Do you know what a body scrub is and why we should use them in our skincare routines? With so much attention being given to the way we care for our bodies, body scrubs are becoming just as important as soap. A body scrub is a skincare product whose main function is to remove dead skin cells through exfoliation. In the process, it also helps cleanse the skin and increase blood circulation to the body. Ultimately your skin will feel clean, rejuvenated and the removal of the dead skin cells will allow better absorption of moisturizers.
In the eastern part of the world, body scrubs have been part of the female beauty ritual for thousands of years. Women would come together weekly to relax, bathe and gossip while they scrubbed their bodies. The ancient Egyptians didn’t just build pyramids ___ it’s thought they were also the first people to use body scrubs thousands years ago. In Ancient Egypt, both men and women used scrubs with harsh exfoliants, honey and perfumed oils to keep their skin hydrated and free of wrinkles from the dry desert heat.
Why do we need to scrub? As we age, the glue–like substance holding our cells together (desmosome) becomes thicker. This results in a buildup in the layers of skin cells. Our ability to naturally exfoliate becomes more difficult as we grow older resulting in the skin having a thicker, less-toned appearance. This process can be influenced by the environment, hormones and vitamin deficiencies (A and D). In addition, on average, we shed approximately 30,000 – 40,000 skin cells every hour and it usually takes about 27 to 30 days before new skin cells reach the top layer of our skin. With these factors working against us, skin exfoliation/body scrubbing is a must. It is vital that we help promote the regeneration of new skin cells which in turn will result in improved appearance, tone and feel of skin.
Using an exfoliator on the regular will help to make you feel your polished best, with a more even-looking and smooth-feeling skin tone. Exfoliation is also a lovely self-care regime, creating a feeling of all-over refreshment for mind as much as body. Doesn’t that sound like just what your brilliant body deserves?
So, what are you waiting for? Never mind walking like an Egyptian, it’s time to scrub like one.
