As the first quarter of the year approaches its close, we’re slowly being hit with the tragic reality that our sunny beach days are numbered. But bidding farewell to the summer season shouldn’t mean parting ways with your radiant glow. Just like the skin above our necks, our bodies require some TLC, too. And the products that aid in maintaining silky-smooth skin all year round are good-quality body scrubs and exfoliators.
Physical vs. Chemical scrubs: What’s the difference?
Physical or mechanical exfoliants, AKA body scrubs, contain visible exfoliating granules (typically made of salt and sugar) that mechanically slough away lingering dead skin cells. Chemical exfoliants, on the other hand, are a lot more gentle and consist of acids and enzymes that work together to break down dead skin cells and dissolve the bond (or “glue”) holding them together.
So, which one is best?
Choosing an exfoliant all comes down to your skin type or preference – even we like to switch between physical and chemical depending on our needs and routines. Some pointers before we delve into our current go-to product picks:
- A little goes a long way!
- Always apply your product in small and gentle circular motions to avoid causing micro-tears on the skin.
- Never exfoliate over sunburns, open cuts or wounds.
- Limit the use of your exfoliator to 1-2 times a week.
What to shop?
What is it? A double-duty exfoliator that refines and hydrates thanks to its combo of acids, enzymes and skin-conditioning butters and oils for a total skin overhaul.
Star ingredients: Sugar, sea salt, sand, avocado powder polish, fruit enzymes, coconut oil and shea butter.
What is it? An AHA body exfoliator that removes dullness-inducing skin cells to reveal a brighter and renewed complexion.
Star ingredients: Glycolic acid, niacinamide and cinnamon oil.
What is it? This spa-level and glow-enhancing scrub polishes, moisturises and unclogs pores for an ultra-smooth, evenly toned and ash-free look and feel.
Star ingredients: Potassium lactate, lilac extract and antioxidant-rich botanical oils and extracts.
What is it? This luxurious scrub is a self-care Sunday staple that instantly transforms and rejuvenates skin, leaving it with a toned and silky-soft appearance.
Star ingredients: Sea salt and lime peel with bergamot, coconut and sweet almond oils.
What is it? Another locally made gem that works to remove build-up for a noticeably polished and smoother skin surface.
Star ingredients: Shea butter with apricot, jojoba, grapeseed and castor oils.
Shop all the scrubs and exfoliants above in-store or at Edgars.co.za.
