Beauty
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

How do I Choose the Best Natural Facial Scrub?

J. Leach
J. Leach

Shopping for a natural facial scrub can be confusing because there are many different products on the market. Popular natural ingredients used in these cleansers include sugar, oatmeal, baking soda, and salt. Typically, a natural facial scrub exfoliates dead skin cells and helps give skin a fresher appearance. It can also aid the absorption of moisturizers and beauty lotions. A consumer should be aware of her skin type and what she wants her scrub to accomplish before purchasing one.

Scrubs are usually formulated to suit different skin types, such as oily, sensitive, acne prone, dry, or combination. There are products that only exfoliate and some that offer aromatherapy, moisturizing, anti-aging, and anti-acne benefits. The labels on most facial cleansers usually list any active ingredients used, as well as what these ingredients can do for the consumer's skin. When shopping for natural facial scrubs, it may be important to check the ingredients to be sure the best product is selected.

Honey can be used in facial scrubs to relieve dry skin.
Honey can be used in facial scrubs to relieve dry skin.

Apricot scrubs are generally the most common type of facial scrub because these have been sold for a long time. In recent years, these have become less popular because they can contain large particles that can not only irritate sensitive skin, but also cause microscopic skin abrasions. Such scrubs work well for some people, however, and are available in all-natural formulations. If a consumer has skin that is extremely oily and not sensitive, this scrub may be a good choice. People with any skin sensitivity should avoid products that contain harsh ingredients, like apricot scrubs.

Sugar scrubs are typically gentle and effective. These often contain various fruit oils or herbal essential oils. Ground oatmeal scrubs tend to be very good for people who have very sensitive skin.

Olive oil may be added to a natural home-made facial scrub.
Olive oil may be added to a natural home-made facial scrub.

Salt can also produce a mild natural facial scrub, but salt crystals can vary widely in coarseness. If possible, consumers should check to see what type of salt granule is used. Some with large, coarse crystals — as opposed to fine or small crystals — can be very irritating to someone who has sensitive skin.

People can easily make a natural facial scrub at home using ingredients like sugar, salt, baking soda, and oats. A homemade salt scrub is usually just a combination of salt, olive oil, lemon juice and honey. Sugar scrubs are made in a similar fashion. These can be used on the body as well as the face. There are many different recipes available on websites devoted to this topic.

Lavender is a common addition to natural facial scrubs.
Lavender is a common addition to natural facial scrubs.

If someone is prone to acne, she may wish to look for natural facial scrubs that contain tea tree or lavender oils. Both have antiseptic and antibiotic properties and can help clear skin breakouts. Baking soda mixed with a small amount of water to form a paste can also be effective at exfoliating dead skin cells and helping to eliminate acne.

Choosing the best natural facial scrub ultimately depends on what the customer wants the product to accomplish. Some of the best basic scrubs can be made by combining an exfoliant, like finely ground salt or sugar, with a lubricant and skin softener, such as olive oil. Other ingredients may be added to further enhance the cleanser as the user desires.

Discussion Comments

Rundocuri

For people who want a scrub that is a bit more coarse, sugar scrubs do a great job Heavanet. Follow up by using a natural lotion for soft, smooth skin.

Heavanet

If you are looking for a nice, all natural facial scrub, I recommend choosing one with oatmeal. The ingredients aren't too harsh, and the oatmeal is great for your skin.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Honey can be used in facial scrubs to relieve dry skin.
      By: Jaimie Duplass
      Honey can be used in facial scrubs to relieve dry skin.
    • Olive oil may be added to a natural home-made facial scrub.
      By: volff
      Olive oil may be added to a natural home-made facial scrub.
    • Lavender is a common addition to natural facial scrubs.
      By: Kimberly Reinick
      Lavender is a common addition to natural facial scrubs.
    • Some natural facial scrubs are formulated to fight acne.
      By: Ocskay Bence
      Some natural facial scrubs are formulated to fight acne.
    • Natural face scrubs are formulated for different skin types, but all aim to promote clear skin.
      By: Sikov
      Natural face scrubs are formulated for different skin types, but all aim to promote clear skin.
    • Scrubs should be suited to a person's specific skin type.
      By: kubais
      Scrubs should be suited to a person's specific skin type.
    • Facial scrubs made with sugar are usually less abrasive.
      By: bit24
      Facial scrubs made with sugar are usually less abrasive.
    • Baking soda can be used to make a natural facial scrub.
      By: mady70
      Baking soda can be used to make a natural facial scrub.
    • A homemade salt scrub is usually a combination of salt, olive oil, lemon juice and honey.
      By: uwimages
      A homemade salt scrub is usually a combination of salt, olive oil, lemon juice and honey.