Peppermint Holiday Sugar Scrub

This Christmas Peppermint Sugar Scrub transforms ordinary sugar and oil into a luxurious DIY spa treatment that smells like holiday cheer. Making your own sugar scrub lets you control exactly what goes onto your skin while creating thoughtful homemade gifts that friends and family will actually use.

I created this recipe three Christmases ago when I was looking for inexpensive but meaningful gifts for coworkers. The peppermint sugar scrub was such a hit that I now make a double batch every December both for gifts and to keep my own skin soft through the harsh winter months.

Ingredients

• White sugar creates the perfect exfoliating texture that removes dead skin cells without being too harsh. Look for plain granulated sugar rather than brown sugar for the best appearance.
• Fractionated coconut oil keeps skin moisturized and helps the scrub glide across skin smoothly. Using fractionated coconut oil ensures your scrub stays liquid at room temperature.
• Peppermint essential oil provides that refreshing holiday scent and creates a slight cooling sensation on the skin. Be sure to use pure essential oil rather than extract for proper scent and skincare benefits.
• Optional food coloring adds festive appearance without affecting the scrub's performance. Just a drop or two is all you need for a beautiful holiday hue.
• Small jelly jars make perfect gift containers that show off the scrub beautifully. The 4 oz size is perfect for a generous gift that doesn't overwhelm.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Combine Sugar and Coconut Oil

Pour the two cups of white sugar into a medium mixing bowl creating a smooth white base. Add the half cup of fractionated coconut oil and begin gently folding the ingredients together. Continue mixing until every grain of sugar is coated with oil and the mixture resembles wet sand with a slightly glossy appearance.

Add Peppermint Essential Oil

Carefully add 12 drops of peppermint essential oil to your sugar mixture. Be precise with the drops as peppermint oil is potent. Stir thoroughly for at least 30 seconds to ensure the scent is distributed evenly throughout the entire batch. Take a moment to inhale the refreshing scent which should be noticeable but not overwhelming.

Optional Color Addition

If using food coloring place a single drop on the side of the bowl first to gauge intensity. Gently fold the coloring into a small section of the scrub then gradually incorporate throughout the mixture. For a festive appearance aim for a soft pink or light green rather than intense coloring. The color should be even with no streaks or patches.

Transfer to Jars

Spoon the finished scrub into each of your jelly jars leaving about a quarter inch of space at the top. After filling each jar tap the bottom gently against your counter to settle the mixture and eliminate air pockets. Use the back of a spoon to smooth and flatten the top surface of each jar for a polished presentation.

Seal and Decorate

Secure lids tightly on each jar ensuring a proper seal to preserve freshness. Enhance the presentation by adding ribbon twine or a small sprig of artificial holly to the jars. For extra charm attach small gift tags with usage instructions or holiday messages to complete your handmade gift.

Bookmark

Peppermint oil is the star ingredient in this scrub. The first time I used it my skin felt incredibly refreshed with a subtle cooling sensation that made my shower feel like a spa treatment. My sister who struggles with eczema found this gentler than commercial scrubs while still effectively removing dry patches from her skin.

Storage Tips

These sugar scrubs maintain their quality for up to three months when stored in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight. The airtight seal on jelly jars helps preserve the freshness and scent intensity of your scrub. If you notice any separation over time simply stir the contents before use to reincorporate the oil. For bathroom storage keep the jar closed when not in use and avoid getting water inside which could cause the sugar to dissolve.

Customization Options

This recipe serves as an excellent base for creating personalized variations. For a more complex scent profile try adding 3 drops of vanilla essential oil alongside the peppermint for a candy cane inspired aroma. Changing the color scheme is simple too green for Christmas red for Valentine's Day or lavender for spring gifts. You can also substitute white sugar with raw sugar for a more aggressive exfoliation or use brown sugar for a gentler option with a warmer color and subtle molasses scent.

How To Use Your Sugar Scrub

For best results apply the scrub to damp skin in gentle circular motions focusing on rough areas like elbows knees and heels. Allow the scrub to sit on skin for 1 minute before rinsing thoroughly with warm water no soap needed afterward. The coconut oil will leave a light moisturizing layer on your skin so you may not need additional lotion. Use 1 2 times weekly for silky smooth skin throughout the winter season. This amount is perfect for face and body though you might want to be gentler when using on facial skin.

Recipe Q&A

→ How long does homemade peppermint sugar scrub last?

When stored properly in a sealed container away from water, this homemade peppermint sugar scrub can last 6-12 months. The coconut oil acts as a natural preservative, but avoid introducing water into the jar to prevent bacterial growth.

→ Can I substitute the fractionated coconut oil?

Yes, you can substitute fractionated coconut oil with other liquid carrier oils like sweet almond oil, jojoba oil, or olive oil. Each will provide different benefits for the skin while maintaining the scrub's exfoliating properties.

→ Is this peppermint scrub safe for facial use?

This scrub is best used for body exfoliation, particularly hands and feet. The sugar granules and peppermint oil may be too harsh for facial skin. For facial application, consider reducing the peppermint oil concentration and using finer sugar.

→ How many jars does this batch fill?

This recipe fills approximately 6 small 4-ounce crystal jelly jars. You can adjust the quantities proportionally if you need to make more or fewer jars for gifting.

→ What's the best way to use this sugar scrub?

For best results, scoop a small amount onto damp skin in the shower or bath, gently massage in circular motions to exfoliate, then rinse thoroughly. The coconut oil will leave your skin moisturized while the peppermint provides a refreshing tingle.

→ Can I make this without essential oils?

Yes, you can omit the peppermint essential oil, though it provides both the signature scent and cooling sensation. Alternatively, you could substitute with vanilla extract or other skin-safe fragrance oils for a different aromatic experience.