There are countless benefits to using a body scrub. Gently exfoliating your skin removes dead skin cells and reveals glowing, healthy skin underneath. Whether you are looking to improve your skin's appearance or you just want to treat yourself to a spa day at home, we have got you covered with everything you need to know about making your own body scrubs.
Making a body scrub at home is actually easier than you may think. By simply combining a few household ingredients, you can create a moisturizing and exfoliating scrub that will have your skin looking radiant in no time. Trust us; when it comes to self-care, we know just the trick.
What Is A Body Scrub
A body scrub is a bathing product made with an exfoliating material such as sugar, salt, or coffee grounds. The rough material is then combined with a moisturizing ingredient such as coconut oil, olive oil, or honey. For a scrub that smells as good as it makes your skin feel, essential oils are sometimes added.
Exfoliation is essential to getting that healthy skin glow. Over time our skin builds up a layer of dead skin cells. Exfoliation works by gently scrubbing off the layer of dead skin cells, leaving the healthy layer underneath. Simply scrub away the dull, dead cells and reveal your glowing, healthy skin--it’s that easy!
Body scrubs are great because they can be used in a bathtub or shower. So, no matter what your bathroom setup is, you can benefit from the revitalizing powers of a body scrub. If you don’t have a bathtub, a scrub can be a great relaxing alternative to a long hot bath. Scrubs can be used as part of an energizing morning routine or a relaxing night routine. It all depends on what kind of scrub you decide to use.
How To Use A Body Scrub
Body scrubs are easy to use. Simply scoop out some of the scrub into your fingertips. Then, gently rub the scrub in a circular pattern over the area you want to exfoliate and moisturize. When you are done massaging the body scrub into your skin, rinse with warm water. After using a body scrub in the bath or shower, be sure to apply lotion to your freshly pampered skin to seal in all of the moisture.
How often you can use a body scrub safely will depend on what type of skin you have. For most people, two to three times a week is the perfect amount of exfoliation. However, if you have sensitive skin, you may want to consider limiting exfoliation to once a week. If you over-exfoliate, then you run the risk of drying out your skin. If you have a skin condition, be sure to check with your dermatologist before using a body scrub.
DIY Body Scrub Recipes
Now that you know a bit about body scrubs, it is time for the fun part--cooking up some fantastic scrub recipes! It is easier than you might think. The best part is, you probably already have most of these ingredients in your pantry. So, why not give it a try?
Coffee Scrub
Can’t live without your morning caffeine? It turns out coffee isn’t just the best way to wake up your brain in the morning; it can also be a great way to wake up your skin. This scrub is gentle enough for sensitive skin, and it also smells incredible.
What you’ll need:
- ½ cup of coffee grounds
- 2 tablespoons of hot water
- 1 tablespoon of slightly warmed coconut oil
Combine coffee grounds and hot water in a bowl and stir to mix. Then, add your liquid coconut oil. If the mixture seems too watery, add some more coffee grounds. If your mixture seems too thick, add a little bit more coconut oil. Massage into your skin and enjoy the intoxicating aroma.
Brown Sugar Scrub
Brown sugar is inexpensive and is probably already in the back of your cabinet. This scrub is gentle for sensitive skin and can be customized to your liking with some essential oils. This is a versatile scrub that is great for first-time scrub makers.
What you’ll need:
- ½ cup of brown sugar
- ½ cup of an oil of your choice (coconut, jojoba, olive, almond, or grapeseed)
- 2-3 drops of the essential oil of your choice
Simply combine all of the ingredients in a bowl and mix thoroughly. If you are adding essential oil, use two to three drops and consider what your desired effect is. For example, lavender oil can be great for creating a relaxing experience. Feel free to play around with this recipe and find the perfect combination for your signature scrub.
Sea Salt Scrub
If you want to create a scrub that will last for a while, then try the sea salt scrub. Salt is naturally antibacterial. So, this scrub will naturally preserve itself for longer than a sugar scrub. Opt for a soft ground sea salt. Do not use coarse salts as they are too harsh.
Make sure to avoid this scrub if you have sensitive skin, or if you have a small cut, as the salt in this scrub can cause irritation. If you can handle the exfoliation power of the salt, then you will be amazed by its amazing exfoliating benefits.
What you’ll need:
- ½ cup of sea salt
- ½ cup of an oil of your choice
- 2-3 drops of the essential oil of your choice
Combine the ingredients until the consistency and scent of the scrub are to your liking. Once you have mixed your scrub, store it in an airtight container and use as needed.
Honey Scrub
Honey is a powerful antibacterial ingredient that is great for sensitive skin. This scrub is gentle and smells great. When combined with a sugar exfoliant, honey will help to repair skin that is dry and dull and will leave you with radiant, glowing skin.
What you’ll need:
- ½ cup of brown sugar
- ¼ cup of coconut oil melted
- 2 tablespoons of honey
Simply combine your brown sugar, coconut oil, and honey, then mix well. Scoop out a bit of the scrub and apply in a circular motion. Be sure to rinse thoroughly with this scrub, so it doesn’t leave you feeling sticky. This body scrub is easy to make and packed with ingredients that will have your skin beaming.
Other Body Scrub Options
If you're not keen on cooking up your own signature body scrub, you can always buy a scrub. We get it; life can get busy sometimes. If you are pinched for time, then you can always purchase a pre-made scrub.
There are tons of great scrubs to choose from, including energizing scrubs, scrubs made for relaxation, or even sparkly scrubs to prep you for a night out dancing. Treat yourself once in a while! You deserve it.
In Conclusion
No matter what type of scrub you decide to make or buy, remember to massage it on in a circular motion and to take your time. Using a body scrub is a great way to relax and take a few moments out of your busy day for a little bit of well-deserved self-care. So kick back, relax, and get your body scrub on.