You're taking big steps, maybe even some huge strides: You're shopping at local, seasonal, taking care to buy organic... maybe you've even started using homemade household cleaners. But what about your skin? Unless you were a chemistry major, about half of the ingredients on your body wash container probably make no sense to you... luckily, that's an easy thing to change.

For Dry Skin: Homemade Moisturizing Exfoliant

I started making my own body wash because of my chronically dry skin. Everything I used, no matter how "specially made for dry skin" it was, seemed to leave my skin flaky and horribly dry. I mixed 1 part olive oil with 2 parts table salt to get a paste. You can also add 5 drops of organic essential oil to get a yummy smelling scrub. Those with sensitive skin should swap the salt for sugar or brown sugar.

To use, simply rub it gently onto affected areas, paying special attention to knees, elbows and the heels of your feet. Rinse it off under the shower. I use it once a week, twice in the winter.

For Daily Use: Castile Soap Body Wash

The exfoliant is great once a week, but use it every day, and your skin will soon grow irritated and greasy. For everyday use, a combination of three ingredients makes a great soap to use on your body and hands. Combine 1 cup liquid castile soap with 3 tablespoons oil (avocado or olive) and a couple of drops of essential oil. This soap can be used in the shower or placed in pumps and used as regular handsoap in your bathroom or kitchen.

For Acne: Two Treatments

For those suffering from acne and acne scars, two great treatments can be found in your kitchen! First, mix baking soda with filtered water until it forms a paste. Use it to treat acne by rubbing it gently into the skin and allowing it to sit for at least an hour.

When you're ready to rinse it off, consider a treatment of yogurt and honey: combine 3 tablespoons organic honey and 1 cup plain, organic yogurt. Slowly massage it into your skin and allow it to dry (this will take about 15-20 minutes). Run a warm bath (not hot) and soak for at least 20 minutes.

If you like these, try some other homemade recipes:

• Homemade Face Wash
• Homemade Moisturizer
• Homemade Henna
• Homemade Eye Cream

image: UvaFragola