Category Archives: Skin Care Routines

Skin Care

Whipped Butter Sugar Scrub (for skin)

Hey Maicurlies,

I am back with a highly anticipated skin DIY!

I did a poll on my YouTube Channel (click on the link if you haven’t already) to see what I should share next and my DIY Whipped Sugar Scrub got the most votes, so here we go!

Sugar scrubs can be used on the body and face to remove dead skin cells while promoting new glowing skin. It can help reduce bumps, blemishes, fade scars, reduce dark spots, clean up pores and promote healthier skin overall. Before delving into the details please not that I highly recommend only using brown sugar versus refined white sugar because the granules of brown sugar are less coarse and harsh on the skin, thus will not tear or cause damage. When using the scrub on your face, I suggest applying it no more than 1 – 2 times a week (daily use would be excessive). When it comes to your body, alternative days (works for me) however, I once again suggest daily use would be excessive.

Ingredients:

3 oz Mango Butter
0.6 oz Almond Oil
0.2 oz Lemon Juice
3.6 oz Brown (Cane) Sugar*
3 oz Raw African Black Soap
12 drops Peppermint Essential Oil

*I suggest using equal amounts Sugar to Butter and Oil, this way it won’t be too runny or hard on the skin.

Ingredient alternatives:

Mango butter can be replaced with another soft butter however, I highly recommend only using a soft butter that is not overly greasy. Almond oil and Peppermint Essential Oi (EO)l can be replaced with any carrier oil or EO of choice. (EO can be omitted altogether and should be in case you are pregnant)!

Ingredient benefits:

Mango butter is rich in fatty acids, antioxidants and contains anti-inflammatory properties. It contains vitamins A, C and E and is known to help ease skin conditions such as acne and eczema. The butter is effective in moisturizing dry skin and is said to help reduce the appearance of fine lines.

Almond Oil contains vitamin E and helps promote smooth, soft and supple skin. It is effective in keeping dry skin moisturized and known to help ease itchiness, reduces redness, relieves inflammation and can help skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema.

Brown (Cane) Sugar works at exfoliating the skin by removing dead skin cells, clearing out the skin’s pores, removing dirt as well as excess oils. It contains glycolic acid, which, is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that is known to help maintain healthy skin. Due to its exfoliating properties it can reduce the appearance of scars and dark areas (e.g. dark underarms, elbows and knees).

Raw African Black Soap contains anti-fungal, antibacterial and cleansing properties for the skin. It can help reduce the overproduction of oils (and in this mix will help maintain a level of oil and butter). It is moisturizing for the skin while soothing, it reduces irritations, blemishes and fine scars.

Peppermint Essential Oil Peppermint Oil has a soothing and cooling effect on the skin that leaves it feeling tingly and fresh. Its anti-bacterial and inflammatory properties is known to help fight acne and skin irritations. It is also known to help with blood circulation in the skin.(*Never use undiluted EO on the skin as it can lead to burning and itchiness).

Mixing Instructions & Use:

You want to place the butter, oil and lemon juice in a bowl and mix with a whisk for a few minutes until everything is well combined. light and fluffy. Fold in the sugar first before using the whisk in order to avoid sugar granules from being flung around the kitchen (it can get a little messy). The final step is to add in the Raw African Black Soap which, you need to grate first in order for it to be well mixed and distributed evenly in the scrub. Essential oil can be added as the last step (if used) and then the mix can be transferred into a disinfected airtight container.

When it comes to applying the scrub, please ensure that you have anti-slip stickers in your shower in order to avoid potentially falling (it can get really slippery). You want to start off with damp skin (for both your face and body) and gently using your fingertips rub the scrub onto your skin in circular motions (be gentle). You can rinse your body with a body wash post scrub (if you feel like you have too much butter/oil present and a face wash for your face). Please ensure that you use a dry and clean spoon to scoop out the scrub (don’t use wet fingers otherwise you are inviting bacteria growth) and make sure to close the lid. Once used always store the scrub in the fridge to help ensure it remains fresh for as long as possible.

So, that’s it! If you use this mix, please do let me know what you think and if you have any suggestions on what you would like me to share, let me know!

Maicurls

DIY “Liquid Gold” Serum for Skin (scalp & hair)

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Hello Maicurlies,

Liquid Gold

It has been a hot minute however, I hope you will forgive me with this new DIY mix that is for the SKIN!!! Yes I finally am back with a skin DIY. Ok fine, this can also be used on your scalp (which is part of your skin) and your hair as well but we will be focusing on the skin for this.

Ingredients/Tools Used:

0.5 oz Argan Oil
0.3 oz Grapeseed Oil
0.5 oz Fresh Aloe Vera Juice (AVJ)
0.2 oz Glycerin
3 capsules Vitamin E Oil
3 – 5 drops Alcohol Free Rose Fragrance (optional)
Bowl
Glass Container (with a dropper)
Spoon
Gloves (optional)

Ingredient alternatives:

Should you not have either Argan or Grapeseed oil, either one can be replaced with any lightweight oil (e.g. almond oil, jojoba oil etc). Store bought AVJ can be used in place of fresh Aloe Vera Juice. Should you not want to use glycerin, you can replace it with rose water.

Mixing:

All you have to do is put all the ingredients together in your bowl, stir and pour into your container!

Application:

I like to apply this after I have jumped out the shower without completly drying my skin. The mix helps to trap in moisture (water droplets) while adding moisture. It leaves me with soft, supple, moisturized, glowing and awesome smelling skin!

Ingredient benefits:

Argan Oil: is packed with nourishing and hydrating elements, especially for those with sensitive skin. It can help prevent stretch marks by improving the elasticity, has the ability to prevent the skin from getting dry and/or brittle during both the summer and winter months and leaves the you with a feeling of softness and smoothness.

Grapeseed Oil: an extremely light on the skin and therefore does not clog up pores. The oil has great moisturizing properties and can help regenerate new skin cells.

Fresh Aloe Vera Juice: contains nutrients, minerals, amino acids, active enzymes as well as a number of Vitamins. All of this makes it an effective skin conditioner and moisturizer. It helps cure flaky or dry skin as well as skin diseases such as eczema and psoriasis. AVJ is known to heal blisters, insect bites and itchy skin. Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, it is an effective acne fighting agent, reduces redness and is commonly used to help soothe sunburns. AVJ helps to restore the natural pH level of the skin and with the presence of antioxidants, it helps to hydrate, firm and combat premature aging.

Glycerin: a natural humectant that draws moisture onto the skin by extracting it out of the air. Apart from its ability to draw in moisture, it is also known to help retain moisture in the skin. This makes Glycerin a great agent in fighting rough, dry, irritated and dull skin. It also makes it an excellent skin plumping product that helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles and aging.

Vitamin E Oil: contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties, help soothe minor sunburns and if that wasn’t enough, the oil is also known to help fade scares and stretch marks if used consistently and frequently. (Can help extend the shelf life of a product but does not “preserve” any mixes).

Rose Fragrance: Use for the beautiful scent!

Let me know if you use this for your skin (scalp and/or hair).

Thanks

Maicurls

DIY: Itchy Dry Scalp Treatment (Protective Style Spray)

7 Replies

Hey Maicurlies,

I am back (finally, I know I have been away) with another DIY. This recipe is for the scalp and is helpful for those of us that suffer from an itchy, dry, irritated, flaky scalp especially when rocking a Protective Style (PS).

While rocking a PS, it can become a little difficult to maintain a healthy scalp while still keeping the integrity of the PS and this mix will hopefully make it easier to keep your scalp clean and healthy while attending to scalp issues. You are of course still going to wash your hair/scalp as normal however whenever you experience itchiness, dryness, irritations etc you can reach for this without having to over wash your scalp to try and sooth the issue.

Note: This mix can be used on your scalp even if you hair is not in a PS but this post was intended to focus on maintaining a healthy scalp care during PS mode.

Ingredients/Tools

1 oz Fresh Aloe Vera Juice
0.2 oz Apple Cider Vinegar (natural/organic)
0.5 oz Plain Water
5 drops Peppermint Essential Oil (EO)*
3 capsules Vitamin E Oil
Spray Bottle

*If you are pregnant please do not use any EO and always consult with your doctor/dermatologist if you are trying something new.

NOTE: This mix is not for medicinal purposes, it is simply for informational purposes. ALWAYS consult with a professional doctor/dermatologist prior to integrating anything new to your routine!

Ingredient Benefits:

Aloe Vera Juice – a natural humectant that attracts moisture in the air to the area applied (the scalp). It is packed with essential vitamins and minerals that helps to reduce dry itchiness on the scalp, stimulates hair growth and is said to help with very mild cases of Alopecia. It balances and conditions both the scalp and roots leaving no traces of “product” build-up, has natural astringent properties to leave you with a clean scalp and aids in moisturizing dry hair.

Apple Cider Vinegar – has natural astringent properties, while diluted (e.g. with water & AVJ) it provides the scalp and hair (roots) with an optimal pH level and is also known for its ability to remove product build up. It helps to not only remove product but also helps to close the pores on the scalp while at the same time closing the cuticle of the hair which provides it with shine.

Peppermint Essential Oil – has astringent properties as well which helps to eliminate product build up and to remove sweat and dirt on the scalp. It helps stimulate blood circulation in the scalp which in turns helps to promote hair growth. The oil is known for combating dry irritated scalps which can help eliminate dandruff. Due to its stimulating properties (it will make your scalp feel fresh and tingly) this can help tackle the issue of itchiness while at the same time cleansing the scalp to eliminate the problem all together.

Vitamin E Oil – in this mix it can help extend the shelf life of the spray (but does not work as a preservative!). The oil is packed with antioxidants that helps to moisturize the scalp, keeps it healthy, less prone to dryness and thus aids in the growth of healthy hair as well. It allows the hair to grow soft, full of shine and suppleness and also can aid in slowing down the onset of premature greying. The oil is known to help generate new skin cells which allows your scalp to remain healthy and thanks to its moisturizing and healing properties this allows for quicker and healthier hair growth.

Water – need I say more? H2o is a naturals best friend since it is a vital source of moisture for both the scalp and hair!

Additional Options/Ratio Alternatives:

The purpose of this mix is to help keep a clean and healthy scalp therefore it is advisable to use ingredients that have cleansing and moisturizing properties while not clogging up the pores of your scalp. Along with the ingredients above you could also add some Rose Water to this mix e.g 0.2 oz of Rose Water for additional moisturizing elements, soothing effects and a wonderful scent! Tea Tree Essential Oil is an alternative EO that can be used in place of Peppermint.

Mixing Method:

Combine all the ingredients together in your spray bottle and make sure to shake well before applying.

Application:

There are two methods that I highly recommend when applying the mix instead of simply spraying onto your roots/scalp. Either spray some clean ear cleaners (unused!) and run them along your partings. The other option is cotton pads/buds which is my favorite.

Storage:

It is highly recommended to store this mix in the fridge for no more than 1 – 1.5 months maximum but constantly check to make sure there is no nasty fungus growing (you will be able to tell especially if you use a see through spray bottle). Keeping it in the fridge also means that it will have a soothing effect on the scalp and will help close the cuticles of your roots and the pores on your scalp!

I would love to hear what you think! If you use a scalp spray (or try this one) please do let me know, I love hearing from you!

Thanks

Maicurls

Argan Oil For Healthy Hair (& Skin)

1 Reply

Hello Maicurlies,

Today’s post is all about my love for Argan Oil (Argania Spinosa) also known as Liquid Gold.

DSC04570 - Copy

What is Argan Oil:

Argan oil native to Morocco, is an organic product that is extracted from the kernels (nuts) of argan trees. Due to its nourishing and nutritional benefits it was/is an extremely popular ingredient in many cosmetic products and nothing is better than using it in its natural pure form!

Where Can I Get it?:

You can pick argan oil from Pharmacies, some grocery stores, Vitamin Stores and of course Online. (My sister brought me two bottles of Liquid Gold directly from the source). From what my sister told me she picked up the bottle from a local women’s group who work argan tree farms to help supplement their household. When I heard that I loved the oil a little more (thank you sis)!

Here are a few sources online that I would trust:

I have seen a number of hair care manufacturers that produce argan Oil however, I tend to say buy 100% natural pure oil versus something that claims to be argan oil but contains other ingredients as well (always check your labels). 9 times out of 10 a Brand Oil that is labeled with argan Oil but contains other oils usually means you are not really getting your monies worth! Having other oils in the bottle is not necessarily a bad thing but since it usually costs a bit of money to purchase anything with argan Oil on its label you want to know you are getting something out of the product. Many times companies that include a mix of oils also include other ingredients that you might not be aware of e.g. silicons (cones) and perhaps even the dreaded mineral oil/paraffinum liquidum. For some of us, cones are not a “bad” thing either however you need to keep in mind that cons are water insoluble which means, that you will need some kind of cleansing agent (e.g. shampoo) to get rid of them when you wash your hair in order to really remove product build up from products with cones in them. Cones do not penetrate the hair strands and do not contain any independent health benifits for the hair but what they are able to do is to provide shine, the feeling of softness and work as barriers- closing the cutilce of our hair which gives your hair a feeling of softness. It is the barrier effect that can sometimes cause issues for some of us. When it comes to paraffinum liquidum, I need to stress that I always suggest to stay away from products that includes paraffinum liquidum.

Argan Oil

Benefits of Argan Oil For Hair:

Argan oil is known to make the hair soft, smooth and shiny. Thanks to the antioxidants and essential fatty acids present in the oil It also has the ability to condition the hair, reduce frizz and improve the overall health of the hair. The oil is not only ideal to lock in moisture (apply after you have moisturized your hair) but since it is able to penetrate the hair strands to its core, it is able to provide the hair with nourishing properties from the inside out. Those with a dry, itchy or irritated scalp can benefit from using argan oil since it is known to help sooth the scalp. This is also beneficial for those that suffer from dandruff as it is easily absorbed into the scalps pores, providing moisturizing elements to the skin (scalp) and boost new skin cell growth.

Benefits of Argan Oil For Skin:

The oil is packed with vitamin A & vitamin E which are known for their healing abilities along with a high fatty acid content. It also has anti-oxidants properties, filled with Omega-6 fatty acids and linoleic acid all of which help with inflammation and moisturizing the skin. The vitamin E in the oil helps to boost the regeneration of new skin cells which helps to provide you with a youthful skin that “glows”. Those suffering with acne might benefit from using the oil to help sooth the skin and heal blemishes. Argan oil can be used on your whole body (including your face) and since it is a non-greasy oil it quickly is absorbed into the skin. The application of the oil on your skin can help reduce the appearance of fine lines, light stretch marks, razor burns/bumps and can even be used to help soften dry and cracked heals, dry hands and brittle nails. Those that suffer from dry cracked lips (e.g. yours truly) can apply a drop of oil on your lips to help heal cracks, keep your lips soft, smooth, moisturized and conditioned.

How I Use Argan Oil:

Since the oil is not particularly cheap (and the two I got where gifts from Morocco) I use them sparingly and choose not to experiment with the oil or blend it in with some of my DIY mixes. Instead, I like to use it as a scalp massage oil in the morning or as part of the L.O.C method (liquid/leave-in, Oil, Cream) when I moisturize my hair. (I have details on the L.O.C method here). I am also using it for my skin as well as my super dry lips!

Do you use argan oil? If so, do you use it for your hair and/or skin? I would love to hear from you!

Thanks

Maicurls

Product Review: Petra Uplifting Sea Salt Scrub

3 Replies

Hey Maicurlies,

Today I have a product review for the skin.

Petra Salt Scrub Product Review

I became aware of this baby while I was out of the country in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE). I was approached by a lovely sales lady to do a sample test and I (almost unwillingly) agreed. She took my shopping bags off my arms to help me out, talked to me about the product, explained what it contained and started the product sampling. She first washed my hands, scooped out a tiny bit of the scrub, gently rubbed it into the back of my hands. She let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing off, patting my hands dry and asked me “how does your skin feel”? With a big smile on my face I said “soft, smooth & lovely”! And I was hooked!

Petra Uplifting Sea Salt Scrub

Now, given as far as I can tell you can only purchase this bad boy from UAE (there might be a chance to purchase online by contacting them on their Facebook page but I can not be sure and therefore can not guarantee this). I just wanted to share in case some of you pass through the area or have friends/family passing through, living there that can pick up a scrub for you if you are interested to try it.

Product Details:

Ingredient List

Size: 17.63 oz – 500grams

Cost: At the time it cost 200 Dirhams but I paid 150 Dirhams after a discount ($54 but I paid $40, In Euros It was €47 but I paid €35 )

Ingredients:

Maris Sal (Dead Sea Salt)
Prunus Amygdalus (Sweet Almond) Fruit Oil
Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Oil
Mangifera Indica Extract Actinidia Chinensis (Mango-Kiwi) Extract
Halianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
Cl 61565 (colour)

Paraben Free and not tested on animals.

Smell: It smells divine! It really does smell so good, fresh, refreshing and with a hint of sweetness. (There was a Coconut and Vanilla option which smelt good as well but I preferred the Mango – Kiwi scrub).

Feel: The grains of sea salt are really small and finely exfoliate the skin without tearing or feeling coarse. While you massage the scrub on your skin it feels amazingly relaxing. The oil helps to leave the skin feel smooth after exfoliating without leaving a feeling of greasiness.

Colour: There is colour added to this scrub (Cl 61565) which gives it a bluish/green/aqua blue colour which is very pretty. The Coconut scrub has a slightly different colour, it is pale/Almost white in comparison to this one.

Petra Sea Salt Scrub

How To Use:

I was told by the sales lady that the scrub can be used on both your face and body but you need to be extra careful when using it on your face. Avoid getting it near your eyes (the skin under your eyes) and DO NOT get it in your eyes, the salt will burn! If you do get it in your eyes rinse with clean warm water. You want to apply the scrub onto damp skin and gently massage in a circular motion and rinse with warm water. You should only apply this 1 time a week maximum 2 times a week. (My suggestion is to start once a week and then decide if your skin will need an additional session). You might actually feel like your skin doesn’t need a moisturizer after the scrub thanks to it feeling so soft and smooth but you should so you provide extra moisture to your new skin cells.

Instructions

Benefits of (Dead Sea) Salt Scrubs:

Salt scrubs helps to exfoliate the skin of dead skin cells.
Stimulates blood flow to the skin which helps to generate the growth of new skin cells, reducing the appearance of wrinkles leaving the skin looking young & fresh.
Dead Sea Salt scrubs are said to be particularly beneficial for those suffering from psoriasis and eczema thanks to the natural minerals.
Dead Sea Salt can assist in detoxifying, improving circulation and suppleness of the skin which is said to help reduce the appearance of Cellulitis.

As I mentioned this product seems to only be available in the United Arab Emirates however if you happen to be in the country (or your family/friends) hopefully you will remember this review and will go for a test in order to decide if you want to buy one for yourself!

P.S let me know if you like these types of reviews, i do have a few products I buy for my hair/skin which I can review.

Thanks

Maicurls

My DIY Coconut Moisturizer Video

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Greetings Maicurlies,

I have another Skin Care video up on YouTube!

Yes another one I know! I just wanted to show you how I actually make my current favorite winter Moisturizer. It is simple to make and does not take too long either. Here are the ingredients

Virgin Coconut Oil with 5 drops of Essential Oil (the Essential Oil is optional)
Lemon peel infused Almond Oil
Glycerin
Vitamin E Oil

I have a link to my Video here as well as write up of my recipe and process if you prefer to read about it linked here.

One thing to keep in mind is that a little of this goes a really really long way so use it sparingly. I use the moisturizer for both my face and body and only need to apply it once a day and prefer to do so at night, this way I know it gets absorbed into my skin before applying anything like makeup.

I hope you like it!

Thanks

Maicurls

Aloe Vera Juice For Hair, Health and Skin

2 Replies

Hi Maicurlies,

This is going to be more of a “I’m so excited I had to share” post! If you have not already noticed I am a big fan of Aloe Vera and with good reason too (if you ask me.) I do not want to repeat myself but it is great for our hair and skin.

Some people will actually add AVJ to their drinks because when ingested it is known to help:

Indigestion
Detoxify the body of toxins
Boost the immune system
Increase energy levels …and much more

Keep in mind that it is known to be a “mild laxative” and is also known to lower blood sugar levels therefore you should consult your doctor/physician before consuming AVJ.

Now when it comes to our hair AVJ is known to:

Maintain the pH level of the hair and scalp
Promote Hair Growth
Eliminate itchy scalp and scalp dryness
Reduce hair loss
Reduce Dandruff
Acts as a conditioning agent
Restore shine and luster
Help fight against Alopecia

As a skin care agent AVJ is known to:

Prevent early signs of ageing
Reduce irritations caused by shaving
Help keep the skin supple and rejuvenated
Heal small cuts and wounds
Sooth insect bites
Brighten and reduces blemishes
Reduce hyper pigmentation
Moisturise the skin
Remove dead cells
heals cuts and wounds, dermatitis and also insect bites

I honestly just wanted to showcase the fact that I got not one but two HUGE plants and one little one!

I normally would “borrow” a few leafs from my mother’s plant whenever I could so I finally decided to get some and here are a few pictures of the leafs I cut.

Freshly Cut Aloe Vera

Split down the middle

Cut open and then scrape out the pulp

Look at how HUGE they are! I am so excited.

The “baby” plant needs TLC in order for it to grow but grow it shall!

Alright enough raving for today!

P.S. I have already touched upon the benefits of AVJ and how I use it in my DIY Hair Gel and my DIY Creamy Leave-In Conditioner and Spray Leave-In Conditioner.

Thanks

Maicurls

IMPORTANT! I am not a Doctor, Physician nor a Cosmetologist. I am just providing information for educational purposes and any use thereof is solely at your own risk. The information contained herein is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment in any manner. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding any medical condition. Once you have done that, do patch tests before you put anything all over your head or skin. Please consider this as my advice. You are responsible if you choose to follow some of my methods.

Daily Skin Care Routine (Night Time) is Up on YouTube

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Hey Maicurlies,

Image courtesy of Akeeris / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

I finally have a video up on YouTube covering my current Daily Night Time Routine. I have also loaded the video up on my Blog here. Apart from the video I have a write-up of the “products” I use and how I use them under the Mai Skin Routine Section. For my routine I like to:

I have oily-sensitive skin and a lot of the store bought products I have used in the past have either done great to stop the oiliness but reeked havoc on my sensitive skin or I would end up with extremely dry skin, break out in rashes or spots. So in order to avoid all that I started researching and trying out natural products. My skin is loving the more natural approach! I am the kind of person who likes to have choices (at least two) so I recently picked up a new product Rose Water that I use as a toner and let me tell you… I LOVE it, my skin LOVES it and I am happy! I actually like using Rose Water a lot more compared to what I have been using Apple Cider Vinegar and Water. Rose Water carries with it a lot of nourishing and toning properties and it smell 100x better! I will have a write-up on the Rose Water soon.

I would love to know what your night time routine is for your skin!

Thanks

Maicurls

Apologies For Being M.I.A

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Hi Maicurlies,

I know I have been a little absent as of late but I had some Internet issues! I HATE Internet issues….I think I might actually be a little too attached/addicted to the World Wide Web! But I’m baaaaack! I did manage to make a few videos and some write-ups, I just need to edit the videos a little. I shall have a new Skin Care Routine Video up shortly along with a few new styling videos and write-ups to go with them. I also finally got my new workout program going… I have been slacking on the workout part. (I shall elaborate in the post.)

So I am sorry for being slow but I should be back on track now! I will keep you posted when everything gets loaded up!

Enjoy your weekend Maicurlies!

Maicurls

DIY Face & Body Sugar Scrub up on YouTube

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Good Evening all!

While I already had the write-up of my Sugarcane Sugar Scrub already up on my blog here I did not have my video made yet. I finally started making some skin care videos and have loaded up my Scrub video on YouTube and also linked the video here in my blog.

This scrub can have so many variations in terms of the ingredients used so please feel free to replace certain ingredients to change things up (if you want.) E.g. Peppermint Essential Oil, Tea Tree Oil. Or use Molasses instead of Pure Honey. You of course can add ingredients too like coffee granules, orange zest…the list is endless!

I hope you enjoy the video and have fun making the scrub (I love making it for family, friends and myself of course!)

Thanks

Maicurls