Body scrubs exfoliate and cleanse the skin by removing the top layer of dead skin cells. This allows moisturizers to penetrate the skin more deeply, and leaves the skin feeling smoother. All body scrubs contain similar ingredients, including a granular exfoliant and vegetable oil for moistening, but this also leaves room for customization depending on your skin type. For the best results, use your body scrub no more than once or twice a week. The substance is too abrasive for daily use, but may improve the skin when used only occasionally.
Step 1
Choose a granular exfoliant for your cleansing body scrub. Salt has detoxifying properties, sugar is gentler on skin and also moisturizing, oatmeal works well on dry or itchy skin, and ground almonds work best for thick, callused or flaky skin.
Step 2
Combine the exfoliant of your choice with the vegetable oil in a glass jar. Stir well to combine, making sure to thoroughly coat all the grains. Use any type of vegetable-based oil such as almond, olive, sesame, apricot kernel, grapeseed, jojoba, avocado or safflower.
Step 3
Add more oil, a teaspoon at a time, if necessary to reach a slush-like consistency. Stir well after each addition. Some grains, such as oatmeal or ground almonds, require more oil than less-absorbent grains like salt and sugar.
Step 4
Add the essential oil if using, and stir again to thoroughly incorporate the fragrance throughout the cleansing scrub. Use an essential oil that complements your skin type for the best results, or try a general cleansing oil such as lavender or rose.
Step 5
Secure the lid on the jar, and store the body scrub in a cool, dark place when not in use. To use, scoop out a handful of the scrub mixture and apply to damp skin. Rub in an upward, circular motion toward the heart. Stir before using if separation occurs.
Tips and Warnings
- If using salt, regular table salt or sea salt will work. Sea salt requires grinding, however, to reduce the grain size and prevent scratching the skin. Place in a blender or food mill, and process until it becomes the same consistency as table salt for best results. In her book "The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy," Valerie Ann Worwood suggests using rose geranium essential oil for normal skin, chamomile for dry skin, rosemary for oily skin, and juniper for acne-prone skin. Use dried herbs and flowers in your cleansing body scrub for added attractiveness and exfoliation, if desired. Add 1 to 2 tsp. per batch before adding the vegetable oil. Try dried lavender flowers to promote relaxation, shredded ginger to aid exfoliation, or lemon peel to increase energy.
- Avoid using salt if you have any open cuts or abrasions on your skin, as it may cause irritation and stinging when it comes in contact with the wound. Do not use your body scrub on your face or genital area.
Things You'll Need
- 1 cup salt, sugar, oatmeal or ground almonds
- 1/4 cup vegetable-based oil, more if needed
- 12 oz. glass jar with lid
- 20 drops essential oil, optional
References
- Cancerlynx: Yummy Body Scrub Recipes
- "Better Basics for the Home"; Annie Berthold-Bond; 1999
- "Beauty By Nature"; Brigitte Mars; 2006
- "The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy"; Valerie Ann Worwood; 1991
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