My amazing friend Susan, of House of Brinson, challenged myself and a bunch of our mutual blogging friends to post once a month about how we’re changing one little thing to better our health, wellness, sustainability, or the environment. I’ll admit, when it comes to human impact on our planet, climate change, and my physical health… I’m honestly (and obviously) not the most “green” or perfect person on the planet. Sure- I recycle and keep the topic of climate change & human impact on our earth in the back of my mind, but I want to make a conscious effort to do better. Although it’s intimidating and will take time, by implementing one tiny thing each month, it can make a big difference. I want to be healthier, live better, and make sustainable choices- even if it’s just a little bit at a time. I’d like to challenge you to do the same! This month I’m sharing a healthy DIY I’ve been obsessed with this year. It’s good for my skin, makes a great sustainable gift, and the packaging can be used over and over- in place of plastic alternatives. Click through to read why I love making DIY sugar scrub! I’m also linking what everyone else is doing this month to be more health & environmentally conscious.
Ever since moving to Utah, I’ve struggled with dry skin. Sure, I got into the habit of applying lotion everyday, but it just wasn’t doing the trick and it’s kind of a pain to do after every single shower. I was also going through plastic bottles every few weeks. In February, my friend Emily invited a bunch of friends over for a “galentines” party and she had set up a sugar scrub station. It was really fun to mix our own scrubs, using organic ingredients, and that’s when I began making these on the regular! As soon as my party scrub ran out, I immediately made another batch. It has really helped turn my dry skin around and allows me to skip the post shower lotion. The best part? You can customize the scrub depending on the time of year, what your body needs, and what aroma you prefer. These also make amazing gifts or party favors. Whether you’re looking for a fun girls night activity- or your summer skin just needs some quality hydration… this is it!
SUPPLIES + TOOLS
- glass jars (I used 9 oz jars)
- coconut oil
- your favorite essential oils (I used these because they’re already pre-mixed)
- granulated sugar
- label maker
- black label tape
Step 1 // Mix the sugar with the coconut oil. Begin by mixing 1 1/2 cups of sugar with 1/4 cup of coconut oil. Stir the mixture until it’s well combined. You can also adjust the ratio if you prefer your scrub more dry or more moisturizing… just add more sugar or oil. I usually just eyeball the quantity.
Step 2 // Add the essential oil. Next, add your preferred essential oils. I typically use about 20 drops per 9 ounce jar.
I like these pre-mixed ones because they tell you what each blend is best for… relaxing, sleeping, anti stress, sore muscles, breathing, energy, etc.
Step 3 // Mix it all up. Make sure the oil is well blended into the scrub. I just use a bowl and spoon to mash it up.
Step 4 // Pack it into glass jars. Next, carefully spoon the sugar scrub into your jars.
I pack it down pretty good and squeeze quite a bit into a 9 ounce jar. They last longer than you’d expect!
Step 6 // Label the scrubs. Using a label maker, press a label onto each jar. I like to label the purpose on the lid, and the oils each blend contains on the jar itself.
That’s it! They only take three ingredients and a tiny bit goes a long way. I always keep a jar in my shower. Your skin will feel exfoliated, hydrated, and amazing! I never even have to use lotion after using this sugar scrub and my skin feels much healthier and moisturized.
These are wonderful year round… for dry winter skin or summer skin that has had a little too much sun. Once your scrub is empty, make another one using the same jar.
This month, I think I’m the first to post about one little thing, but as my friends complete theirs… I’ll be updating, adding, and linking them below. Definitely check them out!
- House of Brinson // One Small Thing : Soap
- Jojotastic // How to Store Produce Without Plastic
- Domicile 37 // Saving the World Through Thrifting
- Deeply Southern Home // Simple, Attainable Ways to Reduce Waste at Home
- House 214 Design // Simple Mason Jar Project
Peggi
July 26, 2019 at 6:09 amWhat a fun challenge. I love Susan, and that’s an extensive, varied list of bloggers. Western dryness is no joke! I still live in the high desert, but a trip to AZ always reminds me what real DRY feels like.😎 I love having activities at my parties, and this one would be great for my craft-averse friends. Thanks for the inspiration and happy Friday!
Sarah
July 26, 2019 at 8:52 amIsn’t she amazing?! Definitely one of my most inspiring friends. I’m so flattered she asked me to join the challenge. It will be a good incentive for positive change. This scrub really is the best! I can’t live without it now. If you try it- let me know :) Have a wonderful weekend!!
Kim
July 26, 2019 at 9:38 amGood for you! trashisfortossers.com is a great resource for living a healthier, greener life. You could also try “No trash Tuesday” to become more aware of what you’re putting into the garbage bin. Every little bit helps!
Sarah
July 26, 2019 at 4:56 pmThanks Kim! I’m definitely going to check that out… you’re right- every little bit. I have to start somewhere :) Happy Friday!
Julie S
July 26, 2019 at 9:54 amI normally skip past beauty posts but I moved to a drier area last year and had to figure out how to take care of my skin again – still could use some improvement there. This is so simple I’m literally getting up right now to make myself some. I hope it’s as good as you say!
Sarah
July 26, 2019 at 4:57 pmLet me know what you think! I absolutely love it :)
Kathy
August 2, 2019 at 8:26 amLove this and the labels are awesome! I’ve got tons of essential oils I could use (and dry skin). And what a great gift idea!
Sarah
August 6, 2019 at 10:02 amThank you!! Let me know if you give them a try :)