7 Natural Exfoliating Scrubs You Can Make From Pantry Staples

Exfoliation is the secret to smooth, glowing skin, removing dead skin cells and promoting cell turnover. While store-bought scrubs can be effective, you can achieve similar results with ingredients from your pantry—minus the harsh chemicals and hefty price tag. 

DIY Natural Exfoliating Scrubs 

Here are simple, natural exfoliating scrubs that are easy to make at home using common pantry staples.

1. Coffee and Coconut Oil Scrub

Coffee grounds act as a gentle yet effective exfoliant, while coconut oil provides deep hydration.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup of used coffee grounds
• Two tablespoons of coconut oil

Mix the ingredients until combined. Apply to damp skin in circular motions, then rinse with warm water. This scrub is perfect for brightening dull skin and targeting rough and commonly dry skin in elbows and knees.

2. Honey and Sugar Scrub

Honey is a natural humectant that helps retain moisture, while the sugar granules offer effective exfoliation.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup of sugar (white or brown)
• Two tablespoons of honey

Combine the sugar and honey in a bowl. Gently rub onto your skin using circular motions, then rinse off. This scrub is gentle enough for the face, leaving it soft and smooth.

3. Oatmeal and Yogurt Scrub

Oatmeal is soothing for sensitive skin, and yogurt contains lactic acid, which aids in gentle exfoliation.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup of oats (ground or whole)
• 1/4 cup of plain yogurt

Mix oats and yogurt until they form a paste. Apply to your face or body, letting it sit for 5-10 minutes before gently scrubbing and rinsing. This scrub calms inflammation and hydrates the skin.

4. Baking Soda and Water Scrub

Baking soda is a mild exfoliant that can help unclog pores and soften the skin.

Ingredients:

• Two tablespoons of baking soda
• Two tablespoons of water

Create a paste with baking soda and water. Gently massage onto the skin for 1-2 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Use this scrub once a week to avoid over-exfoliating.

5. Sea Salt and Olive Oil Scrub

Sea salt is a coarser exfoliant, making it ideal for body scrubs, while olive oil deeply nourishes the skin.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup of sea salt
• 1/4 cup of olive oil

Mix the sea salt with olive oil and massage onto damp skin, concentrating on rough patches. Rinse off and pat dry. This scrub rejuvenates and leaves the skin feeling supple.

6. Lemon and Sugar Scrub

Lemon’s natural acids help brighten skin, and sugar adds effective exfoliation.

Ingredients:

• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1/2 cup of sugar

Combine lemon juice and sugar, then apply to the skin in circular motions. Leave for a few minutes before rinsing. Use only once a week, as lemon can be harsh on sensitive skin.

7. Rice Flour and Milk Scrub

Rice flour’s fine texture is perfect for a gentle facial scrub, while milk’s lactic acid helps exfoliate and soften the skin.

Ingredients:

• Two tablespoons of rice flour
• 2-3 tablespoons of milk

Mix the rice flour and milk until a paste forms. Apply to your face, scrubbing gently, then rinse. This scrub works well for brightening and softening skin.

Bring the Spa Home With These Natural Exfoliating Scrubs

These DIY natural scrubs prove that glowing skin doesn’t require fancy products. Made from pantry staples, they offer an eco-friendly, cost-effective way to maintain your skincare routine. Try them out and see how your skin transforms with regular use.

Cath

Cath initially pursued a Doctor of Medicine degree but eventually shifted her focus to writing. While she remains passionate about health and wellness, she also explores beauty and fashion as a creative outlet. Her diverse interests empower her to blend scientific insight with artistic expression.