Body Scrubs

Mother's Day is two weeks away.  I thought I'd post a recipe that I love, and give you an idea for something that you could make for Mom that uses a lot of things you already have in your pantry, plus a few special ingredients.

Body scrubs are amazing!  They are all natural, and leave your skin feeling so soft.

A little advice, if you are going to add a scent to your scrub, do not use extracts, because I guarantee they will irritate the skin.  Instead, use oils.  You can find them at health-food stores in cosmetics or aromatherapy aisles.  Or, if you live in the Salt Lake area, you can go to Orson Gigi.  I personally love the chocolate.  A little bit of caution: these oils are very strong, so a little goes a long way!  Also, be sure to use sea salt (you can buy it in bulk at Costco or Sam's Club).  Regular table salt will also irritate the skin.

If you are thinking of doing this for a gift, a great idea is to buy a cute jar to store it in, and provide a little spoon to stir it up, since it will separate a little.  Also, it might be a good idea to provide a note that, if it is going to be used longer than a month, to store it in the fridge, since there is a risk of spoiling.  Another note, this is not meant for delicate areas of the body, such as the face.  You don't need to wash this scrub off--the oils will moisturize your skin, and leave a nice scent.  You will, however, want to rinse yourself and your shower off afterwards.

Okay, here's the recipe for the scrub:

1/2 c. sea salt
1 c. sugar
1/2 c. baking soda
1/2 c. canola oil (NOT vegetable oil!)
8 drops flavoring oil
1/2 c. cocoa (optional)

In a medium mixing bowl, combine salt, sugar, and baking soda.  Sift in the cocoa.  Mix them together.  In another container, mix together the oils.  Pour over the dry mixture.  Mix well, making sure it is fully blended.  Put in airtight container, and enjoy!

I have tried using all sugar (1 1/2 cups), since salt does burn if you use the scrub on a scratch or cut.

Good luck!  And to all you Moms, Happy Mother's Day!