Choosing between a sugar scrub and a salt scrub may seem like a pointless choice, but there are differences in each that you should consider. Both are great for cleaning your skin. Also, they both exfoliate and leave your skin fresher and more radiant. So why should it matter which one we choose?
Sugar Scrubs
Sugar scrubs tend to be gentler on your skin that salt scrubs. One reason for this is the diameter and shape of granulated sugar. Salt crystals are small cubes and this means sharper edges. The sharper edges are wonderful for scrubbing, but you need to consider where you will be using the scrub. Sugar granules are also usually smaller than salt which makes them more suitable for sensitive skin. As a result, you are more likely to see sugar scrubs for facial skin. Sugar scrubs can melt as you use it more than salt scrubs. Sugar scrubs have a higher glycolic acid content as well.
Salt Scrubs
Salt scrubs are great for scrubbing due to the size and shape of the salt crystals. Salts can come in many different varieties and sizes so you have a lot of options when choosing your salt scrub. It is not hard to find salt scrubs that include Epsom salt, Himalayan salt, Mediterranean salt, or Dead Sea Salt. Each of these types of salts has a different mineral profile. Some of these minerals include calcium, magnesium, potassium, copper and iron just to name a few. The added minerals make salt scrubs perfect to use while in the bathtub so you can get the benefits of the salt scrub and the added salt/minerals to your bath water. Salt scrubs are great to use on feet, elbows, knuckles and legs. Just remember that if you have any kind of skin abrasion, salt will sting more than sugar.
I personally would not recommend using a salt scrub more often than once a week, but sugar scrubs can be used a little more often. Regardless of which scrub you choose, please use them lightly. A gentle touch is best with any exfoliation and you never want to rub harshly. Start with a small amount and rub in light circular motions before rinsing with warm water to achieve the best results. We also recommend using a lotion after exfoliation.