Coffee grounds have some pretty amazing benefits beyond your morning cup. There are specific nutrients and antioxidants in coffee that not only ward off free radicals but stimulate blood flow for enhanced circulation. To read more about these specifics CLICK HERE.
Here are just a few of the best ways to use coffee grounds along with our favorite recipes. Feel free to use either fresh coffee grounds or the leftovers from your trusted energy boost.
Facial Exfoliant
The chlorogenic and caffeic acids found in coffee grounds fight bacteria, inflammation, and redness. Using coffee grounds to exfoliate the face will remove excess dirt, oil, and dead skin cells to reveal a healthy glowing complexion.
Ingredients:
4 tablespoons coffee grounds
2 tablespoons water
For acne-prone skin: Add 4-5 drops of tea tree oil
Directions:
Mix everything together and gently rub it into your skin. Take your time and go over each area 3-4 times. Use circular motions to stimulate blood flow and avoid the eye area. Gently rinse with cool water and pat dry.
Puffy Eye Soother
Coffee contains vitamin B3 which stimulates collagen production, improves elasticity and also firms. The chlorogenic acids in coffee will reduce inflammation and soothe skin.
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons coffee grounds
1 tablespoon cold water
Directions:
Mix together and allow it to soak for at least 20 minutes. Gently apply the mixture to the under-eye area and allow it to sit for 15 minutes. Gently rinse off with cool water and pat dry.
*Always be extra gentle around the eye area. This skin is highly sensitive and delicate. Never rub coffee grounds into this area of your skin. Just pat the mixture on and splash with water to remove.
Body Exfoliant
Coffee grounds are a gentle exfoliant that removes dead skin cells. It will leave your skin fresh, soft and supple. The caffeine stimulates circulation and reduces the appearance of cellulite.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup coffee grounds
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup olive oil
Directions:
Mix everything together. After taking a shower and thoroughly cleaning your skin apply this mixture all over. Gently rub in circular motions. Allow it to stay on the skin for 5 minutes and then rinse off.
Lip Scrub
Coffee grounds will gently rub off any dead, dry skin and leave them supple and plump. Great to do prior to putting on lipstick or to rejuvenate your lips.
Ingredients:
1/2 teaspoon coffee grounds
1/2 teaspoon honey or pure maple syrup
Optional: add 3-4 drops cinnamon or peppermint essential oil
Directions:
Mix everything together and gently rub on lips. Use small circular motions and do this for several minutes. If you added essential oil then your lips will tingle as they are being stimulated and plumped.
Foot Soak
Coffee is great for stimulation and increasing blood flow. The caffeine in coffee also helps the body remove toxins. Plus the coffee grounds are fantastic at removing any dry or dead skin on your feet.
Ingredients:
Brew a medium/ large pot of coffee
Allow it to cool so that it is warm but not hot
Directions:
Pour the brewed coffee and used grounds into the tub or foot bath (The one I use is HERE). Place your feet in the coffee and allow them to soak for 15-20 minutes. use the grounds to exfoliate your feet. Rinse off and pat dry.
Dandruff Relief
Soaps and shampoos alter the natural acidic state of the scalp and hair follicles. While the scalp and hair are naturally acidic, shampoos can alter this and leave hair dry, easily damaged and frizzy. A dry scalp tends to be itchy, red and can have dandruff. Coffee grounds can bring the scalp and hair back to an acidic state to relieve these uncomfortable symptoms.
Scalp Treatment
Ingredients:
1/2 cup coffee grounds
1/4 cup olive oil or conditioner
Directions:
Mix together and massage into a dry scalp. Be sure to exfoliate your entire head while focusing only on the roots. Rinse hair and condition. Wash your hair as normal within 1-2 days.
Hair Balancing Rinse
Ingredients:
Brew 2 cups of coffee as normal
Allow it to fully cool
Directions:
Take the cooled coffee into the shower and shampoo and condition hair as normal. Once hair is fully cleansed take the coffee and slowly pour it over all your hair. Squeeze the excess out and allow it to dry or rinse with cool water.