When it comes to health benefits, sugar does not fare very well when put inside the body, but when used externally, it can have many advantages for the body. Sugar scrubs have become beauty essentials because of their skin benefits, and they are easy to make at home. Use some of these recipes to sweeten your own shower experiences, or bottle them to make gifts for loved ones!
Why use sugar scrubs?
Sugar scrubs gained their popularity because of their use as exfoliants, they strip away dead skin cells and the glowing skin underneath is revealed.
Sugar is a source of glycolic acid, which is widely used in anti-aging and sun-damaged skin treatments. It can also be used to fight ingrown hair.
Sugar has humectant properties, which means it preserves moisture. So applying sugar scrubs will keep your skin hydrated and moisturised.
Sugar scrubs you can make at home:
Coconut, lime, and mint
Mix together half a cup of coconut oil, a quarter of a teaspoon of peppermint essence or essential oil, the zest of one lime, and one and a half cups of granulated sugar. The combination of lime and mint will leave you feeling fresh and the coconut oil will help hydrate your skin.
Coffee and cinnamon
Combine one cup of coffee powder with one tablespoon of cinnamon and half a cup of brown sugar. Add a cup of coconut oil to this mixture and stir until it becomes a paste. The coffee helps in reducing cellulite and the softer brown sugar crystals will prevent micro-tearing of the skin, which means you can apply this to your face.
Cucumber and mint
Add a quarter cup of olive oil to one cup of granulated sugar. Chop and blend half a cucumber along with two or three fresh mint leaves and add them to the sugar mixture, add a quarter teaspoon of peppermint essence or oil and a few drops of vitamin E oil. The olive oil and vitamin E oil will leave your skin smooth and soft and will work to repair damage.
Each of these scrubs can be stored in an air-tight jar, applied to damp clean skin, and washed off with lukewarm water.