There are 2 types of exfoliaters 1: Chemical ( such as a sallysidic acid) or mechanical (beads/grains/particles). I think that it is pretty unnecessary to use an artificial product on your skin when there are so many natural grainy substances that can do the same physical job.
So in the name of beauty I set about to make my own natural exfoliants using only ingredients from my kitchen or garden. I have a pretty normal skin type, and generally only exfoliate my face once a week, but I stopped altogether for about 5 weeks. By this week it looked dull and lifeless!
I made up a few for different skin types or concerns;
OILY SKIN PURIFYING EXFOLIATER:
- capsule of activated charcoal
- few fresh mint leaves
- zest from a lime
- small drop of cool water to mix a paste
This is a great deep cleansing exfoliate that can be left on as a mask. Charcoal is deeply purifying and detoxing for the skin. The lime is packed with Vit C and Mint contains Vitamin A which helps repair skins surface. Empty the charcoal capsule and mix all the ingredients into a bowl, use your fingers to mash everything up into a paste. The charcoal is a fine powder so it is the perfect light exfoliant for oilier skin.
DRY SKIN NOURISHING CLEANSER:
- Polenta ( or any fine maize)
- Fresh corriander
- Virgin organic coconut oil
Mix all the ingredients in a bowl. Polenta is a fine maize grain rich in Vit A and C. It is slightly coarser so perfect for drier skin. Corriander is very nourishing for dry skin too. A small drop of coconut oil to bind it all together. My skin was so soft after using this.
Other grains that can be used as exfoliaters:
Coffee- Caffeine for perky bright skin
Oats- If you suffer from sensitivity
Crushed Almonds/Cashews/Macadamia Nuts- Dry skin
Salt or Sugar- More coarse so better for a body exfoliater
Mix with fruits or veggies such as
Avocado
Tomato
Citrus Fruits rinds
Berries
