Several years ago, I did a post about the wonders of Epsom salt… and I do mean wonders! I couldn’t believe how many benefits you could gain from using this natural mineral compound of magnesium and sulfate. From a therapeutic bath soak to fertilizing your garden, this is a “salt” that no home should be without.

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Read More: The Wonders of Ordinary Epsom Salt

What is Epsom Salt ?

Epsom salt is a naturally occurring mineral called epsomite, made of magnesium sulfate. The magnesium content is why Epsom salt is such an appealing ingredient for a homemade body scrub. Magnesium helps energy levels, mood, insulin levels, blood pressure, inflammation, and you can find it in foods like avocado, cashews, salmon, and dark chocolate (yum). Unfortunately, most of the people in the US and Europe are deficient in magnesium.

Epsom Salt as an Exfoliant

The topical application of magnesium has worked wonders on the skin. Unlike other salts, Epsom salt‘s magnesium content counteracts with sodium (which causes drying) and promotes skin hydration. Its large crystals make it a more powerful exfoliator in a body scrub compared to a sugar scrub. When used on areas where your skin is thicker (like on your heels or other callused areas), it scrubs away dead skin cells and leaves your feet nice and smooth.

The moisturizing effects of Epsom salt combined with the fatty acids in coconut oil are perfect for fighting the effects of the dry climate in Utah.

My sensitive, dry skin always takes a beating with the change of seasons. I like to give my skin‘s surface a gentle exfoliation whenever I see dull skin staring at me when I look at the mirror in the morning. This body scrub exfoliates wonderfully, and the lavender essential oil helps soften and soothe my sensitive skin. I think you’ll love this scrub as much as I do!

Why a DIY Body Scrub?

You may wonder why I bother with a homemade body scrub. Not only is it far less expensive than buying one at the store, but I know every last natural ingredient that goes into it. Many skin conditions and problems are caused by using skincare products full of impurities, preservatives, and artificial fragrances.

And truth be told, it’s not that hard to make!

Today I’m sharing another way to use this miracle “salt,” and the recipe just so happens to incorporate another of my favorite products – coconut oil! I’ll show you how to combine Epsom salt, coconut oil, and essential oils to make a simple and effective exfoliating body scrub.

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Homemade Coconut Oil Salt Scrub

Ingredients:

Directions:

Add coconut oil and Epsom salt to a small bowl.

Add the lavender essential oil (or whichever essential oil you prefer) and mix with a spoon until well combined.

Store in a container with a tight-fitting lid until ready to use.

Note: The coconut oil can leave a slippery residue on the bottom of your shower if you’re not careful, so make sure to rinse the shower/tub thoroughly after you’re done using this scrub! You can also keep the oil from building up by using my homemade daily shower cleaner.

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Now I can get the magnesium boosting effects of Epsom salt, the moisturizing effects of coconut oil, and the skin calming effects of lavender all in one! And my skin is feeling softer and smoother already. :-)

Epsom Salt Alternatives

As wonderful as Epsom salt is, it is a strong exfoliant. If you have frail, thin, or overly sensitive skin, or have open wounds, you may want to try a gentler sugar scrub instead. Brown sugar is the least abrasive of the bunch, making it perfect for the face and other sensitive areas (like stretch marks and other sensitive scars). The crystals are smaller and create a more gentle cleanser. A coffee scrub (using fresh coffee grounds and a little brown sugar) would make another good alternative.

Coconut Oil Alternatives

If you are allergic to coconut oil, don’t like the scent, or really want to make sure you’re getting enough vitamin E, almond oil makes a fabulous substitute.

A note on facial exfoliation

Some people don’t want to exfoliate using abrasive salts and sugars, which I understand. However, I don’t recommend using glycolic acid to exfoliate your face. Not only do you need to be super careful to avoid chemical burns, but you really have to baby your skin afterward, and it can strip your skin of moisture. Use a more gentle cleaner or look into dermaplaning.

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