Exfoliating: An Introduction

Exfoliating is the process of removing dead skin cells from your face, and it should be an essential part of everyone’s beauty routine. Dead skin cells can make our complexion look rough and tired, and can even block our pores, leading to blackheads, red spots and acne.

When we exfoliate, we remove those dead skin cells, revealing a healthier, younger-looking skin. However, it is important to choose the right exfoliating products, as some can be very rough and irritating to the skin.

Why Choose DIY Face Masks?

While you can buy exfoliating face masks in most beauty and health stores, it is important to choose natural exfoliants. Many commercial products contain microbeads which are harmful to both humans and marine life.

DIY face masks are a more sustainable and natural option, and often offer numerous benefits for your skin. When making your own face masks, you can choose ingredients that suit your skin type and target specific skin issues.

10 Natural Exfoliants

Here are ten natural exfoliants that you can use to make your own DIY face masks at home:

1. Oatmeal

Oatmeal is a gentle natural exfoliator that helps to absorb oil, making it ideal for people with greasy skin. You can mix one tablespoon of oatmeal with one tablespoon of brown sugar, add a tablespoon of raw honey, and even Jojoba oil and essential oils for extra benefits.

2. Baking Soda

Baking soda is an excellent natural exfoliator that is very gentle, even for sensitive skin. You can make your own baking soda face mask by mixing one tablespoon of baking soda with a few drops of water and one vitamin e soft liquid gel pill.

3. Lemon

Lemon contains alpha hydroxy acid, which helps to remove the glue-like protein that causes dead skin to stick to your face, so it is the perfect natural ingredient for an exfoliator. You can mix half a fresh lemon with half a cup of granulated sugar, then one teaspoon of olive oil and one teaspoon of organic honey for extra hydration.

4. Sugar

Sugar is one of the best natural exfoliators as its grains are small and rough, ideal for removing dead skin. Sugar also contains glycolic acid which reduces the appearance of fine lines. You can make your own sugar exfoliator with half a cup of sugar and half a cup of olive oil.

5. Yogurt

Yogurt is an excellent natural exfoliator as it contains alpha hydroxyl acid, similar to prescription skincare products. Yogurt also hydrates your skin as it exfoliates, making it suitable for dry skin types. You can mix one teaspoon of yogurt with one teaspoon of honey and one teaspoon of oats.

6. Almonds

Ground almonds make a great exfoliator because they are nutrient-rich and perfect for exfoliation. Mix quarter of a cup of ground almonds with three teaspoons of raw organic honey and quarter of a teaspoon of ground cinnamon, as well as one teaspoon of argan oil for added benefits.

7. Sea Salt

Sea salt is a strongly exfoliating ingredient as its large granules are ideal for removing dead skin. Mix one cup of finely ground Himalayan salt with one teaspoon of coconut oil and two teaspoons of sweet almond oil, then add one teaspoon of castile soap for a nourishing treatment.

8. Honey

Raw honey has antiseptic, antibacterial, and anti-fungal benefits, making it a great natural exfoliator. Honey attracts moisture while exfoliating, making it suitable for dry skin types. You can make your own exfoliator using one teaspoon of raw honey and half a teaspoon of baking soda.

9. Coffee

Ground coffee beans are perfect for exfoliating, as they are rough and crumbly in texture, yet gentle on the skin. Combine half a teaspoon of coconut oil with half a teaspoon of finely ground coffee beans for this exfoliator.

10. Papaya

Papaya contains the enzyme papain, which helps to dissolve dead skin cells without irritating the new skin cells. You can make your own papaya mask using only four teaspoons of blended papaya and one tablespoon of honey.

In conclusion, exfoliating is an essential part of everyone’s beauty routine, and using natural exfoliants can have numerous benefits for your skin. By making your own DIY face masks at home, you can tailor your skincare routine to suit your skin type and target specific skin issues.