Dry, cracked, or oily skin is certainly very annoying. You can indeed undergo pampering skin treatments at the spa. However, you can also get smooth skin in the shower yourself using a sugar scrub. Using scrubs properly (and regularly) can exfoliate the skin and remove dead skin cells so that the skin feels smooth.
Step
Part 1 of 2: Choosing a Sugar Scrub
Step 1. Look for a scrub with a fine grain
Coarse sugar scrubs can irritate and even damage sensitive skin. However, the smaller sugar grains are usually finer and less abrasive to the skin.
- Brown sugar is one of the softest types of sugar and can be used on the skin of the face and body.
- Turbinado sugar (also known as raw sugar) usually has a larger grain so if you see this sugar on a product list, keep in mind that the product is probably a coarser scrub.
Step 2. Choose a moisturizing scrub if you have very dry skin
While sugar is a natural humectant that locks in moisture, some scrubs have much better moisturizing power than others. Choose products with moisturizing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, coconut or avocado oil, glycerol, or essential oils if your skin is prone to dehydration.
Step 3. Choose a scrub with a preferred fragrance to get the benefits of aromatherapy
Look for scrubs that contain essential oils according to personal needs. For example, if you're feeling stressed, a lavender scented pass can calm your mind. If you feel tired, a scrub with a lemon or peppermint scent can refresh your body.
There are several other types of aromatherapy you can try, such as eucalyptus to relieve sinuses, patchouli to relieve anxiety, and rosmarin to improve concentration
Step 4. Make your own sugar scrub if you have limited funds
With simple ingredients available in your kitchen like olive oil, honey, and brown sugar, you can make your own sugar scrub at home.
By making your own sugar scrub, you can determine the ingredients used. Therefore, you can avoid harmful ingredients or additives that are harmful to yourself and the environment
Part 2 of 2: Using Sugar Scrub
Step 1. Wet the skin
Warm water can soften and prepare the skin before exfoliating. As a suggestion, try soaking or bathing in the shower for 5-10 minutes before using the scrub.
- Water that is too hot can dry out the skin. The optimal water temperature for the skin is below 41 degrees Celsius (if the skin looks red, the water is too hot).
- Shave your legs before using the scrub so that your skin doesn't feel sore or irritated.
- Cleanse the skin before using the scrub to remove sweat, dirt, and makeup residue. Otherwise, scrubbing can actually push dirt into the skin.
Step 2. Massage the scrub on the skin
With light pressure, rub the sugar scrub on your skin in circular motions with your fingers. In addition to removing dead skin cells, this movement also improves blood circulation and encourages the production of collagen, a protein that fights wrinkles and keeps skin looking youthful on the body.
- Use the scrub on the upper body first, then gradually massage into the lower body.
- Do not rub the scrub too vigorously so as not to damage the skin.
Step 3. Rinse the skin with warm water
You don't need to clean your skin with soap or shower gel after using the scrub. To make the skin more moisturized and smooth, leave the scrub on the skin for a few minutes before rinsing the skin.
Step 4. Dry the body
Gently pat the towel against the skin to dry it thoroughly.
Step 5. Finish the treatment with lotion or body oil
Once your skin is dry, use a lotion or body oil to moisturize your exfoliated skin. Use the product immediately after the skin is dry while the pores are still open and absorbs the moisturizer easily and quickly.
- Do you have virgin coconut oil? This ingredient can be used as an effective and inexpensive moisturizer because of its high saturated fat content. However, only use coconut oil if your skin is not prone to breakouts.
- Always use sunscreen after exfoliating because the skin is more prone to damage. Use a product with an SPF of 30 or higher, and that has broad spectrum protection.
Step 6. Use a scrub once or twice a week
Sugar scrubs cannot be used as part of a daily beauty treatment. Excessive use of scrubs can cause skin irritation, so try not to use it more than three times a week.
