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Body Scrubs: All You Should Know! – 7 Essential Tips for Glowing Skin
What are exfoliating body scrubs anyway?
Body scrubs are specially designed to cleanse and refresh your skin by removing dead skin cells, leaving it smooth, soft, and radiant. They can be made from a variety of ingredients such as coconut oil, sugar, salt, and even coffee. Today, there are plenty of options available—from popular brands like Tree Hut and Dove to easy DIY recipes you can make at home. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the best body scrubs, how to use them, and how to choose the right one for your skin type.
How they make your skin look your best.
These exfoliating body scrubs help your skin glow by gently removing the outer layer of dead cells and promoting skin renewal underneath. They are especially useful for women with sensitive skin or those who tan often, as they prevent the buildup of flaky skin. In the UK, where the weather can be unpredictable, regular use of body scrubs helps maintain a healthy, radiant glow even when sunshine is scarce.
To take your skincare routine further, check out our post on Natural Ways to Improve Your Skin for additional tips on hair and skin care.
Prevent ingrown hairs
They reduce the risk of ingrown hairs by gently removing dead skin from your pores, preventing clogging and irritation.
Moisturize and keep skin smooth
Your skin absorbs nutrients from natural scrubs, leaving it nourished, soft, and smooth.
Reduce stress and boost confidence
Exfoliating at night is a relaxing self-care ritual that helps you unwind and sleep better. Herbs have been used for centuries to improve rest—you can read more in our article on Natural Ways to Improve Your Sleep.
Unclog pores and diminish early signs of aging
Regular use of body scrubs helps keep pores clear, brightens the skin, and reduces dullness that can make skin appear older.
Prevent body bumps
Exfoliators like crushed macadamia scrubs prevent buildup of oils and impurities, reducing the chance of bumps and irritation.
Improve circulation
The nourishing ingredients in body scrubs stimulate blood flow, giving your skin a healthier, more radiant appearance.
Enhance texture and hydration
By promoting collagen production and cell turnover, body scrubs rejuvenate the skin, improving both texture and hydration.
What a scrub does
When you use a body scrub, you’re gently polishing the tiny outer layers of your skin to improve its texture and smoothness. The key is to exfoliate without harsh scrubbing—overdoing it can irritate your skin and leave it dry, which defeats the purpose. Just like enjoying a calming cup of herbal tea, a good body scrub is meant to help you relax and reduce stress.
That said, there are several types of body scrubs, each offering unique benefits. Choosing the right one depends on your skincare routine and personal needs.
Types of Body Scrubs
• Sugar Body Scrubs
Sugar contains glycolic acid, which exfoliates while hydrating the skin, making it one of the most popular body scrubs choices.
• Salt Body Scrubs
Salt draws moisture away from the skin, providing a detoxifying effect. Salt scrubs are more intense, so they should be used less frequently to avoid irritation.
• Tea Body Scrubs
Green tea is the best option for scrubs because its high polyphenol content protects the skin from environmental stressors and helps slow down aging.
• Coffee Body Scrubs
Caffeine in coffee helps tighten the skin for a firmer look. Coffee body scrubs are rich in antioxidants, supporting a youthful glow.
Additional Ingredients for Body Scrubs
• Vanilla
Vanilla contains vanillin, which has mild anti-inflammatory effects. It’s a soothing addition often used in homemade body scrubs. You can learn more about vanilla scrubs here.
• Cinnamon
Cinnamon has natural antimicrobial properties that can combat acne-causing bacteria and promote clearer skin. It works well in lip and body exfoliation. Use it to exfoliate your lips like this.
• Ginger
Used for over 2,500 years in Traditional Chinese Medicine, ginger can reduce redness and inflammation when included in body scrubs.
• Shea Butter
Shea butter is rich in vitamins A and E, making it excellent for moisturizing and softening skin, particularly for dry or sensitive types.
• Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a hydrating base for body scrubs with antibacterial properties, helping lock in moisture and leaving skin soft and smooth.
• Pomegranate
Pomegranate is rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, which brightens skin and supports collagen production, making it ideal for rejuvenating body scrubs.
How to use sugar or coffee scrubs
You can apply natural body scrubs with a bunch of different techniques. Cleansers made out of other organic ingredients (like macadamia and rice milk) might have different textures, but the way you apply them is all the same:
1. Wet Your Skin
Use warm water. This helps open up your pores and allows the body scrub to work better on your skin.
2. Scoop the Scrub
Don’t take too much at once. Just enough to spread evenly across your skin. Otherwise, it will be harder to rinse off and leave a sticky feeling.
3. Apply It on Your Arms, Legs, etc.
Avoid using it on your face since some scrubs (especially sugar) have large particles that are too harsh for facial skin.
4. Massage Gently (This Avoids Ingrown Hairs)
If you’re using coffee grounds, you can mix the body scrub with other natural ingredients like vanilla or cinnamon to improve fragrance and offer additional skin benefits.
5. Use Soft & Circular Movements
Unlike pumice stones, body scrubs are meant to be gentle. Go for slower motions so the product can be properly absorbed.
6. Do Not Scrub Too Hard
Applying too much pressure can damage the skin barrier and cause more harm than good.
7. Rinse Off
Some ingredients like coconut oil are trickier to remove since they can stick to the skin. If needed, increase the shower temperature to loosen the body scrub for easier rinsing.
8. Use Soap
Optional, but if using soap, do it after exfoliating. Soap helps wash away any remaining body scrubs particles.
9. Check for Leftovers
Overlooked particles can lead to clogged pores or irritation, especially in sensitive areas like elbows and knees.
10. Dry Your Skin
Gently pat your skin dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing. Skin is more sensitive after scrubbing, and patting helps retain hydration.
11. Moisturize to Bring Out Your Skin’s Glow
For maximum benefits, apply a nourishing moisturizer afterward. Coffee body scrubs particularly pair well with hydrating creams.
How Often Should You Use Body Scrubs?
If your body scrub contains natural ingredients such as mango, watermelon, or coffee grounds, you can safely exfoliate 2–3 times a week. The exact frequency depends on your skin type and sensitivity. For more information on the benefits of exfoliation, consult trusted sources.
Oily Skin
If you have oily skin, you can use body scrubs up to three times a week without issues.
Dry or Sensitive Skin
For dry or sensitive skin, it’s better to limit exfoliation to once a week. This helps avoid irritation and protects your skin’s natural moisture barrier.
And if you’re looking for ways to improve your skin’s glow from the inside out, check out our complete guide on superfoods that promote radiant skin.
Where to shop for scrubs
Later in this article, you’ll learn how to make your own DIY exfoliating scrub, but if you prefer to buy one, some of the best body scrubs brands right now are:
Tree Hut
Tree Hut offers a popular line of body scrubs made with real sugar and shea butter. The whole grain sugar gently exfoliates, effectively removing dead skin cells while leaving your skin soft and smooth.
Dove
Dove’s Crushed Macadamia & Rice Milk Body Scrubs feature a rich cream formula that gently exfoliates while leaving your skin feeling silky smooth and nourished.
Boots
Boots offers a wide selection of body scrubs from well-known brands like Soap & Glory and The Sanctuary, ensuring you can find the ideal scrub for your specific skin type and needs.
Clarins
Clarins’ Tonic Sugar Polisher features organic sugar crystals and hazelnut oil, making it an excellent choice among body scrubs for combination, normal, or oily skin types.
Rituals
The Ritual of Sakura Sugar Body Polish by Rituals combines sugar and cherry blossom oils, making it a fragrant and nourishing option among body scrubs for your skincare routine.
Scrubs for Men
Men can greatly benefit from body scrubs, especially if they shave often. Since men’s skin is typically thicker, it tends to trap more dirt and dead skin, making exfoliation essential.
Using body scrubs as part of a grooming routine helps smooth the skin’s texture, making shaving easier and more comfortable.
However, it’s important to keep in mind this key difference:
Body Scrubs VS. Face Washes
It’s important to never use body scrubs on your face, as this can easily cause irritation and dryness. Body scrubs are typically coarser and designed to remove dead skin from tougher areas like arms, legs, and torso.
On the other hand, face washes are formulated specifically for facial skin. They gently cleanse without stripping away natural moisture and can usually be used every day, making them a safe choice for maintaining a healthy complexion.
Scrubs for Your Skin Type
While you can use any scrub, some work better for certain skin types. Picking the right one can make a noticeable difference in your skincare routine. Keep in mind, a body scrub is only part of the routine—you can also enhance your skin naturally with herbal remedies.
• Normal Skin
Also known as the most common skin type. Sugar scrubs are often the best choice for normal skin because they provide gentle exfoliation while also hydrating, keeping your epidermis smooth without over-moisturizing.
• Oily Skin
For oily skin, coffee scrubs are ideal. They help tighten pores, reduce excess oil, and minimize the likelihood of breakouts.
• Combination Skin
Salt scrubs work well for combination skin due to their detoxifying properties. They can draw out impurities from oily areas while balancing other parts of the skin.
• Dry Skin
Shea butter scrubs are perfect for dry skin. Their high moisturizing properties, along with vitamins A and E, support hydration and skin elasticity.
• Sensitive Skin
Oatmeal scrubs (not covered in this article) are gentle and have a pH level close to human skin, helping fight inflammation without irritation.
• Acne-Prone Skin
Salicylic acid scrubs made from willow bark are excellent for acne-prone skin. Willow bark’s natural salicin content targets blemishes while historically promoting calm and reducing inflammation.
• Dehydrated Skin
Different from dry skin, dehydrated skin lacks water. Look for scrubs with hydrating ingredients like aloe vera or hyaluronic acid, which help replenish water content.
• Mature Skin
For mature skin, scrubs with pomegranate or retinol are ideal. These ingredients support collagen production and promote elasticity, helping reduce signs of aging.
Scrubs for Common Skin Conditions
That’s right – beyond regular exfoliation, some body scrubs can also help reduce the symptoms of certain skin conditions.
Just like your gut, your skin has its own ecosystem of beneficial bacteria. Ingredients such as aloe vera can help support their growth and maintain a healthy balance in the skin microbiome.
• Keratosis pilaris
Up to 50% of adults experience this condition.
Those little bumps on the back of your arms or thighs are caused by excess keratin production. Regular exfoliation with a gentle scrub can smooth the texture, making your skin softer and more even. Look for scrubs with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), often found in milk-based cleansers like rice milk scrubs.
• Cellulite
A very common concern, especially in women starting in early adulthood.
Coffee-based scrubs are excellent for reducing the appearance of cellulite. Caffeine stimulates the lymphatic system, which helps remove excess water and toxins. For even better results, mix it with cold pressed oils to boost hydration.
• Eczema
For eczema-prone skin, choose mild, fragrance-free exfoliators. Options with jojoba oil or honey are great since honey acts as a natural humectant, drawing moisture from the air into your skin to ease dryness and itchiness.
• Psoriasis
About 125 million people worldwide are affected by psoriasis.
Scrubs with avocado oil or chamomile can help soothe red, irritated patches. Chamomile (along with herbs like lavender and calendula) helps calm the immune response that drives inflammation, slowing cell turnover and easing some psoriasis symptoms.
• Hyperpigmentation
For dark spots or uneven skin tone, scrubs rich in glycolic acid or vitamin C are effective. These antioxidants brighten your complexion and can gradually fade hyperpigmentation when used regularly.
How to make a body scrub at home
A homemade body scrub is an excellent option if you enjoy a DIY approach. The best part? You can create one using ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
One of the most popular choices is a coffee scrub, known for its natural brightening effect. Coffee grounds are rich in antioxidants, which help protect the skin and leave it looking fresh and revitalized.
What you’ll need:
- ½ cup of ground coffee (used or fresh)
- 2–3 tablespoons of brown sugar (for extra exfoliation)
- 2 tablespoons of coconut oil (or olive oil)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional, for fragrance)
Step-by-step instructions:
- Mix the Ingredients
In a clean bowl, combine the ground coffee, brown sugar, and coconut oil. Stir until you have a thick, grainy paste. Add the vanilla extract if you’d like a pleasant scent. - Store Properly
Transfer the mixture into a small airtight jar or container. If stored in a cool, dry place, your DIY body scrub should last up to two weeks. - Apply to Damp Skin
In the shower, wet your skin with warm water to open up the pores. Scoop a small amount of the scrub and gently massage it onto your arms, legs, and body in circular motions. - Rinse Thoroughly
Wash off with lukewarm water. Avoid using it on your face, as coffee and sugar particles may be too abrasive for delicate facial skin. - Moisturize After Use
Always follow up with a good moisturizer or body butter to lock in hydration and maximize the scrub’s benefits.
Pro tip: For extra nourishment, you can swap coconut oil with cold pressed oils like almond or jojoba oil. They’ll add even more hydration while keeping your skin soft and smooth.
Homemade Scrubs VS. Store-Bought
One of the great things about DIY body scrubs is that you can fully customize the recipe to match your skin type, preferences, and favorite scents. Still, store-bought exfoliators have their own advantages. Both options come with strengths and weaknesses worth considering.
Get one from stores if
You prefer convenience and want a ready-to-use product with no prep time. Many store-bought scrubs also have a longer shelf life and may include extra nourishing ingredients like shea butter or essential oils.
Make a homemade exfoliator if
You enjoy a more hands-on and creative approach. DIY scrubs let you experiment with different bases—like sugar, coffee, or salt—and add natural oils for unique textures and scents.
Exfoliating gloves either way
No matter which type you choose, using exfoliating gloves or mittens can make a big difference. They provide better coverage, help reach tricky areas like your back, and make your routine more efficient without straining.
Harmful Ingredients to Avoid
If you’re not convinced about making a homemade body polisher, then you might be after reading this. Mass-produced body scrubs often contain ingredients that, in the long run, do more harm than good. While there are many, here are the main ones you should watch out for in store-bought exfoliators:
• Microbeads
These tiny plastic particles are present in many cosmetics and are known to harm marine life. Thankfully, they’ve been banned in many countries, but it’s still important to double-check labels.
• Triclosan
Commonly found in beauty products like soaps and lotions, triclosan can disrupt endocrine function and interfere with the immune system.
Scary fact: Some big brand teas could also impact your immune system. During the manufacturing process, heavy metals like lead can leak into the soil and get absorbed by plants. You can read about 3 other toxic compounds in our article about tea shortages.
• Synthetic Fragrances
Here’s another spooky fact: many fragrance compounds are undisclosed.
What does this mean?
It means we have no way of knowing what chemicals are included in the scrubs. This is yet another reason to consider making a DIY exfoliator.
• Parabens
Some studies suggest that parabens can lead to reproductive health issues. The concerning part is that they’re not only in body scrubs, but also in shampoos, conditioners, and even certain processed foods like salad dressings.
Look for products labeled “paraben-free” to help reduce exposure.
• Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
Commonly used as a surfactant, SLS can irritate the skin and eyes and may strip natural oils, leading to dryness and sensitivity. If you’ve ever noticed your skin feeling unusually dry after a shower, SLS in your body wash might be the reason.
FAQ
Do you use a body scrub before or after shaving?
You should do it before shaving because this avoids the buildup of dead skin particles and ingrown hair follicles. Note: if your skin is very sensitive, you could do it after instead, which may help prevent irritation.
Can you use a body scrub on your face?
It’s not ideal. Most body scrubs are too rough for the face. The skin on your face is more sensitive, so it’s better to stick to facial exfoliators made specifically for that.
If you do use a body scrub on your face, consider applying a hydrating face mask afterward. You can learn more in our post about Holistic Health with Natural Herbs.
Do you use a body scrub before or after shower?
Neither — you should apply a body scrub during the shower. Damp skin allows the exfoliating ingredients to work more effectively.
Why do body scrubs make me itchy?
This is usually caused by harsh ingredients in the scrub. Stop using the scrub for a while to let your skin calm down. Then try a gentler option like brown sugar.
Do you use a body scrub before or after soap?
You should scrub after using soap. Soap removes dirt, so the scrub can focus on polishing your skin.
How long do you leave body scrub on?
Typically, 5 to 10 minutes is enough for the ingredients to be absorbed. Always check the product label, as application times may vary.
Is it okay to use a scrub everyday?
No. Daily scrubbing can be too harsh for your skin. Stick to 2–3 times a week to avoid irritation.
Do body scrubs expire?
Yes, especially natural scrubs made with ingredients like coconut. Always check for a “best before” date. If your scrub smells or feels off, discard it to avoid risk.
Should you use a scrub on wet or dry skin?
Use a scrub on damp skin. Wet skin helps the scrub glide smoothly and allows the ingredients to work better.
What is the best body scrub?
There’s no universal “best” body scrub. It depends on your skin type and needs. If you have the time, making a DIY scrub can be ideal.
Do body scrubs help with acne?
Yes, if they contain salicylic acid or glycolic acid, which help unclog pores and reduce breakouts. Choose formulas specific to acne-prone skin. Diet also affects acne. Ingredients like chia seeds may support skin health. Learn more in our post about The Role of Superfoods.
Should I use a scrub in the morning or at night?
Both are fine. Choose based on your beauty routine, but avoid daily exfoliation to give your skin time to recover.
Can a body scrub get rid of stretch marks?
Not completely, but regular exfoliation can make stretch marks appear softer and smoother over time.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this blog post is for general informational purposes only and is based on information available from various online sources. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any health conditions, allergies, or are pregnant or breastfeeding, please consult a healthcare professional before consuming herbal products. Health Embassy does not provide medical advice, nor does it diagnose, treat, or cure any medical conditions.
We do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information provided, and you rely on it at your own risk. Individual results may vary. Health Embassy is not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of any herbal products discussed on this blog.