Silky Smooth Legs Sugar Scrub - Apply a small amount of this scrub before shaving for silky, smooth legs year round!
This post may include affiliate links. Please see my disclosure.
So, it's finally becoming "that time of year," when you trade in the snow boots for sandals, sweaters for tank tops and long pants for shorts. It was close to 80 degrees here this past weekend and I was excited to start rummaging through my closet, checking out my options for warmer weather. I grabbed a pair of shorts and was about to head outside to enjoy the beautiful day. . .when I looked down.
Gah. So, my legs haven't seen the sun in months. On top of that, they looked dry, and the sun conveniently revealed every spot I missed during my shoddy shaving job that morning in the shower. Super. Now what? I turned right back around and headed inside to find one of my Soy Lotion Bars to at least restore some moisture to my skin. Those little bars work wonders, let me tell you.
The next day, I whipped up some of this Silky Smooth Legs Sugar Scrub to have on hand for the days ahead. Heaven knows I needed it and if you find yourself in a situation like mine, you'll appreciate it, too! This scrub is awesome for prepping your skin before shaving and you'll be amazed at how silky and smooth your legs feel after you use it. AMAZING.
So believe it or not, there are only three ingredients to this sugar scrub: Sugar, coconut oil and a citrus essential oil like lemon or orange. I used lemon this time but I've made orange in the past and it smells similar to a creamsicle. If you don't have any essential oils on hand, you can always use fresh citrus like lemon or orange juice.
Ingredients (Recipe makes approximately 12 ounces of scrub)
- 1 ¼ cups sugar
- ¾ cup coconut oil (I picked mine up at Walmart by the olive and vegetable oils)
- 15-20 drops lemon essential oil or 3 Tablespoons fresh citrus juice (lemon, pineapple, orange, etc.)
In a bowl, add the sugar, coconut oil (in a solid state) and the essential oil. This is the fun part - we're going to WHIP it. Yep, you heard me right. Get out your hand mixer and whip all of the ingredients until the scrub becomes nice and fluffy. Remember that there is still sugar in the mixture, so it will be weighted down a bit. Don't expect it to get as fluffy as a frosting - it will still be heavier than that.
To give you an idea of consistency, this is what it should look like when it's ready.
So, how do you go about using this stuff? The very best way would be in the bathtub. Use just a small amount and rub onto your legs before shaving to help exfoliate the skin.
If you want the scrub to be a bit less thick, you can always dip the bottom of your container in warm water in the sink and allow the coconut oil to warm and soften a bit before use. This isn't a bath soak, remember. You'll want to soak your legs a little in the water before applying, but this should be the very last thing you do before you get out of the tub. I'm not sure you're going to want to continue to sit in what comes off your legs. 🙂
When I use the scrub, I often use disposable razors. You're going to be amazed at some of the gunk that comes off of your legs from doing this - dead skin, hair, etc. Once you let the water out, you may be even more disgusted at the dirt that's now lining the tub.
No worries. A quick spray of one part Dawn dish soap to one part vinegar will help to quickly make that dirt lining disappear and remove the oily residue that may be left behind.
If you don't want to deal with the dirt, you can certainly use this scrub in the shower. Just make sure to point the shower head away from your legs when you're applying the scrub.
Remember, there's no need to rub too vigorously when applying the scrub. Just rub it on gently. If you'd like to apply another layer after shaving, you can do that. There's a good chance you'll remove more dead skin than with just one application alone. Rinse your razor frequently to ensure a smooth shave. If you have very sensitive skin, you can try replacing the regular sugar with brown sugar. Brown sugar is a bit more refined and also works well with this recipe.
You're seriously going to be amazed at how your legs feel afterwards. They feel. . .well, like brand new! Finish your scrub experience with a moisturizer. These Soy Lotion Bars are sure to do the trick!
Wondering how long this sugar scrub lasts? It has a pretty long shelf life. I like to keep mine in smaller mason jars. The citrus and lack of water in the recipe actually helps the scrub from spoiling. When using, it's best to scoop some of the scrub out with a spoon and take it into the shower or bath with you. Avoid dipping your hands into the storage container or taking the container with you into the bath or shower to prevent the growth of bacteria.
I'd love to hear your thoughts on this recipe in the comments once you make your own and use it for the first time. I love how simple and how affordable this scrub is, and the fact you can make it yourself is just another bonus.
You're going to want to show off your legs after you use this, ladies! I can't wait for you to try it!
Silky Smooth Legs Sugar Scrub
Materials
- 1 ¼ cups sugar
- ¾ cup coconut oil
- 15-20 drops lemon essential oil or fresh citrus juice
Instructions
- In a bowl, add the sugar, coconut oil (in a solid state) and the essential oil. This is the fun part - we're going to WHIP it.
- Get out your hand mixer and whip all of the ingredients until the scrub becomes nice and fluffy.
Notes
- Adjust Consistency to Preference: While whipping the ingredients together, pay attention to the consistency of the scrub. If you prefer a thicker scrub, you can add more sugar. Conversely, if you prefer a smoother texture, add a bit more coconut oil. Adjusting the ratio allows you to tailor the scrub to your liking, ensuring it spreads easily and provides the desired exfoliation without being too abrasive.
- Mind the Temperature of Coconut Oil: Coconut oil can vary in consistency depending on the ambient temperature. If your coconut oil is too hard, it may be difficult to whip into a fluffy texture. In this case, you can gently warm the coconut oil to soften it before whipping. Conversely, if your coconut oil is too soft or melted, you can chill it in the refrigerator for a short time to firm it up slightly before whipping. Finding the right temperature ensures the coconut oil whips smoothly and evenly into the sugar.
- Consider Scent and Benefits of Essential Oils: Lemon essential oil adds a refreshing scent to the scrub and may provide additional benefits for the skin. However, feel free to experiment with other essential oils based on your preferences and skin needs. For example, lavender essential oil is soothing and calming, while peppermint essential oil provides a cooling sensation. Research the properties of different essential oils to choose ones that complement your skincare routine and add an extra touch of luxury to your sugar scrub.
Jacqueline
Hi, I am so looking forward to shaving with this because my legs get so irritated when I shave them by day 2 I’m itching and scratching and often making myself bleed from it 🙁 ! Normally it happens in the night time when I don’t even recognize I’m doing it !
How often can you apply this ?? I seem to shave a lot and I really need the extra help of this I think to get me away from the red painful bumps of shaving 🙁
Sara
I'd also take a look at what type of razor you're using and if it has a lotion strip or anything on it. You could be allergic to the lotion strip on the actual razor. I always need to buy razors for sensitive skin. Applying this once per week would most likely be plenty.
Maggie
Made this scrub a few days ago and it's fantastic. Lovely exfoliated, soft skin. I used lavender, rosemary and bergamot oil as that's what I had and it smells great.
I have two tiny tots and it saves having to moisturise after a shower which is a great time saver. Highly recommend giving it a go, so easy to make!
Thanks 🙂
Sara
Oh, I'm so happy you liked it, Maggie!
Karen Cooper
I generally used liquid coconut oil to shave my legs because it makes the razor glide & lubricates the razor to prevent rusting. However, I follow up with a sugar scrub from head to toe to make my whole body soft, smooth & exfoliated.
I can't wait to make this & use it for wonderful feeling legs and body!
sally elson
Feet love this. Just be careful that you don't slip & slide with it on your feet in the shower. Best option is to use a large foot bath bowl & sit while pampering your feet. Love this. I'm a sugar fan because salt is very drying on the skin. I have yet to check your entire blog; do you have a good coffee scrub?
Sara
I've never tried coffee, Sally but that sounds like a wonderful scrub idea! Thanks for sharing your tips!
IRENE
HELLO CAN THIS BE USED ALL OVER THE BODY AS WELL, HANDS, FEET INCLUDED?
Sara
Yes, I don't see why not!
Susie Q
Tried with the juice, WAY too watery. Had to add a lot more sugar I'll stick to ess. oils next time
Sarah
Do you use this scrub everyday or 1 to 2 tines a week?
Sara
I usually use it once every 1-2 weeks.
Rachel
This may sound dumb but do you shave with the scrub still on your legs? Or do you rinse, then shave? My skin is so sensitive o always get bumps... always looking for new things to try!
Sara
Rachel, I use the scrub first, rinse off and then shave. Good luck!
Janice
I am going to try this today...wondered if you could substitute salt or do you think the sugar does a good enough job!!!! xx
Sara
Because I have sensitive skin, I always use sugar scrubs vs. salt scrubs. For legs, I would recommend sugar. If you have any cuts or scrapes on your legs, the salt could really irritate them.
molly
my coconut oil is in a liquid state because we are in a warm climate. Will this still work?
Sara
Not as good. I'm wondering if maybe you can keep it in the fridge and then take it out 30-60 minutes before you want to use it?
Jennifer
This is my first time making a scrub at hime and I loved it! This is a very simple recipe. I had all of the ingredients on hand. I used a peppermint essential oil and it smelled like Christmas cookies with the coconut oil. Yummy! I started out dry in the shower stall, scrubbed all over, then rinsed. My skin feels amazing. Next time I'll make a lavender scrub. Thanks for the recipe!
Sara
I'm so glad you like it! Lavender sounds heavenly!
Alma
Hi I just made the scrub and it smells amazing I just had a question? Can I put the scrub in the fridge to keep it solid or can you give me a suggestion on how to keep it from spoiling thanks! ?
Sara
The citrus actually will help the scrub keep longer. If you do decide to put it in the fridge, you may want to spit it up into "single servings" (maybe small paper dixie cups) and then let it warm up in the shower before you use it.
Krysta @ KrystaSteen.com
Sounds fabulous! Thanks for sharing at Tips & Tricks! Hope we see you again this week! 🙂
Bam's Kitchen
What a fantastic idea! You know they sell that super expensive Sea salt kind of exfoliate but I like this as you know exactly what is in it and I love coconut oil, smells great! Just pinned!
Sara
Thank you for the pin! I hope you try the scrub. It's amazing!
Ashlyn
Sara,
This looks so refreshing! I'm not usually one to use sugar scrubs on my legs, but this made me want to consider doing it (I'd feel so luxurious with it, I think!). I found your blog through Abby's facebook group and glad I did! Thanks for sharing this recipe!
Sara
Hi Ashlyn! I'm glad you found me! I don't use scrubs a lot either, but this is my go-to when I just need to refresh my skin!