by Isabelle Esteves

Created on: August 04, 2008   Last Updated: May 23, 2012

Exfoliation is one of the most important parts of a beauty routine. In order for your other products to work their best, they must be able to get into your skin. When you exfoliate, you remove the top layer of dead cells and allow the products to get in where they can do some good. Exfoliation allows your newer, younger skin to show and you will notice a glow right away. Store bought exfoliation products can be expensive and some of them can be  harsh to be used especially on sensitive or aging skin.

Luckily,  your home contains most of the ingredients that are needed to make your own exfoliants. Here are a few recipes to put you in control of what goes on and into your skin.

Fruits especially are very good at exfoliating your skin. One of the best for dry skin is pineapple. In combination with oatmeal and honey this is a delicious and refreshing way to make your skin glow. By using local honey, you can also help to build up your immunity to local pollen. Pineapple is acidic,  be very careful not to get any in your eyes.

Oatmeal is a great natural exfoliant and it can be used in combination with other items from your pantry to provide quick and easy homemade exfoliants. Any of the citrus fruits will help to add that glow that everyone wants. Limes, oranges, lemons and tangerines or clementines will all combine nicely with the oatmeal. Make a thick paste and apply in circles gently to the face. Never go close to the eyes, not only are citrus fruits acidic but the skin around the eyes is delicate and should not be exfoliated at all. For a refreshing change, add a few drops of peppermint oil

You have been checking your cupboards and you don't have any fruit,  not to worry,  there are still plenty of items that can help you achieve that glow you are looking for. Take a little sugar or sea salt and combine it with olive oil. This is not going to have as exciting a smell as exfoliants made with fruit, the results will be just as nice. Add a drop of vanilla flavoring if you want to have a scrub that smells as good as it works.

Have some used coffee grounds? Don't throw them away. Add a little olive oil or yogurt and if you are a coffee lover you have a delicious smelling and very effective scrub.

There are many other fruits that will also work, apples, strawberries, avocados just to name a few. Combined with salt, sugar or oatmeal they are all delicious and effective.

So if your skin is dull and you have any food in your pantry,  you have no excuse for not adding that fresh glow that your skin will love.

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