When choosing a body exfoliant, you should consider the condition of your skin, your personal care routine, and your budget. There are several different types of exfoliants, including cleansing sponges and cloths, scrubs, and beta hydroxy acid (BHA) and alpha hydroxyl acid (AHA) lotions and creams. You may find that you need to test several different body exfoliant products before you find the one that works best for you. Don’t be afraid to ask for samples from cosmetic counters or manufacturers that can help aid you in your choice.
Some people would prefer to incorporate exfoliation into their daily hygiene, as they have limited time to spend on grooming. If you are one of these people, you may wish to select a body exfoliant that you can use while bathing. For some people, the easiest way to do this is to use a textured sponge or cloth to clean the body. Many washcloths are available that have slightly rough textured surfaces that can help remove dead skin cells. Other alternatives include synthetic scrub puffs, loofas, and bath brushes.
Instead of or in addition to your use of a cloth, sponge, or brush, you may also choose to use a separate body scrub. This type of body exfoliant is typically a mixture of a liquid base, usually an oil or liquid soap, and an exfoliating material, such as coarse-ground salt, sugar, or nut shells. Other body scrubs may also include synthetic beads that can likewise exfoliate the skin. Soap-based body scrubs have the advantage of cleaning your skin during exfoliation. Bath oil-based scrubs, on the other hand, can leave behind a slight residue that can soften and protect your skin during the day.
A cream or lotion that functions as a body exfoliant typically includes compounds such as BHA or AHA that encourages exfoliation. This type of body exfoliant can give excellent results, particularly if you are concerned about scratching or scraping your skin when using scrubs or abrasive sponges. The disadvantage to this type of body exfoliant is that it requires an extra step in your daily routine, as you will need to apply it after you get out of your bath or shower.
No matter which type of body exfoliant you choose, it's important to pay attention to how it affects your skin. One way that you can help prevent a reaction to a product is to select creams, lotions, and scrubs that are unscented and that do not make use of dyes. Fragrances and added colors can trigger allergies in many people, so be sure to avoid them when selecting skin care products. BHA and AHA products can sometimes cause minor irritation, so stop using them and see a doctor if you experience a severe rash or reaction.