11 Simple Lip Scrub Recipes To Nourish & Hydrate Your Lips

Picking your dry lips, surfing the internet endlessly for the best lip balm, I get it. I have been there too until I discovered these easy DIY lip scrub recipes to get back my pink, plump lips. 

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Dry and chapped lips can be real beauty enemies, especially during the summer days. 

I could be the ambassador of peeling my chapped lips at one point in life. 

But, thanks to my mom and didi who helped me get rid of this bad habit and even introduced me to some reliable and extremely affordable skin remedies, including these lip scrub recipes. 

Today, I am sharing them with you. Let’s go!  

 

How Lip Scrubs Work?

A lip scrub is a product specifically made to remove dead skin cells from your lips. It is like a mini-exfoliation treatment for your lips. It usually comes in a pot or tube and has tiny buffing agents like sugar or salt to gently scrub away the dry skin. 

We use lip scrubs because those dead skin cells can make your lips feel rough and dry.

The good news is, lip scrubs don’t just remove the rough stuff! They often contain moisturizing ingredients like oils or butter, which help keep your lips soft and smooth after the scrub. 

So, in short, lip scrubs help you get rid of the dry, dead skin and leave your lips feeling soft, plump, and happy.

Also, a good lip scrub should be gentle, with minimal flavour scents and synthetic ingredients. It shall be easy to apply, rinse off, and use!

 

Is Lip Scrub Necessary?

Yes, lip scrubs are necessary. They keep your lips soft, smooth, and ready for lipstick! It is more so necessary to scrub your lips if they get:

• Dry and flaky: Dead skin cells build up on your lips just like the rest of your skin. A scrub helps buff those away, leaving smooth lips behind.
• Chapped: Exfoliation can help remove the rough, dead skin that can make chapped lips feel even worse. Even the simple act of 
• Uneven lipstick application: Dead skin cells can make your lipstick look patchy. A scrub can create a smoother canvas for your lipstick to glide on your lips nicely and evenly.

11 DIY Lip Scrub Recipes with Natural Ingredients:

Here are 11 DIY lip scrub recipes that combine gentle exfoliation, natural moisturization with minimal risk of side effects. You can make them at home and try them for yourself. 

 

1. Honey & Sugar Scrub

Ingredients: 

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (finely ground for a gentler scrub)
• 1/2 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon coconut oil (or olive oil, almond oil, or jojoba oil)

Directions:

1. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and honey until well combined.
2. Stir in the coconut oil until you have a smooth, spreadable consistency.

Why it works?

• Brown sugar: Exfoliates away dead skin cells, leaving lips feeling smooth and soft.
• Honey: A natural humectant that attracts moisture to the lips, keeping them hydrated. It also has antibacterial properties, which can be beneficial for chapped lips.
• Coconut oil: Adds extra moisture and leaves lips feeling soft and supple. You can substitute with another carrier oil you prefer.

Tip: After using the scrub, apply a layer of lip balm to lock in moisture. This scrub can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

 

2. Coconut & Cinnamon Scrub

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon ground coffee (use finer grounds for a less coarse scrub)
• 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for a warming tingle)

Directions:

1. In a small bowl, mix the coffee grounds and melted coconut oil until well combined.

Why it works?

• Coffee grounds: Gently buff away dead skin cells, leaving lips smooth and revitalised.
• Coconut oil: Deeply moisturises and nourishes your lips, leaving them feeling soft and supple.

Tip: The coffee grounds in this scrub can be a bit messy. Apply the scrub over a washcloth to catch any spills. This scrub can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

 

3. Coconut Oil, Peppermint & Honey Lip Scrub

Ingredients: 

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (finer for sensitive lips)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil
• 3-5 drops peppermint essential oil (start with 3 and adjust to preference)

Directions:

1. In a small bowl, combine the sugar and honey.
2. Stir in the melted coconut oil until well-mixed.
3. Add the peppermint essential oil and mix well. Be careful not to overdo the peppermint, as it can be irritating.
4. Gently massage a small amount onto your lips in circular motions for 30 seconds.
5. Wipe off the scrub with a warm washcloth.

Why it works?

• Sugar: Exfoliates dry, flaky skin, leaving lips smooth and prepped for moisture.
• Honey: A natural humectant that draws moisture to the lips and has antibacterial properties to help with chapped lips.
• Coconut oil: Deeply hydrates and nourishes the lips.
• Peppermint essential oil: Provides a cooling and tingling sensation, which can make lips feel plumper. It also has a refreshing scent.

Tip: Peppermint essential oil can be irritating to sensitive skin. So, make sure you do a patch test on your inner arm before applying to your lips. 

If you experience any burning or redness, discontinue using it. This scrub can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 months.

 

4. Brown Sugar & Vaseline Scrub

Ingredients: 

This low-effort scrub is a great option for busy women wanting a basic yet effective lip exfoliator.

Directions:

1. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and Vaseline until well mixed.
2. Apply a small amount to your lips and gently massage in a circular motion for 30 seconds.
3. Wipe away the scrub with a damp washcloth.

Why it works?

• Brown sugar: Exfoliates away dead skin cells, revealing smoother and softer lips.
• Vaseline: Locks in moisture and protects the lips from further dryness.

Tip: While Vaseline is great for keeping lips moisturised, it doesn’t add moisture itself. If your lips are very dry, consider adding a teaspoon of honey or olive oil for an extra hydrating boost. This scrub can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 months.

 

5. Oatmeal & Honey Scrub

Ingredients: 

For those with sensitive lips, this oatmeal and honey scrub offers gentle exfoliation with a touch of sweetness.

• 1 tablespoon finely ground oatmeal
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1/2 tablespoon mashed avocado (or olive oil)

Directions:

1. In a small bowl, combine the oatmeal and honey.
2. Mash in the avocado oil (or olive oil) until you have a thick, paste-like consistency.
3. Gently massage a small amount onto your lips in circular motions for 30 seconds.
4. Wipe off the scrub with a warm washcloth.

Why it works?

• Finely ground oatmeal: This acts as a gentle exfoliant, buffing away dead skin cells without irritating sensitive lips.
• Honey: A natural humectant, honey attracts moisture to your lips, keeping them hydrated. It also has antibacterial properties for added benefit.
• Avocado oil (or olive oil): Provides extra moisture and nourishment, leaving lips soft and supple.

Tip: Follow up with a lip balm to lock in moisture. Store this scrub in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. 

 

6. Rose Petal & Milk Scrub

Ingredients: 

For a touch of luxury, try this rose petal and milk cream scrub. It gently buffs away dry skin while leaving lips feeling soft and smelling like roses.

• 1 teaspoon finely ground dried rose petals
• 1 teaspoon heavy cream

Directions:

1. Using a mortar and pestle or spice grinder, grind the rose petals into a fine powder.
2. In a small bowl, combine the rose petal powder with the heavy cream to create a thick paste.

Why it works?

• Rose petals: Gently exfoliate dead skin cells, leaving lips smooth and soft. Rose petals also add a beautiful fragrance to the scrub.
• Heavy cream: Provides rich moisture and helps soothe dry, chapped lips.

Tip: Since this scrub doesn’t contain any preservatives, it’s best to make it fresh for each use. However, you can store any leftover rose petal powder in an airtight container for future scrubs. Also, be sure the rose petal powder is finely ground to prevent irritation on your delicate lips. 

 

7. Almond & Milk Scrub

If you want gentle exfoliation with a touch of luxury, try this lip scrub recipe. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients: 

• 1 teaspoon finely ground almonds
• 1 teaspoon milk (whole milk for extra creaminess, skim milk for a lighter option)

Directions:

1. Using a mortar and pestle or food processor, grind a few almonds into a very fine powder.
2. In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon of the almond powder with 1 teaspoon of milk. Mix until you have a thick paste.

Why it works?

• Almond powder: Gently buffs away dead skin cells, leaving lips smooth and soft. Almonds are also a good source of Vitamin E, which can help nourish the lips.
• Milk: Provides a soothing and hydrating base for the scrub. Whole milk adds extra moisture, while skim milk offers a lighter option for those with oily skin.

Tip: Patch test the scrub on a small area of your arm before applying it to your lips to check for any allergies. This scrub is best used fresh, so make it right before you need it.

 

8. Masoor Dal & Milk Scrub

What do you need?

• 1 tablespoon powdered masoor dal
• 1 teaspoon milk

Directions:

1. Combine the masoor dal powder and milk in a small bowl, mixing until you have a thick paste.
2. Gently massage the scrub onto your lips in circular motions for 30 seconds.
3. Wipe off the scrub with a warm washcloth.

Why it works:

• Masoor dal powder: Exfoliates dry, flaky skin, leaving lips feeling smooth and soft.
• Milk: Provides added moisture and a touch of lactic acid for gentle brightening.

Tip: If the mixture feels too dry, add a few drops of honey or oil for extra moisture. After scrubbing, apply a layer of lip balm to keep your lips hydrated. This scrub can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

 

9. Turmeric & Yogurt Scrub

This is the one I often use. The ingredients are easily available in my kitchen and it has proven to be the most effective on my lips. 

Ingredients: 

• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder (patch test on your arm first!)
• 1 tablespoon plain yogurt

Directions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the turmeric powder and yogurt until well combined.
2. Gently massage the mixture onto your lips for 30 seconds, focusing on areas with dryness or flakiness.
3. Rinse the scrub off with cool water and pat your lips dry.

Why it works?

• Turmeric powder: Possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe irritation and redness. It also has a gentle lightening effect, potentially reducing hyperpigmentation on the lips (be sure to patch test first!).
• Plain yogurt: Contains lactic acid, a natural exfoliant that helps remove dead skin cells. Yogurt is also moisturising, leaving lips feeling soft and supple.

Tip: Due to turmeric’s staining properties, be mindful during application and rinse thoroughly. This scrub is best used once or twice a week.

 

10. Lemon & Sugar Lip Scrub

Ingredients: 

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for a gentler scrub, use brown sugar)
• 2 tablespoons raw honey
• 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil (or olive oil)
• 1/2 lemon (zest and juice)

Directions:

1. In a small bowl, combine the sugar and honey. Mix well until a thick paste forms.
2. Stir in the melted coconut oil until fully incorporated.
3. Using a fine-mesh grater, grate the zest of the lemon half directly into the bowl.
4. Finally, squeeze the juice from the lemon half and add it to the mixture. Stir everything together until a cohesive scrub forms.

Why it works? 

• Sugar: Acts as a natural exfoliant, buffing away dead skin cells to reveal smoother, softer lips.
• Honey: A natural humectant, it attracts and retains moisture, leaving lips feeling hydrated and plump. Honey also has antibacterial properties.
• Lemon: The citric acid in lemon juice helps to gently brighten and even out lip tone. Lemon zest adds a refreshing scent and contains vitamins that nourish the skin.
• Coconut oil (or olive oil): Provides a moisturising base for the scrub and helps to soothe and protect the lips.

Tips: For a more intense exfoliation, you can substitute brown sugar for the granulated sugar. If you have any open cuts or sores on your lips, avoid using this scrub, particularly. Lemon juice can be slightly drying, so be sure to follow up with a lip balm after using the scrub. 

 

11. Chocolate Lip Scrub

Ingredients: 

• 4 portions of granulated sugar
• 1 portion of cocoa powder
• 1/2 portion olive oil (divided in half)
• 1 portion vanilla extract
• ¾ portion of honey

Directions:

• Grab a small bowl and toss all the ingredients in together. Get creative! Experiment with different amounts to find your ideal chocolate lip scrub recipe.
• Scoop out a small amount of the scrub and gently massage it onto your lips in tiny circles. Imagine you’re polishing a precious gem!

• Leave the scrub on your lips for a minute to work its magic.
• Wipe it away with a damp cloth or, for a taste of chocolate, lick it off!

Why it works?

• The sugar and cocoa powder, with their fine, grainy texture, gently buff away dead skin cells, leaving your lips feeling smooth and renewed. 
• Cocoa powder, rich in antioxidants, also helps soothe and protect your lips. 
• The olive oil and honey team up to deeply nourish and hydrate.
• Honey, a natural humectant, draws moisture to your lips, keeping them plump and supple.

• Don’t use lip scrubs if your lips are cracked or bleeding.
• Store your DIY lip scrub in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Patch test any new ingredients on your inner arm before applying to lips. These recipes are generally gentle, but it’s always best to be cautious. Enjoy pampering your lips with these natural goodies!
• Avoid using harsh ingredients like salt or citrus peels.
• After scrubbing, moisturise your lips with ghee, coconut oil, or lip balm.
• Do not scrub too hard, especially if your lips are chapped.

 

How to keep lips plump and hydrated?

Beyond lip scrubs, here are some other essential practices to stay hydrated and have healthy lips:

1. Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Dehydration shows on your lips quickly, making them dry and chapped.
2. Use a lip balm with SPF 15 or higher every day, even on cloudy days. 
3. Avoid licking your lips. It actually dries out your lips further. 
4. Have a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
5. Dry climates can wreak havoc on your lips. Consider using a humidifier at home, especially in winter, to add moisture to the air.
6. Avoid harsh soaps or cleansers on your lips. Use a gentle lip balm or lukewarm water to remove dirt or makeup.
7. Apply a thick layer of good-quality lip balm before bed to help your lips retain moisture throughout the night. I am using the Vaseline Lip Therapy in Cocoa Butter for my lips these days. 
8. While you don’t need to scrub daily, gently exfoliating your lips 1-2 times a week helps remove dead skin cells and promotes smoother, healthier lips.
9. Certain medical conditions or medications can contribute to dry lips. If you experience chronic lip problems, consult your doctor to rule out any underlying causes.

These simple practices, along with a reliable skincare routine that includes a good lip scrub, can keep your lips healthy, hydrated, and looking their best at all times. 

 

Conclusion 

I have always believed that skin care doesn’t have to be complicated, so it should be lip care. 

You don’t need a line-up of multiple steps to have glowing skin or a 3-step analysis to take care of your lips. 

I hope these lip scrub recipes will help you love your lips in a budget-friendly and minimal manner. 

Which of these are your favorite recipes? 

 

FAQs

1. What is the best homemade lip scrub?

The best homemade lip scrub is simple, gentle, and made with ingredients from your kitchen. A great go-to is:
1 tsp sugar + 1/2 tsp honey + a few drops of coconut oil. This mix exfoliates dead skin, hydrates dry lips, and leaves them feeling soft and nourished. You can tweak the ingredients based on your skin type or preferences.

 

2. How to exfoliate lips naturally?

Use a gentle scrub with natural exfoliants like sugar or coffee grounds mixed with honey, coconut oil, or olive oil. Gently rub in circular motions for 1–2 minutes and wipe off with a damp cloth. You can also use a soft toothbrush to lightly brush your lips and remove flaky skin. Always follow with a moisturizing lip balm.

 

3. How to remove dark lips?

Dark lips can result from sun exposure, dehydration, or smoking. To lighten them naturally:

• Exfoliate weekly using lip scrubs
• Stay hydrated
• Apply a nourishing lip balm with SPF
• Use ingredients like lemon juice, rose water, or beetroot (in moderation), known for their brightening effects.
  Consistency is key for natural remedies to work.

4. How to make a pink lips scrub?

Try this natural pink lips scrub:
1 tsp beetroot powder or juice + 1 tsp sugar + 1/2 tsp coconut oil.
Beetroot gives a subtle pink tint while the sugar exfoliates and the oil moisturizes. Use this 2–3 times a week to gradually restore the natural color of your lips.

 

5. Is coconut oil good for lips?

Yes, coconut oil is one of the best natural moisturizers for dry or chapped lips. It has anti-inflammatory and healing properties, and forms a barrier to protect lips from moisture loss. You can use it alone as a lip balm or mix it into DIY scrubs and masks for added hydration.

 

6. How to remove the dead skin from lips?

Dead skin can be gently removed by exfoliating with a lip scrub or soft toothbrush. Avoid peeling or picking at dry skin—it can cause bleeding or irritation. Exfoliate no more than 2–3 times a week, and always follow with a hydrating lip balm to soothe and repair your lips.

 

7. How often should you use a lip scrub?

You should use a lip scrub 1-2 times a week. Over-exfoliating can make lips sensitive and dry. Keep the scrubbing light and gentle, especially if your lips are already cracked or peeling. Always hydrate your lips afterward to lock in moisture.