Skin feeling dry and dull? Then you’re going to love everything about this sugar body scrub recipe: The ease of making it, the aroma of warm vanilla in a steamy shower, and of course the smooth, polished skin.
Unlike pricey mass-produced goop, this scrub will nourish your body {and soul} with natural ingredients. It makes a great gift as well, so make a double batch and reward yourself for your thoughtfulness by taking some time in the bathroom ALONE (if you’re a mother you know what I mean!).
About The Ingredients
Sugar
Sugar contains naturally occurring glycolic acid, which dissolves old, dead skin and makes exfoliating that much easier. Though I prefer unrefined sucanat for baking, more refined types of sugar work better for exfoliation.
Sea Salt
Salt – especially unrefined salt with its 60+ trace minerals – is a powerful rejuvenator of tired, dry skin. Not only does it stimulate cell growth, assist with detoxification and improve circulation, it also helps skin absorb and retain moisture.
Olive Oil
Though there are other oils that can be used – jojoba, almond, and avocado for example – I typically use olive oil because I have it on hand. Olive oil is rich in vitamin E, which is thought to have anti-aging properties, and it’s long been used to nourish and protect skin.
Castile Soap
Though there is a certain charm to 100% oil-based scrubs, adding castile soap leaves skin feeling soft, moisturized and supple without an excessive “oily” feeling. Since I typically need to get dressed and go immediately, I prefer the lighter finish.
Sugar Cookie Body Scrub Recipe
This recipe was adapted from this one from Gina-Marie of So, Let’s Hang Out.
Ingredients
3/4 cup organic brown sugar*
1/4 cup sea salt**
3 tablespoons olive or jojoba oil
1 tablespoon unscented castile soap
1 tablespoon vanilla extract or a few drops vanilla oleoresin
1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
* I know it’s crazy to find this on Mommypotamus. See the section on “Sugar” above for why I use it in this recipe. If you prefer you can use turbinado, but the scrub will be more coarse.
** If desired, you can substitute more cane sugar. However, keep in mind that because salt and sugar absorb moisture differently, you’ll need to add a few extra tablespoons to get the same texture.
Instructions
Add sugar and salt to a bowl and mix thoroughly. In a separate bowl, gently mix the castile soap, vanilla, and almond extract if you’re using it. Add the castile soap mixture and olive oil to the sugar/salt mixture and combine thoroughly.
More Body Scrub Recipes To Try
Dead Sea Salt Scrub Recipe – Unlike most scrubs that stay on the surface of your skin, it melts slightly as it gently exfoliates, infusing skin with minerals that support skin firmness and elasticity.
Citrus Sugar Body Scrub – This scrub has a bright, fresh scent and is easy to make.
Vanilla Sugar Cube Body Scrub – These 3-in-1 vanilla sugar scrub cubes are a lovely way to create a spa getaway experience in the middle of a crazy daily schedule.