Professional Documents
Culture Documents
by Stacy Karen
Author of ADelightfulHome.com
Thank you.
Di
sclai
mer and Cauti
ons
I am not a certified herbalist or skin care professional. I enjoy learning about herbs,
health and homemade body care and am sharing my findings with you through this
ebook.
Please be aware that all skin types are different and I, Stacy Karen, and A Delightful
Home cannot be held responsible for any unpleasant outcome.
Also be careful when choosing packaging to store your scrubs. Remember that glass
can easily break in the shower or bathtub.
Never use body scrub on broken skin or skin that is wind or sunburned.
The Body Scrub Bible is intended for educational purposes only. The information in this
ebook is not intended to cure, treat or prevent any disease or illness or skin condition.
But just because she likes study and experiment, doesn’t mean she has it all together.
Far from it. Stacy is often easily distracted by do-it-yourself projects and can be found
making important things, like rose petal ice cubes, when she should be preparing
dinner.
She also enjoys the fast-and-furious DIY method, which she implements to create 100
gifts in an hour and other such craziness. (See this post for details:
adelightfulhome.com/100-gifts-in-an-hour/)
Her distraction comes in handy sometimes as it led her start blogging. Stacy shares her
passion for creating a naturally healthy home on her blog adelightfulhome.com.
Her desire in writing this book is show you how easy it is to make your own body
scrubs. So you can save money, have gorgeous glowing skin, and feel the joyous
satisfaction that comes from creating your own products!
I began making my own body care products after my first child was born (16 years ago
at the time of this writing) and have since tried numerous recipes and experiments.
Some turned out wonderfully, others where complete flops! Over time I’ve discovered
what works and what does and my goal is share that information with you, so you can
have success and avoid the some of the mistakes I made.
Making products myself gives me peace of mind. I like knowing what’s in my stuff.
Besides that, working with my hands also brings great satisfaction. I want to pass that
peace and satisfaction on to you!
Creating body scrubs is an excellent introduction to the world of DIY all-natural body
care. I think you’ll find the following recipes quick and easy as well as effective.
Be sure to check out the “Extras” section of this book where I’ve included a few other
natural body care recipes for you to try.
If you want to learn about all of the possible ingredients, start at the beginning. If
you want to get right down to business, start with the basic sugar scrub recipe
and method section or simply chose a recipe from the recipe section and make it.
Reading through the ingredients section will be helpful in your selection of oils and
exfoliants.
You may also wish to scroll to the “Extras” section and check out some of the additional
resources and information there. I’ve shared a few extra body care recipes as well as
some special tricks for enhancing your homemade body scrubs.
Be sure to look over “how to use a scrub” and note the cautions in the disclaimer
and cautions section before using any of the scrubs in this book.
Improves circulation
The action of massaging body scrub into the skin boosts circulation and increases blood
flow to the skin’s surface.
Reduces stress
This has as much to do with the process of applying the scrub as it does with the
ingredients used. Scrubs made with essential oils specifically targeted to relax and
calm, will provide aromatic benefits.
Applying the scrub itself is an act of self care that also promotes relaxation and stress
reduction.
Again, the action of applying the scrub is invigorating and energizing. The inclusion of
uplifting essential oils such as lemon, peppermint, and orange, also help increase the
rejuvenating properties of a body scrub.
Body scrubs are well known for their ability to remove dead skin cells.
The buildup of dead skin cells gives skin a dull, aged appearance. Exfoliating with a
body scrub sloughs off the dead skin cells, allowing the fresh, new skin to shine
through.
It also promotes the growth of new skin cells which helps skin stay healthy and youthful.
Making your own body scrub is cost effective—homemade scrubs cost much less than
their commercial counterparts. And when comparing to an exfoliation treatment at a
spa, you’re in the money!
Wash off with warm water. Follow with a light moisturizer or body oil, if needed.
A moisturizer is not always necessary with sugar scrubs, as they are fairly gentle on
skin and leave a slight oily residue.
Salt scrubs on the other hand, almost always need to be followed with some form of
hydration, be it moisturizer, body butter, body oil, or even straight coconut oil.
Unless noted, the body scrub recipes in this book are intended for use on hands,
feet and body (do not use them on your face).
Use body scrubs once or twice a week. Any more could cause skin irritation.
Do not use body scrubs on skin that is sunburned or windburned. It also best to avoid
scrubs is you are experiencing any rashes, a skin condition such as eczema or
psoriasis, or if you have broken skin of any kind (such as a cut or sore).
Scrubs on freshly shaved legs can also be problematic (and will sting if you are using a
salt scrub!).
The inclusion of essential oils also helps to fight bacteria and extend shelf life.
However, once water is added to the mix, bacteria can grow. This is why it is
recommended that you remove the amount of scrub you wish to use from the jar before
getting in the shower or bath or wherever you plan to use it.
Keeping the scrub is the shower itself can lead to trouble as water may get inside the
container and cause the scrub to become compromised.
This can be avoided by creating scrubs in smaller amounts, so the product is used
before it goes bad. Or, keep scrubs out of the shower all together.
Scrubs that include dried herbs or other plant matter may not last quite as long. And
scrubs made with fresh foods, such as fruit scrubs, should be stored in the refrigerator.
Vitamin E can also be added to scrubs to aid in preservation. Cut open a capsule of
Vitamin E and squirt the contents into the scrub, then stir to combine.
Wi
ll scrubs block the drai
n?
As yet, I have not had any trouble with blocked drains due to the use of body scrubs.
However, if you have any fear of drain blockages caused by using scrubs or coconut oil,
pour ½ cup baking soda and ½ cup vinegar down the drain after your scrub
treatment. Leave to sit for a few minutes and follow with hot water.
Scrubs with larger pieces, such as dried herbs or flowers (like the rose petal scrub) may
be reserved for use as foot scrub in a small basin; the leftover water can then be poured
outside or down a sink with a garbage disposal.
These types of scrubs also work well as hand scrubs and can be used over the kitchen
sink and washed down the garbage disposal as well
After the scrub is washed away, a light oily residue is left which softens, soothes and
hydrates the skin.
Since you are reading the Body Scrub Bible, I assume you might be interested in
making scrubs with a little more than simply sugar and oil! I know I am! Read on for a
rundown of ingredients you might consider using in your homemade scrubs:
Sugar
Sugar is an excellent exfoliator and is my personal preference when making body
scrubs. It is gentler than salt and usually provides an enjoyable (not painful) scrubbing
experience.
Brown, white, or raw sugar may be used (brown and white sugars are the least
expensive).
It is not necessary to be overly concerned about the quality of the sugar since it
is being washed away fairly quickly. I prefer to eat natural sugars, but am happy to
use brown and white sugar in my scrubs.
The sugar scrubs in this book are not intended for facial use as they may be too harsh
for delicate skin. They are, however, great exfoliators for the body, hands and feet.
Raw sugar
Raw sugar often comes in a large, coarse grain. It is useful in adding texture and
creating scrubs that exfoliate aggressively. Grind in a coffee grinder to produce a finer
texture, if desired.
White sugar is especially useful when you wish to highlight extra ingredients such as
flower petals. It’s generally the best choice when creating colorful scrubs. (I’ll show you
how to color scrubs in the next section of this book).
Brown sugar
Another gentle sugar for use in body scrubs. The scent of brown sugar pairs well with
many oils and creates a warm and comforting skin treatment.
Infused Sugar
Another option when using sugar in body scrub is to create a simple infused sugar. This
can be done very easily, but does require a little forethought as infused sugars need to
sit for a few weeks. (I’ll show you how to make infused sugars in the “Extras” section).
Salt
Salt is extremely effective in sloughing away dead skin.
I prefer to use salt in foot scrubs rather than body scrubs. With that said, it is nice to use
a salt scrub as an all-over (excluding the face) body scrub once in awhile to get a really
thorough scrubbing. Salt can also be added as part of a sugar scrub, to increase the
exfoliating powder.
Salt should not be used on irritated skin as it may sting or cause further irritation.
Definitely avoid using on sunburned or windburned skin!
Epsom Salt
Epsom salt is known to relieve aches and pains and is often used in warm baths to
relieve tired muscles. It is a great choice for a body scrub; it costs less than sea salt and
still has therapeutic qualities.
Epsom salt is readily available at supermarkets and drugstores and is great to have on
hand because of its many uses (such as a muscle soak or a compress to treat insect
bites and bruises).
Table Salt
Table salt is acceptable in scrubs (even if I’d warn you to stay away from using it on
food!) and is certainly a cheaper option than sea salt.
If you are using table salt, pay attention to the consistency as you add oil; the extra-fine
nature of table salt may cause your scrub to be runny if too much oil is added.
Himalayan salt makes a great addition to both salt and sugar scrubs; just add a
tablespoon of two to most any recipe.
Base Oi
l
When making a body scrub, the type of oil you use is an important consideration. The
sugar or salt will be washed away, but the oil soaks in. It is important to pay attention to
the quality of any product that penetrates the skin as properties of that product end up in
the bloodstream (take the birth control patch as an example).
The role of oil in a body scrub is to hold the scrub together and make it workable, as
well as softening and moisturizing the skin.
Whenever possible, choose a good-quality oil that is cold or expeller pressed. You may
purchase oils that specifically say, “carrier oil,” but it is also fine to use oils that are
The Body Scrub Bible Page 14
intended for cooking and eating!
The following list describes oils that are good for you and best suited to making
body scrubs. You won’t need to use them all. Just find one or two that work for
you:
Grapeseed Oil
Grapeseed oil is easily absorbed by the skin. It is an excellent choice for homemade
body scrubs as it nourishes without leaving an oily residue. It has non-allergenic
properties, making it a good choice for those with sensitive skin.
The pomegranate seed oil promotes cell regeneration due to it’s ability to be absorbed
into the skin, coupled with it’s ability to stimulate keratin production. It’s skin generative
properties make it a good in anti-aging serums, and lotions
This light-weight oil penetrates the skin quickly and is recommended for all skin types. It
is known to soften as well as soothe skin that is dry, irritated, or itchy.
Sweet almond oil is one of the most affordable carrier oils and has a shelf-life of 12-14
months. It is light golden in color.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is probably my favorite oil. I use it for cooking, homemade body care items
such as lotions and salves, and also as a facial moisturizer (I buy it by the gallon).
Coconut oil is solid below 76 degrees F and melts almost immediately when coming into
contact with skin. Scrubs made with coconut oil exclusively will become solid in
cooler months, but they can still be scooped out and used successfully.
The Body Scrub Bible Page 15
Unrefined coconut oil has a slight coconut scent, but it is not over-powering. Refined
coconut oil is odorless. I recommend unrefined, or expeller pressed so as to keep the
nourishing benefits intact.
Coconut oil adds substance to body scrubs. I always try to sneak some in!
Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil is said to be one of the best oils to use on your skin. However, it is also one of
the more expensive choices.
An excellent moisturizer, jojoba oil penetrates the skin easily and does not leave an oily
residue. It has a very long shelf-life (two to three years) and does not need to be
refrigerated.
Avocado Oil
Avocado oil is a rich oil with wonderful skin conditioning properties and highly
recommended for those with sensitive skin. It takes longer to penetrate the skin than
other oils and leaves a slight residue.
Avocado oil has a light green color (sometimes it is dark green, depending on how it
was produced).
Olive Oil
One of the most affordable choices, olive oil finds its way into many of my homemade
creations.
An excellent skin-softener, olive oil’s full body and rich nature add depth and color to
scrubs.
The only drawback to olive oil is that is has a fairly strong aroma (most people would
rather not smell like a salad all day!) I usually combat this by mixing it with another oil or
using “light” olive oil which has almost no scent at all.
Safflower Oil
A highly moisturizing oil, safflower has a light golden color. I also purchase this by the
The Body Scrub Bible Page 16
gallon since I often use it in cooking.
Safflower oil is one of the least expensive oils and a great choice for conditioning the
skin.
Sunflower Oil
Nourishing to the skin, sunflower oil is high in oleic acid which helps the oil penetrate
the skin. It is absorbed easily, conditioning deeply.
Add-I
ns
The following ingredients can be used to boost the effectiveness of your body scrub
recipes. In most instances, they will add a little extra visual interest as well.
It can be reconstituted into a gel by mixing with water, but can also be added to scrubs
in powder form. This should be used as a small amount of the body scrub and not be
the main exfoliant.
Cocoa butter has a chocolate fragrance. It is hard at room temperature, but melts
quickly when coming into contact with skin.
Grated cocoa butter is a luxurious addition to body scrubs. It can also be melted and
mixed into the scrub. It will harden as it cools and make the scrub rather thick.
Shea Butter
Shea butter is softer than cocoa butter and works well when making whipped body
scrubs. It is an excellent moisturizer, and can soften skin damaged by dryness. Shea
butter is used in many natural skin-care products from lip balm to moisturizers, to
salves; it’s great to keep on hand for all manner of natural body care creations.
Glycerin
Glycerin is lighter than the above oils, yet still moisturizing. I occasionally include a
teaspoon or two for extra skin conditioning benefits and to help hold ingredients
together.
Grated Soap
A few tablespoons of grated bar soap can be added to scrubs to provide a little extra
cleaning powder. It also creates a fun lather.
Honey
Honey is a wonderful skin care ingredient. Often used in homemade face masks and
cleansers, honey is useful in creating a more substantial body scrub (it makes the scrub
thicker). It also provides many skin soothing benefits.
One of the greatest benefits of using honey is it’s ability to soften the skin (this makes it
a fantastic addition to body scrubs as soften skin is one of the main reasons for using
scrubs in the first place!).
While extracts have a nice fragrance, essential oils are more beneficial. In the long
run, essential oils may actually be less expensive, since you only need a few drops of
essential oil, but usually a whole teaspoon of extract is required.
Other extracts such as almond, orange or peppermint may also be used in body scrubs.
Start with ½ teaspoon and go from there.
Ground Herbs
Adding dried herbs that have been crushed or ground brings extra color, scent, and
texture to body scrubs. Ground herbs may shorten the shelf-life of some scrubs, so
package in smaller jars to ensure they are used up before going bad.
It is important to check the safety of which herb you would like to use and
perform a skin test to rule out any allergic reaction first.
Fruit Powders
Fruit powders are made by grinding freeze-dried fruit. You can grind your own freeze-
dried fruit or buy the powder already prepared. I love keeping these types of powders on
hand because they are delicious in smoothies, homemade gummies, jello, and more.
(Find my favorite fruit powders in the resource guide).
Essenti
al Oi
ls
Essential oils are the easiest way to make a uniquely scented body scrub.
Adding a few drops gives your creations definite personality and purpose.
When purchasing essential oil, be sure to buy pure essential oil and not massage oil
or another diluted form. Check the label to be sure it carrier oils have not been added.
If you have not yet taken the plunge and purchased any essential oils, I heartily
encourage you to do so. They last a long time and make it possible to create a myriad
The Body Scrub Bible Page 19
of remedies, body care and cleaning products. To learn more about getting started with
essential oils, see here: http://adelightfulhome.com/EO-Start
We will talk more specifically about which essential oils to use in the recipe section.
Essential oils are available at your local health food store and online at
MountainRoseHerbs.com, Amazon.com, or Rocky Mountain Oils.
Bu
yi
ngGu
ide
Many supplies can be found at your local grocery store or health food store. A number
of online retailers carry all the ingredients you will need.
I am only listing places I have purchased for myself. There are many more suppliers, as
a quick Google search will show. Don’t forget to check your local area.
I like buying from this company because they have reasonable prices and offer almost
everything I’m looking for. It’s a great time-saver since I buy all of the ingredients I need
from one place.
They frequently have sales too. Check them out here: http://adelightfulhome.com/rmo
Amazon.com
Amazon.com is a convenient place to shop. Sometimes I like to add a bottle of oil or
some sea salt to my book orders.
Vitacost, iHerb, and Pure Formulas sell cocoa butter and many carrier oils (such as
almond and jojoba oil) and even vanilla beans.
Essential Oils – some stores carry basics like peppermint and lavender (I’ve seen them
at Target before).
Packaging – Many stores carry canning jars. Also check the food storage section for
glass and plastic jars suitable for storing scrubs.
The pharmacy section sometimes has travel sized containers that work.
Sugar – All types are available. Check the bulk section for the least expensive price.
Salt – Table salt, sea salt, and Epsom salt are usually available.
Essential Oils – Many of the commonly used essential oils can be found at your local
health food store: peppermint, rosemary, lavender, lemon, and sweet orange are
usually available. Just remember to purchase 100% Pure Essential Oil.
Cocoa Butter – I have seen 100% cocoa butter at the health food store, but have never
purchased or used it. For these recipes, it might be okay. You will have to test and see.
Packaging – Look in the food storage section for glass or plastic jars suitable for storing
scrubs.
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The following method can be applied to most of the recipes in this book.
Ingredients
1 cup sugar – brown, white, raw, or a combination of these
¼ to ½ cup oil – coconut oil (melted), safflower, sweet almond, grapeseed, or olive oil
Optional extras:
Essential oils – recommended scents below
Grated cocoa butter
Vanilla or almond extract
The Body Scrub Bible Page 23
Ground coffee
Dried herbs, ground
Method
Step One:
Step Two:
Add the oil and stir to combine; make sure all of the sugar is wet.
Increase oil, if needed. Begin by adding one tablespoon at a time until you reach the
desired consistency.
Body scrub should be soft and somewhat slushy, but not too runny.
Different sugars produce different consistencies. Brown sugar (pictured below)
produces a thick, paste-like scrub.
Step Three:
Add essential oils or other extras and stir to distribute evenly. As a general guideline,
start with approximately six to eight drops of essential oil per cup of scrub.
Many of my scrub recipes have more than six to eight drops of essential oil, but this is a
good starting place. Increase as needed (some oils have a stronger fragrance than
others).
Step Four:
Test your scrub to see how it feels.
I usually do this by running my hands under water to pre-moisten them (scrubs work
best on damp skin), rubbing scrub all over my hands (front and back), then washing off
with warm water.
Notice how your hands feel; are they soft?
If you are happy with the scrub, scoop it into a container with a tight fitting lid and label
it.
Honey is also nice to include as it is rich in enzymes, soothes acne prone skin, heals
and moisturizes. Honey is beneficial to all skin types. Start by adding a tablespoon and
mix thoroughly.
Grind dried herbs into a fine powder in a coffee grinder, blender, or with a mortar and
pestle.
Basi
c Salt Scrub Method
I find that salt scrubs require a little more oil than sugar scrubs, usually a ratio of 1 cup
salt to ½ cup oil.
Follow the same method as the basic sugar scrub, starting with ¼ cup of oil and 1 cup
of salt. Increase oil gradually until the desired consistency is reached.
Experiment with different types of salt until you find one that fits your needs. Salt that is
a coarse grind will be harsher than fine salt. Try mixing different varieties to create
unique blends.
It’s important to note that essential oils are highly concentrated and should not be used
undiluted.
Some essential oils could cause skin reactions for some people, so it’s important to
know what works best for you. A patch test is recommended to check for possible
reactions.
Phototoxic essential oils in wash-off products (like sugar scrubs) are generally not an
issue. But it is important to be aware of them, especially if you are highly sensitive. If
using in leave-on products, like lotions, they must be well-diluted and only a small
amount of the recipe (unless they are being applied to an area of the body that won’t
see the sun for 24 hours!).
The following essential oils and essential oil combinations will create unique
scents and add an aromatic boost to the basic sugar and salt scrub recipes.
Find links for all of these oils in the resource guide, where you can learn more (or
purchase), if desired.
When adding to the basic scrub recipe, start with 5 drops of essential oil and
increase as desired.
Bergamot – Light and uplifting. Blends well with other essential oils.
Chamomile – Soothing. Calms a restless mind.
Eucalyptus – Opening. Great decongestant and antiseptic.
Frankincense – Warm, spicy aroma. Blends well with citrus scents. Thought to soothe
fear and insecurity.
Geranium – Balancing. Sweet, floral scent. Thought to balance mood.
Grapefruit – Uplifting, tangy scent. Thought to help bring clarity.
Lavender – Relaxing. Good for stress, irritability, worry and insomnia.
Lemon – Refreshing and uplifting. Helps clear mental fatigue and stimulates the mind.
Lemongrass – Strengthening and uplifting. Has a very strong lemon fragrance.
Lime – Refreshing. Strong, zesty citrus scent.
Orange, Sweet – Energizing and cheering.
Peppermint – Energizing. Mental Stimulant. Strong minty fragrance. Cooling (makes
skin tingle briefly).
Rosemary – Stimulating. Relieves sluggishness and lethargy.
Sandalwood –Sweet, woody scent. Good choice for men.
Ylang-Ylang – Very strong floral scent. Thought to ease irritability.
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The following blends work well together to create a specific mood and fragrance.
The amounts listed are intended for scrubs made with one cup of sugar or salt.
You may want to increase the amount of essential oil in these blends, depending on
your preferences. Start by increasing one drop at a time.
In-Focus Blend
5 drops Rosemary essential oil
5 drops Peppermint essential oil
5 drops Lime essential oil
Circulation Booster
6 drops Geranium essential oil
4 drops lemon essential oil
Uplifting Blend
3 drops lavender essential oil
3 drops lemon essential oil
4 drops peppermint essential oil
The Body Scrub Bible Page 29
4 drops orange essential oil
Energy Booster
3 drops Eucalyptus essential oil
5 drops lemon essential oil
5 drops peppermint essential oil
Refreshing Blend
5 drops geranium
6 drops sweet orange
The following recipes include specific measured ingredients, but it would be great if
you'd view them as guidelines.
Oil can be substituted for any oil mentioned in the ingredients section.
You may also include a variety of oils to make up the oil part of the recipe.
For example: Instead of a ½ cup of sweet almond oil, use a few tablespoons of
grapeseed, a few tablespoons of safflower and a few tablespoons of sweet almond oil.
Just set out a measuring cup and pour or measure into it in order to keep to the
approximate amount of oil recommended.
Brown and white sugar may be used interchangeably (although each has a different
texture that will make every scrub different).
Recipes list the types of sugar I used when creating them, but trading white for brown,
or even mixing white, brown is perfectly acceptable. If you want to add extra exfoliating
power, add some raw sugar (which is harsher than white or brown sugar, so generally
shouldn’t comprise the entire sugar portion of the scrub).
Part of the sugar can be replaced with salt. This will change the texture of the scrub
a little. Keep in mind that salt can be harsh on skin, so keep a little sugar to ensure a
gentler exfoliating experience.
I want you to remember that making scrubs is not an exact science. Experiment
and adapt these recipes to make your own creations.
Be sure to write down any variations so they can be reproduced if you enjoy them!
Recipes have been divided into sections to make it easier to find the type of recipe you
wish to use.
I’ve grouped recipes either by main ingredient or the highlighted/special ingredient. The
sugar-based scrub section is the largest because sugar is the most versatile when used
to create a body scrub.
This recipe section is the largest in this book because sugar is the most versatile
ingredient when it comes to making body scrubs. It can be colored, whipped with body
butter, and easily blended with other ingredients.
A treat for the senses, this body scrub smells much like a delicious dessert; my toddler
snuck a bite while I was making it!
Ingredients
1 cup brown sugar
⅓ cup coconut oil, melted
2 tablespoons sweet almond oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
Method
Place sugar and oils in a small bowl and stir to combine.
Add vanilla and stir again to distribute evenly.
Optional extra: add a tablespoon of grated cocoa butter with the vanilla.
I almost titled this scrub: Kitchen Hand Scrub because it’s the one I keep in my kitchen
and use whenever my tired hands need a pick-me-up.
This one is on my blog, but I couldn’t leave it out. Honestly, I think this is my favorite
recipe. It’s so refreshing and uplifting.
Ingredients
⅓ cup coconut oil, melted over low heat
½ cup extra virgin olive oil (may substitute safflower, jojoba, avocado oil, or a
combination of these these)
2 cups white sugar
20 drops lime essential oil
3-5 drops lemon essential oil
3 drops sweet orange essential oil
3 drops bergamot essential oil
½ teaspoon green sugar sprinkles, optional (I didn’t use them in the scrub pictured)
Method
Mix all ingredients, except for olive oil, in a large bowl.
Gradually add olive oil until you reach the desired consistency.
The Body Scrub Bible Page 35
Holi
day Spi
ce Sugar Scrub
This scrub has a lovely, warm scent that is reminiscent of the holiday season. It smells
so good you’ll want to eat it!
Ingredients
1 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground allspice
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
⅓ cup sweet almond or walnut oil
Optional extra: ⅛ teaspoon ground cardamom
Method
Place sugar and spices in a clean bowl.
This makes a very thick scrub that smells delightful! Unrefined cocoa butter gives it a
definite chocolate flavor, err. . . . I mean, scent.
Ingredients
¼ cup (1-ounce) cocoa butter, melted
1 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
2 Tablespoons sweet almond oil (May use 4 tablespoons of one oil, if desired)
½ to 1 tsp. Vanilla, optional
Method
Place sugar in a clean bowl. Add melted cocoa butter and stir to combine. Allow the
cocoa butter to cool and harden.
Once the cocoa butter has hardened, add the other oils (and vanilla, if using). Stir to
combine. Scoop into a pretty jar.
The Body Scrub Bible Page 37
Morni
ng Coffee Body Scrub
– Tw o W ays -
The invigorating scent of coffee, coupled with increased circulation (which comes when
applying this body scrub), will wake up any sleepyhead.
This unique scrub is very attractive in a clear jar as the dark coffee grounds really stand
out.
Method One:
1 cup brown sugar
¼ cup (1 ounce) cocoa butter
4 tablespoons sweet almond oil
2-4 teaspoons ground coffee (depending how strong you want the coffee scent)
Melt cocoa butter over low heat and allow to cool briefly. Stir in the almond oil and pour
over the sugar.
The Body Scrub Bible Page 38
Add the coffee grounds and stir to distribute evenly.
Method Two:
1 cup brown sugar
⅓ cup oil (sweet almond or grapeseed)
1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
2 teaspoons ground coffee
Mix sugar and oil. Once combined, add the ground coffee.
Ingredients
¾ cup white sugar
¼ cup sea salt
2 tablespoons Dr. Bronner’s Peppermint Castile Soap
4 tablespoons coconut oil
2 tablespoons glycerin
5 drops rosemary essential oil
3 drops peppermint essential oil
Method
Measure all ingredients into a clean bowl and stir to combine.
This makes a very thick, paste-like scrub. Extra soap or oil can be added, if desired.
This is my version of the popular lavender-vanilla scrub I once purchased for $20 a jar!
It smells delicious and feels like a luxurious treat.
Ingredients
1 cup white sugar
½ cup coconut oil, melted
4 tablespoons grapeseed or sweet almond oil
1 teaspoon vanilla
10-15 drops lavender essential oil
Method
Pour sugar into a clean mixing bowl. Add oils and stir to combine.
Add vanilla and essential oils then stir to distribute throughout. Pour into a clean jar and
label.
Raw sugar gives this scrub a coarse texture that will have skin glowing in no
time. A citrus scent makes it refreshing and uplifting.
Ingredients
½ cup white sugar
½ cup raw sugar
2 tablespoons dried orange and/or lemon peel (or ground orange peel powder)
3 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
¼ cup grapeseed oil
10 drops lemon essential oil
10 drops sweet orange essential oil
3 drops bergamot essential oil, optional (but it really does add a lovely fragrance)
Method
If using dried orange or lemon peel, grind slightly in a mortar and pestle or a coffee
grinder and place into a clean bowl.
The Body Scrub Bible Page 42
Add sugars and stir to combine.
Add oils and stir until all of the sugar is wet. If scrub is not to your taste, add another
tablespoon of grapeseed oil. Keep adding until you are pleased with the consistency.
The surprising combination of lemon and almond make this scrub unique. I’ve added a
little extra oil than usual to make this extra moisturizing.
Ingredients
1 cup sugar (I use ½ cup white and ½ cup raw)
¼ cup sweet almond oil
¼ cup grapeseed oil
½ teaspoon pure almond extract
8 drops lemon essential oil
Method
Mix sugar and oils until well combined.
Rosemary and mint invigorate the senses while the combination of sugar and Epsom
salt provide thorough exfoliation, leaving skin soft and smooth.
Ingredients
1/2 cup white sugar
1/2 cup fine Epsom salt
1/8 cup coconut oil, melted
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons avocado oil
10 drops rosemary essential oil
10 drops peppermint essential oil
Optional: add 1 teaspoon of dried peppermint leaves
Method
Mix sugar, salt, and oils until well combined. Add the essential oils and stir to distribute
evenly.
Note: Rosemary essential oil is useful for creating other home beauty products. I
especially love using it for hair care. See how to make a rosemary hair treatment here:
http://adelightfulhome.com/diy-rosemary-hair-oil/
The fresh scents of rosemary and lemongrass will awaken the senses. Lemongrass has
been indicated in helping reduce cellulite, so using this scrub on any troublesome areas
may be beneficial. However, as good as that sounds, don't be tempted to use it daily;
scrubs are best kept for a once or twice a week treatment.
Ingredients
1/2 cup white sugar
1/2 cup salt
1/4 cup plus 2 Tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons liquid castile soap (use unscented or citrus scent)
2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
8 drops lemongrass essential oil
10 drops rosemary essential oil
Method
Measure the sugar and salt into a bowl. Add the oil and soap then stir to combine.
Add the essential oils and stir to distribute evenly. Place in jars/containers and seal.
This scrub is sure to wake you up. The coffee aroma is pure delight!
Ingredients
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup ground coffee (dry grounds, not previously used)
1 tablespoon cocoa butter
1/4 cup coconut oil
1/4 cup sweet almond oil
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Place into jars and label. Be sure to include precautions mentioned above.
Note: This scrub can be fairly messy to use because of the large amount of coffee
ground included. Be sure to leave enough time to wash off thoroughly or reserve for use
as a foot scrub.
Ingredients
1 cup brown sugar (or use vanilla-infused sugar for a real treat!)
½ cup sunflower oil
1 tablespoon coconut oil, softened
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
4 chai tea bags
5 drops vanilla essential oil or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Method
Place the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small mixing bowl. Cut open the tea bags and
add the contents to the bowl. Stir to combine.
Stir in the coconut oil and sunflower oil. Add the vanilla and stir once more to distribute
evenly.
This scrub was designed in honor of one of my father's favorite confections: the
chocolate orange. It smells like happiness to me!
Ingredients
1 cup brown sugar
1 ounce cocoa butter
1/2 cup sweet almond oil
10 drops sweet orange essential oil
Optional: 2 teaspoons cocoa powder (adds a darker color and deeper chocolate scent,
but can stain the skin if too much is used).
Method
Place sugar in a bowl.
Melt cocoa butter over low heat (can be melted in a loaf pan in an oven that has been
The Body Scrub Bible Page 51
preheated to 275 degrees F - this will only take a few minutes). Let cool briefly. Add
almond oil to the melted cocoa butter and stir to combine.
Add cocoa butter/almond oil mixture to the brown sugar and stir to until mixed well. Add
essential oil and cocoa powder (of using).
The cocoa butter in this scrub will cause the scrub to harder further as it cools. This
provides a nice, thick texture and helps with ease of application.
Honey is excellent for the skin; it nourishes, moisturizes, and softens, all while providing
a luxurious spa-type treatment.
Note: Store-bought honey seems to work best for this application. I have used my
"good" raw honey for this, but it often hardens too much and makes the scrub difficult to
stir and remove from the jar. Save your best honey for facial treatments (and eating, of
course.)
Ingredients
½ cup honey
½ cup white sugar
2 tablespoons olive oil
8 drops lavender essential oil
4 drops frankincense essential oil (this oil can be fairly expensive, feel free to substitute
with another essential oil, such as rosemary, lemon, or rose geranium)
Note: the essential oils can be left out, if desired; the honey/oil/sugar combination it
The Body Scrub Bible Page 53
quite lovely all on its own.
Method
Mix honey and oil together until well blended. Add the essential oils and stir to distribute
evenly.
Vani
lla Mi
nt Sugar Scrub
Speckled throughout the sugar, seeds from the vanilla bean make this scrub decadent
and delightful.
Ingredients
1 vanilla bean (optional, but highly recommended)
1 cup white sugar
1/2 cup avocado oil
1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
10 drops peppermint essential oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract, optional
Method
Mix oils and sugar until well combined.
Cut vanilla bean in half, lengthwise and scrape out the seeds. Stir into the sugar/oil
mixture until distributed evenly. Add essential oils and stir again.
This scrub is thick and rich; a decadent treat for the skin.
Ingredients
2 ounces shea butter
1 ounce coconut oil
2 tablespoons sweet almond oil
1/2 cup white sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
3/4 teaspoon vanilla
You will also need a glass baking dish or loaf pan and a large bowl or pot filled with ice.
Method
Heat oven to 250 degrees Fahrenheit.
Place the shea and coconut oil in a glass or ceramic loaf pan and put it in the
preheated oven. Once the oil and butter has melted, remove from the oven
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CAREFULLY.
Place the loaf pan in a large bowl of ice and let it cool for a few minutes until no longer
hot (we don't want this mixture to be so hot that it will melt the sugars, but also don't
want it to get cold enough to harden again).
Place in jars.
Variation: For a citrus twist, substitute 5 drops lime essential, 5 drops orange, and 5
drops grapefruit oil for the vanilla.
The addition of cocoa butter and coconut oil create a thick base for this scrub. The
combination of coffee and chocolate is pure bliss!
Ingredients
1 cup brown sugar
2 ounces coconut oil
2 ounces sunflower oil
1.25 ounces cocoa butter
1 tablespoon ground coffee beans
Seeds of one vanilla bean (optional)
Ice (for cooling cocoa butter after it has melted)
Method
Preheat oven to 275 degrees F. Measure the cocoa butter and coconut oil into a glass
or ceramic loaf pan and place in the oven. Leave until butter has melted (this will only
take a few minutes). Once melted, remove from the oven carefully and let cool briefly.
Don't forget to turn off the oven.
The Body Scrub Bible Page 57
Fill a large bowl with ice and place the loaf pan (with the melted cocoa butter and
coconut oil) on top of the ice.
Nestle it down into the bowl so the ice comes up the sides of the pan. Add the
sunflower oil and stir to combine. Leave to cool for a few minutes.
Let cocoa butter/coconut oil mixture cool until it is slightly warm, but not hot (about 100
degrees). Be careful not to allow the oil/butter mixture to cool completely as it may
harden.
Add the sugar to the cooled oils and stir until mixed well.
Add the ground coffee and stir to combine. If using vanilla bean seeds, add them now
and stir once more to distribute evenly.
Place scrub into jars and label. The scrub will continue to thicken as it sets.
Some of the following recipes use salt as the main ingredient, while others pair it with
sugar. If you ever wish to make a salt scrub a little more gentle, replace some of the salt
with sugar.
You may also wish to grind salt to a finer consistency if it is too coarse.
A basic salt scrub is made the same way as a sugar scrub, however, sometimes they
require slightly less oil. It depends on the consistency and texture of the salt you are
using.
As with all scrub recipes, if the scrub is too runny, add more of the exfoliant (in this
case, salt). If it’s too thick, add more oil.
Basi
c Sea Salt Body Scrub
This basic scrub is quick and easy to prepare. Use on extra dry or rough areas, such as
feet, hands, and elbows. It can be used as an all over treatment on an occasional basis.
Ingredients
½ fine sea salt
¼ grapeseed oil
10 to 30 drops essential oil such as lavender, peppermint, or sweet orange
Method
Mix all ingredients. Store in an airtight container.
This is the simplest scrub in the entire book! If giving as a gift, fill a pretty jar or
cellophane bag with salt (omit the water or oil) and attach step-by-step instructions.
Ingredients
2 cups coarse sea salt
¼ cup water or oil
Method
Pour salt into a bowl and add ¼ cup water or oil. Stir to combine.
Stand in the shower or bath tub and wet your body briefly by running the shower or
filling the bath tub with a little water.
Use fingertips, rub salt vigorously over skin beginning at your toes and moving all the
Shower off or fill the tub and relax for a while, then rinse with warm water.
Be careful! Scrubs such as this can make the shower very slippery!
Ingredients
½ cup dead sea salt
⅛ cup honey
1 tablespoons Castile soap
Method
Mix all ingredients. Makes enough for one time use.
Ingredients
1 cup pink Himalayan sea salt (see resources for recommended brands)
¼ cup coconut oil
⅛ ounce sunflower or sweet almond oil
10 drops lavender essential oil
Method
Stir coconut oil and sunflower oil together until well combined.
To Use: Fill a bath with warm water. As the tub fills, apply scrub to damp skin in gentle
circular motions.
Once applied, get into the tub carefully (the coconut oil will make you, and the tub,
slippery!)
Remove any extra salt with a wash cloth before getting out of the tub, if needed.
However, most of it should have dissolved or at least moved from your body to the
water by now.
After the bath tub is emptied of water, you may wish to wipe it down with a towel to dry
off any remaining coconut oil. If much oil remain, pour vinegar over it and wipe again.
This is done to avoid any slipping in your next shower!
Many people are deficient in magnesium and this is impacting our health greatly. Lack
of magnesium can cause sleep issues, headaches, loss of appetite, nausea, restless
legs, irritability, anxiety, depression, high blood sugar, muscle cramps, and more.
Supplementing with magnesium is helpful and can be done via ingesting magnesium
(capsules or powdered drinks), however, the skin can also absorb magnesium very well.
Thus magnesium lotions, sprays, and bath soaks are also useful in increasing
magnesium levels in the body.
Magnesium can help relieve sore muscles and cramps, ease stress and anxiety, soothe
sprains, and remove toxins.
To get the most benefit from this scrub, you will want to use it as a foot soak as well. To
do that you’ll need a basin of warm water for soaking your feet. Have a towel nearby for
drying off afterward as well.
Ingredients
¼ cup Epsom salts for the foot soak
⅛ cup Epsom salts for the foot scrub
2 tablespoons nourishing oil such as sweet almond, avocado, or olive (a calendula or
chamomile infused oil would work well here too)
Method
Mix the scrub by combining ⅛ cup of Epsom salt with 2 tablespoons of oil. You may
also add 5 drops of lavender or peppermint essential oil. Set scrub near the soaking
basin.
Add ¼ cup of Epsom salts to the soaking basin and pour warm water over them. Be
The Body Scrub Bible Page 63
sure there is enough warm water to cover your feet all the way up to your ankles.
Place feet on towel next to basin and pat dry. Perform the foot scrub and then dip feet
back in the basin to wash off the salt.
Apply moisturizer (try this DIY Healing Foot Lotion). You may also wish put on a pair of
socks.
Salt is an aggressive exfoliator that does wonders for feet. The peppermint in this scrub
provides a slight tingling sensation that will revive and invigorate.
Ingredients
1 cup fine sea salt or Epsom salt
¼ oil (grapeseed, sweet almond or olive)
10 drops peppermint essential oil
1 tablespoon dried peppermint leaves (these make it fun, but could be left out if needed.
If you don’t have any dried peppermint on hand, break open a peppermint tea bag).
Method
Measure salt into a clean bowl.
Rosemary-Mint: 5 drops rosemary essential oil and 5 drops peppermint essential oil.
Eucalyptus-Mint: 2 drops eucalyptus essential oil and 5 drops peppermint essential oil.
Lime-Mint: 5 drops lime essential oil and 5 drops peppermint essential oil.
Lavender: eliminate peppermint leaves and replace with ground lavender buds. Also
eliminate peppermint essential oil and replace with lavender essential oil. Start with 5
drops and increase, one drop at a time until pleased with the fragrance (probably no
more than 10 drops).
Ingredients
1/8 cup clay
1/8 cup sea salt
1 tablespoon herbal powder, such as lavender, chamomile or calendula
Method
Mix all of the ingredients and create a paste by adding water, cooled tea, or hydrosol.
You will need between 1/8 cup and 1/4 cup of liquid to make a paste. Start with 1/8 cup
and add more water or tea until you have the desired consistency. If you happen to
make it too liquidy, so it is no longer a paste, add a little more clay to thicken it again.
Spread paste all over the skin and leave for 5-10 minutes.
You will need to find a place to stand or sit while it dries. Put on a robe (that you don't
mind getting dirty) or just stand in the bathroom with the door closed :)
Note: if you have extra dry skin, try substituting oil for the water and allow the
scrub/mask to sit on your skin for at least 10 minutes.
Ingredients
1/2 cup sea salt
1/2 cup white sugar
1/8 cup aloe vera gel
1/8 cup coconut oil
1 tea bag of green tea (or ½ teaspoon ground matcha tea)
Method
Stir all ingredients together. Place in a clean jar and label.
Fresh or dried herbs and flowers can be added to scrubs, however, dried herbs usually
last a lot longer. Fresh herbs and flowers may reduce the
Simple floral scrubs can be made by creating floral sugar and simply adding enough oil
to create a scrub.
I explain how to make floral sugar in the “Extras” section, but am including brief
instructions here for your convenience.
Note: be sure the flowers you use have not been sprayed with pesticides.
If using dried flowers or herbs, the sugar will be ready to use right away. If using fresh
herbs or flowers, the mixture will need to be dried on a baking sheet lined with
parchment paper for a day or two.
Here’s an example:
Rose-i
nfused Sugar
With dried rose petals:
Place ¼ cup dried rose petals and 1 cup white sugar into a food processor. Pulse util
rose petals are broken down into fine texture (this is a matter of taste - however fine you
like will work!).
Place ⅓ cup fresh rose petals and 1 cup of sugar into a food processor. Pulse until
petals are broken into a fine texture. You are looking for the sugar and roses to be
The Body Scrub Bible Page 69
somewhat even in size.
Spread rose petal sugar on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for a day or two,
until dry.
Flowers suitable for homemade buy scrubs include violets, roses, peonies, and
dianthus. Just to use the petals, not the stems or leaves.
The high amount of coconut oil in this scrub leaves a nourishing layer of moisture on
the skin. The rose petals add color, exfoliation, and a lovely scent.
Ingredients
3 tablespoons dried rose petals
3/4 cup sugar
1/3 cup coconut oil, melted
1/4 cup almond oil
1/2 vanilla bean, sliced in half lengthwise, seeds scraped out (can substitute 1 teaspoon
vanilla instead)
Method
Crush rose petals in a mortar and pestle or food processor. If using a food processor,
be careful not to let the roses form a powder.
Place crushed rose petals and sugar in a bowl. Add melted coconut oil and almond oil.
The Body Scrub Bible Page 71
Stir to combine.
Scrape the seeds from the vanilla bean and stir until distributed evenly.
Package in a pretty jar and label. The rose petals add visual interest, so use a clear jar
if possible.
Note: If the rose petals are too large, they could cause the drain to clog when using in
the shower. To avoid this, make sure the petals are broken into small pieces, or reserve
the scrub for use on the hands where the scrub can be washed off over a kitchen sink
with a garbage disposal.
Variation: Replace vanilla with 5-10 drops of orange or lemon essential oil. Both pair
very well with roses. For a stronger floral fragrance, add 5 drops rose geranium
essential oil.
Dried calendula flowers can be added to any basic body scrub recipe. They provide a
nice yellow tint and mild exfoliation.
Light colored oils and sugars are used in the following recipe in order to allow the
calendula petals to be seen in the scrub. This scrub looks especially lovely when stored
in a clear container.
Lavender and frankincense essential oils add a subtle fragrance. They can be
substituted with other essential oils, just be sure they are safe for use on the skin.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons dried calendula petals
1/4 cup sweet almond oil or sunflower oil
1/4 cup coconut oil
3/4 cup white sugar
1/4 cup raw sugar
5 drops lavender essential oil
2 drops frankincense essential oil
Place into a small mixing bowl and add the sugars. Stir to combine.
Melt the coconut oil over low heat and set aside to cool. Once cool, add to the
sugar/calendula mixture along with the almond or sunflower oil.
Add essential oils and stir to distribute evenly. Store in an airtight container.
Ingredients
4 tablespoons dried herb: chamomile flowers, lavender buds, calendula petals, or
peppermint leaves would work well.
2 tablespoons oats
2 tablespoons sea salt
1 tablespoon oil
1 tablespoon honey
Method
Place herbs and oats in a coffee grinder or food processor. Blend until a medium/fine
powder is produced (this should only take a few seconds). Pour into a clean bowl and
add sea salt. Stir to combine.
Add water and stir to form a paste. Add more water if needed.
To use: Stand in the shower or bath tub and rub scrub all over your body. Take your
time.
This scrub is a little messy. And will probably require some rinsing of the tub afterward.
This bluish-green body scrub utilizes the antioxidant power of Spirulina. An amazing
superfood, Spirulina is also though the have some benefits when used externally; one
of the main ones being detoxifying the skin.
Ingredients
3/4 cup white sugar
1/4 cup dead Sea salt
1/2 cup avocado oil
1 teaspoon spirulina
10 drops frankincense essential oil
6 drops lavender essential oil
Method
Mix all ingredients together and store in a glass jar.
If you don’t use infused oil, add a few drops of chamomile essential oil.
Ingredients
½ cup chamomile-infused grapeseed oil (see how to make infused oil in the “Extras”
section)
1 cup white sugar
1 tablespoon chamomile flower powder
Method
Mix all ingredients until well blended. Place in a clean jar and close tightly.
You will need to create a floral sugar with the flowers and sugar and allow it to dry
before proceeding.
Ingredients
¼ cup fresh violet petals
1 cup white sugar
⅓ cup grapeseed oil
1 teaspoon lime zest
1 tablespoon lime juice
Method
Create the floral sugar by pulsing the violet petals and sugar in a food processor.
Lay a piece of parchment paper on a large cookie sheet and spread the violet sugar
over it to dry. This was take two days. If you have a dehydrator you could dry the sugar
in there on a very low heat for a few hours.
Mix the floral sugar with the oil, lime juice and lime zest.
Package and store in the fridge. Scrub should last for two to three weeks.
This scrub uses raw sugar and salt which are much coarser than white or brown sugar
(which we have used in many of the scrub recipes).
This scrub is an aggressive exfoliator, intended to smooth and revitalize skin. Be sure to
remember that scrubs should only be used on skin that is without cuts, scrapes or
burns, as it could further irritate such conditions.
Ingredients
1/2 cup Epsom salt (fine)
3 Tablespoons raw/turbinado sugar
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
3 tablespoons sweet almond oil (or grapeseed, olive, or avocado)
1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
10 drops lemon essential oil
Option: for added interest and scent, include the zest of one lemon. This may cause
the scrub to last for a shorter amount of time, but if only making a small amount such as
The Body Scrub Bible Page 78
this, it should be used before it goes bad.
Method
Combine sugar, salt, and oils. Add the dried thyme and essential oils and stir to
distribute evenly.
This scrub is especially for those who enjoy lavender. With real lavender flowers and
pure essential oil, the fragrance is genuine.
Ingredients
1 cup white sugar
2 tablespoons dried lavender buds or 1 tablespoon lavender powder
8 drops lavender essential oil
⅓ cup coconut oil, melted
3 tablespoons olive oil
Method
If using lavender buds, roughly grind them in a mortar and pestle or coffee grinder.
In a small bowl place the sugar and ground lavender buds. Add the oils and stir to
combine.
Add the essential oil and stir again. Place into a clear jar and label.
If giving as a gift, tie a few sprigs of dried lavender to the jar for a special touch.
Another wonderful option for fruit-based scrubs is to use dehydrated berry powder. It
adds a lovely scent and rich color.
Fruit-based scrubs are luscious and decadent, but will not last as long as scrubs made
with oil, sugar and/or salt. Make in smaller patches and keep only for a few days to a
few weeks, depending on the ingredients used. Keep in fridge to extend their life by an
extra day or so.
Ingredients
¼ cup shredded coconut
¼ cup white sugar
1 teaspoon lime zest
1 tablespoon lime juice
⅓ cup coconut oil
1 tablespoon avocado oil
Method
Whip coconut oil with a hand beater until fluffy. Add avocado oil and whip again until
well combined.
This scrubs smells just like fresh berries. It uses a ground mixed berry powder that is a
beautiful pinkish-purple. The berry powder is something I love to keep in the pantry
because it’s awesome in homemade gummies, smoothies, and more.
Ingredients
1 cup white sugar
2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
⅓ cup sunflower oil
2 tablespoons ground berry powder (See the blend I use in the Resource Guide.)
10 drops essential oil, optional - choices that pair well with the berry powder include:
lemon, rose geranium, lime, sweet orange.
Method
Mix all ingredients and stir to combine.
Ingredients
½ cup coconut oil
½ cup white sugar
Zest of one grapefruit
1 tablespoon grapefruit juice
15 drops grapefruit essential oil
10 drops sweet orange or mandarin essential oil
Method
Whip coconut oil until it becomes fluffy. Add the grapefruit juice and whip again.
Carefully stir in the sugar and grapefruit zest until well combined.
Ingredients
¼ cup cornmeal
¼ cup oats
2 tablespoons sea salt or table salt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Method
Place oats in a coffee grinder, food processor, or blender. Blend/grind until oats become
a powder.
Mix together to blend. Add lemon juice. And stir. If a paste does not form, add extra
water until it does.
Rub paste onto feet, paying extra attention to any rough areas.
Rinse thoroughly and pat dry. Finish by applying moisturizer or body oil to your feet.
Rinse tub immediately to be sure the cornmeal doesn’t swell and clog up the drain. (We
wouldn’t want that!)
Grapefrui
t Franki
ncense Glow
This is a fruity take on the salt glow described in the salt-based scrubs section.
Intended for one-time use, this combination will leave you refreshed and
rejuvenated.
As with all scrub recipes, do not use on broken skin. This is especially true of this
recipe as the grapefruit will really sting if you have any cuts or scrapes!
Ingredients
¼ grapefruit
½ cup sugar or dead sea salt
¼ cup oil (use any type of oil from the ingredients section. A calendula-infused oil
would work nicely here)
2 drops grapefruit essential oil, optional
4 drops frankincense essential oil
Method
Scoop grapefruit pulp into a blender and blend until smooth.
Pour into a bowl and add the sugar or salt and oil. Stir to combine.
This scrub reminds me of a refreshing summer drink. The cucumber is cooling while the
lime is invigorating.
Ingredients
½ large cucumber
½ tablespoon lime zest
1 ½ cups white sugar
1 tablespoon sunflower or avocado oil
6 drops lime essential oil (optional)
Method
Add sugar, lime zest, and oil. Stir together until well mixed. Add essential oil and stir
again.
Variations:
Cucumber-Mint Scrub
Swap the lime zest for 2 tablespoons fresh mint snipped into tiny pieces or 2 teaspoons
dried mint.
If using fresh mint, add to the blender along with the cucumber.
Omit the lime essential oil. You may add 5 drops of peppermint essential oil if desired.
Create the original recipe, but add 2 tablespoons fresh mint snipped into tiny pieces or 2
teaspoons dried mint.
This would also be a great place to use mint-infused sugar (see “Extras” section for
instruction on how to make infused sugars).
Ingredients
2 teaspoons cranberry powder
1 teaspoon orange zest, optional (or orange rind powder)
10 drops sweet orange essential oil
1 cup white sugar
⅓ cup jojoba oil
Method
Mix all ingredients. Store in an airtight container.
Ingredients
½ cup whole frozen or fresh cranberries
1 cup white sugar
¼ cup coconut oil
6 drop sweet orange essential oil
Method
Puree cranberries in a food processor or high-powered blender. Add the sugar and
coconut oil and pulse until well blended. Add the essential oil and pulse again to
distribute throughout.
Extremely luxurious and highly moisturizing, whipped body scrubs feels like a real treat.
Pampering at it’s best!
There are a variety of ways to make whipped body scrubs, but most involve using a
handheld beater or stand mixer to beat a solid butter (like shea or mango butter) or
coconut oil until fluffy. A smaller amount of liquid oil, such as olive, sunflower, or
grapeseed oil, is added and the butter or coconut oil is whipped again. Once fluffy, the
exfoliant (usually sugar) is folded in carefully.
Some methods of creating whipped body butter suggest beating the sugar and butter or
coconut oil at the same time (instead of whipping the oil or butter first). This also works,
but may not result in the same fluffy texture as the first method.
When creating whipped body scrubs with coconut oil as the base, it’s necessary to use
solid coconut oil. This can be a problem in warmer months and may require the coconut
oil to be solidify in the fridge before whipping. The scrub may also need to be stored in
the fridge to retain its form and texture.
Either way, you’ll end up with an emollient body butter that’s sure to leave your skin soft,
smooth, radiant skin.
The relaxing scent of this whipped lavender body scrub will leave you feeling peaceful
and calm.
This recipe uses lavender-infused oil. This is preferable, but could be substituted for
plain oil if you are unable to create an infused version.
Ingredient
½ cup shea butter
3 tablespoons lavender infused sunflower, light olive oil, or grapeseed oil
½ cup white sugar
15 drops lavender essential oil
Method
Whip the butter with a handheld mixer until fluffy. This will take about three minutes.
You may also use a stand mixer if desired.
If the butter is too hard to whip, soften briefly in a pot over low heat.
Add the sugar and essential oil and whip again until well incorporated.
The shea butter makes this whipped scrub quite thick and emollient. You will likely need
to use soap to remove it.
Again always be careful when using scrubs in the shower as scrubs, especially ones
with a lot of butter or oil, will leave the floor slippery.
Growing up in Australia, we loved to eat a candy (or “lolly” as we call it) called
Strawberries and Cream. It was entirely unhealthy, but so tasty!
Real strawberries and cream are quite the delicious treat as well! This scrub reminds
me of that wonderful combination. It smells so good you’ll want to eat it!
Ingredients
½ cup shea butter
2 tablespoons sweet almond oil or grapeseed oil
2 tablespoons dried strawberry powder (or purchase dehydrated strawberries and grind
them in a coffee grinder)
½ cup white sugar
If the butter is too hard to whip, soften briefly in a pot over low heat.
Add the sweet almond or grapeseed oil and beat for another two minutes until light and
fluffy.
Add the sugar and strawberry powder then whip until well blended.
Ingredients
½ cup coconut oil
½ cup white sugar
⅛ teaspoon beet powder to add a hint of pink, optional.
5 drops peppermint essential oil
Method
Whip coconut oil until light and fluffy. This will take anywhere from 5 to 10 minutes.
This scrub leaves your skin feels so soft and smooth, you don’t need to follow with a
moisturizer.
Ingredients
½ cup shea butter
3 tablespoons sunflower, safflower, or grapeseed oil
3 tablespoons coconut oil (melted, but not hot)
½ cup brown sugar
Method
Begin by filling a 1/2 cup measuring cup with shea butter, making sure to pack it down
tightly.
Transfer the shea butter to a small pan, and gently heat, using the double boiler
method, until the butter is nice and soft.
The Body Scrub Bible Page 94
You don’t want to melt the butter, but just soften it to make it easier to work with.
Next, transfer the shea butter to a stand mixer, and beat on high speed until it has a
whipped consistency and doesn’t feel grainy when rubbed between your fingers. This
will take around 3-4 minutes.
Combine the oil and melted coconut oil together in a small container with a spout.
SLOWLY pour the oil into the bowl of shea butter, while beating on high speed. You
may need to stop and scrape down the sides as you go.
Once all of the oil is incorporated into the shea butter, continue mixing on high speed
for 1-2 minutes until it is nice and fluffy and looks like a soft, delicious whipped cream.
Gently mix it in the brown sugar. (Be sure that there are no clumps of sugar before you
add it to your bowl. It will be a lot easier to mix in this way, and you will not end up with
any big sugar clumps in your exfoliator.)
To use
Apply scrub in circular motions while you’re in the shower, rinse off, and dry.
You don’t need to use a lot – a little bit will go a long way.
When you get out of the shower, your skin will feel like silk, and you will be glowing!
This recipe makes around two cups of moisturizing body scrub. I like to store mine in
smaller jars, only opening one at a time. Helping it last longer.
Again, be careful when using this in the shower as it could cause the floor to be
slippery.
The following recipes use grated natural soap. You will need to melt the grated soap
along with other ingredients to create the base for the scrub bar. The grated soap will
not melt fully, and that is ok. It actually adds some extra visual interest the bars.
It's also important to note that scrub bars may not store well in the summer or in rooms
that are extremely warm. If they get too hot, they will soften and fall apart.
Use in the shower for an all over scrub, or give hand a quick refresh by rubbing one bar
between your palms and over the backs of your hands. Wash off with warm
Note on molds:
You will need some type of mold to create these bars. I prefer to use silicone molds
since removing the bar from them is so easy! Regular ice cube trays could also work,
but they will likely be more difficult to work with.
It's also important to choose a mold that produces bars that are small in size. You don't
want bars to be as large as a bar of soap! Each bar should be just enough for one
treatment (approximately 2 tablespoons).
The brown sugar and cocoa butter combination smell a bit like cookies. It's a delicious
way to get your exfoliation on!
Ingredients
1 Tablespoon cocoa butter
1 Tablespoon coconut oil
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup grated natural soap
Method
Melt the cocoa butter, oil, and shredded soap in the top of a double boiler (the soap
won't completely melt, but that's fine).
Place into a silicone mold and let cool. Put in the fridge or freezer to speed the process
along. Once firm, remove from mold and store in a container.
These look a little like brownie bites or some other tasty treat, don't they?
Ingredients
1 Tablespoon cocoa butter
1 Tablespoon coconut oil
½ cup brown sugar
1 Tablespoon ground coffee
¼ cup grated natural soap
6 drops vanilla oleoresin (see resources)
Method
Melt the cocoa butter, oil, and shredded soap in the top of a double boiler (the soap
won't completely melt, but that's fine).
Place into a silicone mold and let cool. Put in the fridge or freezer to speed the process
along. Once firm, remove from mold and store in a container.
Light and refreshing, these lemony scrub cubes are perfect for a morning (or afternoon)
pick-me-up!
Ingredients
½ cup white sugar
8 drops lemon essential oil
2 Tablespoons coconut oil
¼ cup grated soap
2 teaspoons mango butter (or shea butter)
Method
Melt soap, butter, and oil in the top of a double-boiler. Remove from heat. Add the sugar
and lemon essential oil. Stir to combine.
Ingredients
¼ plus 1/8 cup white sugar
1 Tablespoon dried roses
1 Tablespoon dried chamomile
1 Tablespoon cocoa butter
2 Tablespoons coconut oil
¼ cup grated soap
8 drops lavender essential oil
Method
Place the roses and chamomile in a coffee grinder and grind until fine. They don't need
to be completely powdered, you just don't want large chunks.
Melt soap, cocoa butter, and coconut oil in the top of a double-boiler. Remember soap
won't melt all the way, which is fine.
The Body Scrub Bible Page 100
Once melted, remove from the heat and mix in the ground roses and chamomile. Add
the essential oil and stir until well combined.
Spoon into silicone molds and place in the fridge or freezer until set.
Glass or Plasti
c?
Generally I like to store (and give) scrubs in pint-sized Mason jars. The scrubs look
pretty through the glass and the jars are usually inexpensive (a wonderful bonus).
However, it should be taken into consideration that some scrubs will be used and stored
in the shower (even though it’s not recommended). Things can get slippery and it is not
always safe to have glass in there with you.
To avoid this problem, use plastic containers instead (still use glass for hand or foot
scrub that will not be stored in the shower).
Small plastic containers are sometimes available in the travel section of pharmacies and
The Body Scrub Bible Page 102
some big-box stores, like Target. Health food stores carry these types of plastic
containers too.
Many department stores carry suitable glass and plastic jars in the food storage
section.
If you are gifting the scrubs, and plan to use plastic containers, it may be worth
investing in some waterproof labels as well. This way your gift is completely
shower-friendly.
Also keep in mind that wide, shallow jars are better than tall, narrow ones. It’s
easier to get the scrub out when you don’t have to squeeze your hand into a
skinny container! UNLESS you use a plastic tube/travel bottle that allows you to
squeeze the scrub out like a lotion. Find the tubes I use here.
• Canning Jars
• Reuse glass food jars such as jam jars
• Food storage jars – like Pyrex
• Plastic freezer jars
• Plastic (BPA-free) travel bottles
Not just because they are easy to make, but also because they show you care.
Handmade gifts show others you care enough to take the time to make something with
them in mind.
One of the nice things about making body scrubs as gifts is that you can make them in
bulk. It’s easy to make a enough for 20, 50 or even 100 people at once.
Body scrubs make great take-home gifts for parties and showers. Or why not host a
scrub-making party and everyone creates their own scrub!
An i
mportant note about gi
fti
ng scrubs:
When gifting scrubs it’s always best to include the ingredients used on a label or card.
This way if the recipient has any allergies or experiences a reaction, they can be aware
of what’s included.
It is also helpful to note instructions for use on the label, including cautions such
as:
Scrub is intended for use on the body and not the face. Apply using circular motions
and wash off with warm water. Follow with a moisturizer.
Do not use scrub on skin that is damaged, sunburned, or windburned. Scrub can make
shower floor slippery, be careful.
For example, if I wanted to make 20 scrubs, I would use 20 cups of brown sugar and 10
cups of oil.
This would make 20 scrubs that are about 1 cup each. To stretch the scrub, I could
place it in smaller jars, using only ½ cup of scrub per jar and get 40 small gifts for
minimal effort!
To scent bulk scrubs, scoop scrubs into jars and add 5-20 drops of essential oil to eat
jar, stirring with a chopstick.
This bulk method also applies to many other natural body care products. Click here to
see how I made 100 natural body care gifts in an hour.
Create labels
On the computer:
If you have a knack for graphic design, create unique and colorful labels to make jars
special. There are many free online design programs nowadays (such as Canva) that
allow you to create pretty labels and other printables.
You can also create a simple label by typing the name of the scrub on the computer,
printing out on paper, cutting to size and affixing to the jar with Mod podge (I explain
how to do this below). No design skills required!
If you do a quick google search, you’ll find many amazing labels to use.
Handwritten labels:
Hand written labels are unique and personal. There are many lovely plain labels that
can be purchased and used for such a purpose. My favorites are chalkboard labels and
Kraft paper labels (click here to see my favorites in the resource guide).
The chalkboard labels often come with a white marker that looks awesome on the black
background. Even if your handwriting is not that great, it looks rustic and cool on
a chalkboard label!
Instructions can also be written on a gift tag and attached with ribbon or raffia.
W hat to i
nclude on the label:
Ingredients
It is not necessary to include ingredients on your labels, but it is nice when possible. An
The Body Scrub Bible Page 106
ingredient list helps others quickly see if the scrub includes anything they are allergic to.
Here’s an example:
Apply a small amount of scrub to moistened skin. Rub in a circular motion.
Wash off with warm water. Follow with a light moisturizer or body oil, if needed.
Caution
If giving a scrub that is made for the body only, include a quick caution such as: not
intended for facial use. Also note the risk of a slippery shower.
Expiration date
Usually three months from the date it is made.
Glass and plastic jars can be decorated with pretty scrapbook paper and Mod Podge.
It’s a great way to upcycle an old jam jar!
● Print or write the name of the scrub onto a piece of plain paper (this is your
label).
● Cut scrapbook paper a little larger than your label.
● With a paint brush or disposable foam brush, apply Mod Podge to the jar on the
desired label location.
● Place scrapbook paper over Mod Podge.
● Spread more Mod Podge over scrapbook paper, going past the edges of paper
to ensure they stick.
● Smooth out any bubbles or wrinkles.
● Place label on top and smooth out wrinkles.
● Paint over with Mod Podge, going past edges.
● Allow to dry.
To decorate lids using paper and Mod Podge, follow the directions from
Design*Sponge: Paper Scrap Recycling.
● Tie or glue ribbon around the lid rim, or add a rustic, handmade feel by using
raffia or twine.
● Lay ribbon flat, place jar on top, pull ribbon up the sides of the jar and tie at the to
(over the lid).
● Tie ribbon or string around jar
It is also nice to include some type of scrub accessory when gifting a body scrub.
This also allows you to create themed gifts. For example, a scrub with a relaxing
scent, such as lavender, would be nice accompanied by a box of tea and CD with
peaceful music.
• Loofah
• Nylon scrubbing sponge
• Body brush
• Pretty washcloth
• A jar of lotion would also be a perfect companion to the gift of body scrub.
You'll find:
Food coloring:
I don’t recommend using conventional food coloring, as it contains chemicals that are
best kept away from the skin. (I don’t advise ingesting them either). However, there are
a number of natural food dyes that could be used. See recommendations here.
If you’d like to learn more about this topic, see my ebook: DIY Face Masks and Scrubs
(it has more recipes than you’ll ever need!)
The following recipes are made with ingredients that don’t store well and are generally
intended for one-time use. They should be made on an as-needed basis.
These scrubs are great for a pampering night with girlfriends, a mother/daughter
spa day, or a special treat just for you. They are also wonderful as part of a
regular skin care routine.
Make these recipes when you need a pick-me-up and enjoy a fresh scrub that’s good
for your skin and your pocket book.
The following ingredients work together to make nourishing scrubs that will clean,
exfoliate and feed your skin:
Choose one or more ingredients from each list and mix them together until a
paste forms—it’s that simple:
Dry i
ngredi
ents
• Oat bran
• Rice bran
• Baking Soda
• Almond meal (finely ground almonds)
• Sunflower seeds, finely ground
• Oats, finely ground
• Cornmeal
• Wheat germ
• White Cosmetic Clay – good for sensitive skin
• Dried herbs, ground (choose herbs such as: calendula petals, chamomile
flowers, peppermint leaves, lemon balm, lavender, or rose petals)
W et i
ngredi
ents
• Water
• Milk
• Cream (for dry skin)
• Yogurt
• Avocado, mashed
• Strawberries, mashed
• Bananas, mashed
• Honey
• Herbal Tea – such as chamomile or peppermint
The emphasis here is on roughly. Your goal is to create a paste that will hold
together.
To be completely honest, I don’t usually measure it, but start by pouring a little of the dry
ingredient into a small bowl and gradually adding in the wet ingredient until I am happy
with the consistency.
Almost any combination of the above ingredients will make a great facial scrub.
Have fun experimenting and feel free to mix more than one ingredient from the dry list
with various wet ingredients. I’ll share some examples below.
Once you find a combination that pleases you, mix up a larger batch of the dry
ingredients to keep on hand. Then it is only necessary to add the wet ingredients before
each use.
To use: On a clean, damp face, use your fingertips to gently apply the scrub in circular
motions. Keep away from your eyes.
Leave for three to five minutes and wash off with warm water. Your skin should feel soft
and smooth. (It is not imperative that you leave the scrub on, but it will increase its
effectiveness.)
To use the scrub as a facial mask: Leave on for 10 minutes (instead of 5 minutes)
before washing off.
Bonus Tip: Honey is excellent for your skin. It effectively cleans and softens any skin
type. Sometimes I use it alone as a cleanser. Include it whenever you can.
Honey-Almond Scrub
1 tablespoon ground almonds
1 teaspoon honey
Add water if necessary
Strawberri
es and Cream Faci
al Smoother
1 Strawberry, mashed
1 tablespoon ground almonds
1 teaspoon (or more) cream, milk or yogurt to make a paste
Orange-Oat Scrub
1 teaspoon dried orange peel, ground
1 teaspoon almonds, finely ground
1 teaspoon oats, finely ground
Soothi
ng Ski
n Scrub
1 tablespoon wheat germ
1 tablespoon dried chamomile flowers, finely ground
2 teaspoons yogurt
Add extra water or chamomile tea to form a paste, if needed.
OR
1 tablespoon wheat germ
1 – 2 teaspoons chamomile tea
Method:
1. Run the toothbrush under cool water and gently brush over your lips to moisten
them.
2. Place ½ teaspoon of baking soda into a small bowl or the palm of your hand.
3. Dip damp toothbrush into baking soda.
4. Gently brush the toothbrush over your lips for 15 to 20 seconds.
5. Rinse the baking soda away with water.
6. Your lips should now be soft and smooth.
Method
Mix together and rub gently over the lips. Be sure to rub carefully and lightly as the skin
on the lips is very thin. Wash off with warm water and follow with a nourishing natural lip
balm of your choice. If you don’t have lip balm, use a little coconut oil.
Honey-based li
p scrub
Ingredients
2 teaspoons honey (raw is best)
1 teaspoon sweet almond, sunflower, or avocado oil
1 teaspoon white sugar
Method
Mix all ingredients in a small bowl. Gently rub over the lips.
Wash off with warm water and a washcloth. Follow with lip balm.
Infused sugars are a fun way to add a little extra scent and herbal benefits to your
scrubs.
Sugar can be infused with herbs, flowers, spices, and coffee, or vanilla beans.
In general, infused sugar scrubs can be made by placing the ingredient you wish to
infuse into the sugar in a jar, adding the sugar, and leaving to sit for two to three weeks.
A ratio of 2:1 is usually used (2 parts sugar to 1 part ingredient of choice), but it does
vary somewhat depending on the ingredient used. Generally if the ingredients has a
strong scent or flavor, you can use less. It is is fairly mild, use a little more.
The great thing about infused sugars is they can be used for other projects besides
body scrubs! Depending on the flavor some infused sugars can be added to cookies,
cakes and other baked goods, as well as mixed into teas.
Vani
lla-i
nfused sugar
Place 2 cups of sugar into a glass jar. Cut one or two vanilla beans in half length wise
and scrape the seeds into the sugar. Place the scraped vanilla pods into the sugar as
well. Be sure they are submerged in the sugar.
Close tightly and let sit for 2 weeks. Remove the vanilla pods, but leave the seeds (you
couldn’t them out if you tried anyway! And they all great visual interest to your scrubs).
Mi
nt-I
nfused Sugar
Place 1 cup of fresh mint leaves into 2 cups white sugar. Be sure the mint is
submerged. Leave for at least a week to infused. Remove the mint leaves
If using dried flowers or herbs, the sugar will be ready to use right away. If using fresh
herbs or flowers, the mixture will need to be dried on a baking sheet lined with
parchment paper for a day or two.
Here’s an example:
Rose-i
nfused Sugar
With dried rose petals:
Place ¼ cup dried rose petals and 1 cup white sugar into a food processor. Pulse util
rose petals are broken down into fine texture (this is a matter of taste - however fine you
like will work!).
Place ⅓ cup fresh rose petals and 1 cup of sugar into a food processor. Pulse until
petals are broken into a fine texture. You are looking for the sugar and roses to be
somewhat even in size.
Spread rose petal sugar on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for a day or two,
until dry.
Herb-infused oils are excellent additions to body scrubs. They are a great method for
adding extra herbal benefits.
Herbs that make wonderful infusions for body scrubs and have amazing benefits for the
skin include:
• Calendula - soothing and healing (excellent for wound healing - although you
will not be using scrubs on wounds, you can use calendula-infused oil to
create salves, balms, and many other home remedies - for more ideas see
The Calendula Guidebook)
As with melting techniques and methods, there are multiple ways to infuse oils.
To infuse using the oven method, place herbs in an ovenproof bowl or baking dish. Stir
to combine. (Try to submerge all of the herbs, but don’t worry if they are not completely
covered).
Preheat oven to 300 degrees and place bowl with herb/oil mixture into the oven. TURN
THE OVEN OFF (sorry for the all-caps, but I didn't want you to miss this step!). Leave
herbs to infuse for 3-4 hours.
Once infused, remove from the oven and strain out the herbs.
2. Stove-Top Method
Similar to the methods used to melt butters, you can warm oils and herbs in the top of a
double boiler, or place in a jar that is then put in a pot with a few inches of water (see
melting techniques if you need a refresher).
Warm over a low to medium heat so the oil gets warm, but not hot (and definitely never
boiling).
Use a chopstick to gently stir the herbs every now and then.
Warm oil for about 20 minutes then remove from the stove. Cover and let sit for at least
3 hours.
3. Cold-Infusion/Solar Method
Place herbs into a clean jar and add the carrier oil. Close jar and leave herbs to infuse
for 4 weeks.
Jar needs to be placed in a consistently warm area, but out of direct sunlight.
Make sure your lid is secured tightly and your herbs are totally submerged into the
The Body Scrub Bible Page 122
carrier oil. As you think of it, stop by and give your jar a gentle shake every now and
then.
How to Strai
n Herbs
Place a strainer over a bowl and lay a piece of cheesecloth across it.
Pour the herbs and oils into the bowl, through the cheesecloth. It may look like there
are more herbs than oil!
Squeeze mixture inside the cheesecloth to help extract all of the oil.
Once you have extracted as much oil as possible, discard the herbs.
• if using the cold infusion method, be sure to always use tight-fitting lids
• label jars with name of herb, oil used, and date infusion was started (or should
end), so you know what is inside. Believe me, it's easier to forget than you might
think :)
The best part is, this body oil takes about 2 minutes (or less) to make!
This body oil would be a wonderful paired with a jar of scrub as a gift.
Ingredients
1 cup carrier oil (use grapeseed, safflower, or sweet almond oil)
6 drops lavender essential oil
Scant 1/8 tsp Vitamin E oil (or 10 drops)
Note on carrier oils: it works perfectly well to use one carrier oil in this recipe,
however, it is also nice to use a variety of oils to make the 1 cup. For example, you
could use 2/3 cup grapeseed and 1/3 cup safflower.
If you have wheat germ oil on hand it is a lovely addition, too. But it does go rancid
faster than other oils, so be aware that the shelf life will be shorter. ⅔ cup Grapeseed
and 1/3 cup wheat germ oil makes a lovely combination.
Method
Pour all ingredients into a bottle, cap and shake to blend.
Whipped body butter is highly moisturizing and nourishing to dry skin; the perfect lotion
for winter months when cooler temperatures (and indoor heating) deplete our bodies of
moisture.
Even though it’s quite luxurious, whipped body butter is very simple to make (containing
only two ingredients).
This particular recipe includes cocoa butter, which is one of the hardest butters
available. It is generally well-tolerated by those with sensitive skin. Cocoa butter is
excellent for dry skin because of it’s ability to soothe and soften.
This whipped body butter recipe also includes jojoba oil, which is extremely hydrating.
Jojoba oil is easily absorbed by the skin and doesn’t leave an oily residue.
Other oils could be used in place of jojoba oil, such as grapeseed oil, sweet almond oil,
or sunflower oil.
The Body Scrub Bible Page 126
Body butter can be made without whipping, but tends to be on the oily side. Don’t be
intimidated by this! If you can whip cream, you can whip body butter. It’s the same
action!
Whipping makes the body butter easier to apply. Plus, it’s pretty (which is always nice,
especially if you’d like to give this as a gift).
Essential oils can be added to this recipe, if desired. Peppermint pairs well with the
scent of cocoa butter, as does lavender, sweet orange, or vanilla. Only use a few drops
(approx. five drops) and always be sure to research the essential you are using to note
any safety concerns.
Ingredients
3 ounces cocoa butter
1.5 ounces jojoba oil
5 drops of essential oil (optional)
Double-boiler
Mixing bowl
Hand mixer
Container for body butter
Method
1. Weigh cocoa butter then place in the top of a double-boiler. If you are using large
chunks of cocoa butter, cut into smaller pieces to make the melting process a little
quicker.
Heat over medium heat until the cocoa butter has melted.
2. Once cocoa butter has melted, remove from heat. Add jojoba oil.
3. Let cool briefly then pour oil mixture into a bowl. Leave to cool.
The Body Scrub Bible Page 127
The cooling process can take a number of hours. You can speed things along by
placing bowl in the fridge or freezer for a little while, or sit bowl in an ice bath (as I did in
this post).
Once the oils have cooled and begun to turn opaque, it’s time to whip.
4. Using a hand mixer, whip the body butter. Whip for two minutes and let sit for another
five minutes.
Whip for another two minutes, then let sit for another five. Continue this process until
the body butter is whipped to your liking.
(If you want to learn more about making body butters, I just released a course all about
making it!).
Ingredients
1 1/4 ounce cocoa butter
1 tablespoon coconut oil
2 tablespoons of sweet almond oil
1 tablespoon grapeseed oil
1 tablespoon beeswax pastilles (or grated beeswax)
20 drops of skin safe essential oil, such as lavender essential oil
Method
Melt all ingredients except essential oils. Let cool briefly then add essential oils. Pour
into a clean jar.
Besides aiding the above, it's also a wonderful beauty treatment. Since it is so well
absorbed and full of good fats, tallow does the work of an expensive jar of anti-aging
cream, plumping the skin and helping it maintain integrity and firmness.
Tallow is the rendered fat of beef or mutton. It is derived from suet, which is the hard,
raw fat generally found around the loins of kidneys. Sounds lovely, doesn’t it?!
Rendering is the process of melting it down. The fat begins as a solid, but it melted and
strained, resulting in an abundantly healthy solid cooking fat.
It is very much like lard, that is made from pork fat, but instead, comes from cows or
sheep.
It's important the tallow you use to make tallow balm is from a reputable source. Tallow
should be from pasture-raised sheep or cows that are 100% grassfed.
HOW TO MAKE W HI
PPED TALLOW BALM
Before beginning, I should tell you that it is not necessary to whip the tallow balm,
however, doing so results in a light, fluffy texture that is easier to apply.
The unwhipped version is not difficult to apply, this is just a little nicer. But, feel free to
make the following recipe and skip the whipping step if you'd like.
This process is very much like making a whipped body butter although it usually takes
less time.
Ingredients
3 ounces tallow
1.5 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
15 drop lavender essential oil
Instructions
Melt tallow over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat. Add the oil and stir to
combine.
Once the mixture has cooled, use a handheld beater or stand mixer to whip to a fluffy
consistency.
If the mixture has become too hard to whip, warm briefly. You are trying to catch the
mixture when it is not too warm or too cold. If you start beating too early it will take
forever, but if you wait too long, it may be too hard to beat.
Note on the amount of oil: this recipe can be adjusted to include more or less
olive/avocado oil. It is used to help make the balm spreadable, but also has its own skin
nourishing benefits. Using more oil will create a softer balm, less oil will result in a firmer
balm.
Besides the information I will share here, it's important that your diet be full of healthy
fats, lots of vegetables, and clean water. These go a long way to enhancing your overall
health, including the skin.
The bumps may be slightly red or inflamed but sometimes look very much like
goosebumps (or chicken skin that has the feather plucked out).
According to the Mayo Clinic, “keratosis pilaris results from the buildup of keratin — a
hard protein that protects skin from harmful substances and infection. The keratin forms
a scaly plug that blocks the opening of the hair follicle. Usually, many plugs form,
causing patches of rough, bumpy skin. No one knows exactly why keratin builds up.”
(Source)
Research shows that over 50% of the population (mostly women) overproduce keratin
and that it may be hereditary. (Source)
It’s important to note, that even though something may be generic, environmental,
The Body Scrub Bible Page 133
dietary choices and lifestyle can still have a huge impact.
Keratosis pilaris is generally not itchy or overly bothersome; however, many who suffer
from it seek ways to rid themselves of the condition, if at all possible.
For some, keratosis pilaris includes itchy or irritated skin, and also may be extremely
dry. An individual with keratosis pilaris may have other skin conditions such as eczema.
While there is no true foolproof method for treating keratosis pilaris, the following
suggestions are helpful in reducing symptoms and in many cases, clear the condition
completely.
GENTLE EXFOLIATION
A body scrub made from white or brown sugar and oil is relatively gentle and can be
used to exfoliate the skin on a regular basis.
A gentle body scrub is helpful because it aids in the removal of dead skin cells that
could possibly further clog pores and make the condition worse. It also may help
remove the scaly plugs caused by keratin build up.
It’s important to choose a gentle scrub for frequent use. A harsh scrub, made with
coarse salt, would be too irritating
MOISTURIZE
Gut health is at the root of most (if not all) health issues. Improving gut health has been
seen to improve keratosis pilaris. But, the benefits of healing the gut go far beyond
healing a skin condition! Improved digestion, mental clarity, weight loss, reduction of
autoimmune disease symptoms, improvement/elimination of skin conditions and much
more.
This post is not the place to go into much more detail on addressing gut health,
however, in a nutshell, to improve gut health you generally need to:
•Remove all inflammatory foods such as gluten, dairy, corn, soy, coffee, eggs,
sugar (an elimination diet is usually recommended)
•Take gut healing supplements such as l-glutamine, aloe vera, and/or a
combination supplement like Glutagenics
•Take a good probiotic
•Consume bone broth
•Eat fermented foods, like high-quality sauerkraut
If you have dry skin, dry brushing is something you may wish to consider.
Actually, even if you don’t have dry skin, it has many benefits!
Dry brushing works much like a body scrub in that it is a form of exfoliation and helps
remove dead skin cells. Shedding dead skin cells leaves skin looking and feeling
smoother and brighter, plus it encourages growth of new skin cells, which leads to
healthy, beautiful skin.
Removing the dead skin cells will actually help your skin absorb moisturizer too! So if
you’ve had an issue with applying moisturizer but never seeming to get softer, more
hydrated skin, dry brushing could help.
Besides removing dead skin cells, dry brushing also stimulates circulation and supports
the lymphatic system (this is because many of our lymph vessels are just below the skin
surface; dry brushing is thought to stimulate the flow of lymph through the vessels,
aiding the body in detoxification).
The Body Scrub Bible Page 138
Many dry brushing enthusiasts suggest regular dry brushing aids in the reduction of
cellulite. Even though there is little scientific evidence to support this, it is possible that
dry brushing aids in the removal of toxins from the body, which could in turn reduce
cellulite (some claim toxin accumulation contributes to cellulite), or perhaps the extra
stimulation to the skin causes cellulite reduction. Either way, it doesn’t hurt to try! (But
remember: you are beautiful, with or without cellulite!).
W hat i
s Dry Brushi
ng?
Dry brushing is the process of brushing the skin with a firm dry brush. This is usually
done before showering and in a precise pattern.
Dry brushing advocates usually recommend brushing toward the heart and chest area
to encourage lymph flow. Brushing in this direction is in line with natural lymph flow.
Begin brushing gently as you get used to the feeling of dry brushing. It will take some
time for it to become familiar. Before long you will be able to move to more vigorous or
firmer brushing, but never brush until you are red. Be sure to use long sweeping
motions in one direction, don’t scrub back and forth.
1. Start at the bottom of the feet and brush them in long smooth strokes. Move up
the legs, continuing to brush in long sweeping motions, going over each area
multiple times.
2. Continue to brush up the abdomen, avoiding the breast area. Also brush the
back, if desired.
3. Move to the hands and brush the palms in an upward motion. Move up the arm
as you continue to brush in sweeping motions.
4. After dry brushing, shower off and apply a natural lotion or body oil.
There are many different levels of firmness when it comes to dry brushes. I prefer a
reasonably firm brush over a soft one as it seems to last longer and also works
extremely well for exfoliation and energizing the body. You can still benefit from using a
softer brush, however it may need to be replaced more often.
It's also worth noting that a softer brush may actually be a good place to start. It will take
some time to get comfortable with dry brushing and a softer brush can make it easier.
When selecting a brush, you may also wish to consider the handle length. Some
brushes come with no handle, and are very good for brushing the arms and legs,
however, they can make it a little tricky to reach your back.
Many brushes are available with long handles, which make brushing your back much
easier.
Cli
ck here to access the resource gui
de.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to share your creations with friends and family. They will be
blessed knowing you took the time to make something just for them.
For more DIY body care recipes and home remedies, visit me at
ADelightfulHome.com
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y
Most image are my own, however, the following were taken by others: