7 DIY Ways To Exfoliate Naturally

Many of us have some kind of facial exfoliate in our medicine cabinet.  I am sure some of those products contain the exfoliate beads which many dermatologists are big proponents of.  There are now findings that they these beads are not biodegradable and with the continued use of these products that contain these round tiny PLASTIC balls, recent research has proven that these little balls are going down the sink drains and into the lakes and oceans confusing marine life into thinking they are food. Dont panic here are some natural exfoliates that can do just as great a job if not better than those beads. Maybe one is right for you!

 

 

       Fine Grains 

oatmeal                                                                         almond-meal

Something you have in your pantries: Oatmeal and almond-meal scrubs are made with finely ground natural fibers that gently open your pores, making these scrubs a safe bet for sensitive skin on the chest and face. Oatmeal can also soothe inflammation and skin irritations.

Sugar

Sugar is well received by most skin types because it dissolves quickly, and it’s a humectant, (draws moisture to the skin), leaving you soft and hydrated. Aside from relieving dryness on your arms and legs, sugar works well as a lip scrub as well.

Shells and Seeds

walnut shell                                                                        fruit seeds

Now there are some natural exfoliates that are a bit more abrasive for those rougher extremities.  The angular edges of ground walnut shells, raspberry, strawberry or grape seeds help loosen rough patches on elbows, knees, and ankles. I dont recommend these to be used on your face for those with sensitive skin because the gritty texture could inflame.  Use shell-based scrubs on your face and chest only if they’ve been crushed to a fine powder.

Rice

Asians use their food staple, rice, as both an internal and external benefit for the well being of their bodies. —ground uncooked rice has been used as a skin-care staple for centuries.  It’s a delicate buffer for both oily and easily irritated skin and can treat pesky rashes or inflammation like eczema, and rosacea.

Coffee

Add olive oil, almond oil or another light carrier oil to a handful of grounds from your coffee pot–or use a pre-made scrub and massage over your body in the direction up from your feet toward the heart). The movement plus the caffeine can help reduce puffy areas that fill with fluid.

Salt

Salt does have some sharp edges and a very coarse texture. The benefit of this more abrasive scrub is its sloughing action can be stimulating enough to increase circulation, and if the salt is crushed to a superfine powder, it can be used on the face to draw away water, offering a less oily or shiny look.

Exfoliate Brush

Using a dry, natural bristle brush on dry skin, start at your feet and gently glide the brush bristles against your skin, using upward strokes toward your heart. This should only take about 3-4 minutes for your entire body. Skin should be cleansed and then moisturized directly after this treatment.