DIY: You beauties

Pantry staples can make some pretty impressive beauty products. All you have to do is get a little crafty, then relax and soak up the results.

1 AN ENERGISING BODY SCRUB

Sea salt probably springs to mind for a DIY body scrub and it’s a great option for very tough, rough skin. “Also, sugar is good because it breaks down quicker. It has a smaller grain than sea salt, which makes it gentler,” says Kelly. “Even coffee grounds can work, because it’s an instant injection of coffee into the skin, which peps up circulation.”

To make

- Pour 1 cup sea salt, light brown sugar or coffee grounds into a Mason or screw-top jar.

- Mix in enough liquid coconut oil, almond oil or light olive oil to make a loose paste.

- If you like essential oil, add a few drops to suit your mood and stir.

To use

- Soften your skin by soaking in a warm bath for a few minutes. - Smother a light layer of scrub onto dry zones like lower legs and arms, hands and heels.

- Avoid face, chest, upper shoulders and anywhere that feels sensitive. - Use your palm or a muslin cloth to buff the scrub evenly into your skin in small circles.

- Take your time, feel your skin as you go and concentrate on the drier, rougher areas.

- Rinse off, pat dry and smother on a body balm.

2 A RELAXING MILKY SOAK

Though it sounds extravagant, a Cleopatra-style milk bath is quite thrifty to make with ingredients from the supermarket and your garden. Milk naturally contains lactic acid, which gently softens the skin, allowing for rehydration. Add some fresh pickings from your garden to brighten your bath and your day.

To make:

- Tip 1 cup dairy or coconut milk powder into a Mason or screw-top jar. - If you like essential oil, add a few drops of your favourite.

-Top with some fresh petals from your garden, if you have them. To use:

- Run a warm bath.

- Pour a ¼ cup of soak into the water and swirl to dissolve.

- Sink in and relax for 10 minutes.

3 A NOURISHING HAIR MASK

Coconut oil has become a cult beauty ingredient thanks to its essential fatty acids, but it’s best for thicker, dryer hair. Try it overnight so it has plenty of time to absorb.

To make:

- Scoop out one to three tablespoons of coconut oil, depending on hair length/ thickness into a bowl.

- Find a hair turban, wrap or small towel.

To use:

- Warm and soften the coconut oil in your fingers, or microwave if it’s very cold. - Smear onto hair and comb through with a wide-toothed comb.

- Wrap hair in turban, go to sleep and shampoo in the morning.

4 A COSY HAND & FOOT WRAP

After a bath, your hands and feet will be super soft, especially if you’ve scrubbed them. Make that baby skin stay for longer by treating yourself to a postbath moisturising mask.

To make:

- Find a pair of loose cotton socks and gloves (swap in a light bandage or cling film if needed).

- Sit down somewhere comfortable with some body oil (or coconut or olive oil) and thick moisturiser.

To use:

- After your bath, slather feet in oil and top with thick moisturiser.

- Gently slide on your socks and put your feet up.

- Repeat with your hands (you may need a bit of help if you don’t have gloves). - Relax for 10 minutes while the oil and cream absorb, then free hands and feet.

5 A SWEET LIP SCRUB

This lip smoother leaves a little of the nourishing oil behind after you wash it off, for long lasting softness.

To make:

- Fill a small, lidded glass pot with sugar. - Mix in coconut or olive oil to make a thick paste.

- Add a drop of vanilla essence and stir.

To use:

- Scoop out ¼ to ½ tsp scrub. - Gently polish dry/flaky lips with fingertips.

- Wipe off with a muslin or tissue.