A healthy, beautiful all-over glow starts with a scrub in the shower once a week.

Your skin will look radiant if you routinely exfoliate away the dull, dead cells that build up on it’s surface. But there are all types of scrubs...which to choose?

Scrubs and other spa therapies have moved from the spa to the cosmetic counter and drugstore. There are a huge variety to select from, so why not use different ones depending on your mood? Sugar, sea salt, almond, corn, hazelnut, or other nuts and grains form the basis of the scrub. Many scrubs contain aromatic essential oils, each with a different purpose and scent. Geranium is great for tightening and toning the skin: chamomile is calming for sensitive skin; sage soaks up oily skin; eucalyptus does some serious sinus-clearing. If your scrub contains essential oils, leave the scrub on your skin for five minutes so that the oils can penetrate your skin and work their magic. Scrubs should not be used on very sensitive skin, if you are sunburned, or have abrasions.

Pineapple is sometimes added to the scrub, as it’s enzymes help to break down and remove dead skin cells. If a self-heating scrub sounds heavenly to you, choose a scrub made with zeolites.. Kaolin, or china clay can be added to scrubs to absorb excess oils and are a great choice if your skin tends toward the oily. If you need a greater softening effect, opt for a scrub with beeswax, jojoba, honey, or glycerin added.

Cleanse your body as usual before the scrub but hold off on any shaving that day, as some scrubs can irritate just-shaved skin. Start with about two tablespoons of the scrub and rub it gently over your skin in a circular motion, working up from the feet and legs to your body and arms. Some people prefer to use a loofah, using upward strokes and working towards their heart. Others are using the newer microdermabrasion body massagers. Whether you use your hands, a loofah, or a massager, don’t hesitate to use more of your favorite scrub, especially over particularly dry skin on your heels and elbows. Be sure to rinse and wipe away all of the scrub when you are finished. A rich body lotion or oil afterwards moisturizes your newly exfoliated skin and will make your new soft, supple skin glow.

About the author: Dr. Jacknin is a board-certified dermatologist, and author of the definitive holistic skin care book Smart Medicine for Your Skin. She is on the board of the Physician`s Skin Institute in Scottsdale, Arizona and is a frequent contributor to magazine articles on cosmetic skin care. Her expertise and interest is cosmetic and holistic dermatology and cosmeceuticals.

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