While going to the spa for a rejuvenating massage or a relaxing facial may sound heavenly, we may not always have the luxury to book our favourite treatments due to time constraints or even a lockdown during a pandemic. So, what’s a girl to do? Make your own DIY beauty treatments at home, of course!
Salts and scrubs have seen a surge in popularity since we started self-isolating. And they’re not that difficult to DIY either. In fact, pantry staples can make some pretty impressive beauty products — all you have to do is get a little crafty, then relax and soak up the results.
Sea salt is a great option as a DIY body scrub for very tough and rough skin.
“Sugar is also good because it breaks down quicker. It has a smaller grain than sea salt, which makes it gentler,” says Kellie. “Even coffee grounds can work, because it is an instant injection of coffee into the skin, which boosts circulation.”
To make:
- Pour 1 cup seal salt, light brown sugar or coffee grounds into a Mason or screw-top jar.
- Mix in enough liquid coconut oil, almond oil or light olive oil to make a loose paste.
- If you like essential oil, add a few drops to suit your mood and stir.
To use:
- Soften your skin by soaking in a warm bath for a few minutes.
- Apply a light layer of scrub onto dry zones like lower legs and arms, hands and heels.
- Avoid face, chest, upper shoulders and anywhere that feels sensitive.
- Use your palm or a muslin cloth to buff the scrub evenly into your skin in small circles.
- Take your time, feel your skin as you go and concentrate on the drier, rougher areas.
- Rinse off, pat dry and apply a body balm.
Though it sounds extravagant, a Cleopatra-style milk bath does not cost much to make with ingredients from the supermarket and your garden. Milk naturally contains lactic acid, which gently softens the skin, allowing for rehydration. Add fresh pickings from your garden to brighten your bath and your day.
To make:
- Tip 1 cup dairy or coconut milk power into a Mason or screw-top jar.
- Add a few drops of your favourite essential oil if you like.
- Top with fresh petals from your garden, if you have them.
To use:
- Run a warm bath.
- Pour ¼ cup of soak into the water and swirl to dissolve.
- Sink in and relax for 10 minutes.
After a bath, your hands and feet will be super soft, especially if you have scrubbed them. Make that baby skin stay for longer by treating yourself to a post-bath moisturising mask.
To make:
- Find a pair of loose cotton socks and gloves (swap in a light bandage or cling wrap if needed).
- Sit down somewhere comfortable with some body oil (or coconut or olive oil) and thick moisturiser.
To use:
- After your bath, slather feet in oil and top with thick moisturiser.
- Gently slide on your socks and put your feet up.
- Repeat with your hands (you may need a bit of help if you do not have gloves).
- Relax for 10 minutes while the oil and cream absorb, then free your hands and feet.
This lip smoother leaves a little of the nourishing oil behind after you wash it off, for long-lasting softness.
To make:
- Fill a small, lidded glass pot with sugar.
- Mix in coconut or olive oil to make a thick paste.
- Add a drop of vanilla essence and stir.
To use:
- Scoop out ¼ to ½ tsp scrub.
- Gently polish dry/flaky lips with fingertips.
- Wipe off with a tissue.
Text: Vicki Bramley/bauersyndication.com.au
- TAGS:
- diy beauty
- spa