Let’s be real—chapped lips are the worst. They crack, they peel, and no amount of fancy lipstick will save you if your lips are basically a desert. I’ve been there, and honestly, nothing beats a good lip scrub. But buying them? Expensive. Chemicals? No thanks. That’s why I’m obsessed with DIY lip scrubs. Today, I’m sharing 12 natural recipes that are super easy, cheap, and honestly, a little fun to make. Trust me, your lips will thank you.
Why You Need a Lip Scrub
Before we get into the recipes, let’s talk about why lip scrubs matter.
Your lips have delicate skin and no oil glands. This means they dry out faster than the rest of your face. A lip scrub:
Removes dead skin, so your lipstick glides on like butter.
Boosts circulation, giving your lips a natural pink tint.
Hydrates when paired with natural oils.
Ever tried just slathering on balm over peeling lips? Yeah… it doesn’t work. Exfoliation is key.
How to Use a Lip Scrub
Quick pro tip before the recipes: don’t overdo it. Exfoliate 1–2 times a week. More than that, and you’ll end up with sore lips.
Apply a small amount to your lips.
Gently massage in a circular motion for 30–60 seconds.
Rinse with lukewarm water and follow up with a moisturizing balm.
Okay, now the fun part—let’s make your lips smooth AF.
1. Classic Sugar & Honey Lip Scrub
You can’t go wrong with this OG scrub. Simple, effective, and smells like dessert.
Ingredients:
1 teaspoon sugar (brown or white)
1 teaspoon honey
Instructions:
Mix sugar and honey until you get a paste.
Massage onto lips in circular motions.
Rinse with warm water.
Why I love it: Honey hydrates, sugar exfoliates, and it’s basically edible. Bonus: you can eat it if you’re tempted.
2. Coconut Oil & Brown Sugar Scrub
Want something ultra-moisturizing? Coconut oil is your BFF.
Ingredients:
1 teaspoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon coconut oil
Instructions:
Mix into a paste.
Apply gently for 1 minute.
Wipe off and apply balm.
Pro tip: This one smells amazing. FYI, your boyfriend might try to lick it off… not that I’ve seen that happen.
3. Coffee & Honey Lip Scrub
Coffee lovers, this is your moment. The caffeine gives your lips a subtle plump, and it smells divine.
Ingredients:
1 teaspoon coffee grounds
1 teaspoon honey
Instructions:
Mix ingredients into a paste.
Gently scrub lips for 30–60 seconds.
Rinse and moisturize.
Why it works: Coffee is a natural exfoliant, and honey soothes. Plus, it’s basically a mini wake-up for your lips.
4. Brown Sugar & Olive Oil Scrub
Olive oil isn’t just for cooking—it’s magic for your skin.
Ingredients:
1 teaspoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon olive oil
Instructions:
Mix sugar and oil.
Massage onto lips for 1 minute.
Rinse and follow up with balm.
Extra tip: This scrub works wonders in winter, when lips feel like sandpaper.
5. Vanilla & Sugar Scrub
If you’re craving a little indulgence, vanilla adds a sweet scent without extra sugar.
Ingredients:
1 teaspoon sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon coconut or olive oil
Instructions:
Mix into a paste.
Apply and massage for 30–60 seconds.
Rinse and moisturize.
Why I love it: It’s dessert for your lips—minus the calories.
6. Lemon & Sugar Scrub
Want something brightening? Lemon juice can subtly lighten dark lips and add a zesty twist.
Ingredients:
1 teaspoon sugar
Few drops lemon juice
1 teaspoon coconut oil
Instructions:
Mix until paste forms.
Gently scrub lips for 30–60 seconds.
Rinse and moisturize.
Caution: Lemon can sting if your lips are cracked, so only use on mildly chapped lips.
7. Strawberry & Sugar Lip Scrub
Strawberries aren’t just cute—they’re full of vitamin C and antioxidants.
Ingredients:
1 ripe strawberry, mashed
1 teaspoon sugar
Instructions:
Mash strawberry and mix with sugar.
Scrub lips gently for 1 minute.
Rinse and apply balm.
Pro tip: This one’s messy but so worth it. Your lips get soft and lightly tinted pink.
8. Honey & Almond Oil Scrub
Almond oil penetrates deeply, giving intense hydration.
Ingredients:
1 teaspoon honey
1 teaspoon almond oil
½ teaspoon sugar (optional for light exfoliation)
Instructions:
Mix into a smooth paste.
Massage onto lips for 30 seconds.
Rinse and moisturize.
Why it works: Honey locks in moisture, almond oil soothes, and sugar adds gentle exfoliation.
9. Brown Sugar & Mint Scrub
Love a fresh, tingly sensation? Mint is the answer.
Ingredients:
1 teaspoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon coconut oil
Few drops peppermint extract
Instructions:
Mix into a paste.
Apply and massage gently.
Rinse and follow with balm.
Fun fact: The mint makes lips feel instantly plump and refreshed. Instant pick-me-up!
10. Honey & Oatmeal Lip Scrub
Oatmeal is gentle but super effective for sensitive lips.
Ingredients:
1 teaspoon honey
1 teaspoon finely ground oatmeal
Instructions:
Mix into a paste.
Apply with gentle circular motions.
Rinse and moisturize.
Why I use it: Oatmeal is calming, so it’s perfect if your lips are irritated or sunburned.
11. Cocoa & Sugar Lip Scrub
Chocolate lovers, this one’s for you. Cocoa antioxidants + sugar exfoliation = love at first scrub.
Ingredients:
1 teaspoon sugar
½ teaspoon cocoa powder
1 teaspoon coconut oil
Instructions:
Mix into a paste.
Scrub lips for 30–60 seconds.
Rinse and moisturize.
Extra fun: Smells like chocolate… which might make you snack on it, FYI.
12. Rose & Sugar Lip Scrub
Feeling fancy? Rose petals add a luxurious touch while sugar does the work.
Ingredients:
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon rose water
Few crushed rose petals (optional)
Instructions:
Mix ingredients.
Scrub lips gently for 1 minute.
Rinse and apply balm.
Why it rocks: Smells amazing, feels soothing, and adds a subtle glow to your lips.
Bonus Tips for Lip Scrub Success
Use soft, circular motions. Scrubbing too hard can irritate lips.
Store your scrubs properly. Keep in small, airtight jars and use within 1–2 weeks.
Always follow with a lip balm. Scrub + balm = soft lips that last all day.
DIY is flexible. Mix and match oils, sugar types, and flavors. Find your perfect combo!
Final Thoughts
Honestly, these 12 natural DIY lip scrubs aren’t just fun—they work. I’ve tried every single one on this list (yes, all of them), and I can safely say my lips have never felt better. Smooth, hydrated, and plump without breaking the bank or exposing myself to a bunch of chemicals.
So, what’s stopping you? Grab some sugar, honey, oils, and get scrubbing. Your lips deserve this little self-care love. And if anyone asks why your lips look amazing, just smile and say it’s a “secret DIY beauty hack”.
