You only need 3 basic ingredients to make your own body scrub
By: Carla Snuggs

As we continue on with our week of DIY skincare recipes, we are bringing you natural body scrub tips from Christine Benkert, salon manager at Ogle School. Christine has tips for making a variety of custom body scrubs at home.

"Body scrubs are an excellent way to remove dry skin. They leave smooth, glowing, summer-ready skin in no time! Making your own body scrub is a great way to customize the exfoliant to your needs, and it can be more cost effective than purchasing a ready-made, retail scrub,” says Christine. Keep reading for Christine Benkert steps to building your own custom body scrub.

ONE: Essential Oils

I prefer using essential oils in my scrubs because of their aromatherapy and therapeutic properties. There are many to choose from, and they can be blended to your preference. Lavender, Chamomile & Ylang-ylang are excellent, soft-floral essential oils that aid in relaxation. If you prefer a warm, earthy scent, Sandalwood, Patchouli & Basil all help ease tension and anxiety. Eucalyptus, Peppermint, Lemon and Tea Tree are all stimulating scents and great for a boost of energy. Try different combinations until you find the right mix, but keep your choices to no more than three in your body scrub. Too many oils can lessen the effects.

TWO: Carrier Oils
You'll also need carrier oil for the base of your scrub. My favorite carrier oil is grape seed; it's light and non-greasy. Another good choice is jojoba oil; it's the closest to natural body oil, and it leaves skin soft and smooth. If you have excessively dry skin, olive oil is a good alternative.

THREE: Exfoliant

The final ingredient for your body scrub is sugar or sea salt. Both are gentle and effective exfoliants.

Store your body scrub in a closed, air tight and moisture proof container. Don't allow water from the bath or shower to get in the mixture because it will liquify.

Here's a basic recipe to get you started making your own body scrubs. Experiment, be creative and enjoy!
1 cup sea salt (or sugar)
1/2 cup grape seed oil (or carrier oil of your choice)
5 - 15 drops essential oils

Place salt or sugar in a bowl. Add carrier oil and stir until combined. Add essential oils one drop at a time until desired scent is achieved. Stir well. "

Images courtesy of Onegoodthingbyjillee.com, Aromayogaguide.com,  Wholesale-essentialoils.com, Misswish.com

What are your favorite DIY skincare recipes?  Leave  your comments below!