Body Wash vs Body Scrub: When it comes to a daily shower routine, the choice between body wash and body scrub can play a significant role in the health and appearance of the skin. These are the two most popular options in the shower aisle, which are designed to serve different and unique purposes. Although there are a number of differences between the body wash and body scrub, their main aim is to promote clean and refreshed skin. While body wash is designed primarily for gentle cleansing and hydration, body scrub exfoliates the skin, removing the dead skin cells. Here’s everything you need to know about body wash and body scrub to achieve smooth and healthy glowing skin.
What Is Body Wash?
A body wash is a liquid cleanser that is designed to remove dirt, sweat and oil gently from the skin. Loaded with hydrating ingredients like glycerin, aloe vera or essential oils, body wash not only washes the skin but also moisturises and soothes. Body washes are ideal for people who have dry and sensitive skin as they contain milder surfactants than traditional soaps.
Benefits Of Body Wash
Gentle daily cleansing without stripping natural oils
Available in formulas for different skin types (hydrating, soothing, clarifying)
Easy to use and suitable for sensitive skin
Can be paired with a loofah or washcloth for mild exfoliation
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What Is Body Scrub?
A body scrub, on the other hand, is an exfoliating product that contains granules or natural abrasives like sugar, salt, coffee grounds or crushed shells. Unlike body wash, body scrub cleanses and scrubs off the dead skin cells, unclogs pores and improves circulation. Its use delivers smoother, more radiant skin, which helps in the better absorption of moisturisers afterwards.
Benefits Of Body Scrub
Removes dead skin for a brighter, smoother look
Helps prevent ingrown hairs
Improves skin texture over time
Boosts blood circulation through gentle massage
Differences Between Body Wash And Body Scrub (Image Credits: Canva)
Body Wash vs Body Scrub: Key Differences
Purpose
Body wash focuses on gently cleaning the dirt, sweat and oil away while adding hydration. On the other hand, body scrub exfoliates dead skin cells, provides a smooth texture and reveals fresher and healthier looking skin.
Texture
Body wash has a smooth, creamy or gel-like consistency that glides over skin for a gentle cleanse. Body scrub contains coarse particles, giving a gritty texture, which is designed to slough away dryness and roughness.
Frequency
Body wash is mild enough to be used every day or frequently, as it does not over-dry the skin. Body scrub should be used only 1-3 times per week, as frequent exfoliation can strip off natural oils from the skin, causing irritation or sensitivity.
Best Suited For
Those who have sensitive, dry or easily irritated skin can use body wash due to its gentle cleansing and moisturising properties. Body scrub is best suited for dull, rough or flaky skin that needs deeper exfoliation and texture improvement.
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Body Wash vs Body Scrub: Which One Should You Use?
You can use body wash as an everyday skin cleanser, while body scrub can be used occasionally for a deep-treatment booster. If you have sensitive skin, then limit scrubbing to once a week to avoid irritation. If your skin is oily or prone to buildup, you can scrub twice a week for a smooth and fresh feeling.
Moreover, people can start their shower with a gentle scrub once or twice a week and follow it with a nourishing body wash to lock in hydration. This will help to get a clean, hydrated and glowing skin.