What can sugar do for your skin?

Sugar as a dietary supplement has been ruining our health for decades, but is there a way we can actually use sugar to our benefit? 

Applying granulated cane sugar to the skin in the right way can have gorgeous results. This article will fill you in on all the skincare benefits of sugar as well has how to use it on your own skin safely and effectively.

What does sugar do for the skin?

1. As an exfoliator, sugar physically buffs away dead skin cells, increases circulation, and clears clogged pores. As it clears dead skin cells around hair follicles, it can also prevent ingrown hairs.

2. It's a humectant, meaning it draws moisture from the air and locks it into your skin.

3. It's a source of glycolic acid, a type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that breaks down skin cells' bonds to encourage regeneration. Because of that, AHAs provide rejuvenating benefits for aging and sun-damaged skin.

4. My sugar scrubs are also emulsified, meaning they contain gentle surfactants and sunflower oil to give the scrub a gentle cleansing and moisturizing boost. Oh, and they come in several amazing scents. Collect them all here!

How do you use it?

It is typically used as an ingredient in body scrubs. In the shower or tub, after your skin has been wet with warm water for a few minutes, gently use a small portion of sugar scrub to massage into your skin in a circular motion. Use it on arms, legs, elbows and knees, hands and feet, wherever could use some buffing and moisture.

It can also be used for shaving to prevent "strawberry legs," irritation, and ingrown hairs. Use the same technique as above on the area you're about to shave.

The sugar will dissolve as you go. If you're using my foaming sugar scrubs, the leftover foam is perfect for shaving. When you're all done, rinse it away and enjoy your dewy and smooth new skin.

Is it safe for your face?

It's generally not recommended for your face as the size of the granules can be harsh on the delicate skin of your face. Feel free to try it and see how it goes for you as I have a few customers who swear by it.

If you need a gentle, detoxing facial exfoliator especially formulated for your sensitive face, my facial scrub True Grit is what you're looking for. 

How often should you use it?

Use a sugar scrub up to twice per week on sensitive skin, up to three per week for normal skin, and up to four for oily skin. Adjust to your liking, but no more than four times per week for sure. :)

Have you tried sugar scrubs yet and how did it go for you? Let me know in the comments! -C