Between the exfoliating sugar, the moisturizing power of coconut oil and the rejuvenating properties of essential oils, yummy sugar scrubs will make you feel worthy of a fresh start. But if you buy a sugar scrub these days, you’ll pay a premium—without naming brands, I’ll mention that I recently saw a 14-ounce jar for $65 (yikes!). So I’m sharing an easy recipe to make your own at home!
The recipe below—created by Amanda Kulick of [basic.] lip balm—was featured at the recent Something Sweet event with the New Center NOW DIY Arts Circle and Ganei Beantown (see photos at right). You’ll notice the physical benefits immediately as you make the scrub; you’ll also note the mental benefits that come from playing with the mixture that is essentially edible clay! This is the perfect activity to rejuvenate yourself as September approaches. And if you’re so inclined, you can even make some sweet Rosh Hashanah gifts for family and friends.
Rosh Hashanah Sugar Scrub
Makes one cup
Ingredients:
1 cup sugar
1/4 cup coconut oil, plus or minus 1 tablespoon
10-15 drops essential oil of your choice
Directions:
Pour sugar into mixing bowl. Add coconut oil and mix until the consistency feels right; add more oil if it feels too dry and more sugar if it feels too soft. Add essential oils and finely torn herbs, as desired, and mix thoroughly. Pour into jar.
A note about sugar
Granulated sugar works perfectly, but you can also try turbinado sugar for a darker look and stronger exfoliation. Just skip confectioners’ sugar, as it won’t provide the exfoliation you’re looking for.
A note about coconut oil
Don’t love the scent of coconut, like me? Go for refined coconut oil, which provides unscented moisture. Want the tropical feel of the real thing? Go for unrefined coconut oil.
A note about essential oil
These scent suggestions will get you started: peppermint oil (rejuvenating); grapefruit oil (refreshing); lemon zest (energizing); and lavender (calming).
A note about jars
Any glass or plastic jar works well (trendy mason jars work especially well!). To jazz up your jars for gifts, decorate lids with nail polish and tie raffia or ribbon around the tops.