
Exfoliation is a great way to rejuvenate the skin by getting rid of dead skin cells and making way for new fresh ones. Allowing new skin cells the ability to show up, helps to keep the skin looking youthful and glowing. It also opens up the pores allowing the rest of your skincare routine, such as moisturising, to be more effective.
When it's exfoliation you're after, body scrub is usually what we think of. But, have you ever tried body polish? I am a recent convert to the world of body polish. Yes, a scrub and a polish are different. Yes, they both still provide great exfoliation, but they ultimately give different results. So, what sets them apart? Is one better than the other? Which one is best for you and your skin? All will be revealed...
Contents:
1. What is body scrub?
A body scrub is designed to both cleanse and exfoliate the skin leaving it smooth and soft. Often using an exfoliant such as sugar or salt, they can be great for removing a tan or preparing the skin well for tanning. A body scrub is a great step before moisturising as it provides a smoother surface and easy access to fresh skin cells. Regular use can also help to even out skin tone, reduce blemishes and improve circulation.
Whilst a scrub is also great at unclogging pores, overuse or exfoliating too aggressively can stress the skin, causing pores to be open to environmental damage. It is important to use gentle circular motions when using a scrub as their large exfoliant granules don't need aggressive movement to do their job well.

2. What is body polish?
A body polish provides all the same exfoliation benefits as a scrub, but it doesn't provide the cleansing effect. It is often likened to being a facial for the body. Not only does it rejuvenate the skin by getting rid of dead skin cells, but it ups the game by also containing moisturising ingredients, primarily oils and butters, as well as other beneficial skin loving ingredients giving it a creamier texture than a traditional scrub. Furthermore, a body polish helps to stimulate the production of new healthy skin cells. The main exfoliant can also be sugar and salt as in a scrub, but smaller granules are used making it gentler to use on the body as well as the face. Your skin is delicate, and a more intense exfoliation doesn't necessarily mean a better exfoliation.

3. Key differences and benefits table
​ | SCRUB | POLISH |
Exfoliation type | Larger granules | Small granules (better for sensitive skin) |
Cleanses | Yes | No |
Moisturising | Can be | Definitely |
Body and Face | No | Yes |
Unclogs pores | Yes | Yes |
Promotes cell regeneration | Yes | Yes++++++++ |
Exfoliant ratio | Higher exfoliant to oil ratio | Higher oil to exfoliant ratio |
Boots circulation | Yes | Yes |
Prevents ingrown hairs | Yes | Yes |
Afterglow | Yes | Yes++++++++ |
4. Which one is right for my skin?
The answer to this question comes down to what outcome do you want to achieve:
Does your skin need extra cleansing as well as exfoliation? Grab yourself a scrub, or DIY one using our simple recipe here. All you need is salt or sugar and oil. That's it!
Does you skin need an extra boost of hydration? A polish is the best choice for you. This is a little trickier to DIY as a polish contains a more complex mix of ingredients that aren't necessarily hanging out in your pantry.

5. At home spa experience
For an incredible at home spa experience, you really can't go past a body polish. Personally, a polish is my preference over a scrub due to its moisturising benefits. Which, is why I had MANY attempts to perfect our Mandi Makes body polish. It is just the right ratio of exfoliant to butters and oil, to leave your skin glowing and feeling incredible. We use sustainably sourced Australian Pink Lake salt from Western Australia, as well as skin loving shea butter, cocoa butter and sweet almond oil. We also use an olive oil based emulsifier to give it a beautiful texture. You can shop our gorgeous range of body polish here :)
Are you a scrub or polish fan?
Scrub
Polish
Keen to try a polish
Haven't tried either
Let us know your thoughts on SCRUB vs POLISH. You can get in touch with us on Facebook (@mandimakes), Instagram (@mandi_makes), email (info@mandimakes.com.au), or use the contact pop up on our website.
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