With the release of pumpkin spice lattes, it feels like fall is here, but in my area, summer is still going strong with temperatures still around 90 degrees. I can’t imagine drinking a hot pumpkin-flavored drink yet, but I am ready for a change. It’s time to refresh my skin after the summer’s wear and tear and prepare it for the cooler weather ahead.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup brown sugar (or turbinado sugar)
– 1/2 cup organic coconut oil
– 2-3 drops of cinnamon essential oil
Benefits of Sugar and Cinnamon for the Skin:
You might be surprised to hear that sugar can actually be beneficial for your skin. Sugar is a natural humectant, which means it draws moisture from the environment into the skin, keeping it hydrated. It also contains glycolic acid, a type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that penetrates the skin and breaks down the bonds between dead skin cells, promoting cell turnover and revealing fresher, younger-looking skin. Additionally, sugar’s small particles make it an excellent exfoliant, removing dead skin cells to uncover glowing skin underneath.
Coconut oil is well-known for its skin benefits, but cinnamon is also a powerhouse for skin care. Its antiseptic and antifungal properties make it great for treating acne, ringworm, eczema, and other skin infections. Cinnamon also stimulates blood vessels, bringing blood to the surface of the skin for a plumper appearance. If you’re ready to repair summer skin damage, this simple scrub is perfect.
Steps to Make the Scrub:
1. Ensure the coconut oil is at room temperature for easier mixing. Add 2-3 drops of cinnamon essential oil to the coconut oil and mix thoroughly. If you don’t have cinnamon essential oil, you can use cinnamon powder, but it won’t be as effective since the strength of the powder can vary.
2. Add the brown sugar to the coconut oil and cinnamon mixture.
3. Mix thoroughly. Don’t worry about small clumps of coconut oil—they will melt when you apply the scrub to your skin.
How to Use:
Rub the scrub in your palms to warm it slightly. Apply it to your face and body using gentle circular motions, avoiding your eyes. Be careful if you’re using this scrub in the shower or tub, as the surfaces can become slippery. Make sure to wash down the surfaces with soap afterward to prevent falls.
If you love DIY recipes like this one, consider getting a copy of the Everyday Roots downloadable guide, which includes over 215 DIY recipes for natural health and beauty products, as well as non-toxic cleaning supplies.
