Aroma Essentials : De-Tan Scrub

 

Cleopatra–the glamour girl of ancient Egypt–reportedly bathed in buttermilk to improve her complexion. Thousands of years ago, she and other women knew a secret that modern skin researchers have only recently rediscovered: Acids derived from natural foods.

As we age, our new skin cells take longer to reach the visible surface of our skin, and the older cells take longer to slough off. 

Exfoliation is the process of removing the outer, older skin cells to reveal the new, smooth skin cells underneath.  There are two main types of exfoliation: physical and chemical.When we exfoliate the skin by either process, we reveal a layer of younger, smoother skin cells underneath.  This smoother skin texture (generally with clearer appearance, and a rosy glow) makes us look younger.  The effect is temporary, of course, because our skin is constantly producing new cells, and readying the old ones to slough off.

ABOUT THE BRAND

Learn more about Aroma Essentials HERE!

KEY INGREDIENTS & THEIR BENEFITS

• Citrus Fruit Peels (Lemon, Orange, Grapefruit): Contain high levels of antioxidants that protect skin from free radical damage preventing premature ageing of  skin. When used in their natural form, the antioxidant effects of citrus peels are enhanced by the high levels of vitamin C found in citrus fruits (1). The peels of citrus fruits are packed with ascorbic acid or vitamin C, a natural skin lightening agent, which is widely used in skin care products for treating discolored skin (1). Furthermore, rubbing the skin with citrus fruit peels aids in mechanical exfoliation by sloughing off the dead skin, and helping lighten the discoloured skin naturally (2). Lemons are natural sources of AHA’s, that work by gently dissolving the intercellular “glue” that makes old skin cells stick to the epidermis resulting in the outermost layer of the skin looking brighter and finer. These skin smoothers may also stimulate the production of skin-supporting collagen and elastin and enhance the skin’s moisture-retaining ability so the tissue maintains its soft, padded firmness (3).

• Pomegranate Extract: Pomegranates are a rich source of conjugated fatty acids and polyphenol compounds (such as anthocynidins and the powerful, miraculous ellagic acid) that lend the potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and free radical scavenging abilities (4).

• Orange Extract: Helps to detoxify congested skin and although it is a good general skin tonic, it is great for older more mature skin. It helps sooth dry irritated skin and supports collagen formation in the skin which is required for a healthy, younger looking skin (5).

• Oatmeal: Gentle on the skin, oatmeal does not forcibly peel away dead and dying skin cells from the surface of the skin, instead, oatmeal contains over a dozen amino acids, which are vital for building healthy skin tissue and for healing the skin (6). During an oatmeal face mask treatment, the skin will absorb these acids, which will help to heal minor imperfections, blemishes, and to help repair uneven skin tone (6). As oatmeal has humectant properties it allows the skin to retain moisture, thus hydrating the skin. Due to its hypoallergenic properties, oatmeal is the treatment of choice for sensitive skin (6). Another benefit to oatmeal is that it absorbs oil, so you will be cleansing as you exfoliate.

• Rose Petals: Has antibacterial and anti inflammatory properties that can help treat acne and acne prone skin, reduce swollen spots, redness and has skin calming properties (7). Rose is especially beneficial for  sensitive skin because the sugars in its petals create a soothing feeling (7).

• Saffron Strands: Saffron has anti-bacterial and anti-oxidant properties which make it an ideal ingredient for treating acne (8). Rich in exfoliating properties, saffron helps lighten scars and spots left behind from old wounds, cuts or acne eruptions (8). It also improves the quality of your skin by removing the dirt and impurities and tones the skin (8).

• Almond Powder: Almond flour is a wonderful way to nourish the skin while providing gentle exfoliation and promote the natural turnover of skin cells. Almonds can cleanse the skin by eliminating toxins and free radicals from your body. The various antioxidants in almonds possess anti-ageing properties which help in reducing fine lines and wrinkles. The Vitamin E component is considered a skin food as it nourishes the skin, keeping it smooth and glowing, can help to remove fine lines and wrinkles. It can also lighten age spots and other blemishes on the skin. (9,10).

• Honey: Natural antibacterial, so it's great for acne treatment and prevention. Full of antioxidants, slows slowing down aging. Extremely moisturizing and soothing, honey is clarifying because it opens up pores making them easy to unclog (11).

• Yogurt Powder: Yogurt contains lactic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), that dissolves dead skin cells. This gentle exfoliation not only helps to create a natural glow and prevent breakouts, but works to diminish the appearance of lines and wrinkles (12). When topically applied to the skin, yogurt face mask will help moisturize, fight acne, prevent premature aging, relieve sunburn, and reduce discoloration (12).
   
  
  

The d-tan scrub come in a  100 gm white no frills container with a screw on top. Brownish in color with visible dried rose petals, the scrub is powdery in consistency, grainy in texture and has a mild citrus"y" aroma. 

To use, take the required amount with a wooden spoon water to bring it to the desired paste like consistency and apply in circular motion to dampened skin and wash it off.

The scrub is mildly abrasive and initially I was under the impression that it wasn't suitable for facial use, but it is quite mild if made into a paste before applying. When using on the face, I would recommend being gentle. 

A couple of weeks ago I had a nasty allergic response to sodium bicarbonate found in natural deodorants due to which my underarms had discolored (read more about it HERE). Without any expectations, I applied the scrub directly to dampened skin ,  massaged it and let it on the skin for a couple of minutes before rinsing it off. To my surprise the discoloration had lightened a shade and with continuous usage (for about a week and half (1.5) now), my underarms have returned to their regular shade and the discoloration has completely vanished. I have even used it on my tanned feet and did notice a decrease in discoloration.

I only wish (1) the container had an inner lid to prevent spillage making it travel friendly and (2) the ingredients were listed on the container.

Made with all natural ingredient and no preservatives, microbeads or chemicals, this gentle scrub deeply exfoliates giving the skin a stimulating polish leaving the skin soft smooth and radiant.