As the winter weather wreaks havoc on our skin, we once again are faced with old enemies like dry skin and pimples, without warning and with no sign of disappearing. Naturally, we’re desperate to find some remedies that will soothe our skin (and our souls) without completely draining our bank account (we’re looking at you, Le Mer). Using basic ingredients you’ll find in your kitchen, we’ve tested out some of the best DIY face and lip scrubs out there to moisturize and exfoliate your skin while eliminating those problem spots which we just can’t seem to get rid of. Bonus- they will leave you smelling amazing!
Chocolate Sugar Face Scrub (via Homemade for Elle)
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/8 cup olive oil
1 tbsp cocoa powder
1/4 tsp vanilla extract
Mix all ingredients together in a small bowl. Lather the scrub generously onto a clean face, rubbing gently into the skin for 60 seconds. Allow to set on skin for 10 minutes, then rinse clean with warm water.
Tip: Due to the strong nature of this exfoliating scrub, it’s important to follow with a moisturizer in order to lock in natural oils and prevent dry skin from coming back.
Coffee Face moisturizing scrub (via Hey It’s Lulu)
1/3 tsp extra virgin olive oil (coconut butter, coconut buter, shea butter, etc.)
1 tsp honey or agave nectar (to help absorb and retain moisture)
1 1/2 tsp coffee grounds
Mix all ingredients together and rub onto skin for one minute. Thoroughly wash your face with warm water.
Tip: The coffee grounds will gently exfoliate the skin while the oil and honey will provide and retain moisture.
Brown Sugar olive oil lip scrub (via College Fashion)
2 tsp brown sugar
1/2 tsp honey or agave nectar (I used agave nectar!)
1 tsp olive oil
1/4 tsp vanilla extract
Mix all ingredients in a small bowl and mix. Massage scrub onto your lips in a circular motion, using your fingertips. Wash with warm water, then follow with lip balm.
Tip: Though this will soften your lips, it’s important to apply lip balm daily, drink lots of water, and refrain from licking your lips in order to keep them from chapping!