GETTING a vigorous rub down is an ideal way to re-energize, improving blood circulation in the same way a soothing massage revitalizes the body.

But the ultimate perk that makes spa-goers go crazy about body scrubs is the way this invigorating treatment makes the skin soft and supple. Dead skin cells are sloughed off, giving skin a glowing appearance.

Body scrubs are particularly important during the cold season when dry skin is a common malady.

The drier the skin gets, the more likely it is to flake. The feet, elbows and knees should be given special attention as these body parts tend to get dry in the cold easily.

Bear in mind, though, that the face should be given a separate facial scrub since the tender facial skin needs gentler and milder exfoliating products.

In getting or giving yourself a body scrub, it will be wise to choose your grain based on your skin type.

Scrubs vary in intensity levels, ranging from mild to coarse grains. A tougher scrub is ideal for tough skin while those with sensitive skin should opt for a moderately mild scrub to avoid irritation and rash.

Scents, too, should be given special attention. Scrubs can smell fruity, floral, nutty, sweet and even earthy.

The following body scrubs are among the top choices in the metro:

Hotel Spa: Deverana Spa Manila
Dusit Thani Hotel Makati, tel. 8673333

It opened a year ago and offers the 60-minute Rose Petal Bodyscrub. Packed with anti-aging properties, it helps control thread veins, heal wounds and induce skin elasticity. Leaves the skin smooth, fresh and well nourished with uplifting aroma.

Mall Spa: Urban Spa
5/F, Shangri-La Mall; tel. 6876195

Luxury Polish Body Scrub is a 60-minute nourishing combination of skin exfoliation using sea salt and virgin-pressed coconut oil for rejuvenating dry skin. A soothing Swedish massage follows with moisturizing honey. Weary skin will become soft, supple, shining.

Home Spa: Spaholic
This mobile spa services most parts of Makati, Quezon City and Alabang; tel. 6335880 and 0917-5313531

Javanese Lulur and Yogurt Wrap is a 60-minute ancient beauty treatment from the palaces of central Java as a pre-wedding ?purifying? ritual for princesses. The lulur paste is a blend of turmeric root, ground rice and sandalwood powder that slough away dead skin. Fresh yogurt is applied to the whole body to restore the Ph balance of the skin leaving it silky smooth.