This DIY easy homemade sugar scrub exfoliates and moisturizes all at once. Your skin will feel brand new and incredibly soft and luxurious. It is simple to make yourself with just two main ingredients that you likely have on hand already. It takes about two minutes to make and is much less expensive than store-bought sugar scrubs. This sugar scrub makes a great holiday gift when given in cute little reusable glass jars.
Easy Homemade Sugar Scrub
This winter, treat your skin to this luxurious homemade sugar scrub. It moisturizes and exfoliates all at once. I use ½ tablespoon on both my hands rubbing them gently together for 20 seconds. Then I rinse with water, pat them dry and my hands feel like silk.
It could not be easier to make yourself with just two main ingredients that you likely have on hand already: coconut oil and sugar. This sugar scrub doubles as the perfect DIY holiday gift. I’ll be giving these out for sure this holiday season.
On the east coast when winter hits, my skin immediately dries up. This is especially true for my hands which I’m constantly washing to avoid getting sick this time of year. Not to mention all the dishes I’m doing and baths I’m constantly giving to my children. My poor hands need some TLC every now and then to avoid cracking and bleeding from all the harsh water and soap they are exposed to constantly. Whipping up a batch of this sugar scrub is a quick and easy way to soften and hydrate those babies right up! And since it is homemade you know exactly what is in it. Nothing toxic. Only the good stuff.
It takes about two minutes to make and is much less expensive than store-bought sugar scrubs.
Gifting this Easy Homemade Sugar Scrub
Everyone goes crazy over thoughtful DIY gifts. And this one is really the gift that keeps on giving. It lasts a long time and promotes self-care. Plus, the tiny glass jar is so cute and can be cleaned and reused for storing food. This set of six tiny glass jars are adorable and would be great for gifting the sugar scrub in. The glass jars pictured in this post that I own can be found here and also are perfect for gifting. I love them and use them to store sauces, chia jam, smoothie jar ingredients and chia seed pudding.
How to Flavor Your Easy Homemade Sugar Scrub
In the recipe below I provide an option to add citrus zest or essential oils to the sugar scrub for scent but it is still wonderful on its own. Citrus is said to boost your mood and energy. This is a great basic starter set of essential oils that I love. Each of those scents would make a wonderful addition to the scrub and add extra benefits. During cold and flu season I like to add OnGuard essential oil. If I want more of a spa vibe I use this eucalyptus and lavendar essential oil. If you don’t want any fragrance or benefits other than the scrub you can simply leave the essential oils out.
I also provide the option of adding vitamin E oil for an extra moisture boost. Again, this is not required and the sugar scrub is wonderful with just the coconut oil and sugar only.
I hope you decide to give yourself or someone you know the gift of silky skin this holiday season. If you give this homemade sugar scrub a try, please snap a pic and tag #eatingbyelaine and @eatingbyelaine on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook so I can see you enjoying your sugar scrub creations.
Be sure to also check out my Peppermint Body Scrub.
Print
Easy Homemade Sugar Scrub
- Total Time: 2 mins
- Yield: 1 jar 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This simple DIY sugar scrub exfoliates and moisturizes all at once. Massage a small amount into your skin in circular motions for 20 seconds. Rinse with water and gently pat dry. Your skin will feel brand new and incredibly soft and luxurious. This sugar scrub makes a great gift for others when given in cute little glass jars that can be reused.
Ingredients
- ½ cup coconut oil
- ¼ cup sugar (I use organic cane sugar)
- Optional: 2 tablespoons citrus zest (such as orange, lemon or grapefruit) OR 10 drops of your favorite essential oil such as lavender, eucalyptus etc.
- Optional: 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil
Instructions
- In a small glass bowl stir to combine room temperature coconut oil with sugar using a spoon or fork. Add the optional zest, essential oils or vitamin E oil if using.
- Transfer to an airtight container, seal tightly and store at room temperature for up to two months. If you use the citrus zest it will have a shorter shelf life.
Notes
To keep the sugar scrub fresh do not introduce moisture or anything to the jar. Use a spoon to portion it out in your hand and do not double dip it. Always seal it tightly.
Homemade Peppermint Body Scrub
Recently one of my readers shared these adorable mini wooden scoopers that they tied to the jar of gifted sugar scrub. They pair perfectly with the scrub.
- Prep Time: 2 mins
- Category: self-care
- Method: Stir
Keywords: Easy homemade sugar scrub
Sue says
Hi there thanks for this great recipe which I'm going to make. Just wondering with the coconut oil does it need to be the unrefined oil that has coconut aroma? I believe the unrefined one is more pure.
Elaine Gordon says
Either should work. Whichever is less expensive I would say.
Cathy says
I make mine with dark brown sugar and coconut oil...that's it! Gentle, could be used daily, and no need for body lotion following my shower...(and I have dry skin)
Elaine Gordon says
Love that! Sounds perfect!
Terri says
Thinking about making this, do you have to use coconut oil, or could I use extra virgin olive oil? I desperately need lip scrub, my lips are chapped like crazy and my burts bees chapstick is only softening the already dead skin. I just don’t have coconut oil.
Elaine Gordon says
Hi, Terri: Yes, you have to use coconut oil as opposed to olive oil. Olive oil is liquid at room temperature and coconut oil is solid at room temperature. If you were to use olive oil it would stay liquid and be soupy. The coconut oil allows it to be thick and creamy. I purchase mine in bulk at Costco. I hope this helps. Best, Elaine
Tasha S says
I’ve made DIY scrubs in the past with coconut oil. First, by warming slightly in microwave to change its consistency, and adding fine sea salt for a more coarse exfoliation for feet. However, the oil returns back to a hardened consistency that made it nearly impossible to get out of the container. What do you recommend doing to make it a more creamy consistency?
Elaine Gordon says
Hi Tasha: I do not warm it or turn it to a liquid state. I use it a room temperature and put in a wide mouth glass jar and use my hands to just scoop it out. Or a spoon. Whatever you prefer. I hope that helps. Please let me know if you have any additional questions. Best, Elaine
Elaine says
Do you need a preservative since it's used by the shower or bath and waster may get in there?
Elaine Gordon says
I'm not sure - I keep moisture away from it and use a dry spoon to portion it out in advance. If you are concerned then go for it.
Cathy says
The sugar acts as a preserving agent.
Elaine Gordon says
Thank you, Cathy! That explains why it lasts me so long!
Susan Clapsaddle says
Can you use shea butter with is recipe
Elaine Gordon says
I don't believe so. I believe at room temperature shea butter is solid so it would need to be softened somehow prior to use. The coconut oil works well at room temperature because it isn't solid but it also isn't liquid... it is nice and soft and perfect for exfoliating and rubbing into the skin. Does that make sense?
Cynthia Taylor says
I made this and the coconut oil I used was solid so I had to melt it. One the mixture set the coconut went back to its solid state and left the scrub with a marble affect throughout the scrub. How can I correct this?
Elaine Gordon says
I'm so sorry to hear about this. I would not recommend completely melting it if it is hard. I would say you would soften it a bit by warming it up in the microwave for about 10 seconds. You want to be able to stir it but not have it in a liquid state. You could probably salvage what you have by warming it up slightly and remixing and maybe adding more sugar to it. If you want to email me pictures of it I might be able to help more. My email is elaine@eatingbyelaine.com and I'm more than happy to troubleshoot with you. What is your current climate and room temperature in your home? It should work fine if your thermostat is set to 72 degrees or so.
Samantha says
Does anyone how long long after this is made when it won’t be good anymore?
Elaine Gordon says
Hi Samantha, I have personally used it for months after making a large batch. I typically portion it out into separate containers and use throughout the year. If you are careful not to introduce moisture or anything else into it then it can stay fresh for a very long time. If you plan on adding citrus zest the shelf life may be shorter though. For that, just look for typical signs of storage and discard if necessary. I hope this helps! Best, Elaine
Kenna says
How much does this recipe exactly make?
Elaine Gordon says
About 3/4 cup. Enjoy!
Mercy says
Hi Elaine, can I add honey and lemon to it and use for my entire body including my face? Again how long will it last when stored under room temperature if these ingredients are added, or can I refrigerate?
Elaine Gordon says
Hi Mercy, I have honestly never tried that but it sounds invigorating and hydrating! I wouldn't want to say for sure though since I haven't tested it myself. I would also think that it would be slightly more perishable due to the lemon. Maybe one week and you could make a smaller batch?
Paulette says
I have always put baking soda in my foot scrub. A lot of people are asking how long it will last. So my question is will the baking soda keep it fresher longer or do you not recommend putting baking soda in your sugar scrub?
Elaine Gordon says
Hi, Paulette: Good question! I have actually not heard of this tip before and have never tried it myself. I personally have not had any issues keeping it fresh. I do my best not to introduce liquid or oils to the jar but even when I'm not super perfect about it it seems to be fine for a long time. That being said, I don't think adding it would hurt the recipe in any way though so if you want to add it go for it! I just haven't had a chance to try this myself.
Nyakel Youdidn says
I made one with olive (1tbp) and sugar(1tpb) lips soft.
Elaine Gordon says
Sounds heavenly!
Jacque says
Will your recipe become a solid once in a jar or hold the loose sugar as in your photo? Thank you
Elaine Gordon says
Great question - it totally depends on the temperature of where it is stored. It should stay looking like the photos at room temperature. In the summer in very hot weather it might get more liquid-y. In the winter it will be more solid. But, as you rub it between your hands and on your body it will warm up and work just fine. Does that help?
Linda Howard says
Elaine thank you for your answer because l though I was doing something wrong when I make my sugar scrubs
Elaine Gordon says
Of course! LMK how it goes for you please!
Terri says
I know some scrubs will get Mildewmold in them after a while is there anything to add to keep this from happening?
Elaine Gordon says
Yes! Very good question! To prevent this you want to avoid adding any moisture to the scrub as you use it. For best results use a clean and dry spoon to scoop the scrub onto your hands/skin. Do not return the spoon to the jar after you have used it. Immediately place the airtight top back on the container. You could also choose to store in your refrigerator if you are not planning to use it frequently and then take out a couple hours before using to allow it to return to room temperature. I also do not recommend storing it in your shower. Make sure you are using an airtight container for storage. I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have any additional questions.
Judy says
I can’t tolerate the smell of coconut. Is there anything else I can use?
Elaine Gordon says
Hi, Judy - Great question! I'm also very sensitive to smells so I understand your concern. Refined coconut oil has less of a coconut smell. Try that and see if that helps. If you are still having trouble with the scent then you can add essential oils to mask it. I hope that helps! Please let me know if you get a chance 🙂
Amber says
How long would this scrub last before it goes bad?
Elaine Gordon says
Great question! If you secure it well in the airtight lid and don't introduce anything to the jar then it should last at least two months. Mine never lasts that long though because I use it so often! Just be sure not to introduce moisture or anything to it... I like to use a clean wooden spoon to put a dollop in my hands and then I never put the same spoon back in the jar twice to make sure it stays 100% clean. Even if you don't do this it will still last awhile - these tips just help extend the life of it and keep it super fresh! I hope this helps - please let me know if you have any additional questions - happy to help!
Laura says
My daughter gifted me this or similar sugar scrub for Christmas 3- 4 years ago. I thought it was a candle and put it in a kitchen cupboard. During a long power outage I got through all my candles and reached for this and was surprised it was still perfectly good after all those years in a warm kitchen cupboard. The lovely peppermint smell was still strong. When the water came back on I was able to use it even though I didn't know about using a Spoon or keeping the water out. The jar lasted about a month of regular use without a trace of mold, mildew or change in fragrance. Obviously I don't recommend storing it inside the damp shower or putting hands directly in now that I know better, but it's nice to know that this preparation is mold resistant.
Elaine Gordon says
Hi, Laura! What a fantastic story and thank you for sharing. Yes, because it is made with pantry ingredients that have longer shelf lives it is able to last a long period of time if properly handled like you said. And even without proper handling you can get a good amount of use from it. I have found that too. Best, Elaine
Ben Yukish says
How would soap dyes affect things in this for changing the color? Any idea?
Elaine Gordon says
Hi Ben, I have not tried soap dyes myself so I'm not sure. If you give it a try please let me know so others can learn from your experience. Thank you!
Lorna says
Hi Elaine,
All the comments are great.
I have a question.
Which type of sugar would you recommend to use.
Some say brown, some say white.
However, is it fine sugar or Course sugar.
Thank you
Elaine Gordon says
Hi, Lorna! Great questions! Any will "work" but I personally like to use course sugar over fine. My favorite is organic cane sugar. Another option is to use Pink Himalayan Sea Salt (or any sea salt... I get my Himalayan Sea Salt at Costco in bulk so it is affordable. Be sure to also check out my more recent body scrub recipe: https://www.eatingbyelaine.com/homemade-peppermint-body-scrub-candy-cane-themed-for-holiday-gifting/
I hope that helps. Please let me know if you have any more questions.
Sofia says
Hi does this work with ok olive oil
Elaine Gordon says
Hi Sofia: It will not have the same consistency because olive oil is liquid at room temperature. Coconut oil is solid at room temperature (unless you live in a hot climate or during the very hot summer months in certain areas). I hope this answer helps. Best, Elaine
Jennifer Smith Anderson says
I heard that absorbic acid is a great natural preservative. Can I use this to keep the product fresh longer wham using lemon zest? Thanks!
Elaine Gordon says
Oh that is great! Yes, I would think it would be worth a shot. I have not tried it myself so I'm not sure how it would impact the texture or shelf life. Please let me know here if you do! Best, Elaine
Bella says
Hi i was wondering if i have to use a glass bowl or can i just use a regular bowl (not glass)
Elaine Gordon says
Other bowls totally work but I find they are more difficult to clean. The coconut oil and the essential oil smells (if using) are sometimes difficult to get out/off other materials. So really it is just personal preference.
Michaela says
Would i be able to use this recipe on my skin (legs,arms) rather than just my hands?
Elaine Gordon says
Yes you can! 🙂 Enjoy!
Amber says
Hello! I just made this and it is sooooo good. I added a few drops of orange essential oil and it's perfect. Thank you for the new recipe!
Elaine Gordon says
Thank you so much, Amber! I'm so happy you love this one too! I love orange scented everything - such an uplifting and happy fragrance! 🙂
Harley says
Hey there! Is there anyways to make it different color without it dying your skin too? Lol
Elaine Gordon says
I use pink Himalayan salt for a pink hue. What color are you thinking?
Sarah says
Hi so when u made this sugar scrub with coconut butter and sugar it came out kinda liquidy in the next week or so. So can I fix that
Elaine Gordon says
Hi Sarah, Two things... the recipe calls for coconut oil not coconut butter. Additionally, if you are in a hot climate then the coconut oil will naturally turn more liquid. It is similar to butter in that way. You can store it at a cooler temperature to get it to solidify. I hope that helps! Please let me know if you get a chance. Thank you! Best, Elaine
Kiyia Sanders says
I made this and it came out a bit more liquid like..So I added more sugar and it didn't really change. Did I do something wrong?
Elaine Gordon says
I wonder if it could be your climate... where are you located? Coconut oil is more liquidy at hotter temperatures. Anything over 75/76 degrees it will start to liquify. Where are you storing it?
Jessica Simpson says
It turned out like that for me as well. I noticed it was going to be too runny as soon as I started pouring in the coconut oil. So instead I just poured 1/4 of the coconut oil. The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of organic sugar...So I just double it. 1/4 coconut oil and 1/2 cup of sugar. It turned out great!
Elaine Gordon says
Hi, Jessica. Thank you for sharing. Was your coconut oil liquid? You mentioned pouring it and it should be solid at room temperature. Glad you were able to adjust the ratio and make it work for you! Best, Elaine
Emma says
Quick question,
Do I need to use coconut oil or could I just use regular canola oil?
What would be best for a business?
Elaine Gordon says
For this recipe coconut oil is needed. Canola oil is liquid at room temperature and coconut oil is not.
Pam says
Love this! Very moisturizing
Elaine Gordon says
Thank you so much, Pam! I really appreciate that! I'm so happy you enjoyed and found it beneficial. Best, Elaine
Sharrise Henry says
I see the orange sugar scrub but no recipe, do you just shred the rind and add some in?
Elaine Gordon says
Hi, Sharise. Yes, you will add the orange zest to the coconut sugar mixture. It is entirely optional. It is mentioned in the directions in step 1, second sentence. Please let me know if you have any questions or I can help in any way. I hope you love the sugar scrub as much as we do! Best, Elaine
Ila says
I have always made sugar scrubs with olive oil, sugar, and essential oils. What is the difference between the coconut oil and olive oil/how does it affect the outcome???
Elaine Gordon says
Great question! The consistency! With coconut oil it is more solid at room temperature so it gives the sugar scrub a nice fluffy, thick, creamy texture. I hope that helps!
Sally Mvula says
I absolutely loved this, I tried it today and my skin came out feeling like I treated it to a spa day. My skin came out so moisturised I didn't need to apply lotion afterwards. I used ylang ylang oil so it ended smelling devine, can't wait to make this for my friends!
Elaine Gordon says
Wonderful! So happy to hear that, Sally! Thank you so much for letting me know! I hope your friends enjoy it as well 🙂
Hally says
It left a horrible oily sticky resadew that lasted 2 days. wouldn't recommend But it did expholite the skin. it brought out the blue veins in My legs.
Elaine Gordon says
Hi, Hally: I'm so sorry to hear you had such a poor experience with the sugar scrub. I make this recipe all the time and have never had this issue so I would love to learn more to be able to provide more detailed notes in the recipe card for other readers so they can avoid the same negative experience. Can you please let me know what brand of ingredients you used and if you made any variations to the recipe at all? Was the oily sticky residue not removed when you washed your hands with soap and water? Did you add any essential oils or anything else to the recipe? Please let me know anything at all that might help understand what happened here. Thank you so much. Best Regards, Elaine
Meagan Roberson says
Can I use this on my whole body not just my hands?
Elaine Gordon says
Yes you can! Just avoid sensitive areas and the eyes I would say. I use it on my body in the shower and love it!
Alex says
I was wondering how many ounces a batch yields before i make one to test so i have something to put it in
Elaine Gordon says
Hi, Alex: I'm not exactly sure how it measures in ounces. The nice thing about this recipe is it is very flexible and you can double it if you end up getting a jar that is bigger. It measures less than a cup so I would say a small container should be good here. I hope that helps and that you love this recipe as much as I do. Best, Elaine
Samantha says
Hi I was wondering by so I just tried this recipe my mixture seems oily and grainy anyway to fix it?
I use the 10 drop of essential oil.
Elaine Gordon says
Hi, Samantha: I would say add more sugar to help it thicken up. It could be that it is very hot where you are located. Coconut oil melts above room temperature so maybe store it in the fridge for a bit to solidify more and then mix again and use. I hope that helps. Please let me know. Thank you, Elaine
AMBIKA says
What size jar did you use for this?
Elaine Gordon says
Good question! I linked a couple options in the recipe card if you want to divide into smaller portions for gifts or to distribute throughout the house. If you are using just one jar for the entire batch I think 6-8 ounces should be fine. Please let me know if you have any other questions. I hope you love this recipe as much as we do. You can add more sugar to thicken it if desired. It is a flexible recipe for sure. Best, Elaine