Exfoliation is the mechanism by which the skin naturally loses dead skin cells from its outer surface. When there is a buildup of dead cell matter on the skin, it makes the skin look dull, tends to clog the pores, and adds to the appearance of spots and fine lines. Skin scrubs are used to aid and accelerate the exfoliation process with the mechanical action of a mixture with small coarse particles that rub against the skin and shed off the unwanted dead cells.

This results in skin that is new and fresh, makes spots and fine lines less visible, and clears pores and reduces their size. The scrubbing of the skin also prevents potential skin problems that could be caused by blocked and clogged pores. Additionally, when the skin surface is clean, it allows the skin to absorb a skin serum or a medication in a better way.

Scrubs
There are plenty of skin scrubs available in the market, but one can also make do with simple ingredients available at home. It is important to be gentle on the skin and avoid scrubbing too hard or using scrubs too often, as this could aggravate the skin.

When using scrubs, it is advised to apply them on washed skin and avoid the eye area. They should be applied in upward circular motions on the skin. One can use a washcloth, loofah, or brush to maximize the exfoliating action. After exfoliation, sugar and honey-based scrubs are especially sticky and need a thorough rinse. Here are some DIY scrubs that are easy to make and use:

• Baking soda/cornmeal
  The simplest one-ingredient homemade scrub is either a paste of baking soda and water or cornmeal and water. The baking soda scrub is very abrasive and not recommended to be used regularly or if one has sensitive skin.
• Oatmeal scrub/mask
  Ground oatmeal mixed with lemon juice and yogurt to make a paste is a good hydrating scrub that can also be left on the skin as a mask. Instant oats cannot be used for this, and it requires steel cut oats.
• Oats/almond and honey
  This delicious sounding scrub is made by combining honey and ground almonds/oats with milk or cream. People with oily skin can use skimmed milk, and those with dry skin can use cream. Those with normal or combination skin can make the paste with whole milk. One can also add mashed banana to this mixture.
• Sugar
  Cane or granulated sugar can also be used with a small quantity of water or even honey to make a face scrub. It can also be mixed with pumpkin puree, a pinch of cinnamon powder, coconut oil, and oatmeal. Olive oil, honey, lemon juice, and sugar can also be combined to make a citrusy scrub.
• Coffee
  This invigorating scrub can be made with a mixture of ground coffee with brown sugar, honey, and milk/buttermilk.
• Chocolate
  Brown sugar, olive oil, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract can be combined to make a yummy and irresistible scrub.
• White rice
  White rice can be ground coarsely and mixed with honey to make a face scrub paste.