Spas has become very popular in the country in recent years. And many Filipinos who have become more concerned about their health have embraced going to spas as part of their wellness routine. Indeed, today, spas offer not only relaxation for tired bodies, but over-all wellness for the health-conscious. Organic is the way to go.
Establishments boast of body scrub treatments that use all-natural ingredients—consumers are now wary of harmful chemicals that can be found in many beauty and “wellness” products in the market. But take caution, not all products labeled as natural are as safe as they claim to be.
To be sure that you're giving only the best to yourself, why not bring the spa to your home? Make your own all-natural spa products in your kitchen! That’s right—everything you need is most likely already in your kitchen cupboard. You can start with these:
Ever wondered why a lot of spas offer coffee scrubs? Coffee grounds have exfoliating properties and are great for removing dead skin cells; revealing a healthier, younger-looking, and firmer skin. Not only that, a coffee body scrub also promotes blood circulation, which helps to replenish your skin’s lost nutrients.
Don’t waste that ground coffee left in your coffeemaker when you finish your coffee. Here’s a simple recipe so you can make your own coffee scrub and get that fresh-from-the-spa feeling in the comforts of your home.
You need:
½ cup used ground coffee
½ cup coconut oil
½ cup brown sugar
3 tbsp lemon juice or calamansi juice
Instructions: Mix everything and transfer into a container. You can either refrigerate the mix or use it immediately.
2. Sugar
Sugar might be bad for your diet, but not on your skin. It contains glycolic acid that promotes skin cell exfoliation and regeneration—it can make your skin as smooth and tight as a baby’s cheek! It also keeps your skin hydrated by absorbing moisture from the environment and locking it into your skin during a scrub. Here’s how to create your own mixture:
You need:
½ cup coconut oil
1 cup sugar
3 tbsp lemon juice or calamansi juice
Tea leaves from a used tea bag
Instructions: Mix everything and apply the mixture to your skin after bathing. Remember to not use lotion after scrubbing. Let your skin breathe a little and don’t suffocate it with too much moisture.
Did you know that coconut milk can help reduce wrinkles and enhance skin elasticity? Coconut milk has Vitamin C and copper that help make skin look tight and plump! It can also help keep your hair moisturized (not oily!) and shiny because of its moisturizing properties. Here’s how you can make your own moisturizer using coconut milk:
You need:
½ cup coconut milk
¼ cup honey
¼ cup whole wheat flour
Instructions: Mix everything and apply the mixture to your face; let stand for 15 minutes before rinsing with warm water.
There you have it—your very own spa in your kitchen! Well, at least you have what you need; organic and all-natural scrubs and moisturizer that you’re absolutely sure are safe and good for your body. All you need left is a willing companion to help you with the scrubbing. (Or maybe not?)
Although organic ingredients do have benefits for your skin, you must not forget that too much of anything is not good. Too much scrubbing or exfoliating will strip your skin of its natural oils. When that happens, your skin becomes vulnerable to germs and gets exposed to harmful chemicals in the air.
Exfoliate or scrub more during hot days or in the summer; scrub less during the colder season because your skin gets easily dry in cold weather. Facial treatments or any other spa treatment should always be done in moderation, unless you have a special condition that needs frequent treatments or as advised by your doctor or dermatologist. Consult your doctor if you plan to get treatments more often. Remember that it’s wellness you’re after, after all!
Christine graduated from UST with a degree in Literature. In her spare time, she researches for recipes she can cook or reads philosophy books. She loves SEO, prefers tea over coffee, and is very fond of dogs and cats. She’s forever in a relationship with food and exercise. She plans on pursuing a Master’s degree or entering law school next semester.
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