Don't know about you, but no matter how well I moisturise my skin, it always has some dry patches. Elbows, knees and especially feet!
Sunflower oil is very well known as cooking oil, but less known as a beauty ingredient. Sunflower oil contains vitamin E as well as fatty acids and has good hair and skin moisturising properties. For wash off products like this salt scrub, sunflower oil is my first choice as it is cheaper than other oils like almond and coconut and works very well!
When I want to make the texture of my skin softer, I make this fresh sunflower, coconut & salt scrub. This scrub has no preservatives or added chemicals in it and is gentle on the skin. The salt scrub mixture is dry, light and not too oily.
The great thing about this salt scrub is that it is made from inexpensive ingredients and is extremely effective at sloughing away dead, dry skin. The sunflower oil absorbs into the skin fast, leaving a beautiful sheen...and the coconut mixed with the orange smells wonderful!
No equipment is needed to make this scrub, other than a knife to cut the orange and a spoon to measure out the ingredients and stir the mixture! I used dried, desiccated coconut, alongside a fine grained salt to make this scrub mixture abrasive- but not too 'scratchy' on the skin.
I've given this recipe in simple measurements, so you can make as much or little as you need depending on the area of your body you wish to apply it to.
If you are really suffering with dry skin, you could substitute the sunflower oil for coconut oil. The mixture may be a bit more oily and take longer to absorb, but your skin will thank you for it. Do take care if you intend to apply this scrub to your feet (in the bath or walking so you do not slip!).
If you have any cuts on your skin, I would avoid using this scrub as it contains salt. Both salt and orange can make wounds burn if directly applied to them!
I hope you enjoy trying this scrub!
If you decide to give this recipe a go, please share your thoughts, pictures and recipe tweaks. Good luck!
Ingredients:
Method
Step 1.
In a bowl mix together the salt, desiccated coconut, sunflower oil and freshly squeezed orange juice.
Step 2.
Transfer the scrub mixture to a clean jar.
Step 3.
When ready to use, apply to damp skin (rub in gentle sweeping motions).
Step 4.
Rinse with water
Step 5.
Pat dry and you are done!
Disclaimer
I'm very passionate about the management of autoimmune conditions in a healthy way.
I speak with medical professionals, read journals, try and test new recipes to share with you and diligently undertake research online. That being said, as you know, each autoimmune disease, as well as any set of symptoms you may be experiencing are unique.
All information provided is in no way intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor or healthcare provider to ensure the appropriateness of any information in relation to your own situation.
And finally, please comment and share so we as a community better cope with our conditions by through growth and learning.