Peppermint Mocha Coffee Sugar Scrub DIY

This Peppermint Mocha Coffee Sugar Scrub is an easy DIY that you can make as cute gifts or use as your own exfoliating body scrub.

Wrap some raffia or cute bow around the jar, and a cute tag to dress it up and you have a gift that anyone would love to receive!

You could also tie on a cute wooden spoon like these so that the recipient has a convenient way to scoop out the scrub when they are ready to use it.

Why you’ll love the benefits of Coffee in a sugar scrub

When these ingredients are blended into a scrub, they form a product that is more than the sum of its parts. Here’s how your skin—and your mood—can benefit from using this type of scrub regularly:

1. Smooth, Soft Skin

The combination of coffee and sugar works to exfoliate both the surface layer and deeper within the pores. This leaves skin feeling baby-soft and visibly smoother. It’s especially effective on rough patches, keratosis pilaris (those little bumps on the back of the arms), and flaky areas.

2. Glowing, Bright Complexion

Exfoliation promotes cell turnover, which can lead to a more radiant and even-toned complexion. Whether you’re using it on your face (with extra gentleness) or your body, it helps reveal fresher, healthier-looking skin.

3. Reduces the Appearance of Cellulite

While no scrub can permanently erase cellulite, caffeine has been shown to temporarily reduce its appearance by dehydrating fat cells and increasing blood flow. The scrub can help the skin look firmer and more toned for a few hours, making it great to use before an event or beach day.

4. Enhanced Circulation

Massaging the scrub into your skin helps increase blood flow to the area, delivering more oxygen and nutrients. This can support skin regeneration and promote healing, especially when used consistently.

5. Detoxifying and Clarifying

The combination of stimulating peppermint and detoxifying coffee encourages the flushing of toxins from the skin, which can be beneficial if you’re experiencing congestion, dullness, or blemishes—especially on the back, shoulders, or chest.

6. Mood-Boosting and Mentally Uplifting

This isn’t just skincare—it’s self-care. The refreshing scent of peppermint combined with the deep, comforting aroma of coffee creates a sensory experience that can boost alertness and lift your mood. It’s ideal for morning showers or whenever you need to reset mentally.

7. Natural and Customizable

One of the biggest advantages of a homemade peppermint coffee sugar scrub is that you control the ingredients. No synthetic fragrances, dyes, or preservatives—just pure, effective ingredients from your kitchen and essential oil cabinet. You can even customize the scrub to your skin type by adding:

• Jojoba or almond oil for dry skin
• A touch of vitamin E for extra nourishment
• Coconut oil for antibacterial properties
• Cinnamon or vanilla for added warmth and scent variation

⚠️ A Few Things to Keep in Mind

While peppermint coffee sugar scrubs are safe and beneficial for most people, there are a few considerations to note:

• Peppermint oil can be strong: Always dilute essential oils properly and avoid sensitive areas. If you have very sensitive skin or are pregnant, consult your healthcare provider first.
• Avoid broken or irritated skin: Exfoliants can sting if applied to cuts, rashes, or freshly shaved areas.
• Can clog drains: Coffee grounds, in large quantities, can build up in pipes. Either rinse with lots of water or use a drain catcher.
• Not ideal for daily use: Over-exfoliating can damage the skin’s barrier. Use 1–2 times a week for body care, and no more than once a week on the face if you choose to use it there.

How to Make Peppermint Mocha Sugar Scrub

Make a pot of coffee, then let your coffee grinds dry out for about 24 hours. You can use a cookie tray, plate or paper towel and spread them out on your tray to dry.

Once the coffee grounds have dried, combine the grounds, brown sugar and cocoa powder together.

Then add 2 tablespoons carrier oil. This can be fractionated coconut oil (which always stays liquid and doesn’t harden like regular coconut oil), jojoba oil, argan oil, avocado oil, etc. Choose your favorite. It doesn’t really matter which you use.

Then add 15 – 30 drops of essential oil. Use less or more depending on your preference. I tend to like it strong so I use at least 30 drops. You can use a combination of oils or all one. I really like the combination of peppermint, spearmint, and frankincense.

Put the mixture in a glass jar with a sealing lid. Repurpose a jar, or use a few small mason jars.

If giving these as a gift, add some pretty twine around the lid to finish it.

How to use your peppermint mocha coffee scrub

To use your Peppermint Mocha sugar scrub, scoop out about a tablespoon worth into the palm of your hand and massage into skin. It’s great for exfoliating dry skin.

Using a peppermint coffee sugar scrub is simple:

1. Start in the shower: Wet your skin thoroughly to soften dead cells.
2. Apply the scrub in circular motions: Focus on dry or rough areas. Avoid scrubbing too hard. You may find it easier to use a washcloth. No plastic poufs please!
3. Let it sit (optional): Leave the scrub on for 1–2 minutes to let the caffeine and peppermint oil do their thing.
4. Rinse off with warm water: Pat skin dry gently.
5. Moisturize: Follow up with a body oil or lotion to seal in hydration. I love to use my DIY Oatmeal Body Butter.

Enjoy practicing some self care with your peppermint mocha coffee sugar scrub!

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