You don't have to be a beauty expert to realize the benefits of exfoliating. Sloughing away dead skin is a necessity. What most people fail to realize is that you don't have to spend an arm and a leg on costly beauty products, especially when you can make your very own. With the right formulas, you can reap the beauty bennies of homemade salt and sugar scrubs that are every bit as effective. And did we mention you'll feel like you've taken a trip to a heavenly spa without ever leaving your bathroom? Head over to the local spa and you'll spend between $100 to $300 for a full body scrub. Or you could make a stop by the local grocery store and stock up on all the ingredients you need for next to nothing. Scrubs are composed of rough grains of salt and sugar with a moisturizing base usually made of oil. The grains are used to loosen dead skin cells so that they're rinsed away. The oil base leaves the skin glowing and healthy thanks to the layer of moisture that protects the skin.
For a scrumptious salt scrub, combine 4 cups coarse salt, 1 cup sesame oil, 1 cup peach kernel oil, 1/2 cup cocoa, 1 tablespoon vanilla extract and honey. Add in a few drops of essential oils for a great fragrance. Mix well. Another great body scrub contains coffee which is thought to treat varicose veins and cellulite. For this scrub, combine 2 cups coffee grounds, 1/2 cup sea salt, 2/3 tablespoon massage oil. For a sweeter smell, add a dash of cinnamon or brown sugar. A dab of vanilla will also spice things up. Once you've cleaned your body in the bath or shower, apply your homemade scrub to the body. Many people prefer to use a loofah or loofah gloves. Begin scrubbing the body in a circular motion to slough away the dead skin cells. Concentrate on harder-hit areas like the elbows or the knees. Leave the scrub on for a few minutes. Follow up by rinsing with warm water and patting the skin dry. You'll glow, girl!