Discover simple recipes for making homemade Christmas sugar scrubs that make perfect DIY gifts! These natural holiday body scrubs include delightful options like gingerbread, hot chocolate, candy cane, orange spice, pomegranate, sugar plum, and vanilla cookie exfoliating scrubs. Keep reading!
THE BEST DIY HOLIDAY BODY SCRUBS
I’m thrilled for you to try these Christmas sugar scrub recipes, perfect for the holidays or any time of year, whether for yourself or as gifts! These delightful sugar scrubs are not only impressive but also simple to make with ingredients you likely already have in your beauty pantry.
You’ll notice that these recipes are reminiscent of my skin-boosting body scrubs and sea salt scrubs, as they start with a basic coconut oil scrub base. The process is quick and easy, even if you’re new to homemade skincare or in need of last-minute Christmas gift ideas.
These festive Christmas sugar scrubs not only look and smell great but also provide incredible skincare benefits. They exfoliate and moisturize simultaneously, leaving your skin with a beautiful holiday glow. Plus, you can customize them to your liking—I’ve included plenty of ideas to inspire you!
HOMEMADE CHRISTMAS SUGAR SCRUB RECIPES
HOMEMADE CHRISTMAS SUGAR SCRUB INGREDIENTS
- Sugar: The main exfoliant for our scrubs, I recommend using fine, granulated sugar (caster sugar) for gentle exfoliation.
- Liquid Carrier Oil: This helps prevent the scrub from hardening. I primarily use fractionated coconut oil, but other options like jojoba oil, grapeseed oil, or sweet almond oil work well too.
- Essential Oils: These provide natural fragrance and additional skincare benefits. For those with sensitive skin, consider reducing the amount or omitting essential oils entirely.
- Vitamin E Oil (optional): A nourishing addition that keeps skin hydrated and acts as a potent antioxidant to combat free radicals and signs of aging.
- Co-exfoliator (optional): Ingredients like dried herbs or jojoba beads enhance exfoliation; I added jojoba beads to my peppermint scrub for extra texture.
- Colorants (optional): Natural fruit and plant powders can be used, though they can be pricier. Micas and fine cosmetic powders are affordable alternatives. Food colors are not ideal but can be used if necessary.
DO SUGAR SCRUBS NEED PRESERVATIVES?
Many people wonder whether sugar scrubs require preservatives. Here’s what you need to know:
- Preservatives are typically only necessary for water-containing products within specific pH ranges. Since these scrubs are oil-based and don’t contain water, they generally don’t require preservatives.
- Avoiding Water Contact: It’s essential to keep water out of the storage container during use. However, if you think your scrub might come into contact with water, a preservative can help prevent mold and bacteria growth. I recommend using VegeCide, a natural, plant-based preservative that’s oil-soluble and effective for this type of scrub.
MATERIALS FOR MAKING HOLIDAY SUGAR SCRUBS
You don’t need fancy tools to create sugar scrubs at home. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Glass Mixing Bowl: This is ideal, as plastic or metal can react with certain ingredients (like clay and essential oils).
- Spoon or Whisk: Use this to mix your scrub and transfer it to your storage container.
HOW TO MAKE DIY CHRISTMAS SUGAR SCRUBS
Creating your own sugar scrubs is simple and quick—perfect for beginners! Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Blend Liquid Ingredients: In a jar or small bowl, mix the carrier oil, essential oils, and optional vitamin E oil.
- Combine Dry Materials: In a larger bowl, mix the sugar, mica powder, and any other dry ingredients (like spices or jojoba beads). If you’re using orange zest, blend it with the sugar in a food processor until well combined.
- Mix Sugar Scrub: Pour the oil mixture over the dry ingredients and combine thoroughly.
- Package and Store: Transfer the finished scrub into airtight glass jars or containers, sealing them until you’re ready to use or gift them.
ENJOY YOUR HOMEMADE SUGAR SCRUBS!
With these easy recipes and tips, you’ll have beautifully crafted sugar scrubs ready to pamper yourself or share as festive gifts. Enjoy the process and the delightful scents that fill your space!
TIPS FOR USING SUGAR SCRUB
- Use a Spoon or Spatula: Always remove the scrub from the jar with a spoon or spatula to prevent water from getting into the product.
- Be Gentle: Exfoliate gently to avoid irritation and only use the scrub on intact skin.
- Prep Your Skin: Ensure your body is thoroughly wet and softened with warm water. Avoid using overly hot water, as it can dry out your skin.
- Avoid Irritated Areas: Do not use the scrub on irritated, inflamed skin, or open wounds.
- Follow Up with Moisturizer: After exfoliating, apply lotion or body butter to hydrate your skin.
HOW TO USE THE SCRUB
- In the Shower or Bath: This is the ideal time to exfoliate your arms, legs, and body. Start by wetting your skin with warm water. Then, take small amounts of the scrub and massage it onto your skin. Rinse off thoroughly with water.
- For Hands and Feet: If you want to focus on specific areas like your hands or the soles of your feet, take a small amount of scrub and gently rub it in circular motions on the targeted area.
- As a Lip Scrub: These sugar scrub recipes also work wonderfully as lip scrubs. Use your fingertip to pick up a small amount and massage it onto your lips with gentle pressure in circular motions. Leave it on for two minutes before rinsing off and wiping clean with a tissue.
By following these tips, you can enjoy all the benefits of your homemade sugar scrub while keeping your skin healthy and glowing!
