Salt Scrub Vs. Sugar Scrub: Does It Matter?

If you’re someone who is always looking for the best ways to take care of your skin and make it look as radiant and youthful as possible, you’ve likely heard of or tried a salt scrub or a sugar scrub.

In the right context, both types of exfoliants can be a great way to brighten your complexion when combined with other high-quality body and face skincare products and a balanced skincare routine. Let’s find out what the difference between these types of scrubs are and how you can benefit from them.

What are Sugar Scrubs?

Sugar scrubs are any physical exfoliators that utilize sugar crystals in their formulas to remove dead skin cells that may be obscuring fresh, healthy skin cells beneath. Sugar scrubs are well-known for their ability to be gentle on skin, with smaller particles and no natural acidity that could cause irritation. This makes sugar scrubs particularly helpful in facial exfoliation or for people with sensitive skin.

What are Salt Scrubs?

Salt scrubs are what they sound like: skin scrubs made with salt instead of other compounds. More abrasive and harsh, salt scrubs can damage sensitive tissues, but have a key advantage that makes them useful in some situations.

Salt is a natural detoxifier, meaning salt scrubs pull toxins from the skin while also achieving exfoliating benefits like revealing more glowing skin. Some salt scrubs can also ease visible inflammation, just be careful not to rub too harshly when using these products, as over-use could lead to additional inflammation.

Benefits of Physical Exfoliation

In addition to removing the surface layer of dead, dull skin cells, exfoliation makes it easier for your skin to absorb additional skincare products like targeted serums and toners you use to achieve certain goals. So while it can help improve skin’s appearance on its own, exfoliation’s biggest benefit might be how it enhances the effectiveness of other steps in your skincare routine.

By removing these dead skin cells on a regular basis, you decrease the likelihood of breakouts and blackheads because you’re taking away much of the fuel for acne-causing bacteria. Exfoliation helps the appearance of excess oil, helping to open pores and keeping them visibly clear of dirt and impurities.

Finally, as anyone who's found an exfoliator they love will tell you, with the right ingredients, like an essential oil like avocado oil or shea oil, the rough texture of even the most stubborn parts of your skin can be transformed into soft skin you love to feel.

The Difference Between Sugar and Salt Scrubs

Both sugar and salt scrubs can be helpful when used on a regular basis, but not everyone should use salt scrubs due to their high degree of abrasiveness. Although sugar scrubs are highly effective at physical exfoliation, they do not provide any other cleansing benefits. Salt scrubs, on the other hand, do detoxify the skin as they scrub, which can be a huge benefit for people struggling with overactive oil glands on the body, for example.

Our Favorite Salt and Sugar Scrubs

Epicuren Discovery is proud to offer two excellent scrubs for deep exfoliation that partner perfectly with the rest of our natural formulas for daily skin care needs.

Mint Renewal White Sand Body Polish

Invigorate your skin with the many benefits of a sugar-salt blend. OOur sustainable blend of volcanic rock and Bora Bora sand create a luxurious experience with revitalizing aromas.

Cinnamon Vanilla Brown Sugar Polish

Engage all your senses with this natural blend of coconut oil and brown sugar scented with vanilla and cinnamon. This product is a great natural humectant, helping skin to appear more voluminous and youthful.

High Quality Skincare Products From Epicuren Discovery

If you want to get the highest quality skincare products for your daily routine to help your skin look and feel its best, Epicuren Discovery is here to help. With cruelty-free formulas you can get without a prescription, it’s easier than ever to take your skincare to the next level. Find out what products work best with your skin type and concern by taking our Skin Quiz today.

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