Vanilla & Coconut Oil Body Scrub

We're well in to our summer here and we have been lucky enough to enjoy a lot of good weather recently i.e. more than 2 consecutive days of sunshine! People in Ireland tend to shed their clothes and sun bathe in temperatures most other countries wouldn't even consider shorts but the sun has been consistent and there are fewer pasty bodies about Belfast these days. It's great to see freckles appear on my face and a real life tan developing naturally but with tan comes great responsibility. Peeling skin ain't a good look for anyone and I've discovered how important exfoliation is in maintaining (i.e. clinging on to) this tan for as long as I can. By giving your body a good scrub, you're exposing newer skin cells that are better at absorbing the sun and keeping the tan. Just make sure to keep moisturised and your skin protected! I decided to make my own body scrub because the 3 ingredients I needed didn't require me to leave the house - win!! It is also very easy to make and it's a great idea to give as a gift to anyone who might be heading away on holiday. It's inspired me to make mini versions for lip scrub as well! If you want to have a whirl at making your own body scrub just follow the below instructions... Ingredients

• 1 cup of solid coconut oil
• 2 cups brown sugar
• 1 tbsp vanilla extra

• Combine all ingredients in a bowl and use a hand mixer to whip up the ingredients so they look creamy
• Make sure not to whip for too long or the mixture will separate - if this happens you can pop it in the freezer for a bit
• Pop the mixture in to your containers
• Et vóila! Get to scrubbin'!

Seriously it is that easy. And surprisingly tasty! Although try to save it for your skin ;)