All About Sugar Face Scrubs

by: Linda Robison / Facial Fitness Specialist @ ABZ

Using sugar as a face scrub is natural, cheap, and essential if you want a healthy glowing face. Or, as I call it, Glass Skin!

Which is a Korean beauty term for smooth luminous skin that looks almost translucent, resembling glass.

How to use sugar as a face scrub for smoother, healthier skin.

Among all the scrubs out there, sugar face scrubs are most popular because they hydrate, exfoliate, and improve skin texture. And, we love them because they fit into any skincare routine, and feel so good!

Anti-Aging Benefits of Sugar Scrubs

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Want a quick breakdown on the Anti-Aging Benefits of Sugar Scrubs and how they can keep your skin youthful and glowing? 

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Why sugar scrubs are great for men too

Sugar scrubs are a great addition to any skincare routine, for both men and women.

For men with facial hair, sugar scrubs exfoliate the skin beneath, preventing acne, clogged pores, and ingrown hairs, while making shaving smoother.

Exfoliating before shaving reduces razor burn and improves skin texture, leaving it softer and more even. Plus, regular exfoliation boosts circulation, which nourishes the skin.

Just remember to scrub gently and follow with a good moisturizer for healthy, balanced skin.

What is a sugar face scrub

These scrubs use sugar crystals to slough off dead skin cells, with options like granulated white, brown, or fine caster sugar for different exfoliation levels. For a tropical twist, try a coconut facial scrub with coconut oil, or add a refreshing touch with lemon scrubs.

You can also blend in essential oils and other kitchen staples for a soothing, nourishing treatment. Incorporating these exfoliating scrubs into your routine can visibly improve and rejuvenate your skin.

Types of sugar to use in a scrub

Different types of sugar can be used in a face scrub.

There are several types you can use for your face scrub, depending on your needs. And, if you don't find something you like here, check out our 40 different coffee skin hack recipes for face and body! 

Here is a list ordered from the coarsest to the most gentle:

  • Raw sugar (turbinado): Coarser and more abrasive, suitable for body scrubs. This type is best for smooth out bumpy chicken skin!
  • Granulated sugar: Provides good exfoliation, slightly less coarse than raw sugar.
  • Cane sugar: Similar to granulated but is less processed, offering natural exfoliation.
  • Brown sugar: Softer texture, suitable for sensitive areas.
  • Coconut sugar: Finer texture than brown, a gentler option.
  • Superfine sugar (caster sugar): Delicate exfoliation, ideal for very sensitive skin or facial use.
  • Powdered sugar (confectioner's sugar): Extremely fine, providing the gentlest exfoliation suitable for sensitive skin areas.

Prefer a Ready-Made option?

Brown sugar scrub purchase from Amazon.

If DIY isn’t for you or you need something ready made and quick, check out these top-rated sugar scrub reviews. They provide all benefits without the prep time.

Benefits of gentle sugar for sensitive areas

Soft, gentle sugar textures are perfect for delicate regions like the under-eye area. They provide mild exfoliation without causing irritation, making them ideal for reducing dryness and flakiness.

Sugar scrubs can help improve the skin's texture, making it smoother and brighter.

If you're struggling with criss-cross lines or dark circles under your eyes, incorporating a sugar scrub into your skincare routine can help stimulate circulation and cell renewal.

But make sure to use a gentle touch and follow up with a hydrating eye cream to lock in moisture.

For more targeted advice, check out our guide on treating these specific lines for effective tips and solutions below!


Tell Us Your Skin Needs: Get a custom scrub!

Woman mixing sugar and honey to create a DIY face scrub for glowing skin.

Gift ideas featuring sugar scrubs

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Looking for the perfect (inexpensive) gift? Sugar scrubs make wonderful presents for friends and loved ones! They combine pampering and practicality, providing a delightful way to enhance anyone's skincare routine. Check out my sugar scrub gift page for more inspiration and ideas to treat someone special!

Basic DIY sugar face scrub recipe

Basic scrub recipes are great for your skin. But don't forget check out these fun and unusual at-home recipes to really spice up your skincare:

Exotic Korean Scrubs

40 Skin-Boosting Coffee Scrubs & Masks

Golden Turmeric Renewal Scrub

Illuminating Crushed Peal Mask

A basic recipe starts as follows:

Ingredients:

A basic recipe uses a 2:1 ratio of sugar to oil. 

For example:

  • 2 tablespoons of sugar (your choice depends on your skin type)
  • 1 tablespoon of your favorite oil (almond, coconut, etc.…)

Amounts:

You can adjust the amount depending on how much you wish to make. I use 1/4 cup of sugar to 1/8 cup of oil and store it in a closed container. This will last me about a week.

Note: I make a large amount because I use the scrub all over my face, neck, chest, and arms. And I love to use coconut oil because the smell is amazing and tropical.😊

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Optional: Essential oils

You can add a few drops of essential oil. But be careful and test it first. Some people are sensitive to essential oils. Here are some gentle oils with anti-aging benefits. 

They include:

  • Sweet Almond Oil
  • Argan Oil
  • Apricot Kernel Oil
  • Frankincense
  • Neroli Oil
  • Pumpkin Seed Oil
  • Rosehip Oil
  • Rosemary Essential Oil

Instructions:

Combine sugar and oil in a bowl, mixing well. Add essential oils if desired. Use right away. Store leftovers in an airtight container.

Customizations for different skin types

We'll list full recipes for the most extravagant, delightful sugar scrubs you can find! And remember, you can customize all recipes for your complexion needs and type:

Aging/Wrinkles: Add a few drops pomegranate seed oil.

Dry: Add a tablespoon of honey or a few drops of avocado oil for extra moisture.

Oily: Incorporate a few drops of lemon juice or hazel nut oil to help balance oil production.

Acne-Prone: Add a teaspoon of tea tree oil to help combat acne scars.

Note: If you're dealing with aging skin that's prone to acne or rosacea, a sugar scrub might be too harsh. Check out these tips for managing rosacea and guidelines for age-related acne for better results

How to use a sugar face scrub

How to use a sugar face scrub.

Preparation: Start with a clean face, removing any makeup.

Application: Gently massage the scrub onto your face in circular motions, avoiding the eye area.

Frequency: Use the scrub 1-2 times a week, depending on your skin’s tolerance.

Post-Scrub Care: Rinse with warm water and follow up with a moisturizer to lock in hydration.

For men with beards:

For men with beards, exfoliating gently is key to reaching the skin beneath without irritating the hair. Here’s how:

Preparation: Dampen skin and beard.

Application: Massage scrub on the skin beneath the beard, focusing on dry spots or ingrown hairs.

Frequency: Use the scrub 1-2 times a week, depending on your skin’s tolerance.

Post-Scrub Care: Rinse with warm water and follow up with a moisturizer or beard oil if needed.

Benefits of using sugar scrubs for the face

Natural Exfoliation: Want smooth, glassy skin? Then you need to get rid of dead cells. This is super important, especially if you're using anti-aging products like AHA's peels and retinols.

Prepping the Skin: Regular use of sugar scrubs allows your complexion to better absorb moisturizers and other skincare products, like retinols!

Hydration: Sugar acts as a natural humectant, helping to draw moisture into the skin.

Anti-Aging Benefits: Exfoliation helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and promotes a youthful glow.

Improving Circulation: Massaging the face boosts blood flow, enhancing skin's radiance.

Gentle on Sensitive Skin: The fine granule ones make a gentle exfoliator, suitable for sensitive complexions.

Tips and side effects

Tips and Precautions

For best results you should use scrubs the correct way. Here are some common mistakes many people make with scrubs and masks and how to fix it:

Avoid Over-Exfoliation: Overuse can lead to irritation; listen to your skin.

Be Gentle: Apply with light pressure to prevent micro-tears.

Patch Test New Ingredients: Always test on a small skin area first to avoid allergic reactions. Especially if adding essential oils. Test them separately.

Storage Tips: Keep homemade scrubs in a cool, dry place to maintain their effectiveness.

Looking for other types of scrubs

Prancier scrubs.

For those with acne-prone skin and clogged pores, a DIY salt scrub can be an excellent alternative. Salt naturally cleanses, helps fade acne scars, and unclogs pores. Laura, from the Prancier.com has some wonderful scrubs options that may suit your skin type.

Or try a 5-minute turmeric scrub for less dark spots and clearer skin.

Takeaway ...

Using sugar as a face scrub offers numerous benefits, including inexpensive and effective exfoliation.

It also increases the absorption of anti-aging products, enhances hydration, improves skin tone, creates a smoother complexion, and decreases the appearance of lines and wrinkles.

Whether you opt for a commercial product or a homemade sugar scrub, incorporating this natural remedy into your anti-aging routine can lead to radiant, healthy skin.

Give it a try and enjoy the glowing results!



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