Brown Sugar Jojoba Scrub

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Brown sugar body scrubs are sold in upscale beauty departments with a big markup - but when you look at the ingredient list, they're really not that complicated. So why not save yourself money and make sure you're getting only the most natural ingredients by whipping up your own scrub right there in your kitchen?

Ingredients:

• 1 cup granulated brown sugar (raw brown sugar might be too abrasive, though appropriate for calloused areas of the body)
• ½ cup jojoba oil (or extra virgin olive oil)
• 2 tablespoons honey

Directions:

Mix ingredients together in a bowl. To save the unused portion, transfer to plastic container with a tight-fitting lid. Make sure to store unused portion in cool, dry location and stir before reusing.

Pure, unprocessed brown sugar is derived from sugar cane juice, a natural source of glycolic acid. But even if you buy the more processed variety, the granular texture of brown sugar will help to remove dirt and toxins from the skin's outer layer, gently exfoliating dead cells. The scrub will also help improve blood flow to the skin's surface, while jojoba oil will sink in to replenish lost moisture. Honey will help to bind the ingredients while acting as a natural antimicrobial. Honey's healing powers have been valued since ancient times. Today modern science is rediscovering its dermatological benefits, including its enzymatic ability to stimulate new cell growth.

We're sweet on this beauty recipe not just for its results but also for the relaxing ritual of its application. The subtle molasses scent will remind you of oatmeal cookies, enlivening your senses while you invigorate your circulation and give your skin a healthy glow.