11 DIY Sugar Scrubs for Allover Exfoliation

Few things feel as satisfying as exfoliating — it’s an easy path to smoother, softer skin.

There are several methods to exfoliate, and sugar scrubs have become a staple in many beauty circles online. While eating sugar offers little in the way of nutrition, applying sugar to your skin can be beneficial.

Indulge in some self-care with these DIY sugar scrub ideas made from ingredients you can pick up at the store.

The perks of using sugar scrubs for exfoliation

What exactly is a sugar scrub, and why use one?

A sugar scrub is exactly what it sounds like: an exfoliating scrub for the body that uses sugar as its main abrasive. The sugar is usually combined with a moisturizing agent like a carrier oil and often scented with a botanical or essential oil for fragrance and aromatherapy benefits.

Exfoliating with sugar scrubs offers several advantages, including removing dry skin and helping with acne-prone areas, according to celebrity aesthetician Joshua Ross of SkinLab. The sugar grains lightly buff the skin while the oil provides hydration.

One caution from Ross: choose very fine sugar. Coarser grains can cause tiny microtears in the skin.

Skin-care pro and Beauty Kitchen founder and CEO Heather Marianna expands on the advantages.

“Not only do sugar scrubs feel luxurious and smell amazing, but they’re made from common, natural items you may already have at home and are typically less costly than many commercial exfoliants. Unlike plastic microbeads, sugar dissolves readily and is eco-friendlier.

“When you pick the right ingredients for a homemade sugar scrub, it can hydrate skin and leave a dewy finish by sloughing off dirt and dead cells, clearing pores, stimulating circulation, and diminishing the look of scars and discoloration,” she adds.

Where can you apply a sugar scrub?

Marianna says sugar scrubs are generally safe for most body areas because sugar dissolves easily and isn’t harsh. She suggests using them on arms, legs, and even the buttocks.

You can also use a sugar scrub on the neck, feet, and lips.

Simple DIY recipes

Most DIY sugar scrubs follow the same basic formula. To make one at home, keep a few tools and staples handy:

• mixing bowl
• mixing spoons
• measuring spoons
• carrier oils such as coconut, jojoba, grapeseed, almond, or olive oil
• essential oils
• sugar

Below are easy sugar scrub recipes that are both skin-friendly and budget-conscious.

Unless stated otherwise, the method for each recipe is to combine the ingredients, stir thoroughly, and use right away. You can keep scrubs in airtight jars, though smaller batches are recommended.

Remember, while some research supports benefits of essential oils, the FDA doesn’t regulate their purity or quality. Consult a healthcare professional before using essential oils and check a brand’s reputation. Always perform a patch test when trying a new oil.

Aloe vera sugar scrub

Aloe vera is known for its soothing and restorative properties. Pair it with sugar for extra-soft, well-hydrated skin.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp. aloe vera gel (fresh from the plant is ideal)
• Sprinkle of sugar (begin with a teaspoon and add more to preference)

Coconut-lime body scrub

Try this mint-and-lime-infused scrub when you want a refreshing, bright scent.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 1/2 cup coconut oil
• 1/4 tsp. peppermint essential oil
• Zest of 1 lime

Cane sugar face scrub

Ross and Marianna note many sugar scrubs are fine for facial use. For a simpler face-friendly option, try this three-ingredient version (omit essential oils if you prefer):

Ingredients

• 1 tsp. cane sugar
• 2 drops water
• 1–2 drops essential oil (orange, lemon, lavender, or tea tree)

DIY lip scrub

Use superfine sugar for lip scrubs since the skin on lips is delicate and more susceptible to microtears.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp. superfine granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp. almond oil
• 1 tbsp. honey

Brown sugar scrub

Brown sugar is tasty in baking and gentle on skin. Compared with salt scrubs, brown sugar tends to be milder, making it a good choice for sensitive skin.

Note: this scrub can feel slightly sticky, so rinse thoroughly after use.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup carrier oil (coconut, jojoba, olive, almond, or grapeseed)
• Few drops of preferred essential oil (optional)

Lemon scrub

If you enjoy zesty scents, this DIY lemon sugar scrub is a bright, invigorating option.

Ingredients

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup coconut oil
• Juice and zest from 1/2 lemon

Honey sugar scrub

Honey is a popular ingredient in beauty products because it offers antioxidants and antimicrobial activity that may support skin repair and protection.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
• 2 tbsp. honey

Coconut oil sugar scrub

A coconut oil sugar scrub smells wonderful without added fragrance. Close your eyes and it almost transports you to a beach.

For this scrub, mix the dry sugars first, then stir in the coconut oil and optional vitamin E.

Ingredients

• 2 cups turbinado (raw) sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup coconut oil
• 3 tbsp. vitamin E oil (optional)

Almond oil sugar scrub

If coconut oil isn’t your preference, swap it for another carrier oil you like.

Ingredients

• 1 cup sugar
• 3 tbsp. almond, jojoba, or olive oil

Optional additions

• 1 tsp. vanilla extract (ensure it’s alcohol-free)
• Few drops vitamin E oil
• Juice of 1/2 small lemon

OR

• Few drops essential oil of choice (spearmint, lavender, grapefruit, etc.)

Green tea sugar scrub

Adding green tea to a sugar scrub is simple and beneficial — green tea is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory qualities. Some research suggests topical products with green tea can help reduce sun-related skin damage.

Ingredients

• 2 green tea bags
• 1/2 cup hot water
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup melted coconut oil

Directions

1. Steep the tea bags in hot water and allow to cool.
2. Mix brown sugar and coconut oil in a bowl.
3. Stir in the cooled tea and combine thoroughly.

Sugar scrub cubes

When you have extra time, these sugar scrub cubes are a playful idea and make thoughtful presents.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup “melt and pour” soap base
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tsp. jojoba oil or another preferred oil

Directions

1. Chop the soap base into small pieces and melt in a microwave-safe bowl in 10-second bursts.
2. Sprinkle a thin layer of sugar in the bottom of a glass baking dish.
3. Mix melted soap, sugar, and jojoba oil; pour over the sugar layer in the dish.
4. Allow to set and harden for about 5 minutes.
5. Slice the solidified mixture into small cubes.

Where to place scrubs in your skincare routine

How often should you exfoliate?

Generally, exfoliating two to three times per week is safe for most people. Doing it more often can dry or irritate the skin. If you’re uncertain about frequency or have a specific skin condition, check with a dermatologist before using body scrubs.

How to incorporate a scrub

Exfoliation is easiest during a shower or bath. Gently massage the scrub onto damp skin in circular strokes, rinse well with warm water, and then apply moisturizer while the skin is still slightly damp to help seal in hydration.

Marianna and Ross both suggest exfoliating a day or two prior to shaving or waxing to support a smoother result and reduce the risk of ingrown hairs.

When to skip scrubs

Avoid using sugar scrubs if your skin is:

• chapped or broken
• red or inflamed
• sunburned
• healing from cosmetic procedures or chemical peels

The takeaway

Homemade sugar scrubs are an excellent at-home treatment. They’re simple to make, often cheaper than store-bought alternatives, and can cleanse, soften, and hydrate when used gently.

Most people can safely enjoy body scrubs, but if you have a condition like eczema, consult a dermatologist first. Also avoid scrubs on skin that’s sunburned, cracked, or otherwise irritated.