DIY Salt Scrub Recipe – Easy Homemade Body Scrub for Soft, Smooth Skin
If you love luxurious body scrubs but don’t love the expensive price tags, this easy DIY Salt Scrub Recipe is for you! With just a few simple ingredients, including Epsom salt, coconut oil, and optional vanilla fragrance, you can create a homemade exfoliating body scrub without spending a fortune.
Have you ever noticed a beautiful jar of body scrub sitting beside a bathroom sink, tried a little, and immediately fallen in love with how soft your skin feels?
Then you discover that the scrub costs $20 or more!
I’ve been there. After purchasing an expensive scrub myself, I decided to find out how difficult it would be to make my own.
As it turns out, homemade salt scrubs are incredibly easy to make.
This recipe is affordable, customizable, and perfect for making homemade gifts.
What Is a Salt Scrub?
A salt scrub is a homemade or commercially prepared body exfoliant made with salt crystals and a carrier oil.
When gently massaged onto damp skin, the salt helps remove loose surface skin cells.
The carrier oil helps the scrub glide over your skin and leaves it feeling conditioned after rinsing.
Salt scrubs are especially popular for areas where skin tends to feel rough, such as heels, elbows, feet, and legs.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Salt Scrub
- Budget-friendly: Make your own instead of purchasing expensive specialty body scrubs.
- Easy to make: Only a few ingredients and simple mixing are required.
- Customizable: Choose your favorite carrier oil and skin-safe fragrance.
- Great for rough skin: Helps exfoliate dry surface skin cells.
- Perfect for gifting: Package in a pretty jar with a handmade label.
- No heating required: Simply mix and transfer to a container.
- Multiple variations: Try lavender, citrus, peppermint, or coffee-inspired blends.
What Kind of Salt Should You Use?
There are several types of salt that can be used in homemade body scrubs. The most important consideration is choosing a texture appropriate for gentle skin exfoliation.
Epsom Salt
Epsom salt is magnesium sulfate and is commonly used in bath and body products.
It works well in homemade salt scrubs, especially when you’re making a scrub for feet or heels.
Fine Sea Salt
Fine sea salt is a popular option because its smaller crystals can create a more even exfoliating texture.
Himalayan Pink Salt
Himalayan pink salt has a naturally pink appearance. Choose a finely ground version rather than large, sharp crystals.
Dead Sea Salt
Dead Sea salt is another option frequently used in bath and body products.
DIY Salt Scrub Ingredients
You only need a few simple ingredients to make this easy homemade body scrub.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fine sea salt or Epsom salt
- ½ cup carrier oil, such as fractionated coconut oil, sweet almond oil, grapeseed oil, or olive oil
- 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil (optional)
- 10–20 drops essential oil (optional; adjust to skin-safe dilution limits)
Supplies
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Clean, dry glass jar with lid
- Optional decorative label
Shop the Ingredients and Supplies
Want to make your own homemade salt scrub? I’ve included shopping links for the ingredients and supplies used in this DIY project.
- Coconut Oil Shop Coconut Oil at Walmart
- Vanilla Oil Shop Vanilla Oil at Walmart
- Glass Jar With Lid Shop Glass Jar at Walmart
- Epsom Salt Shop Epsom Salt at Walmart
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a qualifying purchase through these links, Crazy For Couponing may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.
How to Make Your Own Salt Scrub
This homemade body scrub comes together in just a few easy steps.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Measure out 1 cup of fine sea salt or Epsom salt and ½ cup of your preferred carrier oil.
If you’re using vitamin E or essential oils, have those ready as well.
Step 2: Combine the Salt and Oil
Add the salt to a clean, dry mixing bowl.
Pour the carrier oil over the salt.
Stir until the ingredients are evenly combined.
The mixture should have a moist, scoopable texture similar to wet sand.
Step 3: Add Optional Ingredients
If desired, add 1 teaspoon of vitamin E oil.
Add your chosen skin-safe essential oil or fragrance ingredient, ensuring the total amount stays within the manufacturer’s recommended dermal-use limits.
Stir thoroughly to distribute the fragrance evenly.
Step 4: Adjust the Consistency
Check the texture of the finished scrub.
If it seems too dry, stir in a little more carrier oil.
If it feels too oily, add a small amount of additional salt.
The scrub should be easy to scoop without being excessively runny.
Step 5: Transfer to a Storage Jar
Spoon the finished mixture into a clean, completely dry jar.
Secure the lid tightly.
Label the jar with the ingredients and the date it was made.
Your homemade DIY Salt Scrub is ready to use!
DIY Salt Scrub Step-by-Step Instruction Photos
Follow along with this visual instruction guide for making your own homemade salt scrub.
Four Homemade Salt Scrub Variations
One of my favorite things about making homemade body scrubs is how easy they are to customize.
Start with the basic salt-and-oil recipe, then experiment with these optional variations.
The fragrance amounts below reflect the original recipe ideas. Always reduce or adjust them as needed to remain within the essential oil suppliers’ skin-safe usage limits.
1. Relaxing Lavender Salt Scrub
For a soft floral scent, try a lavender-inspired blend.
- 15 drops lavender essential oil
- 5 drops vanilla fragrance or benzoin, if skin-safe
This variation has a cozy floral fragrance that works beautifully for an evening self-care routine.
2. Energizing Citrus Salt Scrub
For a fresh, bright fragrance, try combining:
- 10 drops sweet orange essential oil
- 5 drops lemon essential oil
- 3 drops grapefruit essential oil
Citrus essential oils vary in their phototoxicity risks. Some expressed citrus oils can increase sensitivity to sunlight. Check the specific oil’s safety information and use only appropriate skin-safe amounts.
Love Orange? Try My Vanilla Orange Sugar Scrub!
If you love the combination of citrus and vanilla, I also have another homemade body scrub that you won’t want to miss.
My Easy Vanilla Orange Sugar Scrub DIY combines granulated sugar, sweet almond oil, vanilla bean powder, vanilla essential oil, and sweet orange essential oil.
Unlike this salt scrub, the Vanilla Orange Sugar Scrub uses sugar for a different exfoliating texture and features a sweet vanilla-orange fragrance.
Get the Full Vanilla Orange Sugar Scrub Recipe Here
3. Peppermint Foot Spa Salt Scrub
For a refreshing foot scrub, try:
- 10 drops peppermint essential oil
- 5 drops tea tree essential oil
This combination creates a fresh, cooling fragrance.
Peppermint can be irritating at higher concentrations, so adjust according to skin-safe limits and avoid sensitive or damaged skin.
4. Coffee Sea Salt Scrub
If you love coffee-inspired DIY projects, this variation is a fun option.
- 2 tablespoons very finely ground coffee
- 1 teaspoon vanilla, using a suitable cosmetic-grade fragrance ingredient
Mix the coffee into the basic salt scrub recipe for a rich, coffee-inspired scent and texture.
Coffee grounds can increase abrasiveness, so use a very fine grind and gentle pressure.
How to Use a Homemade Salt Scrub
Salt scrubs are intended for occasional body exfoliation rather than daily vigorous scrubbing.
- Wet the area of skin you want to exfoliate.
- Using a clean, dry scoop, remove a small amount of scrub from the jar.
- Gently massage the scrub onto damp skin using light circular motions for approximately 30–60 seconds per area.
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
- Pat your skin dry with a clean towel.
- Apply a moisturizer afterward if desired.
The original recipe suggests using the scrub 1–3 times per week, depending on your skin. Start less frequently if you’re unsure how your skin will respond.
How to Store Homemade Salt Scrub
Store your DIY salt scrub in a clean, dry, airtight container away from direct sunlight and excessive heat.
Avoid introducing water into the jar. Use a clean, dry scoop rather than dipping wet hands into the mixture.
Although the original recipe suggests a storage period of approximately 2–3 months, homemade formulations without preservative and stability testing do not have a guaranteed shelf life.
For best results, make smaller batches and discard the scrub if you notice an unusual smell, discoloration, mold, or other changes.
Can You Make Salt Scrub Without Essential Oils?
Absolutely!
Essential oils are optional in this recipe.
You can simply combine salt and your preferred carrier oil to create an unscented body scrub.
This is also a good option for people who prefer to avoid added fragrance.
Can You Use Coconut Oil in a Salt Scrub?
Yes. Coconut oil is a popular ingredient in homemade body scrubs.
Fractionated coconut oil remains liquid at room temperature, making it easy to mix.
Regular coconut oil may become firm in cooler temperatures and can change the scrub’s texture.
If you choose regular coconut oil, you may need to soften it gently before mixing.
DIY Salt Scrub Makes a Beautiful Homemade Gift
Homemade salt scrubs make thoughtful gifts for birthdays, holidays, bridal showers, and thank-you presents.
You can package the finished scrub in a small glass jar and add a simple label.
For a gift basket, pair your homemade scrub with a washcloth, lotion, or another DIY body-care product.
Be sure to include a full ingredient list and basic directions for use so the recipient can check for allergies or sensitivities.
Simple Homemade Salt Scrub Gift Label
Massage a small amount onto damp body skin using gentle circular motions. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry. Use occasionally as tolerated. Keep water out of the jar. Avoid face, broken skin, and irritated areas.
Budget-Friendly Homemade Skincare
At Crazy For Couponing, we’re always looking for ways to save money while still enjoying the little luxuries in life.
Homemade salt scrubs are a great example.
Instead of spending $20 or more on a specialty body scrub, you can create your own with a few affordable ingredients.
Watch for sales on salt, carrier oils, and storage jars.
You can also reuse a suitable clean container you already have at home.
If you enjoy making DIY beauty products, buying ingredients that work in several different projects can help lower the cost per batch.
Printable DIY Salt Scrub Recipe Card
Easy Homemade Salt Scrub
A simple exfoliating body scrub made with fine sea salt, carrier oil, and optional fragrance ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fine sea salt or Epsom salt
- ½ cup carrier oil (fractionated coconut, sweet almond, grapeseed, or olive oil)
- 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil (optional)
- 10–20 drops essential oil (optional, subject to skin-safe dilution limits)
Supplies
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Clean, dry airtight jar
Instructions
- Add 1 cup of fine sea salt or Epsom salt to a clean, dry mixing bowl.
- Pour in ½ cup carrier oil and stir until the mixture has a moist, scoopable texture.
- If desired, add vitamin E oil and a skin-safe amount of essential oil or fragrance.
- Stir thoroughly and adjust the consistency with additional salt or oil if needed.
- Transfer the finished scrub into a clean, dry jar. Secure the lid and label with the preparation date.
Project Notes
Use a clean, dry scoop to remove the scrub. Keep water out of the container and discontinue use if irritation occurs.
This homemade scrub is intended for occasional body exfoliation and should not be used on the face, broken skin, sunburned skin, or freshly shaved areas.
DIY Project By: Crazy For Couponing
Frequently Asked Questions About Homemade Salt Scrubs
Is salt scrub better than sugar scrub?
Neither is automatically better. Sugar scrubs often have a gentler feel, while salt scrubs can be more abrasive. The best choice depends on crystal size, your skin, and how gently you apply the product.
Can I use Epsom salt in a body scrub?
Yes. Epsom salt is one of the options included in this recipe.
Can I use olive oil instead of coconut oil?
Yes. Olive oil is one of the carrier oil options in the original recipe, although it may create a different feel and fragrance.
Can I make salt scrub without essential oils?
Yes. Simply omit the essential oils for an unscented scrub.
How often should I use a salt scrub?
The original recipe suggests 1–3 times per week, depending on skin tolerance. Begin with less frequent use and avoid over-exfoliating.
Can I use salt scrub on my face?
This recipe is intended for body use. Salt crystals can be too abrasive for delicate facial skin.
Can I make an orange salt scrub?
Yes. The citrus variation uses sweet orange, lemon, and grapefruit essential oils. For a sugar-based citrus scrub, try the Vanilla Orange Sugar Scrub Recipe .
Why does the oil separate from my salt scrub?
Oil separation can occur because the ingredients are not emulsified. Stir with a clean, dry spoon before use.
How long does homemade salt scrub last?
Shelf life depends on the ingredients, preparation, and storage conditions. Without preservation and stability testing, an exact shelf life cannot be guaranteed. Make small batches and discard if the product changes in appearance or smell.
More Homemade DIY Beauty Recipes
If you enjoyed this homemade salt scrub, check out these other DIY beauty projects from Crazy For Couponing.
Make Your Own Homemade Salt Scrub
If you love homemade beauty products, this DIY Salt Scrub Recipe is a simple project worth trying.
With just salt, carrier oil, and optional fragrance ingredients, you can create a customizable body scrub without spending a fortune.
Whether you’re making a small jar for yourself or preparing homemade gifts for friends and family, this easy salt scrub is a wonderful addition to your DIY collection.
Find more homemade recipes, seasonal DIY projects, and money-saving ideas at Crazy For Couponing .
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