Aroma Essentials : Papaya Scrub

Skin is one of the major organs involved in eliminating wastes and toxins from your body, mainly through perspiration. Sometimes, if the system is overwhelmed with toxins, the skin may bear the brunt of it by developing rashes or abscesses to compensate, and try to get rid of these impurities. A skin detox seeks to help the skin to get rid of the body’s waste products, which can, in turn, help the skin look and feel better. Particularly if you notice problems in your skin, a detox may be just the ticket.

ABOUT THE BRAND

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KEY INGREDIENTS & THEIR BENEFITS

• Papaya Pulp: The fruit is loaded with enzymes papain, chymonpapain and vitamin A (1,2). Rich in AHAs (alpha hydroxyl acid), the enzymes only work on the upper epidermal layers/ dead cells on the surface of the skin and help speed up the break down keratin in the skin. They work to exfoliate the superficial layers and dislodge/dissolve sebaceous filaments and are excellent for sensitive skin (3). The pulp of ripe papaya fruit has water, carbohydrates and fats thus providing hydration and nutrition to the skin (4). Anti-oxidants like flavanoids, vitamin A & vitamin C help in the repair of damaged skin (4). The vitamin A works as an anti-oxidant (1). It is mostly known for dramatically improving tone and texture of skin by increasing circulation of blood thus promotes healthy, vibrant complexion (2). Mainly these are good for rejuvenation of mature, dull skin; aid in clearing brown spots from sunlight exposure, smoothing the skin and creating a healthier looking skin (2).

• Walnut Shell Powder: Natural exfoliating agent that helps remove dead cells from the surface layers of the skin and prepares the skin to take moisturization and anti ageing treatments (5).

• Salicyclic Acid (2-5%): This is a Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) which has excellent exfoliating properties (3). Often found in cleansers and products designed to treat acne/excess oil production, salicylic acid works to break down skin cells, which stick together in the inner lining of the skin pore, it physically decglogs pores by breaking down/exfoliating filaments, blackheads, whiteheads from the inside – keeping the pore clear (3). Salicylic acid can stimulate circulation of oil out of pores, relieve inflammation and redness (3).

• Geranium Essential Oil: An astringent, Geranium oil has the power to minimize the look of wrinkles because it tightens facial skin and slows down the effects of aging (6). It’s powerful cicatrisant properties, increases blood circulation right below the surface of the skin — which  helps  with the healing of spots caused by acne, cuts, wounds, or skin irritations (6). Geranium oil promotes cell growth by helping recycle dead cells and support the regeneration of new cells (6).

The papaya scrub comes in a 35 gm opaque white plastic container with a screw on top. Orange in color, the scrub has a gel like consistency with powdered walnut shell freckled all over and has a strong fragrance of geranium.

To use, take the required amount of product with a wooden spoon and apply it to dry face & décolletage, gently massage in circular motions before rinsing off. I sometimes add a drop of water to the scrub before applying to give it better spread-ability. 

Applied topically the enzymes and high  vitamin C content in papaya are known to stimulate collagen production, fight free-radicals and help reduce the appearance of age spots and fine lines. Formulated to be safe for even the most sensitive of skins there is no characteristic sting or burn nor will one have any intense peeling or flaking from using it. 

I hate the smell of papaya, though considered a super-food, the smell totally puts me off and I avoid it. So when I opened the papaya scrub container expecting the repellent odour, I was instead surprised (may I add pleasantly) by the wafting notes of geranium (which also happens to to be my one of my favourite EO's).

The fine grade powdered walnut shell isn't abrasive and gently exfoliates to reveal a clarified, smoother skin with a fresh glow. The skin does not feel parched/dry or stretchy but I do prefer to follow up with a serum/facial oil.

Polish away dead skin cells and remove impurities with this resurfacing gel-scrub.