Homemade scrubs to pamper yourself this weekend

For the face

Three ingredients — olive oil (2 tbsp), brown sugar (2 tbsp), and cinnamon (1/2 tsp) — are all you need to become a DIY facialist. Since the skin on the face tends to be extremely sensitive and delicate, you need to be as gentle as possible and treat it with care. Sugar is a great exfoliator but always opt for brown sugar as it’s softer on the face. Sugar contains glycol acid, which increases luminosity of the skin, while olive oil works as an antibacterial and hydrates the skin. The addition of cinnamon powder isn't just for its warming fragrance, but it also prevents signs of ageing and makes the skin look plumper. To make the scrub: Mix all ingredients together and apply a small amount onto dry skin. Wet your fingers and gently massage the scrub over your face in a circular motion while focusing on the forehead, nose and chin and avoiding the under-eye area. Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry. The results are baby-soft skin.

Frequency: two times a week

For the body

Coffee is as wonderful a pick-me-up for your skin as it is for you. The simulating effects of caffeine work to improve blood flow, which in turn tightens the skin and makes cellulite less obvious. Add some coconut or almond oil to ground coffee or instant coffee powder and you’ve doubled the benefits as the former is rich in fatty acids and is highly moisturising, while the latter is suitable for any skin type. To make the scrub: Combine coffee with either almond or coconut oil (1:1 ratio). Mix well. Apply the mixture on damp skin. Gently scrub in a circular motion; start from the ankles and move upwards towards the shoulders. Rinse with lukewarm water, pat dry, and apply your favourite body lotion. Over time, the skin will feel softer and smoother, plus it helps get rid of ingrown hair.

Frequency: once a week

For the feet

We generally tend to forget about our feet, but it's about time you show them some love. Calluses and cracked heels are issues that can be resolved with the help of a foot scrub. The main exfoliant in this scrub is sugar (1/2 cup) and it is combined with ingredients like baking soda (1 tsp), which is known for its antibacterial properties; and a hydrating combination of honey (1tsp), and olive oil (1 tsp). Forget fancy foot treatments and do the following to get your feet sandal-ready this season. Mix all ingredients to form a thick paste. Apply to damp feet and rub in a circular motion, concentrating on the rough parts. For best results: Soak your feet in lukewarm water for 5-10 minutes before using the scrub. Rinse and pat dry.

Frequency: three times a week

For some, exfoliating is also a form of self-care because while you massage the scrub on to your skin, you don’t just get rid of dead cells, you also increase circulation, plus the sense of touch has a calming effect and reduces stress. If you don’t have enough time to make your own scrubs, opt for store-bought ones, but don't rob yourself of the ritual. The plus point: it gives you extra time in the shower. Some of the ingredients to look out for on labels include:

Charcoal

Beauty products with activated charcoal have been one of the most exciting discoveries in recent years and with good reason. The carbon molecules in these products attract oil and dirt from pores. The outcome: clear skin, especially for those with oily or acne-prone skin.

Rice

Other than exfoliating, rice also works as a polish to clear blemishes, lighten the skin, and manage uneven skin tone. It is also popular because of its anti-ageing and anti-inflammatory properties.

Salt

Whether it’s Epsom, Himalayan or regular table salt, salts are packed with minerals that brighten and strengthen the skin. In scrubs, salt plays a twofold role: it exfoliates and restores hydration.