Discover the health benefits of sugar

Sugar is always seen as a beauty villain. And with good reason, it is a food that is only rich in calories, has almost no nutrients (especially in the refined and crystal versions) and has the incredible power to make the scales go up when you overindulge in dessert. But what many people forget to say is that, for the skin, it can be a great ally!

Like this?

No, I didn’t mean you should swallow a packet of sugar right now because your skin will look good. Sugar is beneficial when used as an exfoliant. That’s right: it can replace your cosmetic and leave your skin super soft.

The many benefits of sugar

It is a natural humectant (moisturizer), because its derivatives come from sugarcane and help in hydrating the skin. Even when you use it as an exfoliator, it leaves your skin feeling smoother while massaging.

It contains glycolic acid, which helps skin cells to renew themselves more quickly and efficiently. This acid is widely used in anti-aging creams and treatments to recover the skin from sun spots.

The big question is that glycolic acid can irritate the most sensitive skins, so only use the products recommended by your dermatologist, who will know the correct percentage of acid that your skin needs to look even more beautiful.

It works as one of the most powerful exfoliators, as its particles are great for removing dead cells from our skin (that’s why after all exfoliation we get softer skin). The great moisturizing properties help to make the skin smoother and softer. And here’s the tip: not only can your face be exfoliated – your hands, feet, elbows and knees will also appreciate a weekly sugar scrub. Areas with ingrown hairs and folliculitis can also improve if you do weekly sugar scrubs.

The right sugar for exfoliation

• Brown sugar: it is much less harsh and, therefore, is suitable for use on the face in the hands. On the face, it is only worth using this type or the skin ends up becoming rough and “scratched”.
• Refined sugar: it is a little coarser than brown sugar, that is, it can be used in other areas of the body.
• And crystal sugar? As it is very rough, ideally you should not use it for aesthetic purposes.

Homemade Sugar Scrub Recipe (That Works)

For the face, mix a spoon (small, like those for dessert) of brown sugar with the same amount of honey. Then massage your face for a few minutes and rinse until all the sugar is gone. To finish the cleanse, apply an astringent tonic.

For the body, use equal parts of refined sugar and honey and do the same process. Instead of using the astringent toner, apply moisturizer to the driest areas. You instantly feel your skin softer and more beautiful.

medical caveat

If you have acne or any other type of skin inflammation, or you still have very dry skin, talk to your dermatologist first. In some cases, exfoliation is not advisable and, instead of more beauty, you can end up irritating the skin and worsening the condition.

In addition, it is worth remembering that sugar only helps in these cases, consuming it in exaggerated doses can even advance the aging of the skin, you know? That’s because eating excess sugar interferes with the production of collagen, which is one of the main responsible for keeping the skin firm and away from wrinkles. The ideal is a moderate diet, don’t forget!