Nothing elevates a regular run-of-the-mill shower like an indulgent, fragrant and refreshing sugar body scrub. A sugar scrub is essentially made of, no points for guessing, sugar granules embedded in either a cream or gel-based emulsion.
Sugar scrub benefits include exfoliation, improved blood circulation, enhancing collagen production and improving skin health. Sugar acts like a natural exfoliator and, when applied to the skin, helps slough away dead skin cells to reveal radiant, softer skin. The best body scrub for you depends on your skin type — pick one with moisturising ingredients like shea butter if you have especially dry skin.
How to DIY your own sugar scrub
To make your own DIY sugar body scrub, you will need a few simple ingredients:
- Start with 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of coconut oil and a few drops of your favourite essential oil for fragrance. You can also add in some lemon or lime juice for extra exfoliation.
- Mix everything together until it forms a paste-like consistency. Be sure to conduct a patch test on a small area of your skin to ensure that you are not allergic to any of the ingredients before using it all over your body.
How to best use a sugar body scrub
To get the most out of this luxurious shower must-have, gently massage it onto damp, freshly cleansed skin in gentle circular motions. Use across your hands, legs, and body, avoiding the face and neck area. Sugar granules are natural exfoliators but can be a bit too harsh for the delicate skin on the face. Pay special attention to areas like your elbows and knees. Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing off with lukewarm water. Always follow up with a body lotion or butter to seal in the goodness.
If you’re not one to DIY, we’ve put together our top recommendations for sugar body scrubs that you can indulge in for supple and smooth skin.
1. Plum Bodylovin' Vanilla Vibes Sugar Body Scrub
Buff away dead and dry skin with this exfoliating sugar body scrub that’s richly infused with argan oil, shea butter and kokum butter to deliver intense nourishment to your skin, leaving it softer than ever. Deliciously scented with a sweet vanilla fragrance, this scrub is ideal for a Sunday self-care session.
2. MADES Body Resort Clear Purple Tube Body Sugar Scrub
This gentle body scrub sloughs away dead skin and clears up blemishes to reveal even-toned, glowing skin. Enriched with fig extracts, it improves skin elasticity, enhances the complexion, and delivers deep hydration to parched skin. Consider this one for its delicious scent of violet flowers, woody vanilla and musk.
3. BRYAN & CANDY Lion Series Sugar Body Scrub
Formulated with oatmeal extracts along with sugar for some extra exfoliating action, pick this one if your skin feels specifically rough or calloused. It also comes enriched with fruit extracts and essential oils to restore moisture to dry, dehydrated skin.
Some precautions when using sugar scrubs
While sugar body scrubs suit almost all skin types, follow these precautions when you use them:
- Firstly, avoid using it on any open wounds or cuts.
- Do not apply too much pressure when scrubbing, as this can cause irritation and damage to the skin.
- Using sugar scrubs too frequently can lead to irritation and dryness. It's important to limit use to once or twice a week.
