In keeping with that do-it-yourself tradition I am making homemade body scrub today.
As usual my system is flexible as to what ingredients I use. I always try to use ingredients I have on hand or, barring that, that are easily gotten from local vendors. I believe in supporting local business and reducing packaging waste.
Here are my guidelines for making your own body scrub. I say guidelines because there are many acceptable variations.
The basis of this scrub is organic salt. I don’t use sugar because it dissolves and becomes mush. You can use organic sugar if you don’t have to store it. It’s for a one-time use. This salt-based scrub can be stored.
The other ingredients are an organic oil, some kind of unpasteurized honey (although regular honey will work, too), an essential oil for a good scent and soap.
Here is my basic recipe:
- 1/4 cup oil (sweet almond, olive, sunflower, avocado. A fruity oil. Not corn or safflower.)
- 2 tablespoons organic honey (unfiltered, raw, unpasteurized if possible)
- 1 tablespoon soap, grated coarsely (castile, goat milk, pure)
- 1 cup salt, fine grain (any organic salt is good; I used Himalayan pink salt, don’t use salt that has additives)
Mix everything but the salt together.
The oil and honey will not cooperate, but do your best. You can use a wire whip. Try to mix it thoroughly. It may take some elbow grease.
Then stir in the salt. I put my scrub in a plastic container with a wide mouth. I am going to store it in the shower, and I don’t want any broken glass in there. I don’t usually advocate the use of plastic, but for things where safety is a concern I will recommend it. I don’t think we can get rid of all plastic, but we sure can minimize its use. When you want to use the scrub, grab a handful (keeping water out of the container) and rub it all over on your wet skin. Avoid getting it in your eyes, mouth, and sensitive areas. Rinse it off with warm water and enjoy your smooth skin!
