If you are firmly planted in the do-it-yourself (DIY) world for food (yogurt, bread, etc.), or want to get into DIY, why not try making your own body scrub? It couldn’t be easier, plus you can double or quadruple the recipe and make gifts for the holidays which will be here before you know it. All you need are three ingredients (a base, an oil, and sweet-smelling additions) and you’ll be scrubbed and glowing before you know it!
INGREDIENTS
Base:
For your scrub base you will choose between sugar or salt. Depending upon your level of exfoliation, you have some options:
- Brown Sugar: Soft and moisture-filled, this is a good option if don’t want it too rough.
- Coconut Sugar: The grain is larger and, therefore, rougher. Because it is a rougher exfoliation you will need to add a bit more of the carrier oil.
- Kosher Salt, or other large crystal of salt: Rough and dependable, use especially if you like lemon as part of the mix.
- Pink Himalayan Sea Salt: A fabulous option for cooking, and also scrubbing! The grains are finer, so the scrubbing is gentler. Plus you get an infusion of minerals. It is a more expensive option, but consider investing in a bag.
Oils:
You will select a carrier oil that helps the salt or sugar apply to the skin. Select one from below, or use a combination:
- Almond Oil: High in Vitamin E, almond oil protects your skin from harmful UV radiation and easily penetrates the skin which can help clean out the pores.
- Jojoba Oil: Jojoba Oil is similar to your skin’s natural oils. Plus your skin absorbs the oil fairly quickly.
- Coconut Oil: Yum! This oil is a natural moisturizer and has natural antibacterial properties.
- Avocado Oil: A powerhouse! High in Vitamins A, D, and E, avocado oil can help reduce inflammation.
- Olive Oil: Probably the most ‘famous’ and available oil, and you probably already have some in your kitchen. Because it is a heavier oil, the skin doesn’t absorb it quickly. It is best to use a high-quality oil (pure/cold pressed/organic), so this option can get expensive.
Add-ins:
The fun part! Pick a scent you like or an extra little something to help exfoliate or cleanse. Below are some suggestions:
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Essential Oils: lavender, lemongrass, tea tree, lemon, orange, peppermint…feel free to experiment;
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Ground Coffee: the finer, the better. Caffeine also adds a boost to your skin;
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Lemon, Orange, or Lime Zest: bright and fresh!
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Ground Oatmeal: good for sensitive skin, and helps soothe irritated areas;
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Honey: used for eons as a natural cleanser;
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Lemon Juice: we know how this can sting, so be careful, but it is a natural astringent;
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Herbs & Spices: thyme, rosemary, cinnamon, nutmeg
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Cocoa Powder: an anti-oxidant powerhouse!
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Vitamin E Oil: moisturizing. No wonder it features in many anti-aging products;
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Aloe Vera: great for skin that is dry and acne-prone;
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Argan Oil: expensive, but a terrific moisturizer;
- Castille Soap: if you want your scrub to do double-duty as a cleaner, add it. Dr. Bronner’s has a great line of Castille soap.
Now that you’ve selected your base, oil, and add-ins, you can make your scrub.
INSTRUCTIONS
- 1 cup sugar or salt
- ½ cup oil
- Add-ins (if essential oils use just 6-12 drops, for other add-ins use around 2 teaspoons)
- In a medium bowl combine all ingredients and mix slowly with a spoon until fully combined.
- Spoon the mix gently (careful not to pack it down) in a jar with a tight-fitting lid.
- Store in a cool, dry place or keep in a shower to use at least once a week to keep skin in check.
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