How to find the perfect exfoliating body scrub?

Dead skin cells can leave skin looking dull and feeling rough, so as exfoliation lifts them away, it reveals smoother, more radiant skin. When practised regularly, body exfoliation may also help minimise the appearance of cellulite, through massaging areas where small clusters of fatty tissue are present. Prone to stretch marks? Body scrubs may also help minimise their appearance and support firmer-looking skin by encouraging elastin production, depending on the formula.

• Be gentle: Whether you have normal, dry or oily skin, exfoliating too aggressively can irritate the skin and trigger unexpected flare-ups. Most scrubs are effective on their own, without requiring a heavy hand.

• Brush towards your heart: For better blood circulation benefits, when dry brushing start at your hands and feet and work the brush towards your heart, massaging with circular movements before rinsing with warm water. If you’re feeling courageous, turn the tap to cold for an invigorating, final circulation boost. 

• Don't overdo it: The ideal frequency for body exfoliation is different compared to facial skincare. Exfoliating your body just once a week is enough. Anything more than that and you risk over-exfoliating and irritating your skin.

• Moisturise: It’s important to apply a moisturiser or body oil to your skin after exfoliating to maintain moisture and keep your skin silky smooth. For best results, after exfoliating gently pat your skin dry, but apply body oil while it’s still slightly damp. The residual moisture helps the oil spread easily and locks in hydration for softer, smoother skin.

• Before you shave: It's best not to shave or wax immediately before or after exfoliating, as this can irritate the skin and provoke a stinging sensation. However, exfoliating the day before shaving or waxing can actually help prevent ingrown hairs!

• Before you fake tan: Exfoliating the day before self-tanning can help create a smoother, more even base for a streak-free glow.

• Adapt application according to the product and the areas you wish to target: A classic grain-based body scrub is generally applied to damp skin, directly in the shower. However, for particularly dry, rough areas such as the feet or elbows, it can also be used on completely dry skin.

• Consider applying SPF after exfoliating: Depending on the type of exfoliant you choose, sun protection may be recommended. If you opt for a product containing chemical exfoliants or AHAs, which can increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight, apply SPF before sun exposure. This advice is especially relevant for leave-on products. Note: if exfoliating in the evening, SPF needn’t be applied directly afterwards and can instead be applied the following morning. Discover our selection of body suncare!

You’re now up to speed with everything there is to know about body exfoliation! At Oh My Cream, we offer a wide range of body scrubs and exfoliators. Still have questions about a particular exfoliating product, or want to take your body care routine one step further? Get in touch with us at  hello@ohmycream.com, our beauty experts will be delighted to help. You can also book an online skin consultation to receive personalised advice, via video call, from a member of our team.