Need A Quick Fix For Dry Skin? Make This Simple Scrub

Several years ago, I wrote a post about the wonders of Epsom salt, and I do mean wonders! I couldn’t believe how many benefits were associated with this particular mineral compound of magnesium and sulfate. From a therapeutic bath soak to fertilizing your garden, this is a “salt” that no home should be without.

What Is Epsom Salt?

Epsom salt is a naturally occurring mineral called epsomite, made of magnesium sulfate. The magnesium content of Epsom salt makes it an appealing ingredient for a homemade body scrub, because magnesium can help balance energy levels, mood, insulin levels, and even blood pressure. And we can use all the magnesium we can get, since most people in the US and Europe are actually deficient in magnesium.

Why Epsom Salt Makes A Great Exfoliant

Topical application of magnesium can do wonders for skin. Unlike other salts, Epsom salt‘s magnesium content counteracts the drying effects of sodium and promotes skin hydration. Its large crystals make it a more powerful exfoliator in a body scrub compared with sugar, which makes it particularly useful on areas where your skin is thicker (like on your heels or other callused areas).

By combining the moisturizing and exfoliating effects of Epsom salt with the nourishing fatty acids in coconut oil, you can make a great body scrub that will leave your skin feeling soft and moisturized. The addition of a bit of lavender essential oil can help soothe sensitive skin too. Give it a try—I think you’ll love this scrub as much as I do.

How To Make A Coconut Oil Body Scrub

Ingredients:

• 2 cups coconut oil
• 1 cup Epsom salt
• 20 drops lavender essential oil

Directions:

Add coconut oil and Epsom salt to a small bowl along with the lavender essential oil (or whichever essential oil you prefer). Mix with a spoon until well combined.

Transfer to a container with a tight-fitting lid until ready to use.

Note: The coconut oil in this scrub can leave a slippery residue on the bottom of your shower if you’re not careful, so make sure to rinse your shower/tub thoroughly after using it. You can also keep the oil from building up by using my homemade daily shower cleaner.

Epsom Salt Alternatives

As wonderful as Epsom salt is, it is a strong, coarse exfoliant. If you have frail, thin, or highly sensitive skin, you may want to try a gentler exfoliant instead. Brown sugar is the least abrasive option, as the crystals are smaller and create a more gentle cleanser.

Coconut Oil Alternatives

If you are allergic to coconut oil or don’t like the scent, many other carrier oils would work well in this scrub too, including almond oil, argan oil, and jojoba oil.

Do you have a favorite body scrub you use at home?