If natural, radiant beauty is what you're going for then exfoliating on a consistent basis must be a part of your skin care routine. This is not optional folks. You need to get rid of that top layer because that dead, flaky skin that rests on top will prevent you from reaping the benefits of your products. With proper exfoliation you'll have fewer clogged pores and that means fewer pimples and blackheads. Isn't that what you want?

Now that you know how important it is to exfoliate; which natural exfoliant should you choose? We're going to reveal a number natural ingredients that are amazing natural exfoliators plus easy, DIY homemade recipes you can try.

1. Almonds

Ground almonds are great for mature skin and will leave your skin nourished and hydrated. The fine grains gently exfoliate and the oil in the almonds provide the skin with vitamins A and E.

How to use it:

1. Add 1 tbsp of almond powder into a small bowl.
2. Add water until it reaches a paste-like texture.
3. Spread the mixture all over your clean face and exfoliate your face and neck, avoiding the eye area. If your skin is a little sensitive add more water to the mixture.
4. Rinse with lukewarm water.
5. Finish off with your favorite toner, serum, and moisturizer.
6. The almond powder will exfoliate the skin without leaving any residue behind.

All face exfoliants must be applied with a gentle circular motion. Remember that the body can handle more aggressive manual exfoliation; not the face.

2. Baking Soda and 3. Manuka Honey

Almost everyone has baking soda in their home and just like sea salt this one is super easy to use.

DIY Baking Soda Face Scrub

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp. Baking soda
• 3 tbsp. Water
• Organic Manuka honey (optional)

Instructions

1. Add baking soda and water into a small bowl. Mix it until it reaches a paste-like texture.
2. Spread the mixture all over your clean face and exfoliate your face and neck, avoiding the eye area.
3. Rinse with lukewarm water.
4. Finish off with your favorite toner, serum, and moisturizer.
5. Add to a small amount of water, the almond powder will exfoliate the skin without leaving behind any residue.
6. If you want to create a spa-like experience, combine one teaspoon of baking soda with one teaspoon of honey in your palm, and then rub together. Massage in circular motions all over your face, and then let it sit for a minute like a mask before rinsing it off with lukewarm water.

Why you'll love Manuka honey

• It is a powerful antibacterial. It kills bacteria that can infect pores and cause acne, leading to fewer breakouts.
• Your pimples will look less red and inflamed since its anti-inflammatory which helps to decrease acne inflammation.
• A natural exfoliant designed to slough off dead skin cells so you avoid clogged pores that ultimately lead to more blackheads and whiteheads.
• It's soothing, hydrating and moisturizing.
• Speeds up recovery from old acne scars.

4. Coffee Grounds

Are you a coffee lover? Before you throw out those grounds after brewing your morning beverage, give this DIY a try.

If you suffer from inflamed, sensitive or uneven skin tone, a coffee scrub can help calm your skin, with the super antioxidants working to keep it balanced and healthy.

DIY Spring Coffee Scrub

Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons coffee grounds
• 2 tablespoons white sugar
• 3 tablespoons sweet almond oil
• 10 drops grapefruit essential oil
• 10 drops rosemary essential oil
• 2 drops of peppermint essential oil (for the feet only)

Instructions

• Mix all ingredients together in a glass bowl.
• Pour the ingredients in a mason jar.
• When you're ready to use it scoop the desired amount as a body scrub, hand scrub or foot scrub.
• Massage the scrub into your skin for 10 - 15 minutes.
• Rinse and finish off with Pure Fiji's Hydrating Body Lotion.
• Be mindful that the coconut oil will leave your shower a little slippery.

Getting rid of cellulite is not just about sloughing off dry patches of skin but it also requires a healthy diet (no sugar, no wheat, no dairy) and of course good old exercise.

TIP: If you are using it for achy feet add two drops peppermint essential oil.

5. Flaxseeds

If you're going for a gentle exfoliation we recommend ground flaxseeds. They're packed with anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids and help to quench the skin. It's also safe for acne-prone skin. And when you combine it with honey's antibacterial properties, it's a winning combination.

DIY Cinnamon Flaxseed Exfoliating Face Mask

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons ground flaxseed
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon honey

Instructions

• Pour and mix all ingredients into a glass bowl.
• Apply to face for 10 minutes.
• Rinse with lukewarm water.
• Finish off with your favorite toner, serum, and moisturizer.

6. Oatmeal

Oatmeal scrubs work extremely well for all skin types because it's soothing to the skin especially if it's finely grinded.

DIY Soothing Oatmeal & Milk Face Scrub

Ingredients

• ½ cup finely ground oatmeal
• 1/4 cup powdered milk
• 1 teaspoon cornmeal
• Water

Instructions

• Place all the dry ingredients in a plastic bag and shake vigorously.
• Pour the ingredients into a bowl.
• When you're ready to use it take 1 tablespoon of the dry mixture into your palm and add a few drops of water to create a paste.
• Massage over the face and neck.
• Rinse with lukewarm water.
• Finish off with your favorite toner, serum, and moisturizer.

7. Sea Salt and 8. Coconut Oil

Sea salt granules are large and coarse and since they don't dissolve quickly they make a great exfoliant for the rougher parts of your body, like the knees, elbows and feet. Plus it's not sticky!

Those who have sensitive skin should skip sea salt altogether.

The fats in coconut oil moisturize while its lauric acid protects and softens skin. It's also an antiseptic and helps maintain a healthy pH level in the skin.

DIY All-Natural Coconut Oil Salt Scrub Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Pure Fiji Exotic Bath and Body Oil
• 1 cup epsom salts
• 10 drops of your favorite essential oils

Instructions

• Mix all ingredients together in a glass bowl.
• Pour the ingredients in a mason jar.
• When you're ready to use it scoop the desired amount out and use as a body scrub, hand scrub or foot scrub.
• Be mindful that the coconut oil will leave your shower a little slippery.

9. Yogurt

Lactic acid exfoliates to reveal radiant skin while the fats and proteins plump up fine lines so definitely go for full-fat versions.

DIY Brightening Yogurt Face Mask

• 2 tablespoons of plain organic yogurt
• 1-2 teaspoons of Manuka honey
• Squeeze of lemon juice
• Handful of organic blueberries

Instructions

Blend ingredients together until you get a creamy paste.

• Massage over the face and neck.
• Leave on for 20 minutes.
• Rinse with lukewarm water.
• Finish off with your favorite Pure Fiji toner, serum, and moisturizer.
• Remember to use sun protection since the lemon will make you photosensitive to the sun.

Summary

Depending on your skin condition using an exfoliant one to three times a week is one of the best ways to keep your skin healthy and young-looking. Avoid being rough on your skin especially your face. Scrubbing your face too hard or too often can result in irritated skin, and redness. And that is definitely not the look you're going for. Enjoy these DIY homemade exfoliators and if you'd rather not make your own natural exfoliators make sure to check out Pure Fiji's award winning natural skin care products.