A facial scrub helps exfoliate the skin, removing dead skin cells and other debris that can clog pores. There are many different facial scrubs on the market, but many have added chemicals that are harsh on your skin and can do more harm than good, not to mention the fact that they are costly. You can save money, and damage from harsh chemicals, by making your own face scrub with items that you may already have in your kitchen.
Step 1
Put 1 cup of old-fashioned rolled oats into a blender. Oatmeal is beneficial to all skin types, as it reduces skin inflammation and irritation. The November 2008 issue of "Archives of Dermatological Research" reports that oatmeal contains compounds called avenanthramides, which are responsible for oatmeal's soothing effects on skin. The bulkiness of oatmeal makes it an effective skin exfoliate that won't irritate the skin.
Step 2
Blend the rolled oats for 5 seconds only. If you blend them any longer, you will have made colloidal oatmeal, which is still good for the skin, but it won't be as effective as an exfoliate because it is much smoother than the rolled oats.
Step 3
Transfer the oatmeal to a bowl and add 2 tbsp. of honey. It is best to use raw, natural honey as it is not as chemically processed as other honeys. Most supermarkets carry raw, natural honey next to other honeys or in the produce section. Honey has antimicrobial properties, which means it can help rid the skin of any bacteria that may be lurking on it. It also stimulates wound healing and increases the rate of skin cell turnover, as reported by Barbara Pieper in the January/February 2009 issue of the "Journal of Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nursing."
Step 4
Blend the honey and oatmeal together well. If you desire a smoother consistency, add a little bit of water until you are comfortable with the thickness of the mixture.
Step 5
Pull your hair back and wash your face with a mild cleanser. Rinse with warm water, and then apply the oatmeal/honey mask with your fingertips, moving in slow, circular motions and avoiding the eye area. Rinse your face well with lukewarm water.
Tips and Warnings
- For the added benefit of a facial mask, after rubbing the mixture around your face, let it remain on the skin for 15 minutes before rinsing. Save any unused facial scrub in the refrigerator, if desired.
- Honey and oatmeal can clog your drain, so it is best to put a mesh drain strainer in your sink when rinsing your face.
Things You'll Need
- Blender
- Old-fashioned rolled oats
- Natural honey
- Bowl
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