Quick and Easy DIY Beauty Scrubs
In the world of DIY skincare, natural ingredients stand out for their simplicity. Among these, extra-virgin coconut oil is a superstar, thanks to its incredible moisturizing and nourishing properties. This versatile oil not only helps hydrate the skin but also serves as an excellent base for homemade scrubs. Here, we’ll explore how to create your own beauty scrubs for the face, body, and feet using extra-virgin coconut oil.
Why Extra-Virgin Coconut Oil?
Extra-virgin coconut oil is a fantastic choice for making DIY scrubs due to its exceptional moisturizing properties. Rich in fatty acids, it helps to hydrate and soften the skin, making it ideal for combating dryness and maintaining a smooth texture. It has a pleasant tropical scent that enhances the sensory experience of homemade scrubs, leaving the skin feeling luxuriously pampered and beautifully fragrant. These characteristics make extra-virgin coconut oil a popular ingredient for those seeking a more natural way to care for their skin at home.
Facial Scrubs
Facial skin is delicate, requiring gentle exfoliation. Coconut oil is perfect for this purpose, as it soothes and moisturizes while the exfoliants do their work. Here are two simple recipes:
- Coconut Oil and Sugar Scrub
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp extra-virgin coconut oil
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- ½ tsp honey
Should you wish to make more of this face scrub, quantities can be doubled. Keep a glass storage jar on hand for any leftover scrub.
Method:
- Mix the coconut oil and granulated sugar in a glass storage container until you get a paste.
- If using, stir in honey.
- Apply the mixture to your face in gentle circular motions. Avoid the eye area.
- Wash face with a cleanser** and rinse with warm water and pat dry.
- Coconut Oil and Oatmeal Soothing Scrub
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp extra-virgin coconut oil
- 1 tbsp finely ground oatmeal
- A few drops of topical lavender essential oil*** (scent associated with relaxation)
Method:
- Combine all ingredients to form a paste.
- Gently massage onto the face for soothing exfoliation.
- Wash face with a cleanser** and rinse with warm water and pat dry - enjoy the soft, moisturized skin.
Body Scrubs
The skin on the body can handle more vigorous exfoliation compared to the face. Here’s how you can use coconut oil to create scrubs that rejuvenate your body skin.
- Coconut Oil and Coffee Scrub
Ingredients:
- ½ cup extra-virgin coconut oil
- ½ cup ground coffee
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for a pleasant scent)
Method:
- Melt the coconut oil slightly to soften it up, if it is solid. Caution, do not use hot liquid coconut oil on your body.
- Mix the coffee and melted coconut oil, and add vanilla extract.
- In the shower, apply the scrub to your body in circular motions.
- Rinse off and enjoy the invigorating feel and smell.
- Coconut Oil and Sea Salt Scrub
Ingredients:
- ½ cup extra-virgin coconut oil
- ½ cup coarse sea salt
- Topical Essential oils*** (optional, for added fragrance)
Method:
- Mix the coconut oil with sea salt thoroughly.
- Add a few drops of your favorite topical essential oil***.
- Use the scrub on damp skin, scrubbing gently.
- Rinse thoroughly.
Lip Scrubs
Lips are another crucial area that can benefit from regular exfoliation, especially to combat dryness and chapping. Coconut oil is an excellent base for lip scrubs as it provides necessary moisture.
Coconut Oil and Honey Lip Scrub
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp extra-virgin coconut oil
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- ½ tsp honey
Method:
- Mix the coconut oil and honey in a small bowl until well combined.
- Add the granulated sugar and stir until you get a coarse paste.
- Gently apply the scrub to your lips using your fingertip or a soft toothbrush. Rub it in small, circular motions to gently exfoliate the lips.
- Leave the scrub on your lips for a minute or two for extra hydration.
- Rinse off with warm water and follow up with a lip balm to lock in moisture.
This lip scrub is gentle enough for frequent use and can be a perfect addition to your nightly skincare routine. The coconut oil moisturizes the lips, the sugar helps to remove dead skin cells, and honey, providing additional hydration.
Foot Scrubs
Feet often get neglected, but they need as much care as the rest of our body.
Coconut Oil and Peppermint Foot Scrub
Ingredients:
- ¼ cup extra-virgin coconut oil
- ¼ cup Epsom salt
- 10 drops of topical peppermint essential oil***
Method:
- Mix the coconut oil with Epsom salt and add topical peppermint oil.
- Soak your feet in warm water for 10 minutes to soften the skin.
- Apply the scrub and massage thoroughly, focusing on rough areas.
- Rinse with warm water and dry your feet.
- Optional - Apply more extra-virgin coconut oil to the feet and put on thick socks for an overnight moisturizer.
Tips for Making and Using DIY Scrubs
Choose the Right Exfoliant: Depending on your skin type and the area of use, select an appropriate exfoliant. Sugar is finer and gentler, while salt and coffee can be used for more robust exfoliation. For the lips, always use fine sugar as it is gentle enough not to cause any damage.
Perform a Patch Test: Before using any new scrub or other topical product, especially with essential oils or new ingredients, test on a small skin area. This is important to ensure you do not react adversely. Discontinue use if redness or irritation occurs.
Storage: Store your scrubs in airtight glass containers (as essential oils can go through plastics) and use them within a month to ensure freshness. Natural products without preservatives can quickly go bad, so make them in small batches.
Frequency of Use: Over-exfoliation can damage the skin, so use facial and lip scrubs no more than 2-3 times a week and body scrubs 1-2 times a week. Listen to your skin and reduce frequency if you notice irritation or dryness.
Follow Up with Moisturizer: After exfoliating, it's essential to follow up with a good moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated.
Be Gentle: When applying any scrub, particularly on the face and lips, be gentle in your movements. Use small, circular motions and avoid scrubbing too hard to prevent skin irritation.
By following these tips, you can make the most out of your DIY beauty scrubs and enjoy radiant, healthy skin without the harsh chemicals found in many commercial products.
**Disclaimer - Virgin Coconut Oil is highly comedogenic, which means it can clog pores. We recommend keeping this in mind when using on your face as you may want to ensure to fully cleanse after use.
***Note - When ingredient list calls for an essential oil, do ensure a topical safe essential oil is used and NOT the oil that is meant to be used for a diffuser. Some essential oils can increase sensitivity to the sun. Always be sure to avoid contact with your eyes.