The average woman applies 12 products to her skin daily and absorbs around 168 chemicals. Multiply that by 365 days and you will accumulate a total of 61,300 chemicals in the course of one single year. Some of the most common, and yet incredibly toxic chemicals, are found in makeup, shampoo, body wash, lotions, and scrubs.
They include:
- Phthalates (DBP, DEHP, DEP)
- Sodium Lauryl/Laureth Sulfate
- Parabens (METHYL, BUTYL, ETHYL, PROPYL)
- Mineral Oil (liquid petroleum, paraffin oil, white mineral oil)
- Synthetic Fragrances (Parfum)
- Urea and DMDM Hydantoin
- Polyethylene Glycol (PEG)
- Triclosan
- Propylene Glycol
- DEA, MEA and TEA (Diethanolamine, Monoethanolamine, Triethanolamine) (1)
These chemicals can damage your reproductive system, increase your risk of cancer, irritate your skin, and cause respiratory distress.
I was amazed when I saw how simple it is to make your own DIY sugar scrub, and yet store bought varieties are loaded with many different ingredients. (2) Even sugar scrubs marketed as “natural” or “pure” can be full of polysorbate 20, dyes, and synthetic fragrances. Are sugar, oil, and true essential oils too much to ask for??
Well, the good news is, an easy recipe will leave you with a great sugar scrub that is so natural you could eat it too. Though, if you used refined sugar, maybe go easy! This recipe will hydrate your skin with olive oil and coconut oil. It also contains therapeutic, pure essential oils, which have been shown to heal and repair skin, offer a safe method for cleansing and add a refreshing smell—all chemical free. (3) I do not normally recommend plain cane sugar in recipes, but this is an exception. I personally only really have regular sugar in my pantry for the purpose of making homemade Kombucha. If you don’t have any on hand, you can try substituting coconut sugar crystals instead.
So without further ado, here is the recipe! I used large grain Demerara sugar that I had on hand to add extra exfoliating power to this batch.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar, either white or brown, preferably organic
- ¾ cup olive oil or coconut oil, or a combination of both
- Essential oils of your choice (I personally put two drops Frankincense and 3-5 drops of something else – I like to change it up!)
- One small glass airtight jar
Directions:
- Melt the coconut oil in a saucepan.
- Combine with olive oil and mix well with the sugar.
- Add drops of essential oils to your liking.
- Store in an airtight container.
- Scoop one tablespoon out and lather on skin. Rinse and enjoy the silky smooth feel!
