Hey there, fellow skincare enthusiast! Ever notice how your skin can feel like sandpaper some mornings? Yeah, me too. That’s where DIY coconut oil body scrubs come to the rescue. Not only are they ridiculously easy to make, but they also leave your skin feeling softer than a cloud. And honestly, nothing beats knowing exactly what’s going on your skin—no mystery chemicals here.
I’ve experimented with a bunch of scrubs over the years, and trust me, some recipes are total game-changers. So, grab your mixing bowls, and let’s get scrubbing.
1. Classic Coconut Sugar Scrub
Let’s start simple because sometimes simple is the best.
Ingredients:
1 cup granulated sugar (brown or white, your choice)
1/2 cup coconut oil (melted slightly)
Optional: a few drops of vanilla extract for that spa vibe
Instructions:
Mix sugar and coconut oil in a bowl.
Stir until you get a gritty paste that smells like heaven.
Massage gently onto damp skin in circular motions.
Rinse and pat dry.
Why it works: Sugar is a natural exfoliant, and coconut oil moisturizes. Honestly, your skin will feel like silk afterward. FYI: This is my go-to when I need a quick pick-me-up before bed.
2. Coffee Coconut Oil Scrub
Coffee isn’t just for waking up your brain—it wakes up your skin too!
Ingredients:
1/2 cup coffee grounds (used or fresh, doesn’t matter)
1/2 cup coconut oil
1/4 cup sugar for extra scrubbing power
Instructions:
Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
Rub on areas prone to cellulite (I know, we all have them).
Rinse with warm water and enjoy the caffeine boost on your skin.
Why it works: Coffee is said to help improve circulation and tighten skin. Plus, the scent? Pure morning magic. IMO, this is the scrub that makes you feel fancy without spending $50 at a spa.
3. Honey & Coconut Oil Scrub
Looking for something gentle yet ultra-nourishing? Enter honey.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup coconut oil
1/4 cup honey
1/2 cup finely ground oatmeal
Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
Apply to damp skin and massage gently.
Rinse thoroughly—honey is sticky, so you don’t want it lingering.
Why it works: Honey is naturally antibacterial and super hydrating. This one’s perfect for sensitive skin days. Personally, I use this when my skin is feeling extra fussy.
4. Sea Salt Coconut Oil Scrub
If sugar isn’t rough enough for your stubborn dry patches, salt’s got your back.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup coarse sea salt
1/2 cup coconut oil
Optional: few drops of essential oil (lavender or peppermint)
Instructions:
Mix salt and coconut oil until you get a thick paste.
Rub onto rough areas like elbows, knees, and feet.
Rinse well (salt can be intense, FYI).
Why it works: Salt is a stronger exfoliant than sugar, perfect for tackling dead skin. Just don’t overdo it—you don’t want raw elbows!
5. Lemon & Coconut Oil Scrub
Want to brighten your skin while exfoliating? Lemon’s your BFF.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup coconut oil
1/2 cup sugar
Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions:
Mix sugar and coconut oil first, then add lemon juice.
Apply gently to damp skin—avoid cuts (ouch!).
Rinse thoroughly and pat dry.
Why it works: Lemon contains natural acids that help brighten and even skin tone. Pro tip: I save this scrub for my arms and legs when I want them to look extra glowy.
6. Chocolate Coconut Oil Scrub
Yes, you can eat it… but please don’t.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup coconut oil
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
Instructions:
Mix everything until it forms a chocolatey paste.
Rub all over your body (or wherever you like chocolate… I won’t judge).
Rinse thoroughly—bonus, your bathroom will smell like a bakery.
Why it works: Cocoa is packed with antioxidants, and your skin will thank you. IMO, this is the fun scrub for pampering nights.
7. Green Tea & Coconut Oil Scrub
For those days when you want to feel zen while scrubbing.
Ingredients:
2 green tea bags (or 2 tbsp loose leaves)
1/2 cup coconut oil
1/4 cup sugar
Instructions:
Open tea bags and mix leaves with sugar and coconut oil.
Massage onto damp skin.
Rinse and enjoy the calming scent.
Why it works: Green tea is loaded with antioxidants and can help soothe irritated skin. FYI: I love using this scrub after a long, stressful day—it feels like self-care therapy.
8. Lavender & Coconut Oil Scrub
Ah, lavender—the smell of calm, spa vibes, and pretending you have your life together.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup coconut oil
1/2 cup sugar
10 drops lavender essential oil
Instructions:
Mix all ingredients until smooth.
Apply in gentle circular motions over your body.
Rinse and revel in the spa-like aroma.
Why it works: Lavender is calming and the coconut oil keeps your skin soft. IMO, this scrub is perfect for Sunday night rituals when you’re gearing up for a fresh week.
Pro Tips for All Coconut Oil Scrubs
Before you start scrubbing like a mad scientist, here are some friendly tips:
Test first: Even natural ingredients can cause reactions. Dab a small amount on your arm first.
Moisturize afterward: Some scrubs leave your skin silky, but a little extra moisturizer won’t hurt.
Storage: Store your scrub in an airtight container. Most last 2–3 weeks.
Warm coconut oil: If your coconut oil is solid, pop it in a warm water bath before mixing. Solid chunks are hard to rub evenly.
Rough vs. gentle: Adjust the sugar/salt ratio depending on how rough your skin needs it.
Wrapping It Up
So there you have it: 8 DIY coconut oil body scrub recipes that are easy, fun, and ridiculously effective. Whether you want something gentle like honey, energizing like coffee, or spa-level fancy like lavender, there’s a scrub for every mood.
Seriously, these recipes aren’t just skincare—they’re mini self-care rituals that make your skin feel amazing and your bathroom smell fantastic. And the best part? You know exactly what’s going on your skin. No weird chemicals, no confusing labels.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab some coconut oil, pick your favorite recipe, and get scrubbing. Your skin (and your nose) will thank you. And remember, if anyone asks why you smell like a tropical paradise, just tell them you’re “testing new spa products.”
