Christmas sugar scrub DIY

8 Gorgeous Christmas Sugar Scrub DIY Perfect for Holiday Gifts! 

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As a certified skincare formulator, I must admit sugar scrubs hold a special place in my heart. They’re simple, effective, and oh-so-fun to customise, especially during the festive season!

Whether you’re gifting them to loved ones or treating yourself to some self-care, these scrubs are a perfect way to add a touch of holiday cheer to your skincare routine. 

Why a Sugar Scrub for Christmas?

Sugar is a natural exfoliant that gently buffs away dead skin, leaving you with a soft, glowing complexion.

A sugar scrub is EXACTLY that. Sugar that exfoliates. Add a dash of nourishing oils and a sprinkle of festive scents, and you’ve got yourself a skincare treat that’s as good as it smells!

They make WONDERFUL Christmas gifts and they’re incredibly luxurious in their feel. Oh, and so inexpensive to make.

Ready to for the magic of Christmas sugar scrubs? Here are some festive ideas to get you started:

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1. Peppermint Candy Cane Christmas Sugar Scrub DIY

This scrub is not only a great exfoliator but also leaves your skin soft and smelling like Christmas!

This festive scrub is perfect for gifting or a touch of holiday cheer in your skincare routine. Its red and white swirls make it as beautiful as it is functional!

Ingredients

Method

  1. Prepare the base mixture:
    In a bowl, mix the sugar and melted coconut oil until fully combined. The texture should be sandy but moist. Add a little more oil if it feels too dry.
  2. Add the scent:
    Stir in the peppermint essential oil. Adjust the amount to your preference, but keep it within safe dilution guidelines (no more than 2% of the total mixture).
  3. Divide and colour:
    Split the scrub mixture into two bowls. Leave one half white and add a small amount of red mica powder or food colouring to the other half. Mix until the colour is evenly distributed.
  4. Layer the scrub:
    In your clean jar, alternate spoonfuls of the red and white mixtures to create a swirled effect. Gently press each layer to pack it down slightly but avoid mixing the colours too much.
  5. Add the finishing touches:
    Decorate the jar with a ribbon, tag, or even a small candy cane to give it that festive look.

TIP: To create perfect swirls for your Candy Cane Sugar Scrub, use a spoon to layer small amounts of the red and white scrub alternately in the jar. After adding a few layers, gently press them down with the back of the spoon to pack the scrub and define the layers. For a swirl effect, use a skewer or the handle of a spoon to lightly drag through the layers in a swirling motion—be careful not to overmix, as this will blur the colours. Work slowly to keep the layers distinct yet beautifully blended!

How to use

Rinse thoroughly with warm water and pat dry.

Scoop a small amount of the scrub and gently massage it onto damp skin in circular motions.

2. Gingerbread Cookie Christmas Sugar Scrub DIY

This scrub smells like freshly baked cookies and leaves your skin feeling soft and smooth—perfect for the holiday season!

Bring the warm, festive scent of gingerbread into your skincare with this delightful scrub. It’s perfect for a cosy self-care session or as a handmade gift!

Ingredients

Method

  1. Mix the base:
    Combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and melted coconut oil in a bowl. Stir until the mixture resembles damp sand.
  2. Add the spices:
    Stir in the cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. These give the scrub its signature gingerbread scent and add a festive feel.
  3. Enhance with vanilla:
    Add the vanilla extract and mix thoroughly. Adjust the spices to your preference if you want a stronger scent.
  4. Jar it up:
    Spoon the scrub into a clean jar, pressing gently to pack it down. Decorate the jar with twine or ribbon for a festive touch.
  5. Optional topping:
    For added flair, place a few small gingerbread cookies on top of the scrub (just for decoration—they’re not meant to be used with the scrub).

How to use

Rinse thoroughly with warm water and pat dry.

Massage a small amount onto damp skin in circular motions, focusing on dry areas.

3. Vanilla Sugar Snowflake Winter Wonderland Christmas Sugar Scrub DIY

This sugar scrub is a beautiful way to bring winter magic to your skincare routine or holiday gifts. Its fresh scent and shimmering look make it a seasonal favourite!

This scrub captures the essence of a snowy winter day with its clean, crisp appearance and refreshing scent. It’s simple yet elegant—perfect for the festive season!

Ingredients

Method

  1. Combine the ingredients:
    In a mixing bowl, combine the sugar and melted coconut oil. Stir until the mixture is evenly combined and resembles damp sand.
  2. Add the scent:
    Add the eucalyptus or peppermint essential oil and stir well. If you prefer a slightly sweet note, add the vanilla extract.
  3. Optional shimmer:
    If desired, sprinkle in a small amount of silver mica powder or biodegradable glitter to give the scrub a frosty, snowy look. Mix until fully incorporated.
  4. Transfer to the jar:
    Spoon the mixture into a clean jar, pressing gently to ensure it’s packed neatly.
  5. Decorate:
    Wrap the jar with a white ribbon and attach a snowflake charm for a festive, wintry touch.

How to use

  • Scoop a small amount of the scrub and gently massage onto damp skin in circular motions.
  • Rinse thoroughly with warm water and pat dry.

4. Hot Cocoa Christmas Sugar Scrub DIY

This scrub is a cosy, chocolate-scented treat for your skin and makes a charming holiday gift!

This indulgent scrub smells like a warm cup of cocoa and is perfect for gifting or pampering yourself during the chilly season!

Ingredients

Method

  1. Prepare the base:
    Combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and melted coconut oil in a mixing bowl. Stir until the mixture is evenly combined.
  2. Add cocoa and vanilla:
    Mix in the cocoa powder and vanilla extract. The cocoa will give the scrub its chocolatey aroma and colour.
  3. Transfer to a jar:
    Spoon the mixture into a clean jar, pressing gently to pack it down.
  4. Optional topping:
    Decorate the top with mini marshmallows for a fun, hot chocolate-inspired look.

Important Note About the Marshmallows

The marshmallows are decorative only and should be removed before using the scrub. They’re a festive touch but aren’t suitable for skincare use.

How to use

  • Scoop a small amount of the scrub and gently massage it onto damp skin in circular motions.
  • Rinse thoroughly with warm water and pat dry.

5. Cranberry-Orange Layered Christmas Sugar Scrub DIY

This scrub not only smells amazing but also looks beautiful with its layered design, making it perfect for gifting. Store in a cool, dry place and use within 1-2 weeks for the freshest experience!

This vibrant scrub combines the festive colours and scents of cranberries and oranges, making it a stunning holiday gift or a cheerful addition to your skincare routine.

Ingredients

Method

  1. Prepare the cranberry layer:
    • In a bowl, mix 1 cup of sugar, 1/2 cup coconut oil, and the cranberry puree.
    • Add a small amount of red mica powder or food colouring if desired for a brighter hue.
  2. Prepare the orange layer:
    • In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of sugar, 1/2 cup coconut oil, orange zest, orange juice, and orange essential oil.
    • Add orange mica powder or food colouring if you’d like the orange layer to pop.
  3. Layer the scrub:
    • Spoon a layer of the cranberry scrub into the jar, smoothing it down gently with the back of a spoon.
    • Add a layer of the orange scrub on top, pressing it down lightly.
    • Repeat the process until the jar is full, alternating layers to create a striped effect.
  4. Decorate:
    • Garnish the top with cranberries, an orange slice, and a small sprig of rosemary for a festive touch.

Note on Shelf Life

This scrub is made with fresh ingredients like cranberry puree and orange juice, which can shorten its shelf life. It’s best to store the scrub in the refrigerator and use it within 1-2 weeks to ensure freshness and prevent spoilage. To extend the shelf life, you can skip the fresh fruit and juice, using only essential oils and zest for fragrance and colour. Always use clean, dry hands or a spoon to scoop out the scrub to avoid introducing water, which can lead to bacterial growth.

How to use

  • Scoop a small amount of the scrub and gently massage onto damp skin in circular motions.
  • Rinse thoroughly with warm water and pat dry.

6. Cinnamon Spice Christmas Sugar Scrub DIY

This scrub is ideal for exfoliating during the winter months, leaving your skin soft and smelling like Christmas spices!

Infused with warm, spicy notes of cinnamon and star anise, this scrub is perfect for the festive season and leaves your skin feeling soft and cosy!

Ingredients

Method

  1. Mix the base:
    Combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and melted coconut oil in a bowl. Stir until the mixture is evenly combined.
  2. Add the spices:
    Stir in the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove. Adjust the spices to your preference for a stronger or milder scent.
  3. Enhance with vanilla (optional):
    Add the vanilla extract for a sweet, warm undertone and mix thoroughly.
  4. Jar it up:
    Spoon the scrub into a clean jar, packing it down gently with the back of a spoon.
  5. Decorate:
    Garnish the top with a cinnamon stick and a piece of star anise for a festive touch. Tie a ribbon around the jar for a finished look.

Note on Shelf Life

This scrub has a long shelf life of up to 6 months, as it contains no fresh ingredients. Store in a cool, dry place, and always use clean, dry hands or a spoon to avoid introducing moisture into the jar.

How to use

  • Scoop a small amount of scrub and gently massage onto damp skin in circular motions.
  • Rinse thoroughly with warm water and pat dry.

7. Frosted Berry Christmas Sugar Scrub DIY

This Frosted Berry Sugar Scrub makes a stunning addition to your self-care routine and is a thoughtful, handmade gift for the holiday season!

This sparkling scrub is inspired by winter berries and frosty mornings. The purple and pink tones, combined with a shimmer of glitter, make it a luxurious treat for your skin and a perfect holiday gift.

Ingredients

Method

  1. Prepare the scrub base:
    Combine the granulated sugar and melted coconut oil in a mixing bowl. Stir until evenly combined.
  2. Divide and colour:
    • Split the scrub mixture into three equal portions.
    • Add pink mica powder to one portion, purple mica powder to another, and leave the last portion uncoloured for a frosty white effect.
    • If desired, sprinkle a small amount of biodegradable glitter into each portion for added sparkle.
  3. Layer the scrub:
    • Start with the purple layer by spooning it into the jar and pressing it down gently.
    • Add the uncoloured layer next, followed by the pink layer, smoothing each layer as you go to create a gradient effect.
  4. Decorate:
    Wrap the jar with a glittery ribbon or silver washi tape for an elegant touch.

Note on Shelf Life

This scrub has a shelf life of up to 6 months when stored in a cool, dry place. Use clean, dry hands or a spoon to scoop out the scrub to prevent introducing water, which could shorten its shelf life.

How to use

  • Scoop a small amount of the scrub and gently massage it onto damp skin in circular motions.
  • Rinse thoroughly with warm water and pat dry.

8. Christmas Tree Pine Sugar Scrub DIY

This Winter Pine Sugar Scrub is perfect for those who love nature-inspired scents and adds a festive charm to your holiday gifts or self-care rituals.

This earthy green scrub captures the fresh, woody scent of a pine forest, making it the perfect festive addition to your skincare or a unique holiday gift.

Ingredients

Method

  1. Prepare the scrub base:
    Mix the sugar and coconut oil in a bowl until it has a sandy, moist texture.
  2. Add the colour and scent:
    Stir in the spirulina or mica powder until evenly distributed, creating a natural green hue. Add the pine essential oil and mix well.
  3. Add a frosty touch (optional):
    For a festive sparkle, sprinkle in some biodegradable glitter and stir it into the mixture.
  4. Transfer to the jar:
    Spoon the scrub into a clean jar, pressing it down lightly to ensure it’s packed neatly.
  5. Decorate:
    Wrap twine around the jar and attach a decorative charm. Add a small pine tree topper or similar festive decoration to the top of the scrub for a wintery finishing touch.

Note on Shelf Life

This scrub has a shelf life of up to 6 months when stored in a cool, dry place. Use a clean, dry spoon or hands to avoid introducing moisture into the jar, which could reduce its shelf life.

How to use

  • Scoop a small amount of the scrub and gently massage onto damp skin in circular motions.
  • Rinse thoroughly with warm water and pat dry.

Need Wrapping Ideas? Take a Look Below!

*Best Practices to Minimise Coconut Oil Build-Up in Drains*

Using coconut oil in sugar scrubs is a popular choice—it’s nourishing, natural, and smells amazing. But when it comes to washing it down the drain, things can get tricky.

Coconut oil solidifies at cooler temperatures, which means it could stick to the inside of your pipes, leading to clogs over time.

Don’t worry, though—with a few simple precautions, you can enjoy your coconut oil scrubs without wreaking havoc on your plumbing!

  1. Limit Usage in Scrubs
    • Use no more than 1–2 tablespoons of coconut oil per application to minimise the amount entering the drain.
  2. Wipe Off Excess
    • Before rinsing, wipe off as much scrub as possible with a tissue and discard it in the bin. This significantly reduces the oil going down the drain.
  3. Dilute with Other Oils
    • Blend coconut oil with liquid oils like sunflower or grapeseed oil. These oils stay liquid at room temperature and reduce the risk of solidification.
  4. Occasional Pipe Maintenance
    • Pour a kettle of boiling water down your drain every few weeks to dissolve any build-up. You can also use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar, followed by hot water, to keep pipes clear.
  5. Consider Drains with Grease Traps
    • If you’re making sugar scrubs regularly, and especially in large quantities, a grease trap or sink strainer can help catch oil and prevent it from entering your plumbing system.

A Better Alternative?

If you’re concerned about drains, switch to oils like olive, sweet almond, or grapeseed, which remain liquid and don’t pose the same risks. They work just as well in scrubs and are just as nourishing for the skin.

By being mindful and taking these extra steps, you can enjoy your sugar scrubs without plumbing headaches!

Conclusion

Creating your own sugar scrubs is a delightful way to embrace the festive spirit while treating your skin to natural, nourishing ingredients.

Whether it’s the vibrant layers of the Cranberry Orange Scrub, the cosy aroma of the Cinnamon Spice Scrub, or the refreshing woodland vibe of the Winter Pine Scrub, each one is unique, easy to make, and perfect for gifting or self-care.

With a little creativity and a few simple ingredients, you can craft beautiful scrubs that capture the magic of the holiday season.

Happy scrubbing and happy holidays! 🎄

Patri Hernandez, CHC, Certified Health Coach & Certified Organic Skincare Alchemist
One day, during my menopausal rollercoaster, I had a spiritual awakening that connected me so deeply with nature, I thought I might sprout leaves. Suddenly, natural ingredients became my obsession—like an addiction, really. My body was magnetically drawn to them, and it wasn’t long before I found myself knee-deep in essential oils, herbs, and all things organic.

From there, it was a slippery slope (a delightfully scented one) into organic skincare formulation. The intoxicating aroma of essential oils, the thrill of crafting something pure with my own hands—I was hooked. It wasn’t enough to just use these natural wonders; I had to create them, surround myself with them. Now, I live on a piece of land where I grow my own organic fruits and vegetables (when the weather isn’t playing tricks on me), and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

When people ask what I do, I like to think about the view from my window—the endless sea—and say, “I live the life dreamers dream of.” It's All about the richness of living in harmony with nature. Watching others turn to natural ingredients because of something I shared with them—that’s my proudest achievement.

Oh, and just to keep things interesting, I’m also a bit of a nerd. I love computers, software, and all the techy stuff that seems like it wouldn’t fit with my earth-loving, oil-sniffing lifestyle. But hey, who says you can’t have the best of both worlds?

My ultimate goal? To help people kick the commercial product habit and embrace the natural, the organic, the truly nourishing. Life’s too short to settle for anything less.

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