With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, I thought I’d share some of my favorite ‘recipes’ with you. Don’t worry, these aren’t the sort of recipes loaded with carbs. I wouldn’t torment you like that. These are DIY spa recipes that you can make for yourself, or give as gifts to your ‘Galentines’.
Any one of these are sure to be well received, or make all three for a full spa set. We could all use a little more pampering from time to time. So grab your measuring cups and let’s spread some love.
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Sugar Scrub
This is my #1 favorite for a few reasons. It’s simple to make, it’s perfect for gifting, and it feels SO luxurious. I keep a jar of this stuff in my shower fairly regularly; especially in the winter time when your skin needs a little extra TLC. The recipe is listed in ‘parts’ so you can make as much or as little as you like by adjusting the size of your measuring utensil. You can also add or omit ingredients to change it up and make it just right for you. I’ll add some alternate suggestions at the end.
- 2 parts turbinado sugar (or other large/medium grain sugar)
- 2 parts granulated sugar (or other small grain sugar)
- 1 part coconut oil
- 1 part sweet almond oil
- 1 part raw honey
- 1/2 part baking soda
- 10-12 drops of essential or fragrance oils of choice
Now, changing up this recipe is as simple as swapping out the oils or sugars you use. I’ve gone through a lot of trial and error over the years and I have some suggestions. I use two different sizes of sugar to get a better scrub in the shower. The smaller grained sugars melt quickly in a hot shower so the larger grains give you more exfoliating power. If you have delicate skin, stick to the smaller grains and maybe add in some brown sugar. If you want a more heavy duty scrub, or to use as a foot scrub, you can add in some coffee grounds (also an excellent scrub for reducing the appearance of stretch marks and breaking down cellulite). I’ve also made versions with sea salt or Himalayan salt mixed in for a sugar/salt combo!
Using different oils can change up this scrub considerably. I’ve made this with olive oil, avocado oil, grapeseed oil and even added in some jojoba, argan, and/or vitamin E oil for extra nourishment. You’ll likely want to stick to lighter oils (coconut, grapeseed, jojobo) in the summer, but may want some of those extras fatty oils to nourish the skin in the winter. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite blends. When experimenting, I add my oils slowly and test the scrub on the back of my hand until I get a consistency I like.
De-Stress Bath Soak
I don’t know about you, but I LOVE baths. Something about being submerged in warm water just instantly relaxes me. Add in some skin softening and detoxing ingredients and I’m in heaven. Luckily, whipping up your own bath salts is easy and you can customize your bath however you like. You’ll need:
- 2 cups Epsom salts
- 1 cup baking soda
- a few drops of essential or fragrance oils of choice
Epsom salts are magical. We don’t get anywhere near as much magnesium as our bodies need anymore and that’s what Epsom salts are; magnesium sulfate. Soaking in a magnesium bath will help ease sore muscles, reduce stress, reduce pain and inflammation, improve blood sugar levels, and give you a better night’s sleep, to name just a few benefits. Adding a bit of baking soda to the mix helps to neutralize any chemicals in the water and to balance PH levels. It also helps soften the skin so you step out of the bath feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Your essential or fragrance oils are what make this unique. Aromatherapy can have a strong impact on our health and well-being. Some good scents to reduce stress and anxiety are: Lavender, Rose, Chamomile, Bergamot, Ylang Ylang, Eucalyptus, Peppermint, Citrus and Frankincense.
Whipped Body Butter
- 3 oz cocoa or shea butter (I’ve also used mango butter)
- 4 oz coconut oil
- 4-6 drops of essential or fragrance oils of choice
To mix your cocoa (or shea) butter with the coconut oil, you’ll need a double boiler, or a small pot set in a larger pot of boiling water. The idea is not to set the ingredients on direct heat but to instead melt them with the boiling water. Once melted, mix to combine then set in the fridge for approximately 5 minutes, or until cool and opaque. Using a standing mixer or hand mixer, whip until fluffy. Add in your fragrance, combine well and transfer to a container.
Want more? Follow on Pinterest for loads of DIY bath & body recipes, typically made with all natural ingredients. Are you mixing yet? I’d love to hear your feedback! What’s your favorite?