The process to choose the best homemade body scrub is a highly individualized process, as the ingredients used can react differently and produce different results for each person. Body scrubs typically have a cream or gel base and natural exfoliates that help lift dead skin from the body. The intended result is to reveal newer skin underneath the dead skin. One way to choose the best homemade body scrub is to begin researching the ingredients and experiment to find the ones that work best with your skin. Exfoliating ingredients used in body scrubs include sea salt, brown sugar, oatmeal, strawberries, mint leaves, coffee, chocolate, and finely-ground apricot or walnut kernels.
People with highly sensitive skin should typically use care when they choose the best homemade body scrub. The coarse granules in body scrubs can cause irritation. Care should also be used by normally dry-skinned people, or even in the winter months when skin may be drier for others. Even for those with normal skin, it is important to not use body scrubs too frequently: overuse may damage the new layer of skin once it is revealed. It generally is recommended to use body scrubs once a week or every other week.
Choosing the best body scrub depends on skin type and the intended result. For sensitive skin, oatmeal tends to be hypoallergenic and soothing; oatmeal also causes little to no irritation. Another added benefit of oatmeal is its ability to absorb excess oil. Aloe Vera is another ingredient that can soothe sensitive skin. Some people have even found that body scrubs can reduce the appearance of cellulite.
Those looking for a body scrub with a pleasing scent might try brown sugar. Brown sugar is rich in molasses and is considered to be gentle on the skin. It usually warms the skin and leaves it feeling smooth. Lemon juice can also be added to brown sugar to further refine the pores.
To choose the best homemade body scrub for moisturizing, consider ones that are walnut- or coffee-based. These body scrubs typically will provide enough moisture that a moisturizing cream will not be needed afterward. For the walnut body scrub, ground walnut kernels can be combined with honey and milk. This makes for a gentle exfoliant that is nourishing and moisturizing to the skin. A coffee body scrub might often combine ground coffee and yogurt.
One of the most common deep-cleaning body scrubs uses sea salt and oil, such as almond oil. Finely-ground sea salt should only be used, as large sea salt granules may be too damaging to the skin. Sea salt scrubs should also be rinsed thoroughly with a moisturizing bath or soap.
In addition to gentle exfoliating, moisturizing, and deep cleaning, body scrubs can also be used for refreshing the skin. The best body scrub may also be chosen simply for its luxurious properties. For example, a combination of mint leaves, yogurt, and ground chick peas can provide a rejuvenating body scrub. A pampering and somewhat decadent body scrub combines cocoa powder, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and olive oil.