Salt scrubs and sugar scrubs are both easy to make, exfoliating, and can even be hydrating-- but they're not both for everyone. Here's the difference between salt and sugar scrubs, how to know which one is right for you, and how to make them at home.
What are sugar scrubs?
Sugar scrubs are mechanically exfoliating products that improve circulation and skin health by sloughing off dead skin cells. They are easy to make at home with just a few ingredients (sugar, a carrier oil, shea butter) and can be used either on dry skin or on damp skin. Sugar scrubs do need to be rinsed off after use, and they can conveniently double as lip scrubs.
In addition to being gently exfoliating, sugar scrubs can be incredibly moisturizing, helping to lock in hydration after removing dead skin and unclogging pores. While sugar scrubs are gentler than salt scrubs, they're still considered too abrasive to be used as facial products.
What are salt scrubs?
Salt scrubs are mechanical exfoliants that offer added benefits, thanks to their trace minerals. Salt scrubs are generally made from unprocessed salts, as these offer high levels of minerals like magnesium and potassium that can aid in skin barrier health. Salt scrubs can also help to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and detoxify skin, though they can be too harsh for already-dry skin.
Salt scrubs can be made from any type of unrefined salt that is ground finely enough for use as an exfoliant: epsom salts, Kosher salt, Celtic sea salt, and Himalayan salts are all popular options. While table salt may seem appealing thanks to its fine grit, its lack of trace minerals makes in poorly suited for use in a salt scrub.
Salt scrubs can be extremely abrasive and even painful to use if the salt used is ground too coarsely. Even with the finest grind, salt scrubs are too harsh to be used as facial exfoliants. In fact, while some salt scrubs are gentle enough to be used on sensitive areas like a bikini line, others are better suited to rough, callused areas.
What is the difference between sea salt scrubs and sugar scrubs?
Salt scrubs and sugar scrubs are both mechanical exfoliators that can help improve circulation and slough off dead skin. Beyond that, they offer distinct benefits and are suited to different skin types.
While salt can dehydrate skin, unrefined salts are also full of beneficial trace minerals that sugar lacks. Depending on the type of salt used, these minerals can help to improve skin barrier function, reduce symptoms of psoriasis, and relieve inflammation. Salt can also draw out toxins, helping your skin to detoxify.
Sugar, on the other hand, is a natural humectant, meaning that it can help your skin to retain moisture. Sugar scrubs do not offer the detoxifying benefits of salt scrubs, and they're not thought to improve skin barrier function more than any other effective mechanical exfoliant. In fact, sugar-- at least when ingested-- is known to contribute to skin aging through a process called glycation, which effects collagen and elastin in our skin.
So, is it better to use salt or sugar in a scrub?
Salt scrubs and sugar scrubs offer different benefits for people with different skin types. Because salt scrubs can be dehydrating, those with very dry skin may see better results from using a sugar scrub. (Another option for people with dry skin might be to get all of those mineral-derived benefits from an epsom salt bath and follow it up with a super moisturizing body butter.)
On the other hand, using a salt scrub two or three times a week might be the best option for those looking to regularly exfoliate and cleanse their skin. If overly dry skin is not a concern of yours, a salt scrub may offer better results.
Skin sensitivity is another key factor. Salt scrubs are generally more coarse and abrasive than sugar scrubs, so those with very sensitive skin should opt either for a sugar scrub or for a salt scrub made with finely ground salt, like this Himalayan pink salt. Even sugar scrubs can be surprisingly abrasive if you're not used to them. If you're unsure, try starting with a sugar scrub made from fine, granulated white sugar.
How to make a salt scrub
Salt scrubs are quick to make and can be as simple as combining the unrefined salt of your choosing and a carrier oil. Adding shea butter or cocoa butter to your scrub can cut down on any greasiness, and essential oils can add an element of aromatherapy.
For a basic salt scrub, you could combine 1 cup of salt with ¼ cup oil. For something a bit less basic-- and more enjoyable to use-- try:
- 1 c salt (Kosher, Himalayan, sea salt, or epsom salt)
- ¼ c oil (coconut, sweet almond, extra virgin olive, or jojoba)
- 2 Tbsp. shea butter (or cocoa butter)
- 10-15 drops essential oil (optional)
To make a salt scrub, combine your melted carrier oil, melted shea butter, and salt and mix to combine. Adjust the amount of salt or oil as needed, and finish by mixing in 10-15 drops of a skin-friendly essential oil, like peppermint, lavender, or eucalyptus.
Read More: Moisturizing salt scrub recipe (four ingredients)
How to make a sugar scrub
Sugar scrubs can be made with any kind of sugar-- white, brown, and coconut will all give different levels of exfoliation-- and the high-quality oil of your choosing. As with salt scrubs, extra virgin olive oil, unrefined coconut oil, sweet almond oil, and jojoba oil are all fantastic options. Shea butter or cocoa butter and essential oils are optional ingredients that can produce a much more enjoyable-to-use scrub.
For a basic sugar scrub recipe, you could simply combine 1 cup of sugar and ½ c oil. For a less greasy, slightly elevated scrub:
- 1 c sugar (white, brown, or coconut)
- ½ c oil (coconut, sweet almond, extra virgin olive, or jojoba)
- 2 Tbsp. shea butter (or cocoa butter)
- 10-15 drops essential oil (optional)
To make this scrub, melt the carrier oil and shea butter and combine them with the sugar. Using a hand mixer with a whisk attachment to whip the scrub can help the oils to incorporate, especially with finer sugars. Adjust the amount of sugar or oil as needed, and finish by mixing in 10-15 drops of your preferred essential oil.
Read More: How to make a sugar scrub with shea butter
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