Hibiscus Sugar Scrub with Ylang-Ylang

This DIY sugar scrub contains ground organic hibiscus petals which provide antioxidant benefits, aid in gentle exfoliation, and lend a lovely colour to this skin-nourishing scrub!

 

Hibiscus 

Hibiscus is not only a beautiful flower to look at, but it is often used in beauty products due to its concentration of antioxidants. Specifically, hibiscus flowers contain a class of flavonoids called anthocyanosides. These anthocyanosides can offer some protection against free radicals. Free radical damage can lead to inflammation, which in turn can trigger premature aging, so protecting the skin against free radicals is ideal.

Hibiscus also contains natural AHAs. AHAs can help offer some additional skin benefits, including:

  • Providing gentle exfoliation, leading to smoother more radiant skin
  • Encouraging cell turnover
  • Helping to diminish clogged pores
  • Removing the dead skin cells on the surface of your skin
  • Calming, sensitive inflamed skin
  • Encouraging faster skin cell turnover
  • Toning the skin thanks to astringent properties

However, as stated before, natural ingredients like hibiscus are not a substitute for professional treatments or properly formulated skincare products containing AHAs such as glycolic and lactic acid. You are unlikely to experience any of the drastic skin improvements you would get with properly formulated skincare products. That said, exfoliation will still provide you with some skin benefits.

 

Ylang-ylang Essential Oil

Ylang-ylang essential oil is derived from the gorgeous bright yellow tropical flowers that grow on the ylang-ylang (cananga) tree. Ylang-ylang, which is pronounced ee-lang ee-lang, is a common ingredient in many store-brand perfumes. The smell of ylang-ylang is reminiscent of warm, sweet vanilla with soft floral undertones.

Ylang-ylang essential oil is also touted as having a variety of mood-boosting benefits, including promoting relaxation, while others may find ylang-ylang’s intense aroma energizing. It is also reported to have aphrodisiac qualities. And like many essential oils, ylang-ylang has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can make it ideal for skin with minor irritations or inflammation. However, since all essential oils are potentially irritating, exercise caution when using them on sensitive skin.

 

Ingredients

  • 1 cup granulated organic sugar
  • 1/2 cup fractionated coconut oil (or regular coconut oil, depending on weather conditions)
  • 10 drops ylang-ylang extra essential oil
  • 1/4 cup organic hibiscus flowers 

Supplies

  • Glass bowl for mixing
  • Jar with lid for storage
  • Mortar and pestle for grinding flowers 

Instructions

  • Mix the granulated sugar and fractionated coconut oil in a large glass bowl until combined.
  • Add the ylang-ylang essential oil and mix thoroughly.
  • Grind your hibiscus petal using a mortar and pestle. Hibiscus petals can be abrasive if not ground finely, especially if you choose to use this scrub on your face. Also, if the hibiscus petals are too large, they will be more prone to clogging your drain.
  • Add your ground hibiscus to the scrub and mix to combine.
  • Transfer the scrub to a glass container or mason jar with an airtight lid.

 

Notes

Under proper storage conditions, this ylang-ylang and hibiscus sugar scrub should last up to 2 years. Please note that this scrub does not contain a preservative, so you should not allow any water to get into your jar. Allowing water into the jar will invite mold and bacterial growth, decreasing the shelf life significantly.

If you find this scrub either too oily or too dry, you can vary the sugar to oil ratio accordingly.

As always, when using essential oils in your DIY products, please consult your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, if you have any health conditions, or if you have sensitive skin.