How To Use Body Scrub Correctly For The Glowiest Finish

When should I not use body scrub?

While we love a smooth finish, there are occasions when you’re best off skipping scrub altogether. “If you have active irritation, sunburn or broken skin on the body, it’s best to wait until the skin has fully recovered before exfoliating,” says Michaella.

What should I do after using body scrub?

Lots of the best body scrubs (we’ve rounded up our favourites below), have ingredients that add moisture back in. “I particularly like scrubs that combine exfoliation with nourishing botanical oils, as they leave the skin feeling conditioned rather than stripped, helping to smooth rough texture while replenishing moisture at the same time,” says Dr Pyal. But even so, it’s best to follow-up with a nourishing body moisturiser to ensure skin feels as soft and comfortable as possible. “Always apply a moisturiser while the skin is still slightly damp to lock in hydration,” confirms Dr Pyal.

Why use a body scrub?

“Regular exfoliation helps improve skin texture, softens rough patches and restores radiance by removing the layer of dead skin cells that can make skin appear dull,” says Dr Pyal. But, it can also make your following body products work harder. “One of the biggest misconceptions about body scrubs is that they’re simply about making skin feel smooth, but regular exfoliation can also help improve the efficacy of your body products, it encourages fresh blood flow and improves your lymphatic function,” says Michaella.

On top of that, it can clear the way for your body serums and moisturisers to penetrate deeper. “By removing the build-up of dead skin cells, your moisturisers, body oils, and other body products can absorb more effectively,” Michaella notes. And, “it may reduce the likelihood of ingrown hairs after shaving,” says Dr Pyal.

Elsewhere? It can be a really beautiful moment of calm in your day or week. “I’m a huge fan of turning body exfoliation into a ritual, rather than rushing through it,” says Michaella. “Take a few extra moments to massage the scrub into the skin, especially if you’ve chosen a spa like scrub that smells incredible. Make the process feel more like self-care and less like another task on your to-do list,” she says.