Today we speak about scrubs, beauty treatments that are able to remove the superficial layer of dead cells. Scientific studies (Rajan et al, Dermatol Surg, May 2002) have observed that microabrasions of scrub alter the skin barrier, which then responds by increasing tissue hydration levels over the next 24 hours even though the benefits are observed up to a week after the treatment. As you will see, for face and lips we will use sugar to make the scrub. This sweet ingredient contains indeed glycolic acid that exfoliates the skin, promotes cell turnover, fights aging processes and makes the tissues smooth and luminous (Grajqevci-Kotori et al, Med Arch, Dec 2015). Therefore, scrubs are a fantastic beauty treatment. Let's see how to make fantastic body, lip and face scrubs with just a few and safe ingredients.
Fresh and slender legs, velvety body skin
Mix a tablespoon of sweet almond oil and 2 tablespoons of fine salt. The salt used as a scrub was the focus of a study that demonstrated the benefits of this treatment that makes the skin considerably more hydrated (Rajan et al, Dermatol Surg, May 2002). If this scrub is for the body you can add 2-3 drops of lavender essential oil, very relaxing. Mix and massage the body while you are in the shower, then rinse well. Instead, to fight tired, swollen and heavy legs you can add 3 drops of essential peppermint oil. Mint will help to improve circulation, acts with a decongestant effect and gives a pleasant fresh sensation. Mix the ingredients and massage the feet, ankles and, with a little more delicacy, go up to the knees. Then rinse with fresh water.
Lips
Lips get easily dry. Often, due to lipsticks, industrial lip balms, but also wind, sun and temperature changes, the lips can result chapped and with cuticles. A good way to soften but also nourish the lips and remove dead cells is to do a scrub once a week. The scrub will also help the microcirculation and the result will be also plumped lips. In a small bowl mix a teaspoon of honey and a teaspoon of white sugar. Take a small amount of this scrub and massage it on the lips, then rinse and apply a little shea butter or coconut oil. And for an even more plumping effect you can add a pinch of chili pepper powder to the scrub. In this case the quantity must be very minimal and the scrub should be done rarely to avoid to irritate the lips.
Face
A perfect facial scrub instead is given by sugar and a plant based oil. Here are the steps, mix 1 tablespoon of fine sugar and 1 tablespoon of jojoba oil, add 2 drops of lemon essential oil to give a cleansing and anti-inflammatory power. Massage on clean face, then rinse well and apply your usual cream. You can use this scrub on mature skin but also in case of acne-prone skin, it will help remove impurities and reduce dark spots.
