Benefits of a Sugar Scrub

Sugar scrubs bring that extra softness to my skin when I need it most in the cold winter months. I have sensitive, acne-prone skin, and sugar scrubs help keep my skin feeling smooth and even-toned during the winter.

Sugar is a natural humectant that attracts and contains moisture in its environment.

Brown sugar specifically works best in a sugar scrub.

Sugar scrubs exfoliate the top layer of dead skin. Removing the dead skin helps clear skin pores and prevents them from clogging.

The body sheds the skin naturally, but internal and external factors (like weather) can slow the process. If not removed fast enough, the top layer of skin dries out, clogs pores, and holds onto toxins.

In this article, we will walk you through the when, what, why, and hows of sugar body scrubs! We also included 3 recipes for sugar scrubs using ingredients you likely already have in your house!

Why?

There are many benefits of sugar scrubs. Including sugar scrubs in your skincare routine can improve your physical and mental wellness! A few of these benefits include:

Makes skin radiant and smooth
Tightens skin
Reduce Breakouts
Remove dead skin cells
Affordable and cheaper than most store-bought exfoliants
Clears clogged skin pores
Prevent razor burns and ingrown hairs
Increases cell turnover
Increases blood circulation in the skin
helps remove toxins
Hydrates dry skin

Sugar scrubs can be an important element in achieving healthy skin. They include natural humectants that keep your skin feeling smooth and hydrated. Also, people prone to acne have about five times more dead skin cells. Removing the buildup is helpful in keeping your skin clear. Using a scrub as a natural exfoliant plus the hydrating properties of sugar is a great recipe for healthy skin.

What?

There are many ingredients you can include in your sugar scrub. We will include a few recipes below, but also suggest tailoring a recipe for yourself that address specific properties you want for your skin. For example, if you have oily skin, add grapefruit seed oil to your scrub to balance your skin.

We suggest these 3 DIY recipes that use natural ingredients that you might already have in your home!

Coffee Scrub:

Next time you brew morning coffee- don’t throw away the grounds! The caffeine in coffee can increase blood circulation while the grounds can be a natural exfoliant!

1/2 Cup coffee grounds
2 tbsp warm water
1tbsp warm coconut oil

Mix all ingredients into a paste or desired consistency. Then follow the directions included later in this article about how to apply the scrub.

Salt Scrub:

1/2 cup sea salt
1/2 cup coconut oil

Mix ingredients and add essential oil if you prefer. I like to add lemon essential oil because it contains vitamin c. It also contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Sugar and Honey Scrub:

This scrub includes honey which is a natural source of glycolic acid. Glycolic acid is effective in exfoliating and encouraging skin cell renewal.

1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon raw honey
1 tablespoon coconut oil

Mix ingredients in a bowl and apply to the skin. If you have extra dry skin, add more coconut oil.

When?

Most research suggests exfoliating no more than twice a week. This can vary from person to person.

If you have more sensitive skin, consider exfoliating about once a week. Applying a body scrub one to two times per week promotes healthy cell regeneration. But doing it too often may cause skin irritation.

We suggest starting by exfoliating once a week and then increasing to twice a week depending on desired results and skin type.

You can also apply a sugar scrub after developing ingrown hairs. Once you use sugar scrubs more regularly, it can prevent razor bumps and ingrown hairs. The sugar granules can remove the buildup that causes razor bumps and ingrown hairs.

Where?

Sugar scrubs are most effective on your legs and arms. You can specifically target dry areas to slough off dead cells or apply them over the whole body.

There are mixed reviews about whether or not to apply sugar scrubs to the face. As mentioned, I have sensitive skin prone to breakouts so choose not to apply it to my face. However, if applying it to the face for the first time, we suggest using a small amount on a small section of the face. Wait a week between applications and your skin is not irritated, apply the scrub to the entire face.

If you choose to use a face scrub, we recommend dabbing it on instead of rubbing it. Rubbing can damage and loosen the skin. Regardless of where you apply the sugar scrub, you should always be sure to apply it gently and in circular motions.

During dryer winter months, we also recommend a lip scrub. Placing about a teaspoon amount removes the top layer of chapped skin on your lips. I prefer to use a brown sugar base in case any of the scrub accidentally gets in my mouth.

Lastly, if you have a dry scalp, a sugar scrub could help! Add a sugar scrub to your scalp before taking a shower and the sugar will help retain moisture on your head.

How?

I prefer applying my scrub in the shower under warm water. Otherwise, you can use a warm washcloth to dampen the skin before applying.

Cleanse the body and face with your preferred skin care product. Remove all dirt from your body.
Make your sugar scrub. I prefer to make my scrub fresh each time but you can also make it in advance and keep it in an airtight container. Combine ingredients of your choosing or see below for suggested recipes
Add a scoop of sugar scrub to your fingers
Apply to desired areas, gently massaging in a circular motion
Rinse off the sugar scrub with warm water
Dab skin dry, apply moisturizer

Add these quick, easy steps to your skincare routine and leave your skin feeling soft and healthy!

With winter on its way, sugar scrubs are the perfect way to brighten your skin and your day! I love spending my Sundays pampering myself and my body. Sugar scrubs give me a chance to slow down and take care of my skin. After I apply my sugar scrub, I feel more relaxed and my skin is soft and healthy. It’s a win-win!