Natural Exfoliants Made Easy

Exfoliation simply means the removal of dead skin cells to reveal the younger skin cells underneath. Exfoliation can have beneficial effects for both oily and dry skin types:

• Fewer blemishes for oily skin
• Brighter and smoother appearance for dry skin

There are a number of ways to exfoliate, from the normal method of rubbing the face with a clean cloth, to using expensive creams containing AHAs. How about using natural ingredients that are readily available from your home? I will not only save you money but also allows you to tailor your scrub to your specific needs.

Facial Exfoliants

Peppermint & Lime Facial Scrub

This scrub is good for oily skin. Peppermints are cooling and mildly astringent while lime is antiseptic. For extra zing, try splashing the face with cool peppermint tea (infused peppermint leaves) afterwards as an uplifting toner.

Ingredient

• 3 drops pure peppermint essential oil
• 2 tbsp ground rice
• juice of half a lime

Method

Mix the essential oil and rice and blend well so the rice doesn’t coagulate. Stir in the lime juice. Apply to the face using gentle circular movements, then rinse.

Orange & Oatmeal Facial Scrub

Orange is mildly acidic and has a toning effect, but not suitable for sensitive skins. This scrub can also be used on the body.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp bran
• 2 tbsp finely ground oatmeal
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 5 drops pure orange essential oil

Method

Mix all the ingredients and store in an airtight container. Leave for a few hours before using it. This can be kept in the fridge for two weeks. To use, take a handful and moisten well with water. Apply to the face with circular movements. Follow with a good moisturizer.

Body Scrubs

Body skin is less fragile than the face. Dry skin brushing is a good method or removing dead skin cells, increasing the production of sebum and clearing blocked pores. It also improves the flow of lymph, helping eliminate toxins.

Ginger, Strawberry & Juniper Exfoliating Body Mask

Ginger is stimulating while juniper adds a wonderful fragrance and is extremely detoxifying, having a mild diuretic effect. This mask can tighten and refresh tired skin but again, use less ginger if you have sensitive skin.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 tsp dried juniper berries
• 8 fresh strawberries
• 2 to 4 tbsp ginger root, peeled and grated

Method

Grind the juniper berries in a pestle and mortar. Mash the strawberries to a pulp. Mix all ingredients together and apply to thighs, legs and arms. Leave for a few minutes and then remove with a face cloth using circular movements.

Yogurt & Bran Body Scrub

Natural yogurt is soothing and healing for the skin. The bran and ginger boost circulation and stimulate the area being treated. This exfoliator is especially good for thighs and bottoms, improving sluggish circulation and pepping up the skin. Use less ginger if you have sensitive skin.

Ingredients

• 50 ml live organic plain yogurt
• 2 tbsp bran
• 1 to 2 tbsp ginger root, peeled and grated

Method

Mix all ingredients together and apply to the skin with brisk circling strokes. Alternatively, apply with a face cloth for a more even application.