This Lavender Vanilla Sugar Scrub is an easy, natural DIY that pampers your skin and makes a thoughtful handmade gift. This all-natural sugar scrub combines sugar, a nourishing carrier oil, vanilla, and calming lavender essential oil for a fresh, relaxing scent and soft, smooth skin.
Homemade sugar scrubs are an inexpensive alternative to store-bought options, which can be costly and sometimes contain synthetic preservatives. With just a few pantry staples and essential oil, you can make a simple, luxurious scrub in minutes.
Make a batch to keep for yourself, package it in a pretty jar, and give it as a thoughtful birthday, Mother’s Day, or holiday gift. It’s also perfect for spa parties where guests make their own jars to take home.
Lavender Sugar Scrub Benefits
Lavender essential oil is prized for its gentle, calming properties. When combined in a scrub, lavender offers both skin and wellness benefits:
- Soothing: Lavender can help calm irritated or red skin.
- Good for acne-prone skin: Lavender’s anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce the appearance of breakouts and promote a smoother skin surface.
- Relaxing scent: The aroma of lavender helps reduce stress and supports a calming nighttime routine.
Materials Needed for a Homemade Lavender Sugar Scrub
Gather simple ingredients — many are likely already in your pantry or bathroom:
- Airtight glass jar for storage
- Granulated sugar (or organic brown sugar)
- Coconut oil (non-fractionated preferred) or another carrier oil (almond, olive)
- Vitamin E oil (optional; acts as a natural preservative)
- Real vanilla extract
- Lavender essential oil
How to Make a Sugar Scrub
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup carrier oil (almond, olive, or coconut)
- 1/2 tsp vitamin E oil (optional)
- 1/2 tsp real vanilla extract
- Approximately 15 drops lavender essential oil (adjust to preference)
Instructions
- Combine the sugar and oils in a mixing bowl and stir until well blended.
- Add vanilla extract and lavender essential oil, then mix thoroughly. Taste the scent and adjust lavender by adding a few more drops if you prefer a stronger aroma.
- Transfer the scrub to an airtight glass jar and seal. Store in a cool, dry place. Use within one to three months for best quality since there are no chemical preservatives.
How Much Lavender Essential Oil to Use?
The amount of lavender essential oil depends on how strong you want the scent. Start with 15 drops as suggested, then add 5–10 more drops if you prefer a stronger lavender aroma. Always test a small amount on your skin first to ensure you don’t have sensitivity to the essential oil.
New Printable Tags
If you plan to gift the scrub, printable labels or tags add a lovely finishing touch. Attach with ribbon or twine and include a short note with ingredients and a recommended use-by date.
How to Use Your DIY Sugar Scrub
- Scoop a small amount into your palms or onto a spoon.
- Gently massage the scrub over hands, feet, or body areas that need exfoliation.
- Allow the oils to soak in briefly, breathe deeply, and enjoy the relaxing lavender aroma.
- Rinse thoroughly and pat skin dry with a soft towel.
Notes about Making and Storing Your Sugar Scrub
- Non-fractionated coconut oil provides extra therapeutic benefit and a richer feel.
- Keep the jar clean and dry; use within about three months for best freshness.
- If the scrub solidifies, place the jar in warm water to soften before use.
- Vitamin E oil helps extend shelf life and adds skin-nourishing benefits but is optional.
- Feel free to substitute organic brown sugar for a slightly gentler exfoliant and warmer color.
DIY Beauty Products with Lavender
Beyond softening skin, lavender delivers calming and wellness effects: it can help reduce tension, support relaxation, and contribute to a soothing self-care ritual. Incorporating lavender into homemade skincare recipes lets you enjoy both beauty and aromatherapy benefits.
We Love to Hear From You!
If you try this Lavender Vanilla Sugar Scrub, please rate the recipe and share your experience in the comments. We enjoy seeing photo tags and hearing any personal tweaks you made—use the hashtag #suburbansimplicity if you share your creation on social media.
This recipe was originally published in 2016 and updated with clearer instructions in 2020.
Related DIY Ideas
You may also enjoy other easy homemade treats like Vanilla Brown Sugar Scrub, DIY Lavender Bath Salts, or Peppermint Bath Salts for gifting and home spa nights.
