Body Scrub Vs Body Polish - Same Thing? - Skin Perception (2024)

There are so many different ways to exfoliate skin! In general, all exfoliators fall into two main categories: chemical or physical/mechanical. Chemical exfoliators use naturally occurring acids like AHA, BHA, and fruit enzymes, which “dissolve” dead skin. Meanwhile, physical exfoliators use abrasive grainy particles that physically scrub off the dead skin cells of the surface. Also, exfoliating tools like loofahs, brushes, ultrasonic and microdermabrasion devices are considered physical exfoliators as well.

In addition, there are several exfoliating products on the market that combine both chemical and physical exfoliators into one product for intensified affect.

Perhaps, the most questionable exfoliator among all is body polish. No wonder that people often get confused when choosing body scrub vs body polish.

Body scrub has been around for ages. This exfoliating substance contains fine grainy particles that buff away dead skin cells, and stimulates cell regeneration.

Body polish is somewhat new to the beauty market. Similarly to the body scrub, body polish is also an exfoliating substance with grainy texture that removes dead skin cells from the surface, and boosts cell turnover. So, is there a difference between these two exfoliators? Surprisingly, the answer is Yes and No! Let us explain it.

Initially, body scrub was designed as a skincare product that had both exfoliating and skin cleansing properties. On the other hand, body polish was formulated to only exfoliate the skin, with no cleansing benefits. However, in reality most skincare brands and salons are using both terms “body scrub” and “body polish” interchangeably. So, it is up to the individual marketers which term they want to use.

What does that mean? You can safely treat body scrub and body polish as if it is the same product. Moreover, if a particular scrub or polish does have cleansing properties, it will be specified on the label. So, scrub away, but be gentle!

If you don’t exfoliate your body and face regularly, you are missing out on many benefits that come with skin exfoliation. Not only body exfoliation makes your skin look brighter and glowing, but also it has anti aging benefits and improves the overall health of the skin. Here are just few examples of the benefits of body exfoliation:

• Stimulates cell turnover
• Increases blood circulation
• Improves skin texture
• Improves absorption of skincare products
• Draws out toxins
• Provides immediate visible results

Read our comprehensive list of the benefits of body exfoliation here >>

FUN FACT: The human skin produces about 36 million skin cells every day! However, the cell turnover rate slows down as we age. For example, an average cell turnover cycle for a 30 years old person is about 28-45 days, for 40 years old it is between 45-60 days, and for 50 years old – 60 to 90 days.

Body exfoliation is a relatively simple treatment even when it’s done at home. You just have to decide what type of exfoliator will fit better your skincare routine and your budget. That is to say, some of the most popular and desired ingredients in body scrubs are salt, sugar, coffee, oatmeal, Dead Sea mud, coconut, etc.

Above all, keep in mind that the key to successful body exfoliation is being gentle (gentle hand pressure, gentle circular movements, gentle exfoliator). Here are few great skincare products for smoother and more radiant glowing skin.

See also our top 10 list of coffee scrubs for body!

Do you know what is the difference between salt scrub vs sugar scrub?

• For the best experience, try exfoliating your body after taking a hot shower or bath. To clarify, the steam will allow the softening of the skin, opening up pores and will prepare the body for the treatment.

• Stay away from the direct water while exfoliating as it can wash off or dissolve grainy particles in your scrub too soon.

• Apply gentle pressure and slowly move in circular motions while exfoliating your body part by part.

• Rinse with lukewarm water and avoid towel rubbing.

• Remember that when it comes to exfoliation “less is more.”

• If you have normal, dry, or sensitive skin, then exfoliating once a week should be enough.

• Those with oily or combination skin might need to exfoliate twice a week.

• Keep in mind that over exfoliation can cause skin dehydration, dryness, severe irritation, redness or inflammation.

Tip: Try applying hydrating products on damp skin, as it will help to lock down the moisture and keep skin hydrated.

How to choose between body moisturizers – body butter, body lotion, body cream or body oil?

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