My Favorite Sugar Scrub

There is something really awesome about skipping the commercial scrubs and shave creams (which can dry skin and often has synthetic fragrances and other non-happy ingredients).  Homemade sugar scrubs are easy, inexpensive and they work well for a luxurious and uplifting body scrub and shave cream.  The only catch is that I have heard it's not a great product to use frequently if you have a septic system.  So keep that in mind if you do.

The basic recipe is above on the info-graphic - basically 2 parts sugar to 1 part oil, then add essential oil to your 'taste'.  There are so many ways to customize this.  You can use any oil that you like: olive, coconut, sweet almond, apricot,  or sunflower.  Here is some information on carrier oils that may help you select the perfect one for you.  

Personally, I love organic, extra-virgin coconut oil.  If you use it in solid form, slightly chilled, it will whip up so nice.  Just use your stand mixer and let it go for a while to create a lovely whipped texture.  Other oils will not whip up the same way.  But that's ok!  This sugar scrub works great without a whipped oil, too.  I often use olive oil with brown sugar, too.  Which brings me to sugars.

Use your favorite sugar.  Non-GMO, organic sugars are always best.  Some of the more natural sugars are more coarse.  You can give them a spin in your blender or food processor to break them down into a softer texture.  While you do want a nice scrub, you certainly don't want to be scratching your skin off with large crystals of raw sugar.

A third way to customize is to switch up your essential oil.  My favorites (so far) are Lime, Lemon, Grapefruit, Lavender+Frankincense, and Peppermint.  There are countless possibilities.  Mix, match and find your own sweet spot.
If you have sensitive skin, always try new oils on a small area first. And skip using citrus oils right before you head out for a day in the sun.  The citrus oils can act like tiny light intensifiers and make fair skin more sensitive to the sun.  If you are planning a day at the beach, try Lavender and Frankincense, instead of a citrus oil.

For a list of my other personal favorite DIY recipes, click here.