careful not to do a lip scrub when your lips are particularly chapped, irritated, or if you have herpes, as it could worsen the situation. Listen to your skin's needs and adjust the frequency accordingly.
Scalp Scrub
A scalp scrub is a product designed to gently exfoliate the skin of the scalp.
Here’s some more useful information on the subject.
- What is a scalp scrub for?
A scalp scrub helps remove dead skin cells, excess oil, and any product residue that may accumulate. This can help not only keep the scalp clean but also promote blood circulation and create a healthier environment for hair growth.
- How do you do a scalp scrub?
You can find specific scalp scrubs in stores or make your own at home; just be sure to follow these key steps:
- Clean your hair: Before applying the scrub, wash your hair with a gentle shampoo to remove dirt and excess oil.
- Apply the scrub: Take a small amount of scalp scrub and apply it directly to the scalp, focusing on the areas where you want to exfoliate.
- Gentle massage: Massage the scrub with your fingers in circular motions. Be gentle to avoid irritation.
- Rinse: After massaging the scrub, rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
- Condition: Follow the scrub with a good conditioner to hydrate your hair.
- When should you do a scalp scrub?
The frequency with which you should do a scalp scrub may vary depending on individual needs and your scalp type.
In general, a scalp scrub can be done once or twice a month or according to the specific product you're using.
If you have sensitive scalp skin or conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis, consult your dermatologist before using a scalp scrub.
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