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Store-bought scrubs can be expensive, and they often contain harsh chemicals that can dry out your skin. Making your own DIY mint sugar scrub is a great way to take care of your skin without breaking the bank. Plus, this scrub contains fresh mint and peppermint essential oil, which have both been shown to have skin-care benefits.
While this homemade scrub is so heavenly you will want to keep it all to yourself, it also makes a great homemade gift idea for anyone who loves fresh mint. And since mint is so easy to grow, plant it in your garden so you will always have it on hand.
Ingredients for this Easy DIY Mint Sugar Scrub
Making this sugar scrub is incredibly easy, however, you will need to have a food processor or be very skilled at using a knife. The fresh mint leaves will have to be chopped very finely and mixed well into the sugar and oil mixture.
Here is what you will need to make one batch of this sugar scrub:
– 1 cup of sugar
– 1/4 to 1/2 cup carrier oil (olive oil or coconut oil are the most common)
– 10-12 fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
– 2-3 drops of peppermint oil (optional)
Supplies needed to make this homemade mint sugar scrub
In addition to the ingredients above, you will need a few basic supplies to make this DIY mint sugar scrub.
Food processor or knife and cutting board to chop the mint.
Large bowl and spoon. Avoid wood or plastic if possible since the mint smell will linger on those.
Jars with lids for storage. The size jar you choose will vary, depending on if you are keeping it for yourself or giving it away. How many jars you need will also vary.
Fresh mint vs peppermint essential oils
If you’re looking for a refreshing homemade sugar scrub, mint is a great choice. You can use fresh mint leaves or peppermint essential oil to give the scrub a signature minty scent.
Both options will leave your skin feeling invigorated and refreshed. However, there are a few key differences to keep in mind when deciding which to use.
Fresh mint leaves will provide a pretty presentation, while the peppermint oil will give the scrub a stronger minty smell. Peppermint oil can also be more irritating to sensitive skin, so if you have any concerns, it’s best to stick with fresh mint leaves.
Whichever option you choose, you’re sure to enjoy the refreshing results. Personally, I like to combine both fresh mint and essential oils in the same batch, giving me a beautiful look AND a strong, minty smell.
Keep in mind that there is a difference between peppermint extract that you find in your local grocery store and essential oil.
Best carrier oils for homemade sugar scrubs
Carrier oils are a necessary component of any sugar scrub. Not only do they help to moisturize and nourish the skin, but they also help to bind the ingredients together.
When choosing an oil for your sugar scrub, it is important to consider both the properties of the oil and your own personal preferences.
For example, some people prefer the light texture of grapeseed oil, while others prefer the rich feeling of coconut oil.
In terms of skin benefits, jojoba oil is often considered one of the best carrier oils for homemade sugar scrubs. Jojoba oil closely resembles sebum, the natural oil produced by our skin. As a result, it is easily absorbed and helps to keep the skin hydrated without feeling greasy.
Other good options include sweet almond oil, olive oil, and apricot kernel oil. Ultimately, the best carrier oil for your sugar scrub will be one that meets your individual needs and leaves your skin feeling soft and smooth.
One benefit of using coconut oil in this peppermint sugar scrub is that peppermint is solid at room temperature, which gives a firmer consistency to your homemade scrub.
Instructions for making this fresh mint scrub
Making a sugar scrub with fresh mint leaves is easy and only requires mint leaves, sugar, a carrier oil, and a few optional drops of peppermint essential oil.
First, gather together sugar, olive oil, and mint leaves. You can adjust the proportions of each ingredient to suit your preference but try to keep to the ratio of 2 parts sugar to 1 part oil. Reduce the amount of oil if you prefer your scrub to be less liquidy
Next, combine the sugar and olive oil in the bowl of a food processor and mix until they are fully combined.
Then, add the mint leaves and continue to mix until the leaves are finely chopped. Add a few drops of mint essential oil if you prefer a stronger scent.
Finally, transfer the scrub to a jar or container and enjoy!
If you don’t have a food processor, chop the fresh mint finely with a sharp knife and cutting board. Then, add it to the other homemade scrub ingredients and stir well with a spoon.
This homemade mint sugar scrub is a great way to exfoliate and nourish your skin. The addition of fresh mint leaves provides a beautiful look in addition to a fabulous smell.
Tips for using mint sugar scrub for exfoliation
When using your sugar scrub, take care not to get any water in the container as this can cause bacteria to grow.
Instead, scoop out a small amount into your hand and add water as needed. Gently massage the scrub onto damp skin in circular motions before rinsing off with warm water.
Follow up with a moisturizer to lock in hydration.
This homemade mint sugar scrub can be used 1-2 times per week or as needed.
How to store homemade sugar scrubs
Once you have made your sugar scrub, it is important to store it properly to prevent the growth of bacteria.
The best way to store homemade sugar scrubs is in an airtight container in the fridge. This will help to extend the shelf life of the scrub and keep it fresh for longer.
Be sure to label the container with the date the scrub was made so you know when it needs to be used up.
With proper care, your homemade sugar scrub will last for several months.
Variations to try
This mint sugar scrub smells wonderful and is a great gift idea when packaged up in pretty mason jars. It is also a very flexible recipe. Here are a few variations to try:
Add more or less oil to the sugar mixture, depending on the desired consistency.
Add a few drops of tea tree oil, which gives this recipe some anti-bacterial properties.
Try using dried mint leaves if you have no fresh ones available. However, mint is incredibly easy to for in an herb garden so I definitely encourage you to grow it yourself.
If you love vibrantly colored sugar scrubs, try adding green food coloring to this homemade mint sugar scrub before putting it into a mason jar. The only difference will be the color, it will not stain the skin.
More sugar scrub recipes
If you love sugar scrubs and want to scrub off those dead skin cells on a regular basis, try a few of these sugar scrub recipes as well:
Remember, a sugar scrub makes a fabulous homemade gift so check out the other sugar scrub recipes, buy a glass jar or two, and gift handmade gifts this holiday season!
Final Thoughts
This mint sugar scrub is a fabulous way to wake up in the morning. It is also perfect for giving as homemade Christmas gifts, party favors, or as a fun addition to a spa day with your friends or children.
Homemade Mint Sugar Scrub Recipe
This DIY recipe for fresh mint sugar scrub is simple to make and the perfect gift for holiday gift-giving. The addition of fresh mint gives it a beautiful look, without needing green food coloring to make it stand out.