Sugar is used in cosmetics for its exfoliating and moisturizing properties. Sugar scrubs are great for exfoliating your face and body. You can make your own simple scrub by mixing sugar and oil to form a loose paste, or you can get a little fancier with recipes like this one for Sweet Vanilla Sugar Scrub from Thank Your Body.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ⅓ cup olive oil (you can substitute avocado, almond, or coconut oil as well)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• ¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract (you could also use 5–10 drops of your favorite essential oil)
• ½ teaspoon vitamin E oil (like this)

Directions:
Mix all ingredients in a small bowl until well combined.

To use:
Apply the sugar scrub to your face, neck and throat. You might even want to use some on your hands to slough off dry or dead skin. Be careful not to scrub vigorously. Use a circular motion and work the scrub into your forehead, cheeks, chin and neck. Avoid the eye area completely. This skin is delicate and should never be exfoliated with a scrub.

Rinse the face using warm water and finish with a nice cool splash of water to close pores.

Of course, you can use this scrub on your whole body, too. Always finish with a cool rinse and pat skin dry with a clean towel.