Curriculum / Unit 6 / Body Scrubs

Body Scrubs Practicum

Exfoliation can be a spa service or massage add-on, but it still requires screening, consent, draping, sanitation and respect for the skin barrier.

Common product choices

Salt
Usually coarser and potentially more stimulating. Product texture varies widely.
Sugar
A common mechanical exfoliant that may feel gentler depending on crystal size and formulation.
Carrier oils
Add slip and affect how easily the scrub spreads and removes.
Creams & fragrance
Change sensory experience but also add ingredients that may matter for allergies or sensitivities.

Don't scrub compromised skin

Avoid sunburn, open wounds, active rash, infection, freshly shaved or waxed irritated areas, inflamed acne, fragile skin, recent procedures, or any condition where abrasion would worsen tissue irritation. Ask about allergies and product sensitivities.

Practicum sequence

  1. Explain the product and obtain consent.
  2. Maintain standard draping and expose only the area being treated.
  3. Apply a small amount and use gentle circular or gliding motions.
  4. Don't chase redness. Exfoliation isn't supposed to injure the skin.
  5. Remove product thoroughly with warm damp towels or the facility's approved method.
  6. Dry the area and apply an appropriate finishing product if used.
  7. Document products and any skin response.

Sanitation

Never contaminate a bulk product by returning used material or dipping contaminated hands into the container. Portion product before the service and follow manufacturer directions for storage and shelf life.

Design a safe spa add-on

With a partner, design a 10-minute body-scrub add-on for one body region. Decide the product, screening questions, draping, amount of product, application technique, removal method, cleanup plan and what you'd document. Your partner should identify at least one situation in which you'd modify or decline the service.