Known for its therapeutic effects, Dead Sea salt is filled with minerals that soften the skin and speed up the healing of various skin conditions. Often used for treatment of psoriasis, eczema and arthritis, these salts leave the skin velvety smooth. Body scrubs are also a great way to remove dead skin cells, rejuvenate, and smooth the skin. They also increase circulation and nourish every cell of your body. Aside from the health benefits, the great advantage of making your own body scrub is that you get something that is just right for you, and the investment is minimal. Cut the basic recipe in half and try different combinations till you find something you love. You may even consider making some as gifts.
Body Scrub Tips:
*A salt scrub should be used no more than 3-4 times a week.
*They should be used after you take a shower. This way, the skin is soft and moist, and dead skin cells are removed easier.
*Depending on the body scrub recipes you are using, each ingredient will have a different effect in addition to the main one which is to exfoliate.
*The best way to exfoliate is to use your fingertips and be gentle with the skin. Massage the body in circular motion, towards the heart to get the circulation going. Rinse well.
* Be cautious, using oil can make your tub and shower slippery.
*Be creative, there are many variations of this recipe, feel free to adjust the ingredients to get the scrub formula you like.
Step 1- Choose Your Salt
Review the list below to see the types of salts that are readily available at any grocery or health food store.
Salts (listed finer to courser)
o Fine Salt
o Table Salt
o Sea Salt
o Kosher Salt
o Epsom Salt
Step 2-Choose Your Oil
Which Carrier Oil Should You Use? Carrier oils are based on your preference, your budget, and what your skin care needs are. For example, if you’re looking for something odorless, grapeseed or sesame oil would be a great choice. If your skin is cracked, calendula may be the choice for you, for softness, sunflower would be a great choice. Refer to the listt below, to find something that works best for you.
Almond (sweet) -Relieves itches, softens skin, for all skin types
Apricot kernel -Restores the glow, rehydrates, used in facial massage
Avocado -For dry skin, easily absorbed, plumps up prematurely lined skin
Borage– Treats eczema and psoriasis, anti-aging properties
Calendula -Heals rashes and cracked skin
Carrot seed– Reduces premature aging and scarring, restores elasticity, and rejuvenates
Coconut– Great for brittle or cracked skin, retains skin’s moisture
Evening Primrose -For dry skin, rich in fatty acids
Grapeseed– For full body massage, odorless and easily absorbed
Hazelnut– For oily skin, easily absorbed
Jojoba-Anti bacterial, anti inflammatory, hydrating and emollient
Macadamia -Maintains natural moisture of the skin
Olive Oil-Disinfecting, healing, excellent to soothe cracked skin
Passion fruit-Maintains skin’s elasticity
Rosehip– Regenerates tissue, good for scars, burns and wrinkles
Safflower– Easily absorbed
Sesame– Natural sunscreen, odorless
Sunflower– Softens skin, maintains skin’s natural moisture
Wheat germ– For dry skin, antioxidant, has strong odor
Buy bulk Dead Sea Salt and Oil and Save
Instead of buying small amounts at a time, consider buying your bath salts in bulk. It will last you for a very long time, doesn’t spoil and you can always use it for a healing bath or facial mask. Mountain Rose Herbs is my one stop shop for the herbs, salts and oils used in these recipes.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with this basic scrub recipe listed below, by simply adding a few more ingredients:
– Add a few drops of Vitamin E. You can get it in liquid form or as gel caps in which case you need to pierce or cut the capsule to remove the gel.
– Aloe Vera can be a great addition to this recipe. Simply add a squirt or to, making sure the scrub does not become to liquefied.
– Looking for an extra cleansing experience? Try adding any one of the following: ground oatmeal, sugar, or freshly ground coffee.
– If your skin is in need of additional cleanse, add a teaspoon of baking soda.
Remember that whatever you add, you are looking for a pasty consistency- liquid enough so it is easily spread on the skin but thick enough that it stays there and maintains the grainy texture of the salt.
Dead Sea Salt body scrub – basic recipe
1 and 1/4 cup of Dead Sea salt
1/4 cup of carrier oil (see chart below)
Put all ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Remember to label and date your product. Store in a cool area in a tightly sealed container.
Exfoliating Dead Sea Salt Scrub
1/2 Cup fine sea salt
1/4 Cup oatmeal (ground, uncooked)
1/4 Cup flaxseed oil
1/4 Cup extra virgin olive oil
Put all ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Remember to label and date your product. Store in a cool area in a tightly sealed container.
