That seemingly harmless TLC you want to give yourself may not be the best for your skin as excessive use of scrubs can cause damage, warn experts to Ismat Tahseen.
It's probably something most people write into their weekly itineraries, checking into the spa for some pampering with a sea salt, sugar or another exotic scrub. Often considered to be a detox, people tend to use a scrub more than their skin actually needs and this can be detrimental, says skin expert Ishween Anand. "Excessive scrubbing and rubbing as well as exfoliating can damage the skin, so one should not do so on a daily basis unless using an extremely mild homemade scrub," she states.The damage it can cause
While scrubs are said to slough off dead and dry skin, we often overdo that. "Some scrubs that have mineral oils, synthetics (abrasive beads made of plastic) or chemicals that can be harmful if you skin is sensitive. If the skin has a cut or bruise, then avoid using a salt body scrub as it will aggravate the condition and burn the skin," adds Anand.
Dr Jaishree Sharad explains further, "The topmost layer of the skin is a protective barrier layer. Too much scrubbing will disrupt this layer and make the skin more sensitive to UV rays, leading to easy tanning, rashes and sunburns. Also, the creams used for scrubs can block pores and cause whiteheads and infection of hair follicles, known as folliculitis."
Can scrubs really get rid of dull, dry, or flaky skin, clogged pores, blemishes, white bumps and uneven skin tone? Dr Sharad busts some myths. "On the contrary, it is wrong to scrub dry flaky skin as this will disrupt the barrier function of skin making it extremely sensitive. Moisturise with a coconut milk-based moisturiser if you have flaky skin. Scrubbing will cause post inflammatory hyperpigmentation leading to darkening of blemishes," she avers.
How often should one use scrubs in a spa? "Maybe once in seven or 15 days. Every every three to four days is not advisable," says spa manager Sonali Kadam.
So, what works?
Natural exfoliants are said to be the ideal choice. Adds Anand, "Scrubs made with natural ingredients such as sugar, salt, carrier oils, honey work, assuming you are not over doing it. Also choose natural oils such as sweet almond oil, Jojoba and Avocado oil. These natural ingredients are great for the skin."
Specialists believe one should choose their scrubs based on the type of skin, sensitivity of skin, frequency of use and process.
"Whipped scrubs are also great as the particle sizes of the exfoliants are much smaller and are better for sensitive skin. Try a grated coconut pack mixed in coconut water or crushed almond and mint leaves; it will cleanse the skin well," adds Dr Sharad.
Natural scrubbers
Sugar: It is considered gentle as it has smoother edges than salt. Can be great for sensitive skin.
Apricot kernels: Rich in vitamin A, which is vital for healthy skin, they are perfect for elbows, backs, heels and thicker skins. Nutshells and fruit kernels can have jagged edges so they aren't ideal for sensitive skin.
Honey: As a moisturiser, honey is an apt skin softener and can nourish the skin. Can be used in combination with oatmeal.
Oatmeal: A gentle grain, oatmeal moisturises skin. It is able to reduces inflammation in sensitive skin.
DIY scrubs that won't harm skin
Cooling, nourishing scrub:
Ingredients
Grated coconut — 3/4 cup
Wild turmeric powder — 5 pinches
Sandalwood oil — 15 drops
Method
Mix together and apply gently on skin.
Hydrating scrub
Ingredients
White cane sugar — 1/2 cup
Honey — 1/4 cup
Avocado oil — 1/4 cup
Wheatgerm oil — a few drops
Aloe Vera gel — 5 tbsp
Crushed rose petals — few
Method
Mix together and apply gently on skin.
by: Sonali Kadam
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