#Natural Body Scrubs

[relaxzing]

How to Choose the Best Bath Bombs for Your Skin Type?

Cleansing your skin from dirt to ensure you have a nice skin tone is meant to be a regular thing. Now, this is where you utilize bath bombs, as they have many benefits that work wonders. Read more....

[gmanmedias]

🌱 🌱 🌱

💖 💖 💖

🌿 🌿 🌿

[squishsquishy]

My fave stims (various goos/ goops and body stims)

x/x/x x/x/x x/x/x for deadboystims’ event

DAY 005 : make a stimboard using your favorite kinds of stim gifs (ex : dice , slime , etc )

[charmwasjess]

I think this is actually my worst impulse as a writer, not any kind of good advice for storycraft, but I’m compulsively nosy about my characters.

I want to know what they had for breakfast, and if they liked it. I want to know what they’re wearing. I want to know all their daily routines, what time they get up, what time they go to bed. I want to go through their shower supplies and their medicine cabinets and see what’s hidden at the back of their underwear drawer. I want to know what weird stuff they jerk off to. I want to download their entire search history for the last month and analyze the raw data.   

[merrybrides]

DIY: Summer Citrus Sugar Scrub

Rejuvenate and revive your skin with this easy citrus sugar scrub recipe. With only 3 ingredients you probably already have on hand, you’ll be ready to whip up this gentle exfoliating body scrub in no time! 

Sugar Scrub, or body polish is a luxurious way to refresh your skin. It is so gentle that it can even be used on sensitive skin. 

Exfoliating body scrub makes a great shower favor, quick gift, treat for yourself or a hostess gift when you are welcomed to a friend’s beach house.  This jar will keep my skin happy all summer long!

Keep a jar of this sugar scrub by your kitchen to soothe your hands after washing dishes. It will rehydrate your skin from the harshness of the hot water and dish soap. Keep a jar of sugar scrub in the shower for a mini spa treatment up to 3 times a week! 

Citrus Sugar Scrub Recipe Ingredients

It’s made with just a few ingredients, from your kitchen!

Sugar – 1/2 cup of regular white table sugar is perfect for this diy sugar scrub! It exfoliates your skin, gentling rubbing away dead skin cells leaving your skin feeling smooth and radiant. 

Oil – I use 1/4 cup Vitamin E Oil in this recipe which is so good for your skin. Its anti inflammatory properties soothes and calms, while hydrating dry skin and working to heal any blemishes. 

Citrus – Is so good for your body inside and out! Naturally full of vitamin C it leaves your skin with a beautiful glow! It also can help to lighten sun spots or other blemishes on your skin. I love the texture and beautiful color the citrus adds along with its amazingly refreshing scent!  You can use the zest from one Orange, Grapefruit, or Lemon, or 2 Limes, in this recipe.

*** Zest is made from the top layer of a fruit peel. Always try to avoid the white pith. If you don’t have a zester, you can use a vegetable peeler to gently peel the top layer of your fruit. Then cut the strips into finer strips lengthwise, and then again into tiny cubes widthwise. 

Supplies

Large Glass Mixing Bowl

Handheld Citrus Zester (variations under Tips and Tricks)

Spatula

Measuring Cups

Sealable Glass Jars (I like to use mason jars or repurpose clean jars I already own)

Ice Cream Scoop

How to Make Exfoliating Body Scrub

This scrub is so easy to make. It only contains natural ingredients and no artificial food colorings.

Combine sugar and oil.

2. Add zest.

3. Scoop into sealable glass jars.

4. Label and date.

5. Store for up to 3 months in an airtight container.

Variations

This sugar scrub recipe is so easy to customize to fit your needs! 

Citrus Variations – In this recipe I use orange, but any other citrus would work well! In the past, I have used grapefruit, orange, lime, and lemon. They all have worked wonderfully! If using lime I chose to use the zest from 2 limes since they are smaller sized fruit.

Oil Variations – Vitamin E Oil, Coconut Oil, Olive Oil, Almond Oil, Carrot Oil, Argan Oil, Jojoba Oil, and Grapeseed Oil. 

Sugar Variations – Any white sugar should work well in this recipe. Sugar is used for a gentle exfoliation so keep that in mind when choosing the coarseness of the sugar. 

For a winter sugar scrub try adding a dash of ground cloves or ground cinnamon. 

Add a few drops of essential oils. My favorite combinations include other citrus oils to complement and enhance, floral scents such as moroccan rose or lavender, and woody scents such cedar or rosemary. 

Pro Tip: If using coconut oil, it will help to slightly warm the oil on the stovetop or even the microwave before adding it to the mixture. I love coconut oil and lime combination! 

How to Store Sugar Scrub

This Sugar Scrub recipe can be stored for up to 3 months in a properly sealed jar / airtight container.  

PRO TIP: Upcycle jars you already own!

[uropa]

UROPA Apricot Honey Almond Scrub Cream 1 KG | Exfoliating Apricot Face Scrub & Honey Almond Body Scrub

- Premium Ingredients: Experience the rich blend of apricot, honey, and almond, providing a luxurious scrub for your skin. 

- Honey Almond Scrub: Infused with the goodness of honey and almond, this scrub deeply nourishes and revitalizes your skin, leaving it soft and supple.

 - Exfoliating Apricot Scrub: The apricot kernels gently exfoliate dead skin cells, promoting a brighter and smoother complexion.

 - Honey Almond Body Scrub: Perfect for a full-body exfoliation, this scrub helps to improve skin texture and tone, giving you a radiant glow. 

- Multi-Benefit Formula: This honey and almond scrub is designed to remove impurities, unclog pores, and enhance skin clarity.

 - Moisturizing & Hydrating: The natural oils in honey and almond help to moisturize and hydrate your skin, preventing dryness and flakiness. 

- Gentle on Skin: Suitable for all skin types, the apricot face scrub is gentle yet effective, making it ideal for daily use. 

- 100% Natural Ingredients: Made with natural ingredients, this scrub is free from harmful chemicals, ensuring a safe and healthy skincare routine. 

- Large 1 KG Pack: Comes in a convenient 1 KG pack, offering great value and lasting for a long time. 

- Easy to Use: Apply a small amount to damp skin, gently massage in circular motions, and rinse off with warm water for best results. 

- Customer Satisfaction: Trusted by users for its quality and effectiveness in achieving a smooth, radiant complexion. 

Achieve healthier, glowing skin with UROPA Apricot Honey Almond Scrub Cream - your perfect skincare companion!

Buy Now

[friends-of-beetlejuice]

I wana play a Hecata. I wana!!!!!

[utoshi-san]

Столетние фотки косметики, которые валяются у меня в телефоне. Я просто мастер постить что-то, когда это уже не актуально.

Я тут уже использовала больше половины и в принципе была довольна этими средствами (всем, кроме одного тоника для лица).

Надо скоро снова будет устроить набег в Тиджей Макс ахах

[fleurimondsnaturals]

Organic Skin Care for Different Seasons: Adapting Your Routine to Weather Changes

When it comes to skincare, every season presents unique challenges. Whether it’s the dry air of winter or the humidity of summer, your skin reacts to these changes and requires different care. That’s where organic skin care products come in handy. Let’s dive into how you can use natural beauty products to adjust your skincare routine with each passing season.

[northbirdblog]

Rosemary Lavender Salt Scrub

"A refreshing salt scrub for your skin!"

To get this recipe and more great ideas, visit The Northbird Blog!

[keyssaltscrub]

Discover the Magic of the Keys Salt Scrub: Your Gateway to Tropical Bliss

Dreaming of a tropical escape? Let The Keys Salt Scrub transport you to the sunny shores of the Florida Keys. Handcrafted locally, our all-natural salt scrubs offer a spa-like experience at home, enveloping your senses with the essence of our beautiful islands.

Why Choose The Keys Salt Scrub?

Unmatched Benefits: The Keys Salt Scrub boasts a unique Secret Lessoily® Formula that sets it apart. This proprietary blend ensures each scrub is not only exfoliating but also antibacterial, antimicrobial, cleansing, and moisturizing. It’s the only scrub that provides such comprehensive care for your skin.

Versatile Uses: Whether you’re looking to soften your feet, remove stubborn odors, or enjoy a rejuvenating skin treatment, The Keys Salt Scrub is your ideal solution. It effectively tackles everything from roughness and grease to unwanted fishing aromas, making it perfect for men, women, and kids alike.

Indulge in Tropical Scents

Our salt scrubs come in a variety of enchanting island fragrances, including tropical key lime, coconut, lavender, and mango coconut. For something truly special, our Plantation Pineapple scent offers a sweet and refreshing twist. Each scent is designed to whisk you away to the sunny beaches of the Florida Keys, transforming your bath time into a delightful escape.

How to Use The Keys Salt Scrub

Simple Application: To enjoy the full benefits of The Keys Salt Scrub, massage a spoonful of the scrub onto dry skin. This process exfoliates dead skin cells while nourishing and moisturizing your skin. After a good rub, rinse off the salt and pat your skin dry to reveal a softer, smoother, and more radiant you.

Enhanced Results: Regular use helps maintain beautiful skin, eliminates tough odors, and promotes overall skin health. Whether you’re prepping for sandal season or treating yourself to a spa day at home, The Keys Salt Scrub delivers exceptional results every time.

Perfect Gift for Everyone

Looking for the perfect gift? The Keys Salt Scrub is a luxurious and thoughtful choice for any occasion. Its charming tropical character reflects the spirit of the Florida Keys, making it a memorable reminder of island bliss. Plus, with free shipping on orders over $35 and discounts on multi-pack purchases, it’s the ideal time to stock up or share the joy with loved ones.

Shop Now and Experience the Difference

Explore our range of salt scrubs and take advantage of our special offers. With The Keys Salt Scrub, you’re not just investing in a product; you’re bringing a piece of the Florida Keys into your daily routine. Experience why our customers rave about The Keys Salt Scrub and say, “WOW!”

Embrace the essence of the Florida Keys and treat your skin to The Keys Salt Scrub. Dive into tropical luxury today and let your skin revel in the ultimate pampering experience.

[squigglyreith]

Can barely wait to try this myself again~ It's my favorite own-made soothing coffee scrub | It's animal kind/friendly too!

THESE WILL BE UP FOR SALE!

Let me know if you want to buy some of these little wonder-packages! (4, 6 or 8 cubes will be the sets to choose from, approx price around $5-$10 + shipping)

[emergencydrugservice]

Benefits of Using a Natural Body Scrub

Introduction

Body scrubs are essential for maintaining healthy and radiant skin. They help remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and leave your skin feeling smooth and refreshed. Among the various types of scrubs available, natural body scrubs are preferred for their gentle and skin-friendly ingredients. Unlike chemical-based scrubs, natural ones use natural ingredients to nourish and rejuvenate your skin without exposing it to harmful synthetic components. This blog will explore natural body scrubs' unique qualities and numerous benefits.

What Is a Natural Body Scrub?

A natural body scrub is a skincare product that uses organic and plant-based ingredients to exfoliate your skin. The primary distinction between natural and chemical scrubs lies in the components. Natural scrubs usually contain exfoliants such as sugar, salt, coffee grounds, oatmeal and moisturizing agents like coconut oil, jojoba oil, or shea butter. These ingredients offer a nourishing experience that leaves your skin soft and hydrated. Additionally, essential oils are often included for their therapeutic benefits and fragrance.

Natural body scrubs work by physically removing dead skin cells from the surface, which smooths your skin and enhances the absorption of other skincare products like lotions and serums.

Common Natural Ingredients in Body Scrubs:

Sugar is a gentle exfoliant that works effectively without being abrasive and is suitable for most skin types.

Salt: Known for its detoxifying properties, it helps remove impurities and rejuvenate the skin.

Coffee Grounds: Stimulates blood circulation and may reduce the appearance of cellulite.

Oatmeal: Soothes the skin while providing gentle exfoliation, ideal for sensitive skin.

Essential Oils: Provide fragrance and additional skin benefits, such as relaxation or invigoration.

Key Benefits of Using a Natural Body Scrub:

Exfoliation

One of the main benefits of using a natural body scrub is its exfoliating action. Dead skin cells can accumulate, leading to a dull complexion, rough texture, and clogged pores. Natural exfoliants like sugar and salt gently remove these cells, revealing fresh, glowing skin. Regular exfoliation with a natural scrub can also help prevent ingrown hairs, reduce breakouts, and promote an even skin tone.

Improved Skin Texture

Natural body scrubs are excellent for smoothing out rough patches. Whether dealing with dry elbows, knees, or flaky skin, these scrubs refine the skin's texture. Consistent use over time will leave your skin feeling softer and more comfortable.

Enhanced Circulation

The massaging action of applying a natural scrub improves blood flow, which can result in a healthier complexion. Enhanced circulation also delivers more oxygen and nutrients to the skin, promoting cell renewal and giving your skin a natural glow.

Detoxification

Ingredients like salt and coffee grounds in natural scrubs help detoxify the skin by drawing out impurities and unclogging pores. This detoxification process can refresh and rejuvenate your skin.

Moisturization

Many natural body scrubs contain oils and butter that deeply hydrate the skin. Ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, and jojoba oil are known for their moisturizing properties. These oils soften the skin and create a barrier that locks in moisture, which is especially beneficial for dry skin.

Why Choose Natural Ingredients?

Avoiding Harsh Chemicals Choosing a natural body scrub over a chemical-based one helps you avoid exposing your skin to harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances. Chemical scrubs can contain irritants that may cause redness, dryness, or allergic reactions. In contrast, natural scrubs are gentle and less likely to irritate the skin.

Benefits for Sensitive SkinNatural body scrubs are perfect for sensitive skin due to their plant-based and organic components. Ingredients like oatmeal and aloe vera found in natural scrubs have calming properties that reduce inflammation and soothe sensitive skin.

Environmental and Ethical ConsiderationsNatural scrubs are not only better for your skin but also for the environment. Chemical scrubs often contain microbeads and synthetic materials that can harm marine life. Natural scrubs, however, use biodegradable ingredients. Many natural skincare brands also prioritize ethical sourcing and sustainability, making them a responsible choice for eco-conscious consumers.

How to Use a Natural Body Scrub Effectively:

Step-by-Step Guide:

Start with Damp Skin: Apply the scrub to damp skin in the shower or bath for better glide and less irritation.

Apply in Circular Motions: Use gentle circular motions to scrub, focusing on rough or dry areas like elbows, knees, and heels.

Be Gentle: Avoid applying too much pressure; let the scrub do the work.

Rinse Thoroughly: After exfoliating, rinse your skin thoroughly with warm water.

Moisturize: Follow up with a hydrating body lotion or oil to lock in moisture.

Recommended Frequency: 

Exfoliating 2-3 times a week is sufficient for most skin types. If you have sensitive skin, start with once a week and increase as your skin adjusts.

Tips for Maximizing Results:

Don't Over-Exfoliate: Over-exfoliation can strip your skin of natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation.

Follow Up with Moisturizer: Always apply moisturizer after exfoliating to keep your skin hydrated.

Listen to Your Skin: If you experience irritation, reduce the frequency of use and opt for a gentler scrub.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can Natural Body Scrubs Be Used on Sensitive Skin? Yes, especially those with soothing ingredients like oatmeal and aloe vera. However, always do a patch test before using a new product.

How Often Should You Use a Natural Body Scrub? For most skin types, 2-3 times a week is ideal. Sensitive skin may require less frequent use.

What Are the Best Ingredients for Specific Skin Concerns?

Dry Skin: Look for hydrating ingredients like coconut oil or shea butter.

Oily Skin: Choose to balance ingredients like tea tree oil or clay.

Sensitive Skin: Opt for calming ingredients like oatmeal or chamomile.

Conclusion

Incorporating a natural body scrub into your skincare routine offers numerous benefits, from exfoliation to moisturization and detoxification. You can enjoy these advantages by choosing natural scrubs without exposing your skin to harsh chemicals. With consistent use, your skin will feel smoother, look healthier, and maintain a natural glow.

[baidyabootiayurveda021]

Understanding Tanning and the Benefits of Anti Tan Cream

Tanning is a common skin issue that many people face, especially in tropical regions or during the summer. The process of tanning occurs when the skin is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. This exposure stimulates the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for the color of our skin, as a protective response to prevent further UV damage. While some people seek a tan for aesthetic reasons, prolonged exposure can lead to various skin problems, including premature aging, sunburn, and an increased risk of skin cancer.

Causes of Tanning

Tanning is primarily caused by exposure to UV radiation. UV radiation is divided into three types: UVA, UVB, and UVC.

UVA Rays: These penetrate deeply into the skin and contribute to skin aging and DNA damage. They are also the main cause of tanning.

UVB Rays: These affect the outer layers of the skin, causing sunburn and playing a key role in the development of skin cancer.

UVC Rays: Although these are the most dangerous, they are mostly absorbed by the Earth's atmosphere and do not reach the ground.

Apart from UV exposure, factors such as genetics, skin type, and the duration and intensity of exposure also influence the degree of tanning.

What is Anti Tan Cream?

Anti tan cream is a skincare product specifically formulated to reduce tanning and lighten the skin tone. It works by targeting the melanin production in the skin and helping to repair the damage caused by UV exposure. These creams often contain a blend of natural ingredients, antioxidants, and sun protection agents to provide comprehensive care.

How Does Anti Tan Cream Work?

Anti tan creams work through several mechanisms:

Melanin Inhibition: Ingredients like kojic acid, arbutin, and vitamin C inhibit the enzyme tyrosinase, which is crucial for melanin production. By reducing melanin synthesis, these creams help in lightening the tanned areas.

Exfoliation: Many anti tan creams contain mild exfoliants like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs). These exfoliants help remove the outer layer of dead skin cells, revealing fresher, lighter skin underneath.

Sun Protection: Effective anti tan creams include sunscreen agents like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which provide broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. This helps prevent further tanning and sun damage.

Hydration and Repair: Ingredients like aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin keep the skin hydrated and promote healing. Antioxidants such as vitamin E and green tea extract combat free radicals, preventing further skin damage.

Baidyabooti Ayurveda Anti Tan Cream

One of the standout products in the market is the Baidyabooti Ayurveda Anti Tan Cream. Baidyabooti Ayurveda is renowned for its natural and holistic approach to skincare, using traditional Ayurvedic ingredients that have been trusted for centuries.

Key Ingredients and Benefits:

Aloe Vera: Known for its soothing and hydrating properties, aloe vera helps calm irritated skin and provides essential moisture.

Turmeric: A powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, turmeric brightens the skin and reduces pigmentation.

Sandalwood: This ingredient has cooling properties and helps to lighten the skin tone while imparting a natural glow.

Licorice Extract: Licorice inhibits melanin production and helps fade dark spots and pigmentation.

Neem: Known for its antibacterial properties, neem helps in detoxifying the skin and preventing acne.

How to Use:

Cleanse: Start with a gentle cleanser to remove any dirt or impurities from your skin.

Apply: Take a small amount of Baidyabooti Ayurveda Anti Tan Cream and apply it evenly on the affected areas.

Massage: Gently massage the cream into your skin using upward circular motions until fully absorbed.

Protect: For best results, use the cream twice daily and follow up with a sunscreen during the day to protect your skin from further UV damage.

Tanning can be a persistent issue, but with the right skincare routine and products like Baidyabooti Ayurveda Anti Tan Cream, you can effectively reduce tanning and restore your skin's natural radiance. By understanding the causes of tanning and the benefits of anti tan creams, you can make informed choices to protect and nourish your skin. Embrace the power of Ayurveda with Baidyabooti Ayurveda and enjoy a healthy, glowing complexion all year round.

[kaijutegu]

Alligator Body Language and You, or: How To Know When An Alligator On Social Media is Being Stressed for Views

Alligators are wild animals. Despite the idiotic claims of animal abusers like Jay Brewer, they cannot be domesticated, which means they are always going to react on the same natural instincts they've had for millions of years. Habituated, yes. Tamed, yes. Trained, definitely. Crocodilians can form bonds with people- they're social and quite intelligent. They can solve problems, use tools, and they're actually quite playful. Alligators are also really good at communicating how they're feeling, but to somebody who doesn't spend much time around them, their body language can be a bit mystifying. And it doesn't help when social media influencers are saying shit like this:

That is not what a happy gator looks like.

That's a terrified, furious gator who isn't attacking because the ogre handling her has her in a chokehold. She's doing everything she can to express her displeasure, and he's lying about it because he knows his audience doesn't even know how to think critically about what he's doing. He knows that because his audience doesn't know anything about these animals, he can get away with it. This I think is why I hate him so much- he deliberately miseducates his audience. He knows what he's doing is factually inaccurate, he just doesn't care because attention means more to him than anything else in the world.

Let's change that! Here are two really important lessons for understanding alligator body language on social media.

Lesson 1: Alligators Don't Smile (in fact, most animals don't)

So what's going on in this video? Jay Brewer is aggressively choking his white alligator Coconut while scrubbing algae off of her with a toothbrush. And make no mistake, he is digging into the creature's throat while she is visibly distressed. He claims she's happy- but she's not. He is willfully misrepresenting what this animal is feeling. That's a problem, because people... well, we actually kind of suck at reading other species' body language. The reason for this is that we tend to overlay our own responses on their physical cues, and that's a problem. For example, let's look at an animal with a really similar face to ours, the chimpanzee. Check out Ama's toothy grin!

Wait, no. That's not a happy smile. That's a threat display. When a chimpanzee "smiles," it's either terrified and doing a fear grimace, or it's showing you its teeth because it intends on using them in your face.

How about a dog? Look at my smiling, happy puppy!

Oh wait no, this is a picture of Ryder when he was super overwhelmed by noise and people during a holiday party. He'd hopped up in my sister's lap to get away from stuff that was happening on the floor and was panting quite heavily. See the tension in the corners of his mouth and his eyes? A lot of the time when a dog "smiles," the smile isn't happy. It's stress! Why Animals Do The Thing has a nice writeup about that, but the point is, our body language is not the same as other species. And for reptiles, body language is wildly different.

For instance, look at these two alligators. Pretty cute, right? Look at 'em, they're posing for a Christmas card or something! How do you think they're feeling?

Well, I'll tell you how the normal one is feeling. He's annoyed! Why is he annoyed? Because the albino just rolled up, pushed another gator off the platform, and is trying to push this guy, too. I know this because I actually saw it happen. It was pretty funny, not gonna lie. He's not gaping all the way, but he was hissing- you can actually see him getting annoyed in the sequence I took right before this shot. Look at him in this first shot here- he's just relaxing, and you can see he isn't gaping even a little bit.

By the end, he's expressing displeasure, but not enough to actually do anything about it. He's annoyed, but he's comfy and that's where one of the best basking areas is, so he'll put up with it.

Reptiles open their mouths wide for a lot of reasons, but never because they are actively enjoying a sensation. Unless they're eating. No reptile smiles- they can't. They don't even have moveable lips. If a reptile is gaping, it's doing so because:

It is doing a threat display.

It is making certain vocalizations, all of which are threats. Alligators are one of the rare reptiles that do regularly vocalize, but most of their calls aren't made with a wide open mouth.

It is about to bite something delicious or somebody stupid. Check out this video- virtually all of the gaping here is anticipatory because these trained gators know darn well that the bowl is full of delicious snacks. (I have some issues with Florida's Wildest, but the man knows how to train a gator AND he is honest about explaining what they're doing and why, and all of his animals are healthy and well-cared for, and he doesn't put the public or his staff at risk- just himself.)

It's too hot and it has opened its mouth to vent some of that heat and thermoregulate. This is the main reason why alligators will often have their mouths part of the way open, but sometimes they'll open all the way for thermoregulation. This is what a thermoregulatory gape looks like- usually it's not all the way open, kinda more like < rather than V, but you can't say that 100% of the time. Additionally, a thermoregulatory gape... typically happens when it's hot out. If they're inside, maybe they've been under their basking light for too long. Heat's the dominant factor, is what I'm getting at.

There is another reason that a captive crocodilian might be gaping, and that's because it's doing so on command. Some places have their gators trained to gape on cue, like St. Augustine Alligator Farm and other good zoos. They have the animals do this in presentations that are genuinely educational. They ask the animals to open their mouths so that they can show off their teeth and demonstrate how their tongues seal off the back of their mouth. They'll also do it as part of routine healthcare, because looking at their teeth is important.

In this case, the animals aren't gaping because they're stressed, they're gaping because they know they're gonna get a piece of chicken or fish if they do it. And what's more, they're doing it on cue. They have a specific command or signal that tells them to open wide. It's not an instinctive response to a situation. It's trained. If the animal provides the behavior after a cue, the situation is much less likely to be negatively impactful.

It's also important to remember that there's a difference between a partially open mouth and a gape! As discussed above, alligators will often have their mouths a little bit open just to maintain temperature homeostasis. It helps them stay comfy, temperature-wise. These guys are all doing thermoregulatory open-mouthed behavior- that slight open and relaxed body posture is a dead giveaway. (That and it's the hottest spot in the enclosure.)

Lesson 2: A Happy Gator Is A Chill Gator

So if alligators don't smile or have facial expressions other than the :V that typically signifies distress, how else can you tell how they're feeling? One way is stillness. See, alligators subscribe to the philosophy of if it sucks... hit da bricks.

Basically, if they hate it, they'll leave. Unless, y'know, somebody has their meaty claws digging into their throat or is otherwise restraining them. (Restraint isn't always bad, btw. Sometimes the animal is going through a medical thing or needs to be restrained for their safety- which a responsible educator will explain.)

Let's look at a very similar scenario, in which a captive alligator is getting his back scrubbed.

As you can see, it's quite different. First, he's not being restrained at all. Second, look at how relaxed he is! He's just chilling there vibing! He could simply get up and leave if he wanted to, because he's not being held. Towards the end of the video, as he lifts his head, you can see that his respiratory rate is very even as his throat flutters a bit. I'm not sure what this facility is, so I can't comment on care/general ethics, but like. In this specific case, this is an alligator enjoying being scrubbed! And you can tell because he's not doing anything. A happy gator is content to be doing what they're doing.

Why Should I Listen To You?

Now, you should ask yourself, why should you listen to me? Why should you trust me, who does not own an alligator, versus Jay Brewer, who owns several?

Well, first off, there's no profit for me in telling you that what you're seeing on social media is in fact not what you're being told you're seeing. I'm not getting paid to do this. That's the thing with people who make social media content. The big names aren't doing it just for fun. They're doing it for money. Whether that's profit through partnerships or sponsorships, or getting more people to visit their facilities, or ad revenue, you can't ignore the factor of money. And this is NOT a bad thing, because it allows educators to do what they're passionate about! People deserve to be paid for the work that they do!

But the problem starts when you chase the algorithm instead of actually educating. A "smiling" alligator gets the views, and if people don't know enough to know better, it keeps getting the views. People love unconventional animal stories and they want those animals to be happy- but the inability to even know where to start with critically evaluating these posts really hinders the ability to spread real information. Like, this post will probably get a couple hundred notes, but that video of Coconut being scrubbed had almost 400,000 likes when I took that screenshot. Think about how many eyeballs that's reached by now. What I'm saying here is that it's just... really important to think critically about who you're getting your information from. What do dissenters say in the comments? What do other professionals say? You won't find a single herpetologist that has anything good to say about Prehistoric Pets, I can tell you that right now.

Another reason you can trust me is that my sources are not "just trust me bro," or "years of experience pretending my pet shop where animals come to die is a real zoo." Instead, here are my primary sources for my information on alligator behavior:

Dragon Songs: Love and Adventure among Crocodiles, Alligators, and Other Dinosaur Relations- Vladimir Dinets

The Secret Social Lives of Reptiles- J. Sean Doody, Vladimir Dinets, Gordon M. Burghardt

Social Behavior Deficiencies in Captive American Alligators (Alligator mississippiensis)- Z Walsh, H Olson, M Clendening, A Rycyk

Social Displays of the American Alligator (Alligator mississippiensis)- Kent Vliet

Social Signals and Behaviors of Adult Alligators and Crocodiles- Leslie Garrick, Jeffery Lang

Never smile at a crocodile: Gaping behaviour in the Nile crocodile at Ndumo Game Reserve, South Africa- Cormac Price, Mohamed Ezat, Céline Hanzen, Colleen Downs (this one's Nile crocs, not American alligators, but it's really useful for modeling an understanding of gape behaviors and proximity)

Thermoregulatory Behavior of Captive American Alligators (Alligator mississippiensis)- Cheryl S. Asa, Gary D. London, Ronald R. Goellner, Norman Haskell, Glenn Roberts, Crispen Wilson

Unprovoked Mouth Gaping Behavior in Extant Crocodylia- Noah J. Carl, Heather A. Stewart, Jenny S. Paul

Thank you for reading! Here's a very happy wild alligator from Sanibel for your trouble.