How to Make a DIY Coffee Scrub, Plus 5 Easy Recipes to Try

Ever considered transforming your used coffee grounds into a skin scrub?

Discovering the various applications of coffee and its advantages for skin might encourage you to give it a try. (After all, who says coffee must be confined to your morning mug?).

There may be perks to massaging it onto your skin. Keep reading to learn about the benefits and how to whip up your own coffee scrub at home.

Does coffee benefit your skin?

Yes — or at least, the caffeine and other compounds in it may.

For instance, a 2013 study suggested that caffeic acid, an antioxidant present in coffee, might boost collagen production, which could help diminish visible signs of aging.

A 2015 study observed an association between coffee consumption and fewer “photoaging” effects — here defined as pigmented spots and wrinkles.

One important note: as previously discussed, most research on coffee examines drinking it or cosmetic items containing caffeine, not specifically coffee scrubs. That makes it difficult to apply those findings directly to scrubs made from coffee grounds.

Still, using a coffee scrub on your body is likely harmless for most people, with one caveat (covered below).

Like other exfoliating treatments, it can:

• remove dead skin cells
• help clear clogged pores
• brighten the skin’s appearance
• temporarily reduce the look of cellulite

Are coffee scrubs safe for face and body?

Board-certified dermatologist Robert Anolik states coffee scrubs are generally safe for facial and body use.

However, he warns that some individuals can develop allergic contact dermatitis from coffee grounds.

If you don’t routinely make or consume coffee, it’s wise to perform a patch test on your arm before applying a coffee scrub broadly.

How to perform a patch test

1. Clean the area on your arm from wrist to elbow, then pat dry.
2. Apply a small amount of coffee grounds to a tiny patch on the underside of your arm.
3. Wipe the grounds away.
4. Wait 24 hours. If there’s no reaction, it should be safe to proceed. If you notice redness, itching, or hives, avoid using a coffee scrub on your skin.

How to make a DIY coffee scrub

Dr. Dee Anna Glaser, a board-certified dermatologist in St. Louis, MO, suggests including a few fundamental components in your scrub, such as:

• Coffee. Obviously essential for a coffee scrub, and it provides antioxidant properties.
• Oil. Glaser favors coconut oil for its moisturizing qualities and low risk of skin irritation. Jojoba, olive, or grapeseed oil are also fine alternatives.
• Rolled oats. These can soothe and reduce inflammation on the skin.
• Vanilla extract. Use this to mask the coffee aroma if you prefer, or for a calming scent.
• Salt or sugar. These act as the physical exfoliants in the scrub.

The directions for the following recipes are identical:

1. Mix ingredients until you achieve your preferred consistency.
2. Gently massage the blend onto your face or body.
3. Rinse off with water.

Simple DIY recipes

Coffee and coconut oil scrub

If you want something straightforward, or you’re new to DIY beauty projects, try this easy mix.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup coffee grounds
• 1/4 cup coconut oil
• 2 tbsp. water

Coffee and sugar scrub

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup coffee grounds
• 1/2 cup sugar (brown or granulated works)
• 1/4 cup coconut oil
• 2 tbsp. water

Coffee and Himalayan salt scrub

Himalayan salt has several skin-friendly qualities, such as helping with acne and psoriasis and supplying minerals like magnesium.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup coffee grounds
• 1/2 cup Himalayan salt
• 1/4 cup coconut oil
• 2 tbsp. water

Coffee and baking soda scrub

Baking soda is mildly alkaline and can assist in balancing skin pH.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup coffee grounds
• 1/2 cup baking soda
• 1/4 cup coconut oil
• 2 tbsp. water

Coffee and rolled oats scrub

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup coffee grounds
• 3/4 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 cup coconut oil
• 2 tbsp. water

How to incorporate it into your routine

Glaser recommends the simplest approach is to use the scrub while in the shower or tub.

Massage the mixture over your body or face in circular motions, then rinse with warm water. That’s all there is to it.

How long will my scrub keep?

Because homemade scrubs lack the preservatives found in commercial products, Glaser advises storing your scrub in an airtight container and using it within a week to reduce the risk of mold or fungal growth.

Can I use used coffee grounds for a scrub?

You can use previously brewed coffee grounds to prepare a scrub, but both Anolik and Glaser recommend fresh grounds when possible.

Glaser notes older grounds may alter the scrub’s texture. Additionally, fresher grounds contain more caffeine and antioxidants, which could enhance potential skin benefits.

The takeaway: fresher is preferable.

How often should you exfoliate?

Exfoliation frequency depends on your skin type.

“Typically exfoliating 1 to 2 times a week is most beneficial and limits irritation,” Anolik says.

Glaser adds that those with dry or flaky skin might benefit from exfoliating 3 to 4 times weekly.

But if you observe redness, irritation, or cuts, discontinue exfoliation and consult your doctor.

When to avoid a coffee scrub

Don’t use a coffee scrub if you have a coffee allergy or if you experience an adverse reaction.

Glaser also warns against scrubs if you have acne, rosacea, or eczema, or if you’re using retinoid products, since those can increase skin sensitivity.

The bottom line

Coffee is useful both inside and outside the body. Making a homemade coffee scrub is an easy method to help achieve smoother, healthier-looking skin.