I don't want no scrubs (for my sensitive, intimate skin)

we get it, we love scrubs too.

The feeling of scrubbing off dead skin cells and actually seeing a glowier surface can be addicting. But not all face or body scrubs are designed equally, nor are they designed for delicate lady parts skin AKA bikini area. Not to mention, made for areas where you regularly shave – especially when ingrown hairs, razor bumps, or active acne are in full force.

so what’s a scrub?

A “physical scrub” is a semi-abrasive polish in gel or lotion form with tiny granules – usually made from natural substances like shells or fruit pits  designed to exfoliate the outermost layer of the skin.

what’s the problem?

Those granules are not always perfectly round, i.e. jojoba beads. They can be large or irregularly-shaped (like the infamous apricot scrub from the 80s) causing damage via micro-tears that gradually weaken the skin’s barrier in the form of hypersensitivity, dryness, redness, and increased dark spots. Plus, if you scrub sensitive areas with too much force, that added pressure equals more damage. Basically, you can’t scrub away bumps!

what’s the solution?

When you have ingrowns and bumps, a “chemical exfoliant” or an AHA/BHA exfoliant is your best bet. Don’t be scared by the term “chemical exfoliant” AHA is short for Alpha Hydroxy Acid (i.e. lactic acid) BHA is short for “Beta Hydroxy Acid” (i.e. Salicylic Acid). Chemical exfoliants work to decrease inflammation, unclog pores to treat trapped oil and sebum, and help kill bad bacteria. Plus, they can help the skin look fresh and hydrated beyond the skin’s surface. 

how do I choose the best chemical exfoliant for my bikini area?

When it comes to choosing the right solution for intimate skin down south, we got

your back (and your front)! Meet Glow Refiner for Stubborn Intimate Skin, one of the first lady parts-friendly exfoliators that helps stop annoying ingrowns, bumps, blemishes, and dark spots.

Formulated for the bikini area’s pH, it’s made with all-natural ingredients for gentle but effective results. Ingredients Lactic Acid, Willow bark (a gentler Salicylic Acid alternative) and Witch hazel target bumps at the source while Beta-Glucan and Niacinamide help reveal smoother, brighter, and bump-less skin. Plus, you can use it in other sensitive areas where you shave, wax or breakout like face and underarms.

so…can I never use a physical scrub ever again on my bikini area?

Physical scrubs and chemical exfoliants complement each other. However, if your skin is on the sensitive side and you’re prone to ingrowns, razor bumps, or acne bumps, it’s best to table the physical scrub until the bumps go bye-bye.

what does a licensed esthetician have to say on chemical scrubs vs. physical scrubs? 

LOVE THIS QUOTE BY JASMINE, LICENSED ESTHETICIAN + OWNER OF WAXIT LA BREA, CA 

“I’m OBSESSED!! I myself love both ways of exfoliation. Chemical exfoliants I look as like the fairy God mother that does the work while you go about your day.

Just spray or massage through and you’re good to go. Also, very beneficial to those who’s intimate skin needs a little more TLC.” 

-JASMINE, LICENSED ESTHETICIAN +
OWNER OF WAXIT LA BREA, CA