Akuka Seaweed Body Scrub

The Akuka Seaweed Body Scrub claims to be a thick granulated body scrub with nutrient rich Seaweed and Pacific Sea Salt submerged in a base of softening Coconut and Almond Oils to exfoliate the skin leaving it smooth, supple and glowing. Added Green Clay deeply purifies and clears the pores.
 

 

Present at the highest concentration in the formulation is Almond Seed Oil which is rich in Vitamin E, monounsaturated fatty acids, proteins, potassium and zinc. The fatty acids serve as a natural emollient, locking in moisture by forming a protective barrier. It is also a gentle exfoliant, clearing dead skin cells and stimulating new growth. Similarly Coconut Oil  is also great for moisture retention and barrier strengthening due to its high concentration of saturated fats. Its antimicrobial and soothing effects help to speed up the skin’s natural healing process.

Adding several beneficial properties is Brown Sugar Cane. It can act as both a physical and chemical exfoliator. I’m not certain how much of the scrub’s grainy texture is attributed to sugar, however it is softer than its white counterparts so shouldn’t result in microscopic skin tears. Furthermore, it contains Glycolic Acid, a bacteria fighting alpha hydroxy acid which helps to break down the bonds between cells for healthy turnover. Brown sugar is also a natural humectant which draws moisture from the environment into the skin. Pacific Sea Salt absorbs toxins from the skin while it contributes to the exfoliation effects of the scrub. Additionally, it can increase circulation and deliver antiseptic effects while natural minerals in sea salt also provide skin nutrients.
 

Australian Green Clay draws out toxins, excess oils and impurities from the skin. It is great for oily skin types, helping to restore balance, soothe irritation and improve acne. Furthermore, green clay also stimulates cell regeneration to improve complexion. Similarly, Coconut and Rice Powder also soak up excess oils, the latter additionally contributing light exfoliation. Balancing the potentially drying nature of this detoxification activity are emollients. Jojoba Seed Oil  is easily absorbed to offer hydration without leaving a greasy residue or clogging pores. High levels of fatty acids allow it to retain and enhance skin moisture. Also rich in fatty acids, Avocado Oil helps to moisturise skin, well assisted by the humectant abilities of Australian Beeswax. Lemongrass Powder is deeply cleansing with its antibacterial and anti-fungal effects. Seaweed Powder is a superfood for the skin contributing potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-ageing properties.

The same essential oils that feature in the brand’s Seaweed Body Moisturiser appear in this scrub giving it the same delectable scent. Essential oils deliver excellent antioxidant properties to slow the signs of ageing and promote cell regeneration. Antifungal properties make Lavender Oil  a good remedy for wounds, burns and bites. Apart from their invigorating and refreshing citrus scent, Lime Oil and May Chang Essential Oil are antiseptic and antifungal, helping to relieve skin problems such as acne, sores, rashes and psoriasis. Astringent properties revitalize skin radiance. Used topically, the antibacterial properties of Spearmint Oil help to eliminate bacteria on the skin while anti-inflammatory effects soothe reddened, itchy skin.
 

Almond Oil, *Coconut Oil, Brown Sugar Cane, Pacific Sea Salt, *Oryza Sativa (Rice) Powder, Coconut Desiccated Fine, *Seaweed Powder, *Coconut Meal, *Avocado Oil, Australian Beeswax, Lemongrass powder, Green Australian Clay, Jojoba Oil, Lavender Essential Oil, Lime Essential Oil, May Chang Essential Oil, Spearmint Essential Oil, Natural Vitamin E

* Denotes Certified Organic
 

 

The Akuka Seaweed Body Scrub comes in a plastic screw top tub with a protective inner cap.
 

 

The Akuka Seaweed Body Scrub ingredients return clean CosDNA and EWG reports with only a low EWG flag raised against the presence of lime essential oil due to its potential to sensitize.
 

 

Massage into damp skin in circular motions to gently remove dead skin, focusing on dry areas such as knees and elbows. Rinse away with warm water.
 

 

There is a strong refreshing smell associated with this product, attributed by the essential oils.
 

The 400ml jar of Akuka Seaweed Body Scrub costs AUD$39.00 reduced by 15% to AUD$33.15 with (non-affiliated) discount code CLAYANDESSENCE.
 

The scrub is available from the Akuka Skincare website. Free shipping on all Australian orders over AUD$49.50.
 

The product has a 12 month shelf life and expires 6 months after opening.
 

 

Contained within an attractive package, a hefty 400ml of product releases an invigorating scent upon opening comprising smells of strong citrus with a touch of lavender. The natural fragrance is contributed by the essential oils in the formula which are extremely refreshing. Highly fragranced lemongrass may potentially also be partially responsible. Of course, anyone sensitive to these should patch test this product before using.

Due to the density and application of a body scrub, hygienic packaging is always going to be difficult. I would even suggest near impossible, particularly since a spatula is awkward to manipulate under the shower which is where this product is most likely to be applied. As such, I like to scoop it out with my fingers. The screw top lid is as protective as you can expect with such a product. Clearly, the antibacterial properties of the formula act as natural preservatives assuring the scrub remains effective and clean for the recommended six months after opening. The lack of added chemicals to extend longevity is probably why it only has a 12 month shelf life.
 

The Akuka Seaweed Body Scrub is thick and grainy, its colour and texture likely effected by the brown sugar cane of which there is a fair concentration. Although almond and coconut oils dominate the formula, it is quite dense in the tub. As such, if you apply too large an amount onto your body at once, you’re likely to lose half of it to the shower. However, scooping out a manageable amount allows you to spread it over wet skin smoothly and effectively. The texture is slightly gritty but still gentle so it feels comfortable. At the same time, you know your skin is being exfoliated. I tend to focus on a major area of the body at a time – upper arm/leg, lower arm/leg and front/back torso.

Immediately skin looks brighter and feels silky smooth to touch. Additionally, that exotic citrus scent absorbs into the surface, leaving you smelling delicious! Although that scent fades, it lingers for several hours which is so refreshing. I find myself regularly sniffing and stroking my arms after using this!
 

The sensation doesn’t end there. After drying off, skin retains a comforting protective film. It’s not greasy and it’s not oily. It’s not uncomfortable or heavy. It feels like a coating that helps to seal in moisture. I would suggest this sensation is attributed by the significant concentration of natural oils and the emollient effect of their high fatty acid content. This feeling lasts on the skin for about as long as the natural fragrance lingers. Skin feels both softened and fresh but also hydrated. In fact, when I use this, I bypass body cream or lotion as I just don’t need it.
 

I’m not sure how much clay contributes to the pore cleansing power of this scrub as I wonder if it’s on the skin long enough to draw out impurities. Typically, clay packs and masks sit on the surface for a period of time uninterrupted in order to effectively draw out excess sebum and dirt. Nonetheless, I love the idea of clay on my skin. I would suggest applying this outside the shower might allow you to achieve more benefit from the green clay. After massaging, leaving the scrub on the skin for a few minutes would give it an opportunity to better cleanse pores prior to rinsing.

The formula is divine, made up of a beautiful collection of natural ingredients, favourites being the oil blend, fragrant essential oils and the natural exfoliants, sugar cane and sea salt.
 

I am often guilty of focusing skincare on my face and neglecting my body. I’m grateful to brands like Akuka Skincare that remind me otherwise. This is another beautiful, all natural and super effective body product that will leave your skin feeling completely renewed. Fresh, soft and smooth from top to toe.
 

 

Pros	Cons
All natural formulation	Essential oils are a potential irritant
Fresh, invigorating, long lasting fragrance
Achieves a gentle exfoliation
Skin feels smooth and silky, looks brighter
Skin is hydrated and soft
100% Australian made and owned

 

the references

Akuka website
Almond Oil for Skin The Dermatology Review
What Are the Benefits of Brown Sugar As a Skin Exfoliator? Elana Kluner
Benefits of Sea Salt for the Skin Brenda Barron
The Difference Between White, Green and Pink Clays Nourished Life

 

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Please read in context with my disclaimer.
 
This product was provided to me free of charge by Akuka Skincare for review. This post only includes my honest opinion and experience of this product and is in no way influenced by Akuka Skincare, any of its representatives or any other third party.
 

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