Table of Contents
- Are scrubs good for sensitive skin?
- Types of Scrubs
- Best Ingredients in Scrub for Sensitive Skin
- How to Use a Scrub on Sensitive Skin?
- What to Look for in a Scrub for Sensitive Skin?
- In conclusion,
- FAQ’s
It's such a struggle to find products that suit sensitive skin. You're going through the whole skin care aisle, reading each word on the ingredients label, desperate to find the one which says “I’m made for you baby!”
Scrubs can seem like your absolute worst enemy, but exfoliation can help remove unwanted dead skin cells and provide a smooth radiant complexion. Let's continue reading to find out which scrubs suit sensitive skin.
Are scrubs good for sensitive skin?
A face scrub is used to exfoliate the skin by removing dead skin cells, dirt and oil from the surface of the skin. By scrubbing your face you can achieve smoother, brighter and healthier skin. Face scrubs containing small grainy particles that physically remove dead skin which improves skin texture. When massaged into the skin it boosts blood circulation giving the skin a natural glow.
But does a scrub work the same for sensitive skin? Yes, absolutely!
Today's skincare is made for all and there are plenty of options to choose from for sensitive skin. Scrubs designed for sensitive skin contain gentler and smaller scrubbing particles to avoid causing irritation. Scrubs often include soothing ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile that calm skin redness post-use. Scrubs made for sensitive skin also skip using harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances.
Scrubs can be beneficial for sensitive skin too, when using the right product with precaution. Gentle exfoliation can smooth out your skin and prevent clogged pores.
Types of Scrubs
Scrubs are available in the market in various types. The mainstream exfoliation options are:
Physical Scrubs
Like the name says, they physically exfoliate the skin. They contain small gritty particles made of ingredients like sugar, salt, coffee or ground nuts, that remove dead skin cells.
Chemical Scrubs
They use chemical exfoliants to dissolve dead skin cells without the need to physically scrub. Chemical scrubs contain AHAs and BHAs like glycolic acid or salicylic acid.
Enzyme Scrubs
They contain natural enzymes like papaya, pineapple or pumpkin enzymes that break down skin cells and provide a gentler skin exfoliation.
Best Ingredients in Scrub for Sensitive Skin
Sugar
Sugar crystals are round, gentle on the skin and don't cause microtears. Sugar has natural humectant properties that lock in moisture while exfoliating.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties which is perfect for sensitive skin. It's a great ingredient to gently exfoliate without causing redness or irritation.
Rice powder
Rice powder exfoliates the skin without being too abrasive. It is the best option for when you want a gentle scrub to get super smooth skin.
Jojoba beads
Jojoba beads have a round and smooth shape which doesn't cause damage to the skin. Jojoba beads exfoliate the dead skin cells while also moisturizing the skin.
Aloe vera or Chamomile
Aloe vera and chamomile are both soothing agents that keep the skin calm while exfoliating. They reduce redness, irritation and inflammation in sensitive skin.
Honey
Honey exfoliates the skin, moisturizes and soothes it too. Honey is a natural humectant and exfoliant with antibacterial properties.
How to Use a Scrub on Sensitive Skin?
Step 1
Wash your face with a cleanser to remove all impurities from the skin to ensure there is no buildup to stop the scrub from working effectively. Leave the skin damp after cleansing to allow the scrub to glide smoothly on your skin.
Step 2
Take a small coin-sized amount of the scrub and apply it to your face. Cover your forehead, nose, cheeks and chin and avoid the lips and eye area. Lightly massage the scrub in your skin using your fingers in a circular motion.
Step 3
Exfoliate the skin for 1-2 minutes in a gentle and delicate manner. Avoid scrubbing too hard or for too long as it can prove to be damaging to sensitive skin. Rinse your face with water to remove the scrub off the face. Pat your face with a towel to dry excess water after rinsing.
Step 4
Apply a gentle and hydrating moisturizer to provide hydration to the skin and protect the skin barrier. Avoid using active or harsh ingredients right after exfoliation as it may cause irritation to the skin.
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What to Look for in a Scrub for Sensitive Skin?
- Choose face scrubs with fine, gentle and smooth exfoliating particles that won’t cause tears to the skin.
- Look for scrubs with calming and soothing ingredients included in them.
- Avoid scrubs with added artificial fragrances and instead opt for natural scents from ingredients like lavender or chamomile.
- Look for scrubs which are labelled as non-comedogenic because they are designed to prevent clogged pores.
- Avoid scrubs with parabens, sulfates or alcohol as they dry out the skin.
Extra tip: Patch test the scrub to make sure it is suitable for you. Apply the scrub to a small area like on the back of your hand and wait to see if it causes irritation.
In conclusion,
Scrubs have proven to be an effective option when used with care and with the right ingredients. There are many options available that are gentle and soothing and reveal a smoother, brighter skin without causing irritation. Keeping in mind the needs of sensitive skin, suited ingredients and proper application, you can make friends with scrubs too!
FAQ’s
What is the best face scrub for sensitive skin?
For sensitive skin, gentle and hydrating scrubs are best. Look for less abrasive ingredients like sugar, oatmeal or jojoba beads and soothing ingredients like aloe vera or honey.
Should I exfoliate if my skin is sensitive?
Yes, people with sensitive skin can use a scrub too. Exfoliation will help get rid of dead skin, prevent clogged pores and provide a smoother healthy skin.
Is sugar or salt scrub better for sensitive skin?
For sensitive skin, sugar scrubs are better than salt scrubs because sugar crystals are round and smooth that won't cause microtears or irritation. Sugar also has natural humectant properties that retain moisture in the skin.
How many times a week should I exfoliate my sensitive skin?
You should exfoliate 1 to 2 times a week if you have sensitive skin. Over exfoliating can damage the skin so adjust scrubbing according to how your skin reacts.
