POLISH OFF

Is it possible to have clear and smooth skin with regular ingredients from your kitchen? The answer is yes!

Skincare routine is incomplete without proper exfoliation. The lack of exfoliation can be the reason behind dull looking skin swarmed by blackheads. Scrubbing is essential to unclog pores in order to remove dirt, dead skin and other surface impurities so that new, healthy skin can flourish.

However, some exfoliators can be very harsh and can end up damaging your sensitive skin. To avoid these abrasive exfoliants or super expensive products, we can turn towards our kitchen instead. Here are some homemade scrubs:

Lemon and Sugar Scrub

The scrub is made from fresh lemon juice, sugar, olive oil and honey. This simple yet effective recipe makes a great exfoliator, which also moisturises the skin in the process. The lemon juice helps brighten the skin as it is rich in vitamin C and citric acid, and also aids in treating acne due to its antibacterial property.

Coffee Scrub

Olive oil, organic honey and coffee grinds are mixed together to create this stimulating and energising scrub. Coffee scrub helps in improving blood circulation and reducing puffiness of the eyes.

Oatmeal Scrub

Oatmeal is a very gentle exfoliant and is perfect for sensitive skin. It is a natural anti-inflammatory agent that also helps in moisturising. Mix finely ground oatmeal with honey or yogurt to prepare the finest smoothie for your face.

Baking Soda and Water Scrub

This scrub may be your new favourite face recipe. It’s just water and baking soda. So simple, yet so powerful. Mix it to get a paste texture and scrub in a gentle manner to balance your skin’s pH levels and treat acne. Add a teaspoon of coconut oil for deeper cleansing and nourishment.

Brown Sugar and Honey Scrub

Honey acts as an antibacterial agent and brown sugar not only exfoliates but it also fights bacteria with glycolic acid. Mix the two together to create a paste. Add in a teaspoon of butter or olive oil for a more creamy texture.

A word of caution: Always be gentle when using these scrubs. Remember it is your skin not a greased or burnt frying pan, so no need to rub it raw. Plus restrict this ritual to just once in two weeks.

Expert consulted: Dr Shehla Agarwal, Director and consultant dermatologist, Mehak-The Derma and Surgery Clinic