The 411 on Salt vs. Sugar Scrubs

Exfoliation should be a part of every skincare regimen. If you’ve never done it (with the right exfoliate, one that actually does something – not the usual cream with a few seeds or synthetic molecules thrown in to the mix but a real scrub), you will be amazed at how effective this product is for unclogging pores, promoting healthy, speedy turnover of skin cells, balancing our oil production, purifying the pores of toxins and dirt and smoothing skin tone, creating a radiant, fresh overall look and feel.

Our bath junkie scrubs are on my “can’t live without products list.” Both salt and sugar scrubs are different forms of exfoliation—sloughing off dead skin cells to allow the skin underneath to become hydrated and rejuvenated. While the natural granules of both sugar and salt make excellent body scrubs, which type to use depends on different skin conditions and characteristics… Here’s a quick rundown of when it’s best to use each scrub:

Salt Scrubs

Salt scrubs tend to be more abrasive because of their sharper edges and work better at smoothing rough skin. What really separates salt scrubs from sugar scrubs is their therapeutic, mineralization benefits. The salt helps the skin breathe easier, promotes better circulation, tightens the skin and improves skin texture. Salts have different trace minerals, which include calcium, magnesium, potassium, copper and iron, and help promote circulation, reduce the inflammatory response, while acting as a detoxifying agent and general muscle relaxant.

Since salt granules work a little harder than the gentler sugar scrubs, salt scrubs are a good choice for skin that can get especially dry and calloused. However, balance is important. Many scrubs suggest an application of a rich, moisturizing body butter, oil or cream to replenish the skin’s moisture after use. Our bath junkie scrubs don’t require a post application of another kind, since ours already contain awesome natural moisturizers.

Sugar Scrubs

Sugar scrubs are gentler on the skin than salt scrubs because the granule is round and therefore doesn’t “cut” the skin. For sensitive skin types, it’s a better choice, and the only choice for the face. Sugar granules dissolve more easily in hot water, and are less abrasive than salt scrubs. While sugar scrubs don’t have the mineral benefits of salt scrubs, they are less drying, and many natural scrubs now use natural sugars which contain the nutritive properties of sugar cane. Because of the smaller, finer granules, sugar scrubs make a gentle exfoliant that is suitable for next to all skin types and conditions.

The glycolic acid content of sugar is another plus, helping to protect skin against harmful toxins. Vital for the maintenance of healthy skin, this acid works to both condition and moisturize. Even for seriously rough and dry skin, sugar scrubs are great because sugar sizes come in fine, medium and course. But choose your scrubs wisely. Do not use a body scrub on your face – it’s too rough. Sugar also has the benefit of melting as you use it, from the heat of your skin, so you can customize the product based on your personal skin type and need.

Whether one chooses a salt or sugar scrub, used regularly, the skin will become much healthier in function and appearance—better circulation and with a more even skin tone. Once dead skin cells are removed, the largest organ of the body works more effectively to remove toxins and absorb nourishment. Best of all, because both are pure products, there are few, if any side effects, so the natural glow is exactly that… natural!