Thursday, December 08, 2011

Rub-a-Dub-Dub...


It's time for a scrub!

I've been wanting to make a homemade organic facial scrub for some time now. Yesterday I was inspired by a friend of mine who posted a few recipes (post #1; post #2). Store-bought scrubs, even those packaged as “all natural” or for sensitive skin, can be harsh and irritating. These home-made sugar scrubs are less course than most store-bought exfoliants, so they tend to be less abrasive on your skin. Whether you’re looking for a way to banish dull skin without spending hundreds on salon treatments, or just want an “all-natural facial scrub” that really is natural, these homemade skin exfoliants might be just what you need. I was excited to make some of these for gifts for friends for Christmas. This would also be a fun and easy project to make with children for their mother, grandmother, teachers, etc.!


I started by purchasing a few basic items, like these jars. They hold about 8 oz., which is a generous amount for a scrub. 


I bought them at Hobby Lobby {50% off this week} for $1 each. Do I hear a "way to go"? I also bought a little condiment spoon to go with each jar for about $1. You can purchase these spoons online or at most kitchen stores. {Look here or here.} I bought mine at Ace Hardware -- go figure.


Sunflower oil is another ingredient you'll need on hand. It's less fragrant and heavy than many other oils, which makes it perfect for scrubs. I also bought some essentials oils and made sure I had some vanilla and almond extract on hand. The essentials oils can be purchased at health food stores. They are $3 to $7 depending on the oil you purchase. You only use about 20 drops per batch, so they'll be around for a good long time!


I made three different recipes using a variety of flavors and oils. 
Here are the recipes I came up with...


::: Peppermint Sugar Scrub :::


Ingredients:
2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup salt
1 cup sunflower oil
 {If more sunflower oil is needed add a tiny bit at a time until satisfied with consistency.}
about 21 drops of peppermint essential oil
Mix ingredients together.
Done!


::: Brown Sugar & Almond Facial Scrub :::


Ingredients:
1 1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 cups brown sugar
1/2 cup salt
2 Tbsp. vanilla extract
2 tsp. almond extract
1 cup sunflower oil {add more if necessary}
Mix together.
Done!


::: Orange Peppermint Facial Scrub :::


Ingredients:
2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup salt
1 cup sunflower oil
about 21 drops orange essential oil
about 4 drops peppermint essential oil
Mix together.
Done!

This gift is obviously inexpensive which is easy on the budget, but -- more important -- I think it is a sweet, personal gift that others will enjoy!


Link Parties:
Handmade Tuesday @ Ladybug Blessings
Made by You Monday @ Skip to my Lou
Sister Sunday Link Party @ Sisters of the Wild West
Friday Fun Finds @ kojo designs
Friday Favs @ Naptime Crafters
Free for All Friday @ Sassy Sites
Frugalicious Friday @ Finding Fabulous
Hookin' Up with HOH

Visit thecsiproject.com