Do I really need facial scrubs?
The old fashioned way of using a washcloth to scrub your skin is akin to what the facial scrubs do. If you simply cleanse and rinse your skin without sloughing off the dead skin cells, chances are, the skin might get flaky leading to dry looking skin that is dehydrated beneath. Another possibility is that the debris left behind might clog the pores, giving bacteria the perfect breeding ground which can well lead to acne. Regular scrubs are necessary.
How often should I use a scrub?
Bangalore based esthetician; Rajni Jha recommends a scrub twice a week. So does make up artist, Ambika Pillai. Jojo, a Delhi based artist recommends using a scrub once a week if you have a dry skin and for oily skin, he recommends, twice in one week. Gautami Kapoor, actress, uses a gentle facial scrub twice a week. She says, “Living in the metros does take a toll on your skin.” So does Ferena Wazir, actress and model, who’s peach and cream complexion is
What should I look for from a scrub bought over the counter?
Sampada, who works as a beauty counselor in Pune says, “Look for of a scrub that has a beaded texture. Some scrubs can be very coarse and gritty, which also can scratch the surface of the skin and leave small microscopic scratches. A beaded texture scrub is not as harsh and the rounded granules that slough the skin, won’t irritate it. Scrubs have cleaning agents in them and also can be left on for a few minutes just like a facial mask. They are wonderful for unplugging pores, but can be harsh if used on a daily basis.”
My World recommends, “Always cleanse the face first before using a facial scrub. This opens the pore up, so the scrub can work to it’s maximum. After using a facial scrub or cleanser, always moisturize. Your skin will look so vibrant and renewed after you have removed all of the dead skin cells.”
Oats and Honey Facial Scrub: Mix one desert spoon of finely ground oatmeal with two desert spoons of honey and mix well. Add two to three drops of essential oils suitable for your skin type and blend in well. Lavender oil would be a good choice for most skin types. Pat the scrub on your face and massage gently around for about three to four minutes, then remove with a warm damp cloth.
This scrub is particularly suitable for sensitive, dry, dehydrated and mature skin types. Use twice a week. (For a slightly deeper exfoliation replace the oats with finely ground almonds, unless you have very sensitive skin.)
Brown Sugar Facial Scrub: Mix one teaspoon of soft brown sugar with two teaspoons of olive oil, and a drop of lemon juice. Blend in one extra drop of essential oil suitable for your skin type. Myrtle oil works particularly well with this recipe and is excellent for oily or problem skins. Carefully massage the mixture on your face for a few minutes using small circular movements, then remove with a hot damp cloth.
