Difference Between Body Scrubs, Polish and Exfoliators

Have you ever wondered what makes a body scrub different from an exfoliator? Let’s find out!

Terms such as body polishing, face scrubs, and exfoliation are often discussed at social gatherings. And yet, you might wonder: Isn’t a scrub much the same as an exfoliator? And isn’t exfoliating just another word for skin polishing, as both probably remove dead skin cells? 

Well, it’s time to clear the confusion. The basic difference between a scrub and an exfoliator is that the scrub contains exfoliating particles in a cream-based concoction. But an exfoliator can be a chemical or a mechanical agent applied to the skin to remove the dead cells from your skin. Now that we have cleared the Scrubs Vs. Exfoliators debate, 

let us explore the differences in detail.

What Are Body Scrubs? 

Scrubs contain minute exfoliating particles in a cream base. When the cream is rubbed onto the skin, it removes dry and dead skin cells, leaving your skin silky smooth. Your scrub contains artificial grains such as jojoba beads or polyethylene, or it comprises crushed shells or natural seeds. If you have sensitive skin, ingredients such as apricot kernels can cause irritation and artificial grains may be better. While the Exfoliator Vs. Scrub debate rages on, do note that a body scrub massage can invigorate your skin, improving circulation. What’s more, it can help remove your suntan too.

Physical Scrubs – Salt or Sugar?

The two main ingredients of a scrub are salt and sugar. Sugar is a better product if you have sensitive skin. Do you like to pamper yourself with a good scrub everyday? If yes, then sugar is your go-to product. Sugar particles that are smaller and more soothing will do the trick, without causing any irritation.

What is Body Polish?

Body polish is much like a facial for your body. Body polish will not necessarily cleanse your skin. However, it exfoliates the dead skin cells, much like a body scrub. It hydrates the skin, leaving it soft, supple and smooth. Body polish is so popular because it stimulates the skin after which fresh skin cells are produced, rejuvenating the skin. 

What are Exfoliators?

Exfoliators can be either physical or chemical. This is the main difference between scrubs and exfoliators. 

a) Physical Exfoliation

Physical exfoliators are scrubs that use friction to remove dead skin cells. Abrasive substances such as salt or sugar are rubbed against the skin, removing dead cells and polishing your skin. Loofahs, body brushes and pumice stones are some of the other tools that help exfoliate the skin. 

b) Chemical Exfoliation

This includes using chemicals such as retinol or hydroxy acids that contain enzymes to rejuvenate the skin. The acid peels away the outer skin layer and new pigment-free skin will take its place. The difference between exfoliator and scrub? Scrubs don’t use chemicals!

But if you want to pull out all the stops, salt is definitely better for your skin. It will give your skin a dewy blush. Salt is a healant and contains antiseptic agents. It works on the skin, killing bacteria and curbing inflammation.

 Commonalities Between Scrubs and Exfoliators

• Both products remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin.
• They deep cleanse clogged pores and remove impurities from the skin.
• Scrubs, as well as exfoliators, soften the skin, improve the feel of the skin and reduce acne scarring.

How is Skin Polishing Different from Exfoliation?

The particles in exfoliating beauty products are a lot bigger than the ones found in skin polishing products. Polishing the skin is a much gentler process, and is about removing dead skin cells, and giving your skin a wonderful polished glow. The polishing particles are a lot smaller, and consist of finely crushed walnut kernels. Some polishers even contain pearl and diamond granules. Skin polishing not only removes dead cells, but it also feeds the skin with vitamins and minerals. 

Ingredients such as the pips of avocado, apricot, and sea salt are common in many exfoliants. They are rougher on the skin. If used too frequently, they can damage and scratch the skin. That is why skin experts advise weekly use of exfoliation instead of daily use.

Skin polishing products work well on facial skin. Facial skin is more delicate and requires a lot of care as it is exposed to the elements. As skin polishing stimulates circulation, it is a good method to retard aging as the muscles don’t degenerate as quickly. So, when it comes to body polish Vs. body scrub, the former is a lot gentler.

Body Scrub – How to Use it

Body scrubs can be used around two or three times a week. This will keep your skin smooth and soft.

How to Start Your Scrub Routine

• Let the warm water soften your skin for 5-10 minutes before you begin.
• Apply the scrub to your body. Start from the feet, and move upwards, using circular movements as you rub in the scrub. 
• Use gentle pressure.
• Rinse your skin after a good scrub.
• Apply body lotion while your skin is damp.

Body Polish – How to Use

• Shower in lukewarm water.
• Massage the body with warm olive oil.
• Gently rub the body polish into your skin with a loofah. Use a circular motion as you move the loofah over your body.
• Start with your feet and move upwards.
• Rinse off. Avoid the use of soap.

Exfoliating Products – How to Use

• Scoop an exfoliating product into your palm.
• Massage each area of your body, taking more of the product if you need to.
• Shower off once you are done.
• Repeat the process once or twice a week.

Where beauty care is concerned, it’s better to be on top of your game and pamper yourself with scrubs and exfoliators regularly, rather than wait for a skin problem to crop up. We don’t want to face the world with dry, dull and lifeless skin, do we?

Read More:
- 7 Best Body Scrubs For Dry Skin And Why To Use Them