Exfoliation is so important because it helps remove dead skin from the surface and improves overall skin tone. I feel that something special happens when you mix essentials oils into an exfoliating scrub: the scent from the essential oils and the resulting texture is really satisfying to your skin.

The most common exfoliating scrubs are made with salt, sugar or coffee. I love to use natural sea salt; himalayan pink salt is my favourite as it adds an extra boost of nutrients. Sugar is known for being gentle on sensitive skin and yes, coffee is known for its detoxifying effects on the skin.

I'd like to share seven vital tips to consider before starting:

• Use the appropriate dilution
• Apply products in the right order
• Use a patch test to rule out any reactions or sensitivities
• Never apply essential oils near your eyes
• Avoid direct sunlight, especially after using citrus oils
• Make sure to use skin-safe essential oils
• Avoid storing essential oils in plastic containers, as the essentials are very potent and can degrade the plastic

Citrus scrub

• 10–20 tsp carrier oil (sweet almond, grapeseed, avocado or wheat germ)
• 5 drops orange essential oil
• 10 drops grapefruit essential oil
• 5 drops lemon essential oil
• One cup scrub (your choice of salt, coffee or sugar)

Mint scrub

• 10–20 tsp of carrier oil (sweet almond, grapeseed, avocado or wheat germ)
• 7 drops Peppermint essential oil
• 7 drops spearmint essential oil
• One cup scrub (your choice of salt, coffee or sugar)

Cinnamon lip scrub

• 1 tsp grape seed oil
• 1 tsp brown sugar
• 1 drop cinnamon oil

Combine ingredients in a small bowl and mix until blended. The mixture will have a pasty texture. Rub a small amount on lips for about a minute to exfoliate and soften. Wipe and rinse lips clean.

1. Measure one cup of your choice of exfoliation base (salt, sugar or coffee) and put in a mixing bowl or a Mason Jar.
2. Add up to 20 tsp of carrier oil and 5–20 drops of essential oils.
3. I like to add the essential oil last and apply it right on top of the carrier oil; I find that it incorporates into the scrub mixture better this way.
4. Mix until the scrub is coated with oil.
5. Store in a glass or metal container.

The good news with this one is that, since this scrub recipe doesn't contain water, it can last up to six months.