Many years ago I realized how easy (and cheap!) sugar scrubs are to make. Since then, I’ve tried many different versions of exfoliating body scrubs. This rose body scrub is heavenly scented and leaves skin feeling smooth and refreshed.
sugar scrub
It’s not hard to find a rose-scented body scrub, but the ingredients aren’t always the best. Most rose scents come from synthetic chemical fragrances rather than real roses. Making your own is easy and you can customize the exact ingredients.
I have also included the option of using rose petal oil here. This way you can reap the benefits of roses and enhance their fragrance. If you want to skip this step, just use regular carrier oil.
Here are the ingredients I use in my sugar scrub and what they do:
Rose Body Scrub Ingredients
- sugar – While I don’t recommend consuming it, sugar is a great exfoliant for dead skin cells. You can even use pink Himalayan salt instead of pink if you prefer.
- base oil – This makes the scrub easy to use and great for moisturizing dry skin. I use sweet almond oil because it has a neutral scent, but fractionated coconut oil will work too. Something like olive oil might feel a little too heavy for some skin types and overpower the subtle rose scent.
- coconut oil – Since coconut oil is solid at room temperature, it helps the scrub stick together better. It also hydrates and nourishes the skin.
- shea butter – Just a touch of shea butter adds a silky smooth feel. It also contains vitamin E and vitamin A, which is great for dry skin.
- rosehip seed oil – This is the star ingredient in my popular Botox facial moisturizer. Rich in vitamins A, C and E, it nourishes the skin and promotes skin cell renewal for younger-looking skin.
- Rose petal – Roses are not only fragrant but also slightly astringent. This means they help tighten and tone loose skin.
- rose kaolin clay – Kaolin clay is great for dry skin, and this version gets its pink tint from natural iron oxide. It also has gentle exfoliation properties that help remove impurities from pores. It also adds a nice pink color to this scrub.
- essential oils – These add a pleasant fragrance and help increase skin benefits. Real rose essential oil is very expensive, costing upwards of $150 a bottle. A more affordable option is to use rose absolute. It still comes from real roses, but is distilled in a different way to create more product. If you don’t want to use rose, you can also choose geranium, jasmine, lavender or other floral scents.
How to make rose powder
If you don’t have ground or powdered rose petals, you can easily make some.
- Place a few tablespoons of rose petals into a coffee grinder and pulse until a fine powder forms.
- Use a fine mesh sieve to remove larger pieces.
How to use Rose Sugar Scrub
It’s fairly simple, but there are a few body scrub tips. I would use a tablespoon or more all over my body to smooth my skin. You can also use a sugar scrub on your face for gentle exfoliation, just don’t scrub too hard. Apply the scrub in circular motions.
This scrub can last for several months as it does not contain water, as long as it is stored properly. Be sure to keep it away from direct light as this will cause the oil to oxidize and become rancid faster. Adding some vitamin E oil can help slow down the oxidation of the oil.
It’s also important to only scoop out the scrub with dry hands, as water can introduce bacteria.
Since scrubs remove dead skin cells, you can skip the body wash or cleanser before use. If my skin is feeling extra dry, I like to follow it up with a light layer of body lotion. If you are using it on your face, you can also use rose water!
Rose Body Scrub Recipe
This deliciously scented scrub feels luxurious on the skin! Gently removes dead skin cells while moisturizing and nourishing.
yield: 12 ounce
Rose infused oil
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If you want to use rose oil, add sweet almond oil, coconut oil, and whole rose petals to the top of the double boiler.
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Heat over medium-low heat for about 1 hour, or until the oil smells like roses. Add more water to the bottom of the double boiler as needed to prevent burning. You want the oil to heat slowly, not simmer!
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Use cheesecloth or a fine-mesh strainer to remove rose petals and compost them. Reserve the infused oil for use in body scrubs.
rose body scrub
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Once the oil has cooled to room temperature, combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl and stir to combine. I use a silicone spatula to mash the shea butter, but you can also heat the shea butter and coconut oil together to make them blend easier.
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Use liberally on skin in the shower to exfoliate.
This scrub will keep for several months at room temperature if protected from light and moisture. Be sure to use clean, dry hands when scooping some out.
More Scrub Recipes
Looking for more scrubs to add to your skincare routine or as a gift? Try some of these!
What is your favorite sugar scrub scent? Leave a comment and let us know!