The Benefits of a Body Scrub

A body scrub is a skincare product that the main function is to remove dead skin cells through exfoliation. But it has other benefits to your skin as well. Because we know that psoriasis causes a build-up of skin, adding a scrub to your skincare routine is extremely beneficial to your overall skin health and appearance.

Additional benefits of body scrubs

A scrub cleanses the skin as well as increases the blood circulation in your body. The exfoliation element needs to be abrasive enough to remove dead skin but gentle enough to not damage healthy skin. Don't mistake this as a "cure" for psoriasis. A scrub will not eliminate psoriasis plaques but it could certainly turn it down a notch.

Removes dead skin cells

While creams are important for the surface of your skin, the scrub goes beyond the surface to sloth away any dead skin to reveal the healthy, glowing skin below. The exfoliation component works away each dead layer of skin, revealing your softer skin underneath.

Helps to hydrate the skin

After using a body scrub, your skin will be able to absorb moisturizers better. Instead of moisturizing dead, built-up skin, you are now moisturizing the layers below that.

Clearer skin

If you have ever used a face scrub then you've probably noticed clearer skin. Well, the same applies to your body. A scrub helps to clear toxins and built-up oils from your pores, which prevents acne and ingrown hairs.

Improves blood circulation

Scrubbing increases the blood flow and circulation in your body. Using a gentle loofah or body brush for scrubbing helps as well. With psoriasis, skin can often be cracked and sensitive, so please be mindful of this when choosing a tool to scrub with.

They're relaxing!

Stress can play a big part when it comes to flare-ups of psoriasis. Scrubs with essential oils, used in a warm shower, help to not just refresh your skin but relax your mind.

How and when to use a body scrub

Your skin is delicate, even without psoriasis. You should only use a scrub once or twice a week. If this is your first time scrubbing, please try it on a small patch of skin before diving in and applying it to your whole body. This is especially important when you have psoriasis.

• Keep your scrub in the shower. This allows for easy access and an in-your-face reminder to use it more
• To avoid damage to your skin, make sure you are applying the scrub to a wet surface. Applying to a dry surface could create damage to your already psoriasis-speckled skin.
• Use warm water. Hot water will just further dry out your skin.
• Apply scrub with your hands and, using an adequate amount, move in circular motions over your body. You can also use a gentle loofah, brush, or exfoliating gloves.
• Be gentle. The exfoliating property in the scrub should be adequate enough to do the scrubbing.
• Wash the scrub off and moisturize.

If your skin is cracked and bleeding, a scrub could hurt more than it will help. If this is the case, try using scrubs that do not contain salt.

Where's the best place to get a body scrub?

There are a lot of chemicals and sometimes even artificial exfoliators in store-bought scrubs, such as tiny plastic beads. I choose homemade for most of my skincare products.

A homemade scrub gives you more control when it comes to ingredients. Making your own body scrub is quick, easy, and inexpensive. For some of my homemade recipes, visit my most recent article on scalp scrubs.