How to Use a Sugar Scrub & Our Favorite Ones for Facial Exfoliation

Used to gently slough away built-up dead skin cells that have been lingering on the skin’s surface, sugar scrubs are one of our favorite skin care products by far. These exfoliators typically smell wonderful and can leave our skin feeling smooth and soft. But, while we can almost all agree on our love for sugar scrubs, how many of us actually know the right way to use them? Below we’re sharing how to use a sugar scrub the right way and a few of our favorite facial exfoliators to try.

THE BENEFITS OF SUGAR SCRUBS 

Sugar scrubs allow you to gently exfoliate your skin which is a necessary step in a skin care routine. Regular exfoliation through the use of products like sugar scrubs can help to give you bright-looking, soft-feeling skin since it helps to slough away buildup of dead skin cells from the skin’s surface. When dead skin cells build up on the skin’s surface they can cause the skin to appear dull and feel rough and dry, exfoliation is key to helping you address this buildup.

HOW TO USE A SUGAR SCRUB 

First off, it’s important to note that how often you exfoliate depends on your skin type. But, the American Academy of Dermatology notes to be careful not to over-exfoliate. Over-exfoliating the skin can cause issues like dryness or irritation. So, while we recommend you make it a part of your routine, definitely don’t over-do it. “How much [exfoliation] is too much, is a very personal question,” says dermatologist and Skincare.com consultant Dr. Dendy Engelman. “Some people can only handle exfoliating once a week, while others need to every day.” 

Step 1: Gently Massage Scrub in Circular Motions

When you’re ready to exfoliate, grab a palm-sized scoop of the scrub. Massage the product onto your skin in very gently circular massaging motions–key word here is gently. You don’t ever want to press too hard or you can end up irritating your skin, so maintain a light touch throughout the exfoliation.

Step 2: Rinse Well & Pat Dry

Once you’ve exfoliated your face, rinse the sugar scrub away with lukewarm water. You can follow up with your favorite face wash to cleanse your skin. Then, using a soft towel, pat—never rub—yourself dry but leave a little bit of dampness on the skin. 

Step 3: Replenish Your Skin with Hydration

Now that you’ve exfoliated away that buildup of dead skin cells from the surface of your skin and patted (nearly) dry it’s time to replenish your skin with a little hydration. Board-certified dermatologist and Skincare.com consultant Dr. Michael Kaminer explains that the best time to moisturize your skin is while it’s still slightly damp as this helps to lock in that hydration. Reach for your favorite face oil, lotion, or cream and massage it all over.

Step 4: Apply Makeup 

You’ve exfoliated, cleansed, and moisturized your skin, now what? You’re ready for makeup application! Exfoliating and moisturizing can help create a velvety-smooth canvas, so you’ll enjoy how seamlessly your makeup goes on and how flawless it will look!

OUR FAVORITE SUGAR SCRUBS FOR FACE & LIPS

Now that you know about the benefits of sugar scrubs and how to use one in your routine, it’s time to find the best sugar scrub for you! Below we’re sharing details on L’Oreal Paris’ Pure-Sugar Scrubs to help you get your search started.

If You Love the Scent of Chocolate: L’Oreal Paris Pure-Sugar Nourish & Soften Face Scrub

Between the finely crushed cocoa to luxurious coconut oil and shea butter, this sugar scrub is nothing short of a delectable treat for your pores. Allow this cocoa-scented scrub to melt into your skin for gentle exfoliation that’ll leave skin feeling softer, smoother, and looking more refined. With continued use, the skin will look healthier, smoother, and glowing.

If You Love the Scent of Kiwi: L’Oreal Paris Pure-Sugar Purify & Unclog Face Scrub

There’s nothing sweeter than a tropical twist, and that’s precisely what you’ll be getting with L’Oreal Paris’ Pure-Sugar Purify & Unclog Face Scrub. Rarely do kiwi seeds make cameos in skin care products, but that’s what sets this sugar scrub apart from the rest. Formulated with three pure-sugars, along with kiwi seeds, peppermint, and lemongrass oil, you’ll enjoy how nicely this scrub polishes away dull skin, while purifying and unclogging the skin over time. 

If You Love the Scent of Grapeseed: L’Oreal Paris Pure-Sugar Smooth & Glow Face Scrub 

If you like the sound of a cocktail of ingredients that include acai, grapeseed, and monoi oils, put this pure-sugar scrub on your radar. The results will leave you with smoother skin and lips instantly, and a visible healthy glow over time. 

So, what are you waiting for? Start incorporating a gentle exfoliation session with a sugar scrub into your weekly skin care routine today!