When it comes to choosing the best body scrub for your skin, ingredients matter. And here at Archipelago, we know just how important it is to use the right combination of natural and nourishing bath and body fragrances to leave your skin looking and feeling its best. In this blog, we'll dive into some of the key ingredients we use in our luxurious body scrubs to help you understand what to look for when choosing a scrub for your own body care routine.

Natural vs Chemical Exfoliants: Which is Better for Your Skin?

When it comes to exfoliating the body, there are two main types of exfoliants available: natural and chemical. Natural exfoliants use ingredients derived from natural sources like sugar, salt, coffee grounds, and oatmeal, while chemical exfoliants use synthetic ingredients like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs). Natural exfoliants are often considered the healthier and more eco-friendly option because they are derived from natural sources, making them biodegradable and gentle on the skin.¹

One of the main differences between natural and chemical exfoliants is their effectiveness. Chemical exfoliants work by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells, while natural exfoliants physically remove dead skin cells from the skin's surface. While chemical exfoliants can be more potent and effective at removing dead skin cells, they can also be harsh and cause irritation for those with sensitive skin. On the other hand, natural exfoliants are generally gentler on the skin and can be used more frequently without causing irritation or damage.

Another important difference between natural and chemical exfoliants is their impact on the environment. Chemical exfoliants can contain synthetic ingredients that are harmful to the environment and can pollute water systems when they are washed down the drain. Natural exfoliants, however, are biodegradable and do not have a negative impact on the environment. By using natural exfoliants, you can reap the benefits of exfoliating your skin while caring for the environment at the same time.²

How Do I Choose The Right Body Scrub for My Skin Type?

Choosing the right body scrub ingredients can make all the difference in achieving healthy, glowing skin. When it comes to selecting the right body scrub ingredients for your skin type, there are a few factors to consider.

Step #1

First, you want to take a look at your skin type and identify any specific concerns or problem areas you may have. For example, if you have sensitive skin, you'll want to avoid harsh exfoliants and stick to gentler options.

Step #2

Next, it's important to consider the benefits of each ingredient and how they can address your specific skin concerns. For instance, if you have dry skin, you'll want to look for moisturizing ingredients like coconut oil or honey. On the other hand, if you have oily or acne-prone skin, you may want to opt for ingredients like tea tree oil or charcoal, which have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

Step #3

Lastly, you'll want to consider the overall formulation of the body scrub and how it will interact with your skin. This is a key step in learning how to use body scrubs on a regular basis. Look for scrubs with natural, gentle ingredients that won't cause irritation or inflammation. Avoid products with harsh chemicals or synthetic fragrances that can strip your skin of its natural oils and leave it feeling dry and irritated. Ultimately, finding the right body scrub ingredients for your skin type will depend on your unique needs and preferences, so take some time to experiment and find what works best for you.

Types of Body Scrub Ingredients

There are numerous body scrub ingredients to choose from, each with their unique benefits and properties. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know which ingredients are best suited for your skin type and concerns. In this section, we will explore some of the most popular types of body scrub ingredients and delve into their specific benefits and uses.

Natural Sugar

One of the primary ingredients in our body scrubs is natural sugar, which is a gentle and effective exfoliator. Unlike harsh chemical exfoliants, sugar won't damage or irritate your skin, making it a great choice for sensitive skin types. Sugar granules also help to remove dead skin cells and impurities, revealing brighter, smoother skin

Pure Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is known for its hydrating and nourishing properties, which make it a great choice for use in body scrubs. It helps to replenish lost moisture and leaves your skin feeling soft and smooth. Plus, it has natural antibacterial properties that can help to fight off harmful bacteria on the skin's surface.³ Archipelago's Coconut Body Scrub is a perfect example of a natural sugar scrub that combines the exfoliating power of sugar with the hydrating benefits of coconut oil.

Soybean Oil

Soybean oil is another ingredient that we use in our body scrubs. It's rich in antioxidants and fatty acids, which help to moisturize and protect the skin. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe irritated skin, making it a great choice for those with sensitive skin.⁴ The Soy Milk Body Scrub from Archipelago is a luxurious body polish to help exfoliate and moisturize your skin while enjoying the gentle, calming scent of vanilla, heliotrope, and almond.

Grapeseed Oil

Grapeseed oil is another excellent moisturizing ingredient that we use in a handful of our body scrubs. It's lightweight and easily absorbed by the skin, making it a great choice for those with oily or combination skin. It's also high in antioxidants, which help to protect the skin from free radical damage.⁵

Jojoba Seed Oil

Jojoba seed oil is a natural emollient that helps to lock in moisture and prevent moisture loss. It's also high in vitamin E, which helps to protect the skin from environmental stressors. Jojoba oil is particularly well-suited for use in body scrubs because it's gentle and won't strip the skin of its natural oils.⁶

Sesame Oil

Sesame oil is a natural source of vitamin E, which makes it a great choice for use in body scrubs. It helps to moisturize and protect the skin, and it's particularly beneficial for those with dry or mature skin. Sesame oil also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe irritated skin.⁷

Almond Oil

Almond oil is another great moisturizing ingredient that we use in our body scrubs, including the Black Honey Body Scrub and Lavender Body Scrub. This ingredient is rich in vitamin E and essential fatty acids, which help to nourish and protect the skin.⁸ Almond oil is also easily absorbed by the skin, making it a great choice for those with oily or combination skin.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect the skin from free radical damage.⁹ It also helps to moisturize and soothe the skin, making it a great choice for use in body scrubs. Vitamin E is particularly beneficial for those with dry or mature skin, as it can help to prevent moisture loss, promote cell regeneration, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Charcoal

Charcoal is a natural detoxifier that helps to draw out impurities and toxins from the skin. It's particularly beneficial for those with acne-prone or congested skin, as it can help to unclog pores and prevent breakouts.

Archipelago's Charcoal Rose Body Scrub is the perfect combination of detoxifying charcoal and soothing rose. The natural exfoliants work to remove dead skin cells, leaving your skin feeling soft and refreshed, while the charcoal helps to draw out impurities and toxins. Infused with a delicate rose scent, this luxurious scrub is a must-have for anyone looking to pamper their skin.

Wheat Protein

Wheat protein is a natural source of amino acids, which help to strengthen and protect the skin. It also helps to improve the skin's elasticity and firmness, making it a great choice for those with mature skin.

Archipelago's Oat Milk Body Scrub is a gentle yet effective exfoliant that combines the moisturizing properties of oat milk with the rejuvenating effects of wheat. This combination is perfect for those with sensitive or dry skin, as it helps to soothe and hydrate while sloughing off dead skin cells. The wheat acts as a natural exfoliant, leaving the skin feeling smooth and refreshed.

Indulge in Archipelago’s Sugar Scrubs

At Archipelago, we believe that the key to healthy, radiant skin is using natural, nourishing ingredients. Our collection of luxurious body scrubs is formulated with a blend of natural oils, botanicals, and raw sugar to gently exfoliate and hydrate the skin. Whether you're looking for a moisturizing scrub for softer skin or an antioxidant-rich scrub for a glowing complexion, we have a variety of natural options to suit your needs.

With relaxing scents inspired by destinations around the world, our sugar scrubs offer a truly indulgent experience for your skin and senses. Try one today and see the difference that natural ingredients can make for your skin!

Sources:

1. Insider. "Plant-Based Exfoliators Are Good for the Environment and Skin." Insider, 9 Sept. 2022, https://www.insider.com/plant-based-exfoliators-are-good-for-the-environment-and-skin-2022-9
2. Dermveda. "The Science of Exfoliants: Physical vs. Chemical." Dermveda, 15 Mar. 2018, https://www.dermveda.com/articles/the-science-of-exfoliants-physical-vs-chemical
3. Varma, Sandeep R et al. “In vitro anti-inflammatory and skin protective properties of Virgin coconut oil.” Journal of traditional and complementary medicine vol. 9,1 5-14. 17 Jan. 2018, doi:10.1016/j.jtcme.2017.06.012. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6335493/
4. Waqas, Muhammad Khurram et al. “Dermatological and cosmeceutical benefits of Glycine max (soybean) and its active components.” Acta poloniae pharmaceuticavol. 72,1 (2015): 3-11.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25850195/
5. Garavaglia, Juliano et al. “Grape Seed Oil Compounds: Biological and Chemical Actions for Health.” Nutrition and metabolic insights vol. 9 59-64. 16 Aug. 2016, doi:10.4137/NMI.S32910. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4988453/
6. "Jojoba Oil." ScienceDirect, Elsevier, n.d., www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/jojoba-oil
7. Bawa, Amarinder Singh, et al. "Impact of Sesame Oil Source: A Quality Assessment for Cosmeceutical and Pharmaceutical Use." ResearchGate, 2019, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/338449076_Impact_of_Sesame_Oil_Source_A_Quality_Assessment_for_Cosmeceutical_and_Pharmaceutical_Use
8. Infante, Maria Elena, et al. "Almond (Prunus dulcis) oil." ResearchGate, 2019, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/332957892_Almond_Prunus_dulcis_oil
9. Higdon, Jane and Victoria J. Drake. "Vitamin E and Skin Health." Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University, 2016, https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/health-disease/skin-health/vitamin-E