Coconut oil is remarkably versatile and can be used both in the kitchen and as part of your skincare routine. I keep a jar of Dr. Bronner’s Virgin Coconut Oil in the kitchen for cooking, and another jar in the bathroom for personal care. In my bathroom it’s indispensable for shaving, removing makeup, treating dry cuticles, conditioning hair with masks, and for moisturizing skin. It also forms the creamy, nourishing base of a simple coconut sugar scrub.
Simple coconut sugar scrub recipes
There are countless variations of coconut sugar scrubs, but two straightforward recipes work beautifully and are easy to adapt: a Peppermint Foot Scrub and a Citrus Hand & Body Scrub. Both exfoliate and soften skin while leaving it moisturized. They are quick to make, use common ingredients, and can be adjusted to suit different skin types or fragrance preferences.
What’s in the coconut sugar scrubs?
Sugar
Choose from granulated, turbinado (raw), brown, or superfine sugar—each will work in a scrub. The size of the sugar crystals determines how abrasive the scrub will be: larger crystals provide stronger exfoliation while finer sugars are gentler. I prefer turbinado sugar for foot scrubs where tougher exfoliation is needed, and regular granulated sugar for an all-purpose hand and body scrub.
Virgin Coconut Oil
Virgin coconut oil melts at about 75–77°F (25–26°C), so it may be liquid or solid depending on the ambient temperature. Both forms work well in scrubs. I usually start with liquid coconut oil because it mixes more easily with the sugar, then chill the finished mixture for about 30 minutes to help the oil solidify slightly and prevent the sugar from settling to the bottom of the jar.
Essential oils (optional)
Essential oils let you personalize your scrub’s scent and effects. Use peppermint to invigorate tired feet, lavender to soothe, or citrus oils to refresh and uplift. If you prefer an unscented product, leave them out. When using essential oils, choose pure essential oils rather than diluted blends for the most consistent fragrance.
Citrus Hand and Body Scrub recipe
Ingredients:
– 2/3 cup (about 125 grams) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (60 mL) liquid coconut oil
– 20 drops sweet orange essential oil
– 10 drops lemon essential oil
Instructions: Mix the sugar and coconut oil until evenly combined, then stir in the essential oils. Transfer to a jar with a tight lid and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm the texture. Use a small amount on damp skin, gently massage in circular motions, then rinse and pat dry.
Peppermint Foot Scrub recipe
Ingredients:
– 2/3 cup (about 125 grams) turbinado sugar (raw sugar)
– 1/4 cup (60 mL) liquid coconut oil
– 20 drops peppermint essential oil
Instructions: Combine the sugar and coconut oil, add the peppermint oil, and mix well. Store the scrub in a sealed jar and chill for about 30 minutes before using for a firmer texture. Apply to damp feet, massage to exfoliate rough areas, then rinse thoroughly and moisturize.
Fancifying your sugar scrub
There are many tempting flavor and scent combinations—pumpkin spice, vanilla and pear, roasted coffee and more. While elaborate mixes can be fun, a basic combination of sugar and coconut oil performs exceptionally well. Start simple, then experiment with additional ingredients in small batches. If you add items with moisture—fresh fruit, brewed tea, or fresh herbs—expect a shorter shelf life and consider making smaller amounts.
A few drops of vitamin E oil can help extend shelf life slightly, but always watch for changes in smell, texture, or appearance. If a scrub looks or smells off, discard it and make a fresh batch.
Sugar scrub shelf life
A simple sugar-and-oil scrub stored in a clean, dry jar will typically remain usable for many months; in my experience it often lasts longer than a year if no watery ingredients are added. Adding perishable or moist components shortens the lifespan, so use those scrubs more quickly or keep batches small. Though the ingredients are safe and edible in small amounts, these scrubs are intended for topical use only.
Further reading
- Coconut Oil Cheat Sheet for Kitchen & Body Care
- 3 GIY Castile Soap Scrubs
- GIY (Green-It-Yourself) with Non-Toxic DIY Recipes for Cleaning & Body Care