Homemade Exfoliating Scrubs
March 4, 2009
To keep the skin radiant, regular exfoliation is necessary to get rid of dead cells and rough skin. Skin can become rough due to dry, peeling skin or pollutants. Exfoliating gently scrubs the old skin away, and encourages the rejuvenation of fresh new skin to replace the old.
Homemade body scrubs are a great way to establish an exfoliation routine. Many people prefer the homemade scrubs because they are less expensive, and you can be sure of the ingredients and quality. This may prevent any sensitivity or reaction of the skin to the exfoliation.
All body scrubs have three basic elements:
The exfoliate, or scrubbing element; a carrier oil, in which the scrubbing element is suspended; and essential oils for fragrance. Popular exfoliates are: sea salt, ground grape seeds, sugar, and wheat bran. Inexpensive and easy to find carrier oils are: grape seed, hazelnut, or almond oil.
Carrier oils add moisture, softness, and sheen to the skin. An essential oil adds fragrance and an aromatherapy element to the scrub. Essential oils are available in many fragrances, and some have an emotional impact as well. For example: lavender is known for its soothing properties; use citrus for increased energy. Some simple recipes you can make at home follow.
Invigorating Sea Salt Body Scrub
To make a Sea Salt Body Scrub, combine: 1 cup Fine Sea Salt, ½ cup Grape Seed, Hazelnut, or Almond Oil, 10 drops of Grapefruit Essential Oil and 10 Drops Juniper Essential Oil. Mix all the ingredients in a bowl and stir until everything is blended well. For ease in mixing, add the essential oils to the oil before adding to the salt. Store the excess in a jar away from the sun.
To use, apply the mix to wet skin and massage it well. Use more pressure on feet, knees and elbows. Massage gently on sensitive areas. Rinse well and moisturize. You will feel the softness.
Soothing Almond and Bran Scrub
To make a great Almond and Bran Scrub that is especially good for the face, you will need: ½ cup very finely ground almonds, ½ cup coarse wheat bran, 1 cup hot green tea, 10 drops lavender essential oil. Make a paste of the almonds, bran and tea. Add the lavender essential oil. Mix thoroughly. Massage into skin. Rinse well and moisturize. You will want to make this just before use. Use this scrub once a week for best results.
Feel free to experiment with different exfoliating elements, carrier oils and essential oils. There is an almost endless variation of scrubs.
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