Skin is a big deal – literally. It is the body’s largest organ; therefore, it makes sense that skin care should include the body as a whole and not just the face, neck, and décolleté. Exfoliating our bodies is an excellent way to maintain skin’s overall health and strengthen its barrier. Exfoliation is the process of removing dead epidermal skin cells, which comprise the stratum corneum. The stratum corneum is made up of skin cells that form a protective layer to help with the epidermal barrier. 

Exfoliation can be done one of three ways: body scrubs, body polishes, or acid-based body exfoliators. Though these exfoliants are often grouped together, there are differences among the three methods.

BODY SCRUBS

Body scrubs are most often used to cleanse the body. These scrubs are comprised of a physical exfoliant, such as sugar, sea salt, or even coffee grounds, that physically removes dead skin cells when rubbed over skin. The physical exfoliation of a body scrub can have detoxifying benefits, including stimulating the body’s natural healing mechanisms by increasing circulation and promoting cellular regeneration – all of which leaves skin smooth, soft, and youthful.

Since the physical exfoliating agents in body scrubs are made of larger, sandy particles, scrubs can be abrasive at times and can cause inflammation and redness. Ingredients such as colloidal oatmeal, chamomile, and shea butter are great in formulations for physical scrubs because they calm and replenish moisture to skin. The frequency at which a body scrub can be used varies but is recommended as a weekly treatment always followed by a moisturizer.

BODY POLISHES

Body polishes share similar exfoliating ingredients to that of scrubs with the same purpose of buffing away dead cellular buildup from the surface of skin. Polishes are most often done in the spa setting by a professional and prior to another body treatment, such as a seaweed or mud wrap. The exfoliating benefits of a body polish help open pores in preparation for a hydrating or detoxifying treatment to maximize its benefits. While a body scrub cleanses and exfoliates skin, a body polish only exfoliates and prepares skin. It is important to note that a body scrub and a body polish may also contain ingredients that are pleasing to the senses (essential oils, fragrances, and so on) but may have adverse reactions if someone has sensitive skin. 

Lindsay Lange is a licensed aesthetician with 15 years of experience. Her passion in the aesthetics industry began with makeup artistry and expanded into skin care and full body waxing. She specializes in anti-aging and corrective treatments, as well as Brazilian waxing. Lange’s balanced approach of science and holistic-based services has garnered client trust in and out of the treatment room.