How to Make Exfoliant

Exfoliating skin scrubs are a remarkably effective weapon in the battle against dull, lackluster skin. Exfoliants make your skin more beautiful by removing the outer layer of dead skin cells to reveal soft, healthy skin underneath. While you buy an exfoliating scrub at your local drugstore, it's much more cost expedient to make your own. Plus, you'll know your homemade exfoliant is made of only the finest all-natural ingredients. Here's how to make your own skin freshening exfoliant.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Select Your Abrasive Agent.
   
   The most important ingredient in your exfoliating skin scrub will be the exfoliant itself. It's the exfoliant that has the power to gently remove dead cells to reveal the fresh, new skin underneath. The exfoliant you select will depend upon the thickness of your skin. If your skin tends to be oily and non-sensitive, you can use a variety of fruit seeds to provide mild abrasive action. Cranberry seeds tend to work well for exfoliation. These can be purchased at your local health food store or online. Sea salt or pumice can also be used for skin that's not sensitive. If your skin tends to thinner and more delicate in texture, turbinado sugar, oatmeal, or wheat germ are good choices.

2. Add the Remaining Ingredients.
   
   You'll now need to suspend your exfoliant in an oil to provide lubrication. You can use olive, grapeseed, or almond oil, but many people like to add essential oils to give additional smell and skin benefits. Before making your exfoliant, read up on the many properties of essential oils to determine which one would be most appropriate for your skin type. You can also add dried herbs to your scrub to enhance the texture of your exfoliating scrub. If you plan on storing your scrub for long periods of time, you'll need to add Vitamin E oil as a preservative since you're using all natural ingredients which have a shorter shelf life.

3. If you're pressed for time, a quick exfoliant can be made by mixing corn meal with water and working it into a paste. Apply to skin and gently massage using firm circular motions. A textured wash cloth or exfoliating scrub pad will add additional exfoliating benefits. Be sure not to rub too aggressively if you use an exfoliating pad as it can cause scratches and abrasions.

Tips & Warnings

• If you plan on exfoliating your face, you should always use an exfoliating pad designed specifically for the face. Take into account the fact that facial skin is more delicate when choosing the ingredients for your exfoliating scrub. Have fun experimenting with different ingredient combinations when you make your own exfoliant. Your skin will thank you by looking younger and feeling softer.

[kossmore]

on 5/26/2009 Love it! 5*