Both body wash and body scrub- both are very important while you are taking a shower. A body scrub removes dead skin cells from the skin, while a body wash cleans the dirt, bacteria, and surface oils away and moisturizes the skin.
Both body scrub and body wash have their own benefits. But the question is, body scrub or body wash first? Which one should you use first?
If you want to get the best results, you should use body wash first and then the body scrub. That’s because the body wash will prepare your skin for exfoliation using a body scrub, which results in a cleaner and smoother look.
Read on to learn more about the uses and benefits of body scrub and body wash.
What Goes First: Body Wash or Body Scrub
There are many benefits of body scrub and body wash. But, which one to use first? Do you use body scrub or body wash first?
It is recommended to apply a body scrub after your skin has been washed of any dirt and debris because body wash will allow the body scrub to perform its cleaning powers more effectively.
So, before using your body scrub, make sure you shower with lukewarm water using soap or a body wash. In order to soften your skin and prepare it for exfoliation, it is advisable to use lukewarm water.
Because most of the time, lukewarm water is very comfortable for our skin. But, do not use very hot water as it might be too harsh or even burn the skin.
When Should You Apply Body Scrub?
You should apply body scrub after you have washed your body using a body soap or body wash. It is not recommended to use a body scrub every day. Because exfoliating the skin excessively using a body scrub may cause your skin to become irritated and make it sensitive and dry.
However, it is normally safe to exfoliate your skin using a body scrub two or three times a week. If your skin is dry and delicate, you may only need to exfoliate once weekly.
How To Use Body Scrub
A body scrub is a very effective way to exfoliate and cleanse your skin. Make sure that your body scrub is gentle enough for your skin, as many body scrubs are too harsh for most people, which can lead to skin irritation even in one-time use.
Here are the steps to use body scrub correctly:
Skin Preparation
First, wet your whole body in the shower or bathtub. Take enough time to wash your skin with body soap and lukewarm water. Taking enough time will let the warm water soften your skin and make the skin prepared for exfoliation.
Body Scrub Application
Now, rinse the body wash away. Because you should not use a body scrub and body wash together. If you use them together, the effectiveness of your body scrub will be reduced, and it will also be diluted.
Then, apply your body scrub with your hands after your skin is clean. Gently rub your hands in circular movements over your body. If you want to exfoliate the skin without damaging it, don’t use too much pressure while applying the body scrub.
One effective way to stimulate your blood circulation while scrubbing is to start your scrubbing activity close to your feet and then move up toward your chest.
Rinsing
After you are done applying the body scrub to your body, wait for 30 seconds. When you have finished scrubbing, it is time to rinse your body with lukewarm water. Make sure to remove the body scrub from your body carefully throughout this step.
You should pay extra attention to areas where the body scrub can get trapped, such as the areas around your groin or the back of your knee. To reduce the chance of irritation to your skin, be sure to wash it off properly.
Drying and Moisturizing
Now, dry your skin using a towel. Once you are totally dry, gently apply your moisturizer or body lotion. Because after exfoliating, it is essential to moisturize your skin. Or, you will have uncomfortable and dry skin if you do not moisturize.
Benefits of Body Scrub
A body scrub is a type of exfoliating agent that is used to remove dirt, dead skins, and other debris from the skin. This can help to improve the appearance of the skin and make it smoother and softer.
There are many benefits to body scrub, and the most important ones are skin regeneration, prevention of body bumps, and moisturizing benefits:
Skin Regeneration
A body scrub can help to improve the overall look and feel of your skin by exfoliating it and removing dead skin cells. This can result in smoother, healthier skin that is less prone to dryness and wrinkles.
Prevention of body bumps
A body scrub can also help to reduce the number and severity of bumps and bruises on your skin by removing sebum oil. It can also help to prevent acne and other fat deposits from forming.
Moisturizing Benefits
Most body scrubs are often packed with moisturizing ingredients that help to keep your skin hydrated and protected from the harsh effects of the sunlight.
Body scrubs remove dead skin cells from your skin, which helps to clear your blocked skin pores. It also helps to maintain the moisture balance in your skin, which is essential for optimal beauty.
Smoother Skin
A body scrub can be used as a gentle exfoliator that helps to remove dead skin cells and impurities from your skin. They also remove dust and dirt from the pores of your skin. This will result in smoother, more radiant skin that looks younger and healthier.
Hence, choosing a body scrub with natural ingredients, such as aloe vera or coffee scrub, is a good idea.
How Long Do You Leave Body Scrub On?
The body scrub has many benefits, but how long should you leave your body scrub on? Well, it is recommended to use body scrub for no longer than 30 seconds. If you use body scrub for more than 30 seconds, it can dry your skin and temporarily damage your skin’s protective barrier.
What to Do After Body Scrub
As it is mentioned earlier, after applying the body scrub, you should wash your body using lukewarm water and completely dry your body. Then whatever you put on, your skin will absorb more quickly.
When you are completely dry, you should apply a moisturizing lotion or moisturizer. Your skin can better absorb the moisturizer due to body scrub.
Hence, you must moisturize immediately since the exfoliation process might dry out your skin.
FAQ
How often can I have a body scrub?
Scrubbing your body with a body scrub can help get rid your skin of dirt and dead skin cells. However, it is advisable to avoid exfoliating your skin with a body scrub every day.
Usually, exfoliating your skin 2 or 3 times a week is safe. Excessive exfoliation may make your skin sensitive, dry, and irritated. You may have to exfoliate once a week if your skin is already dry and sensitive.
Is it good to exfoliate everyday?
No, it is not a good idea to exfoliate every day as exfoliating your skin every day can be harmful. Too much exfoliation can make your skin sensitive, dry, and irritated. It is ok to use a body scrub 2 or 3 times a week.
Should I wash my body after body scrub?
Yes, you should wash your body with lukewarm water and completely dry off. Hydrating lotions or moisturizers can be applied after the scrubbing process is complete.
Does body scrub lighten skin?
Yes, body scrub can lighten skin if used in moderation. However, excessive exfoliation with body scrub may make your skin sensitive and dry.
Verdict
Both body wash and body scrub are very beneficial for your skin. First, Body wash and lukewarm water will remove dirt from your skin and make your skin soft. It will also prepare your skin for exfoliation by making the dead skin cells lose. After that, a body scrub will remove dead skin cells effectively.
So, there you have the answer: body scrub or body wash first. To say precisely, you should use body wash first, then use the body scrub.
Body scrubs and body wash have different purposes. The body wash is made for daily use, but the body scrub is not. Scrubbing 2 to 3 times a week typically does not irritate your skin.
However, frequent exfoliating may harm your skin.
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