There’s something magical about a homemade body scrub—especially when it smells like a tropical cocktail and leaves your skin feeling like velvet. One of my all-time favorite DIY treats is this simple yet luxurious coconut oil and orange zest body scrub. I’ve made it countless times for myself, but this time I whipped up a fresh batch as a little gift for a dear friend. (Who doesn’t love a thoughtful, handmade present that also smells like vacation?)
Let’s talk about coconut oil for a second. It’s not just a pantry superstar—it’s a true hero when it comes to skincare. Packed with vitamins E and K, and rich in iron, coconut oil deeply hydrates the skin, calms irritation, and even helps with minor wounds and calluses. It’s also naturally antibacterial and leaves your skin with a subtle glow that screams “I just came back from a spa.”
The orange zest adds a zingy, fresh scent and is loaded with antioxidants. It brightens up your skin and your mood—trust me, it’s like sunshine in a jar.
This natural scrub gently buffs away dead skin cells, helps even out the skin tone, and leaves you with that baby-soft feeling we all secretly wish we had year-round. Bonus: exfoliation can even soothe certain skin conditions.
Here’s what I used for this little jar of goodness:
- 200 g fine granulated sugar
- 60 g organic coconut oil
- zest of one orange
- 15 drops of orange essential oil
How to Make It:
- Melt the coconut oil — either gently in a pot or, if you’re a rebel like me, pop it in the microwave for about 20 seconds (not 20 minutes unless you want to repaint the kitchen…).
- Mix in the sugar until the texture is sandy and satisfying.
- Add the orange zest — it gives the scrub a cheerful splash of color and a little texture.
- Finish with 15 drops of orange essential oil and give it a good stir.
Now take a whiff — isn’t that divine? Like sunshine in a jar.
How to Use:
Hop in the shower, wet your skin, and gently massage the scrub in circular motions. No need for extra shower gel — this baby scrubs, cleanses, and moisturizes all at once. Rinse off and enjoy your velvety-soft, citrus-scented skin. You’re welcome.
Want to Share the Love?
Spoon it into a pretty jar, tie a ribbon around it, maybe add a handwritten label, and boom — you’ve got yourself the sweetest little gift. Give it with a smile, because homemade self-care is love in its purest form.
