Salt vs. Sugar Scrub: Which Is Better For My Skin?

Name one thing that’s often neglected in the skin and body care universe. (Okay, we’ll go first.) It’s the art of exfoliation. There’s so much emphasis on cleansing and moisturizing the body (for obvious reasons – duh!), but for certain skin types, using a scrub in your body care routine can soften tough areas, smooth the skin, and clear away dead cells, revealing fresh new skin cells underneath.

So, whether you’ve been blessed with a sweet streak or you have a savory side, today we’re spilling the piping hot tea on all things sugar vs salt scrubs – including which one is right for your gorgeous skin (Sugar, anyone?).

What are salt scrubs?

You can quite literally take your pick of body scrubs on the shelves, but salt and sugar scrubs hit the popularity jackpot. These physical exfoliants utilize gritty particles to delicately polish and remove dead skin cells from the outermost layer of your skin. 

As for salt scrubs, there are different kinds to work with. Here’s a quick rundown:

• Sea salt is rich in minerals and detoxifying
• Epsom salts are rich in magnesium and soothe muscles
• Himalayan salt is mineral-rich and nourishing.

While salt scrubs can be mineral-rich, they can also dehydrate the skin and are generally not suited to dry or sensitive skin types (unlike our Whipped Shower Foams which are suitable for all skin types – mmhmm.) What they are good for, however, are rougher areas like the soles of your feet or your elbows.

What are sugar scrubs?

Compared to salt scrubs, sugar scrubs are gentler, less likely to cause stinging and also help to draw moisture into the skin. Common sugar scrub ingredients include sugar (see more below), oils (like coconut or almond), essential oils (such as lavender or tea tree), and extras like honey, shea butter, vitamin E, and natural extracts (like aloe vera or green tea).

Different types of sugar offer varying levels of exfoliation. For example: 

• White sugar is gentle and suitable for most skin types
• Brown sugar provides stronger exfoliation due to its coarser texture
• Raw sugar offers intense exfoliation
• Coconut sugar, noted for its natural humectant properties, adds moisture to the skin.

How to choose the right scrub for your skin type

Your number one priority is to consider your skin type and assess your skin concerns and goals. 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. However, if your skin is dry and sensitive, a sugar scrub can help relieve discomfort.

While salt scrubs can be harsh on the skin, a drawback of using sugar scrubs is a condition known as advanced glycation end products (AGEs), where sugar buildup can accelerate skin ageing by damaging collagen and elastin. To minimize this, consider using sugar scrubs in moderation and rinse thoroughly with water after use to remove any residue.

👉 You’ll Love: How to exfoliate different skin types

How to complete a patch test

Before using a scrub, perform a patch test:

• Choose a small, inconspicuous area like the inside of your wrist.
• Apply a small amount and leave it on for 24 hours.
• Avoid washing the patch area during this time.
• Check for any signs of irritation like redness or itching.
• Rinse with cool water if there’s a reaction; discontinue use if needed.
• If there's no reaction after 24 hours, it’s likely safe to use.

How often to use a salt or sugar scrub

Use a salt or sugar scrub once or twice a week to remove dead skin cells and keep your skin smooth. If your skin is sensitive, try using it less often, like once every 1-2 weeks, to avoid irritation. Pay attention to how your skin reacts and adjust how often you use the scrub accordingly.

Note: It’s recommended to avoid using scrubs if you’re sunburnt, experiencing inflammation, or have open wounds.

So, whatever scrub you choose to add to your rotation, remember that with Sundae, every exfoliation day is a happy day. Scrub a dub dub. 

Happy Sundae x

🛒Next On Your Shopping List: Berry Exfoliating Body Wash & Green Tea Exfoliating Body Wash

Written By: Lizzie Waley (Sundae Co-Founder & Body Care Enthusiast) | LinkedIn

Fact Checked: Charnnie Frimpong (Sundae Content Marketing Manager) | Linkedin