Our lips are one of the most delicate features of the face, yet they often don’t get the same attention as the rest of our skin. Depending on where you live, things like dry air, harsh weather, dehydration or even the wrong beauty products can leave lips chapped, flaky and dull. That’s where lip scrubs come in. A lip scrub is an easy and effective way to bring back softness, smoothness and that healthy, hydrated look. While you can buy plenty of scrubs in stores or online, making your own at home is budget-friendly and lets you tailor the recipe to your skin’s unique needs.
Let’s take a closer look at why lip scrubs are worth adding to your routine, their history and a few simple recipes you can whip up with ingredients from your own kitchen.
A Quick History of Lip Scrubs
Long before Sara Happ mixed up her first lip scrub at home, people were already creating natural remedies to keep their lips smooth. The origins of lip care go back thousands of years. In 40 BC, the Egyptians blended beeswax, olive oil and animal fats into balms to protect their lips. In Japan, natural resources were used to craft nourishing treatments that kept lips soft and hydrated. Today, lip scrubs have become a staple in modern beauty routines, offering both care and cosmetic benefits.
Why Add Lip Scrubs to Your Routine?
Lip scrubs are designed to exfoliate, removing the buildup of dry, dead skin cells that can lead to peeling and cracks. By gently buffing away that layer, your lips instantly feel smoother and softer. Common culprits behind dry lips include cold weather, sun exposure and even allergies.
But lip scrubs don’t just prevent flakiness, they also hydrate. Many DIY and store-bought scrubs include moisturizing ingredients like honey, shea butter or coconut oil. Regular exfoliation helps your favorite lip balm sink in more deeply, making it more effective. Over time, consistent use can also restore your lips’ natural color, leaving them looking fuller, healthier and more vibrant.
Why DIY Lip Scrubs Are a Great Choice
There are plenty of reasons people prefer homemade scrubs over store-bought ones. First, they’re much more affordable. You can make several batches for a fraction of the price of one commercial scrub. Second, you have full control over the ingredients. There are no hidden chemicals or artificial fragrances – just safe, natural components that work for your skin. You can also tweak the texture, flavor or scent until it’s exactly what you like.
On top of that, DIY lip scrubs are eco-friendly. By reusing jars or containers you already have, you cut down on single-use plastics and unnecessary packaging. It’s a beauty ritual that’s both personal and sustainable.
How To Use Lip Scrubs the Right Way
Even though lip scrubs seem straightforward, there are a few things to keep in mind to get the best results: Start with clean lips. Always remove makeup or product residue before applying your scrub. Be gentle. Your lips are delicate, let the scrub do the work without pressing too hard. Don’t overdo it. Once or twice a week is plenty. Over-exfoliating can actually cause irritation. Moisturize afterward. Always follow up with a nourishing balm to lock in hydration.
Common Mistakes To Avoid With DIY Scrubs
When making and using your own lip scrub, steer clear of a few common pitfalls: Don’t exfoliate cracked, bleeding or irritated lips, as it will only make the issue worse. Per Dr. Dennis Gross, it’s crucial to skip harsh ingredients like artificial fragrances or alcohol, which can be too abrasive for sensitive skin.
Always patch test new ingredients on your skin to check for possible allergic reactions. With the right care and consistency, lip scrubs can transform the look and feel of your lips, making them soft, smooth and naturally healthy.
What Is the Best Exfoliator for Lips?
The best exfoliator for lips is something gentle but effective. Sugar is the most popular choice because its small crystals buff away dead skin without being too harsh. Other mild exfoliants include finely ground oats or coffee grounds. The key is to avoid anything too coarse, as your lips are sensitive and need a light touch.
Remember that not all exfoliants are safe for lips. Skip coarse sea salt or large sugar crystals, which can scratch delicate skin. Avoid products with artificial fragrances, dyes or alcohol-based ingredients, as they can dry out or irritate lips. Since you’re making a scrub that might accidentally get licked off, it’s best to stick with natural, food-safe ingredients.
Do Dermatologists Recommend Lip Scrubs?
Dermatologist Kristina Collins, MD told Ipsy that gentle exfoliation can be beneficial for lips, especially if they tend to get dry or flaky. However, it’s usually recommended to limit use to once or twice a week and follow up with a hydrating balm.
Overdoing it can cause irritation, so moderation is the secret to keeping lips smooth and healthy. “I actually strongly prefer non-abrasive exfoliants for the lips. Mechanical exfoliants can worsen tiny breaks in the skin and rough up the already delicate protective barrier of the lip,” she explained.
DIY lip scrubs are generally safe if you use gentle, natural ingredients and apply them sparingly. Always test a small amount on your skin first to rule out allergies. And keep in mind, scrubs are meant to exfoliate, not heal damaged skin. If your lips are cracked or bleeding, give them time to recover before exfoliating.
Homemade Lip Scrub Recipes
Now that we’ve talked about the “why,” let’s get to the fun part: the “how.” You don’t need a fancy lab or a long list of ingredients to achieve that perfectly smooth pout. In fact, you probably have everything you need to whip up your new favorite lip scrub right in your kitchen. From sweet and sugary to minty and invigorating, these DIY recipes are as easy to make as they are effective. Get ready to kiss dry, flaky lips goodbye for good.
Classic Sugar Lip Scrub
Get ready to sweeten up your lip care routine with this tried-and-true classic.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (white or brown)
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil or olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon honey
Instructions:
1. Mix all the ingredients in a small bowl until combined.
2. Apply a small amount to your lips and gently massage in circular motions for 1–2 minutes.
3. Rinse off with warm water and pat your lips dry.
4. Follow up with a moisturizing lip balm.
Cocoa Honey Lip Scrub
Indulge in this decadent and hydrating scrub that smells just as good as it feels.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon almond oil (or olive oil)
Instructions:
- Stir together sugar, cocoa powder, honey and oil until a thick paste forms.
- Gently massage onto lips for 1–2 minutes.
- Rinse away with warm water and pat dry.
- Apply a nourishing balm for soft, velvety lips.
Coffee and Cocoa Lip Scrub
This scrub provides antioxidants for caffeine and cocoa lovers, while exfoliating dead skin cells from your lips.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon coffee grounds
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
Instructions:
1. Combine the coffee grounds, cocoa powder and coconut oil in a bowl.
2. Apply the scrub to your lips and massage gently.
3. Rinse thoroughly and enjoy the aroma.
Minty Fresh Lip Scrub
Prep your pout for a refreshing burst of tingling goodness with this invigorating scrub.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Drops of peppermint essential oil
Instructions:
1. Mix the sugar and olive oil, then add the peppermint essential oil.
2. Apply the mixture to your lips, scrub gently and rinse lips with warm water.
3. Enjoy the minty smell.
Rose Petal Lip Scrub Recipe
Indulge in a pampering experience with this floral-infused scrub.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon crushed dried rose petals
- 1 teaspoon almond oil
Instructions:
1. Blend the sugar, honey and crushed rose petals.
2. Add almond oil and mix until you achieve a paste-like texture.
3. Apply to your lips, scrub and rinse for smooth lips.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the disadvantages of lip scrubs?
Some people may have different results immediately after using a lip scrub. With DIY lip scrubs, dead skin that is removed can cause redness, irritation or dryness.
Is lip balm better than lip scrub?
Lip balm is something you can use all the time when your lips feel dry, or if you travel in areas with harsh weather. Lip scrubs are primarily used to exfoliate the dead skin. Pro tip: A lip mask can help heal chapped lips.
Should You exfoliate your lips wet or dry?
Exfoliate on clean, dry lips for best results, then rinse with warm water.