Earlier I also used to think that body wash and body scrub are the same thing, both are used in the shower, both have fragrance, both can make the skin feel fresh.
Earlier I also used to think that if I am using body wash then there is not much need of scrub but when I used both of them then I understood that body wash is for daily cleansing whereas body scrub is for exfoliation.
If you are also confused about when to use Body wash, how often to do body scrub and which of the two is useful for you, then I am sharing my experience here.
What is body wash?
Body wash is a liquid cleansing product which is applied on the body during bathing. Its purpose is to clean the skin and remove sweat and daily dirt.
I use Body Wash as part of my normal shower routine. I use it for cleansing like soap but its texture & formula may differ.
Body washes are available according to the needs of different skin types; some have lightweight formulas and some also have fragrance.
What is body scrub?
The purpose of body scrub is more exfoliation than cleansing. It usually contains exfoliating particles which help in removing dead skin cells from the surface by gentle massage on skin.
When I used body scrub for the first time, I also felt the texture of the skin was different. The skin may temporarily become more smooth and polished, but body scrub does not need to be done like a daily body wash.
Body Wash vs Body Scrub: Basic Difference
If understood in simple words,
Body wash = Cleansing
Body scrub = Exfoliation
The purpose of body wash is to wash the body whereas the purpose of body scrub is to exfoliate the surface of the skin, hence both should not be considered as replacements of each other.
If you take a shower daily, then body wash can be a part of your regular routine. You can include body scrub in occasional routine as per the product instructions.
What results do both give for the body?
After body wash, my skin feels soft, smooth and comfortable. The feeling after using the scrub depends on the product’s formula.
After this, I feel the skin becomes smooth, especially on areas where the skin was a little rough & dull.
But one important thing here is that scrub is not an instant magic treatment.
Every person’s skin is different and the result can depend on the skin type and the way it is used.
Who should use the body wash?
Body Wash is one of the simplest body care products, as it can be used as part of your regular shower routine for cleansing.
If you:
- Take shower daily
- Want to clean the body after sweating or want normal body cleansing
- Prefer liquid cleanser instead of soap
It can become part of the shower routine.
You should look at the skin and product when selecting a body wash. If the skin is overly dry after using it, it may be better to try another formula.
Who should use the body scrub?
Scrub can be useful for those who want to add exfoliation to their routine. I prefer scrub on areas where the skin is dry, like elbows, or some other areas. But if your skin is easily irritated, then the scrub should be done very gently. Applying more pressure will not give better results.
When should one use body wash?
I apply body wash during the shower. I wet the body with water, then apply a little body wash on a loofah or my hand and apply it on the body gently. After this, I rinse thoroughly.
It doesn’t require unnecessary scrubbing on the skin for too long. Gentle cleansing is more comfortable for me.
When should one do body scrub?
Instead of doing body scrub daily, I see it as a separate step. After that I rinse the scrub with water.
The most important thing is to not rub the scrub aggressively. First, I take a small amount of scrub and massage it gently in circular motion. If there is discomfort on the skin then it is better to stop it rather than continuing it.
Body wash and body scrub have fragrance?
Yes, both fragranced and fragrance-free varieties can be found.
Fruity floral, fresh vanilla musk and lots of fragrances are available in body wash. Different fragrances are also available in body scrub, especially sugar and coffee scrubs. If skin is uncomfortable with fragrance, a fragrance-free option can be considered.
I personally like body products with fragrance because it gives a fresh feeling, but having fragrance does not guarantee the effectiveness of the product.
Body Wash or Body Scrub: Which one should you choose?
Honestly, for me there is no either-or situation here.
Body wash is for cleansing and body scrub is for exfoliation.
If you want to buy only one product and want basic body care then first look at your cleansing needs. If body wash is already in your routine and you want to add occasional exfoliation then scrub can be added.
My simple body care routine
Regular Shower: Body Wash
Occasional: Body Scrub
After Shower: Dry the skin gently and apply suitable body moisturizer if necessary.
I think there is no need to make body care complicated, the most important thing is to understand the purpose of each product.
FAQs
Can I use body wash daily?
Yes, body wash can be used in a regular shower routine but you should also consider your skin and product instructions.
Should body scrub be used daily?
Scrub should be kept for occasional exfoliation rather than a daily routine. It is better to follow the instructions of the product.
Can we use body scrub after body wash?
Yes, a body scrub can be used after body wash, when the skin is clean and wet.
Can body scrub be used on face?
Every body scrub is not suitable for the face. If the product is not specially made for the face, avoid using it on the face.
Are body wash and body scrub fragrance free?
You can find both fragranced & fragrance-free options.
Do body wash and body scrub make the skin smooth?
Body scrub can make the skin temporarily smooth & soft due to its exfoliation.
Disclaimer
I wrote this article using general beauty and personal care information based on personal experience, so when using any product, follow the product instructions and if irritation occurs, discontinue it.
Want to learn more about Body Mist and Perfume? Read our guide on Body Mist vs Perfume: Which is better?