Is sugar or salt scrub better for skin?

Author: Kailyn Lockman Sr.  |  Last update: Monday, June 2, 2025

Here's a general guideline: For sensitive or dry skin, opt for a sugar scrub. If your skin is balanced or oily, a salt scrub can effectively exfoliate. For detoxifying and soothing tired muscles, a salt scrub with Epsom salts may be ideal.

Is it better to exfoliate with sugar or salt?

If you have sensitive skin or want to exfoliate gently, a sugar scrub may be the best option for you. A salt scrub may be a better option if you want deep exfoliation and have normal to oily skin. Finally, your skin type and preferences will determine the best exfoliant for your skin.

Which type of scrub is best for skin?

However, some popular options include gentle exfoliants like St. Ives Apricot Scrub, Cetaphil Extra Gentle Daily Scrub, and Neutrogena Deep Clean Invigorating Foaming Scrub. It's essential to choose a scrub that suits your skin's needs and doesn't cause irritation.

Which scrub is best for dry skin, sugar or salt?

If you're looking to rid your body of dry skin, look for a scrub with unrefined cane sugar, which contains nutrients like calcium, iron, magnesium and potassium. But don't use this scrub on your face, as it's harsher than table sugar and can cause irritation.

Can bacteria grow in sugar scrub?

Sugar scrubs are sometimes used in the shower and sometimes users dip wet hands into the jar. Both of these circumstances will introduce water to the sugar scrub, which eventually will lead to bacterial growth.

The Difference Between Sugar and Salt Scrubs | NewBeauty Product Reviews

When should you not use a sugar scrub?

Sugar scrubs are mild and therefore suitable for skin types, especially when you use them gently and as directed. However, Brown notes that people with sensitive skin or certain skin conditions—such as eczema or psoriasis—should get the green light from a healthcare professional beforehand.

Can salt scrub remove blackheads?

This scrub is a simple yet effective treatment for blackheads. You can make it using salt and gel-based toothpaste. Avoid going for the white, thick toothpaste because they will not work here. Mix some salt to the toothpaste and apply the blend to your affected skin.

What do dermatologists recommend to exfoliate the body?

Similar to Greenfield and King, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Dendy Engelman recommends looking for physical exfoliants with small, soft exfoliating particles — ideally, ones that dissolve — such as jojoba beads, sea salt, sugar and coffee.

Is salt or sugar better for your skin?

Sugar scrubs are gentler on your skin and better for your face and other sensitive areas than salt scrubs. However, unrefined sugar scrubs are harsher, and you should only apply them to your body. The benefits of sugar scrubs include: Being gentler: Sugar is less abrasive than salt and better for sensitive skin.

What's the difference between sugar scrub and exfoliating scrub?

Although sugar scrubs are highly effective at physical exfoliation, they do not provide any other cleansing benefits. Salt scrubs, on the other hand, do detoxify the skin as they scrub, which can be a huge benefit for people struggling with overactive oil glands on the body, for example.

Is it better to exfoliate with a brush or scrub?

For exfoliation, a body scrub is the go-to option. Exfoliation is its sole purpose, sloughing off dead skin cells for incredibly soft and smooth skin. A dry brush, on the other hand, does exfoliate your skin a bit but its real magic lies in its benefits for your circulation.

What is the best thing to scrub your skin with?

Sugar and salt scrubs may get the bulk of praise in the body exfoliation world, but we're also fans of high-quality loofahs and other body exfoliation tools. A tool lacks the granular mess common with a scrub, meaning you can reach for one of these handheld items no matter where you are.

Which is better, salt or sugar?

Despite the link between sodium and blood pressure, the journal Open Heart published a review that proposes added sugar may be more strongly and directly associated with high blood pressure and overall cardiovascular risk.

Can I mix sugar and salt for scrub?

Either way, be sure you take the time to make these spa-level luxuries that can be made at home for just a few bucks. The process for making body scrubs with salt and sugar is exactly the same. Choose sugar for a more moistening effect, and salt for a more detoxifying and exfoliating effect.

What are the disadvantages of face scrubs?

If you have a sensitive skin one can also have allergic reactions to the chemicals present in the synthetic scrubs as well. 2. Over scrubbing can result in open pores which are exposed to pollution and UV rays at the same time. It also leaves your skin more prone to infections and tanning.

What do estheticians use to exfoliate?

Exfoliating Tools & Devices: Facial brushes, cleansing devices, or specialized exfoliating mitts can provide a deeper exfoliation and enhance the effectiveness of your skincare routine. Choose tools that are suitable for your clients' skin type and use them with caution to avoid over-exfoliation.

How often should you use a sugar scrub?

Sugar scrub does not have to be used during every shower. Daily exfoliating can dry out the skin, so only use your sugar scrub 2-3 times per week.

What is the #1 dermatologist recommended body wash?

The best body washes, at a glance
  • Best Overall: Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash, $9.
  • Best Scent: Nécessaire The Body Wash, $25.
  • Best for Sensitive Skin: Odele Ultra Sensitive Body Wash, $12.
  • Best for Dry Skin: La Roche-Posay Lipikar Wash AP+ Gentle Foaming Moisturizing Wash, $17.

Is Epsom salt or sugar scrub better?

Here's a general guideline: For sensitive or dry skin, opt for a sugar scrub. If your skin is balanced or oily, a salt scrub can effectively exfoliate. For detoxifying and soothing tired muscles, a salt scrub with Epsom salts may be ideal.

What do dermatologists say about sugar scrubs?

According to Bowe, sugar scrubs are generally ok for rough patches of skin such as elbows and heels. However, she doesn't recommend them on your face as the texture can be too abrasive. "If you rub too hard, or use these scrubs too often, it can show up as red blotchy skin.

Which scrub is best for the face?

Best Face Scrub for Women & Men
  • Ubtan Face Scrub with Turmeric and Walnut for Tan Removal - 100g. ...
  • Rice Face Scrub With Rice Water & Niacinamide for Glass Skin - 100 g. ...
  • Charcoal Face Scrub For Oily Skin and Normal skin, with Charcoal and Walnut for Deep Exfoliation - 100g.

Should I use salt or sugar scrub?

Ultimately, when it comes to choosing between salt vs sugar scrubs, it's all about you and your unique needs. If you want a product that will offer a gentler manner of exfoliation, go with sugar. However, if you wish to add detoxifying benefits, always opt for salt.

What melts away blackheads?

Salicylic acid

It breaks down dead skin cells and extra oil before they can clog your pores. When you go to the pharmacy, check the ingredient labels carefully. You'll find products with salicylic acid that range in strength from 0.5% to 5%. The acid can be harsh on some people's skin.

Which homemade scrub is best for the face?

Ingredients For Each Type Of Scrub
  • Exfoliating: Sugar, coffee or coarse salt, oatmeal, apple cider vinegar, and yoghurt. ...
  • Moisturising: Oils like coconut, jojoba, almond, and honey. ...
  • Brightening: Lemon, turmeric, papaya, and gram flour. ...
  • Soothing: Aloe vera, tea tree oil, chamomile, and liquorice.

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