Epsom Salts for lovely skin and good health!

Epsom salt is a fabulous, cheap skin saver for the cold winter months that are coming faster than I like to admit! Epsom salt is actually magnesium sulfate, a mineral that helps skin retain moisture, eliminate toxins and helps relieve stress. Most people are slightly deficient in magnesium and soaking in epsom salt is a great way to elevate body levels as magnesium is absorbed easily though the skin.

One of the simplest ways to use epsom salts is simply to add them to a warm bath, then hop in and enjoy!  It can also be used to increase circulation if used as a body scrub, or as a mask. Epsom salt is one of my favorite beauty tricks because it's so inexpensive - I buy the big cartons from the local drugstore for just a few dollars and then never feel guilty adding them to every bath I have with different essential oils depending on my mood!

Sheknows.com posted a make-at-home "shower smoothie" from celebrity skin care guru Ole Henriksen. Henriksen says exfoliation leaves the skin luminous, smooth and soft in texture, and it also helps removes any excess dead skin, allowing for better absorption and easier application of skin care products.

You need: 1/2 cup of Epsom salt, 1/2 cup coffee grounds, 1 teaspoon eucalyptus oil and enough sesame oil to form a smooth paste.

1. Mix the Epsom salt and coffee grounds in a medium bowl, then add the oils and stir until you have a smooth paste.
2. In the shower, get wet and turn off the water. Use the entire palm of each hand to vigorously scrub your body for several minutes, from your neck to your feet.
3. Afterwards, just rinse. Your skin will feel smooth, and you'll notice a lifting and tightening of the skin. 

"Epsom salt has amazing detoxifying properties and melts into the skin when activated by ingredients in my recipes," Henriksen says. "The texture of Epsom salt is firm, yet very smooth to the touch. This makes the exfoliation process comfortable for all skin types."