Natural Homemade Exfoliants

Many common pantry items, such as sugar and salt, are natural exfoliates.

Exfoliating removes dead skin cells that can accumulate on skin's surface, revealing the newer, softer skin underneath. Regular exfoliation makes skin look more radiant and allows for better absorption of moisturizers and other skin care products. A variety of exfoliating products are available wherever beauty supplies are sold. However, homemade exfoliating products are also easily created at home, using natural exfoliates and other common natural ingredients.

Body

Body scrubs are created by combining two parts salt or sugar with one part oil, such as olive oil or vitamin E oil. Essential oils, oatmeal or other ingredients can also be added, if desired, to enhance fragrance or moisture. Body scrubs may be stored in an airtight container for up to four weeks. Citrus fruits, such as freshly cut lemons, can also be rubbed directly on rough areas like elbows and heels to smooth skin.

Face

Facial skin is more delicate than that of the body, but it can benefit from many of the same natural exfoliants. For example, a teaspoon of sugar, baking soda, cooled coffee grounds or corn meal can be mixed into regular facial cleanser to create an exfoliator. Mix 2 tsp. of dry tea leaves with purchased or homemade facial cleanser for gentle exfoliation. For an exfoliating mask, mix exfoliant and cleanser together and leave on the face for 10 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.

Lips

Lips are also prone to dryness and flaking and may benefit from periodic exfoliation. A sugar scrub combining ½ tbsp. of sugar and a drop of honey provides safe and gentle exfoliation. Rub the mixture into the lips for 15 to 30 seconds and remove with a warm washcloth.

How Often to Exfoliate

How often a person should exfoliate depends on her skin type and environmental conditions. Warm, moist conditions increase the amount of oil produced by the skin, increasing the build-up of dead skin cells and the need for exfoliation. On the other hand, those with dry or sensitive skin may not be able to tolerate frequent scrubbing. For most individuals, exfoliating the face and body once to twice a week is enough to keep skin soft and radiant.

Other Considerations

A variety of other exfoliating products are currently available, including loofahs and exfoliating gloves. However, a special exfoliating product or tool may not always be necessary. For example, a clean, nubby washcloth may be used to exfoliate the face or body.

References

• Health.com: Exfoliating 101: How to Let Fresh, Radiant Skin Shine Through
• Free Beauty Tips: Exfoliating Homemade Body Scrubs with Simple Sugar and Salt Recipes for the Home Kitchen
• Glamour.com: 13 DIY At-Home Spa Tricks
• WebMD; Make Yourself Beautiful on a Budget; Liesa Goins
• Spa; Spa at Home: Lip Balm and Lip Exfoliator; Rachel Neal