The perfect facial scrub and cleanser for our skin types are hard to come by, especially at a reasonable price. Many of these products are contain ingredients that are foreign to us: sodium lauryl sulfate, ammonium laureth sulfate, stearic acid and more. While some may know what these ingredients are, most of us feel they are rather harsh and unnecessary.

There are also ingredients that many know to avoid when using a cleanser or facial scrub. Alcohol is used in many facial products as a base ingredient to lighten the weight of thick products. However, alcohol is a harsh ingredient that breaks down the skin’s natural oils and barrier. This can leave the skin dry which can trigger an overproduction of your skin’s natural oils. You want to avoid alcohol in your facial products if it results in dry or oily skin. Secondly, Parabens are used as preservatives in most cosmetics and skin care products. Although the FDA feels the use of parabens in beauty products is not to be concerned about, many people fear that it can increase breast cancer risk since parabens mimic estrogen.

There are so many unknowns out there about our skin care products it can cause hesitation before applying to our skin. However, there are some amazing recipes that are all-natural and can be easily made from your home!

Here are some of the best all-natural, homemade facial scrub and cleanser recipes:

Cucumber Yogurt Facial Cleanser

The cucumber relaxes and soothes your skin which results in soft and cool skin. The yogurt in this cleanser acts as a better moisturizer for irritable skin while fighting acne, reducing discoloration and prevents aging. This cucumber based facial cleanser is blended in a food processor and left on your skin like a mask for 5 minutes. Rinse with warm water and moisturize.

Ingredients

• ½ cup plain yogurt
• ½ cucumber (peeled and deseeded)
• 5 mint leaves

Oatmeal Facial Scrub

The oatmeal in this facial scrub takes on many properties for your skin. Many believe oatmeal is a natural remedy to acne. Oatmeal can also soothe dry and irritated skin. Some even believe oatmeal is great for your dog’s itchy and dry skin. Mix ingredients in a bowl, apply to skin in a circular motion for 30-60 seconds. Rinse with warm water and moisturize.

Ingredients

• 1 cup oatmeal (non-instant, finely grounded)
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp of sweet almond, coconut or olive oil (add more drops if mixture is un-spreadable)
• 2 tbsp of whole or 2% milk
• 1 egg white

Lemon Juice Facial Cleanser

The lemon in this cleanser acts as a disinfectant, killing bacteria and removing dirt on your skin. The lemon juice and oatmeal also absorbs excess oils to prevent your face becoming extra oily. Also, the lemon’s citric acid can help fade dark spots to even out your skin tone. Mix ingredients in a bowl and massage into the skin for 30-60 seconds. Rinse with warm water and moisturize.

Ingredients

• ½ cup rolled oats
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
• ¼ cup water
• ½ tablespoon honey

Brown Sugar and Honey Facial Scrub

This scrub is easy and simple to make. The brown sugar acts as an exfoliator to help open up your pores and improve sun damage. The honey is great for acne treatment and prevention, anti-aging, creates a glow, and easily unclogs pores. Mix ingredients in a bowl and apply to skin in circular motions for 1-2 minutes. Rinse with warm water and moisturize.

Ingredients

• ½ cup honey
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp olive or coconut oil
• 1 drop of essential oil