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How to Make Face Scrub at Home?
Published on 07/10/25
(Updated on 10/21/25)
480

How to Make Face Scrub at Home?

Written by
Dr. Anirudh Deshmukh
Government Ayurvedic College, Nagpur University (2011)
I am Dr Anurag Sharma, done with BAMS and also PGDHCM from IMS BHU, which honestly shaped a lot of how I approach things now in clinic. Working as a physician and also as an anorectal surgeon, I’ve got around 2 to 3 years of solid experience—tho like, every day still teaches me something new. I mainly focus on anorectal care (like piles, fissure, fistula stuff), plus I work with chronic pain cases too. Pain management is something I feel really invested in—seeing someone walk in barely managing and then leave with actual relief, that hits different. I’m not really the fancy talk type, but I try to keep my patients super informed, not just hand out meds n move on. Each case needs a bit of thinking—some need Ksharasutra or minor para surgical stuff, while others are just lifestyle tweaks and herbal meds. I like mixing the Ayurved principles with modern insights when I can, coz both sides got value really. It’s like—knowing when to go gentle and when to be precise. Right now I’m working hard on getting even better with surgical skills, but also want to help people get to me before surgery's the only option. Had few complicated cases where patience n consistency paid off—no shortcuts but yeah, worth it. The whole point for me is to actually listen first, like proper listen. People talk about symptoms but also say what they feel—and that helps in understanding more than any lab report sometimes. I just want to stay grounded in my work, and keep growing while doing what I can to make someone's pain bit less every day.
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If you’ve ever wondered how to make face scrub at home using ingredients that are already in your kitchen, you're not alone. In fact, more people are swapping chemical-heavy store-bought products for simple, effective, and natural alternatives. Learning how to make homemade scrub for face care isn't just easy — it's fun, customizable, and cost-effective too. Whether you're after glowing skin, oil control, or gentle exfoliation, a natural face scrub at home can work wonders.

In this guide, we’ll cover how to make face scrub at home for glowing skin using ingredients like sugar, coffee, rice, and oatmeal. We'll also explore face scrub recipes tailored for oily skin, dry skin, and everything in between. Ready to ditch the fancy jars and overpriced serums? Let’s dive in.

homemade face scrub

Why Use a Natural Face Scrub: Ayurvedic View on Exfoliation

According to Ayurveda, regular exfoliation is key to removing ama (toxins) that clog the skin. A natural face scrub at home can gently slough off dead skin cells while balancing the doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha). Unlike synthetic products, homemade scrubs respect your skin's natural rhythm. They help restore glow without disrupting your skin barrier.

What’s more, natural exfoliants like sugar, oatmeal, and coffee don’t just cleanse — they nourish. These ingredients have been used in traditional skincare for centuries. And the best part? No weird chemicals, preservatives or things you can’t even pronunce.

coffee face scrub

How to Make Face Scrub at Home with Simple Ingredients

When it comes to DIY skincare, simplicity rules. These recipes are fuss-free and only need a handful of pantry staples.

How to Make Sugar Scrub for Face at Home

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon fine sugar (brown or white)

  • 1 tablespoon honey

  • A few drops of lemon juice (optional for brightening)

Instructions:
Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined. Apply gently in circular motions. Rinse with lukewarm water.

Why it works:
Sugar scrub for face exfoliates without being too harsh. Honey adds hydration, and lemon helps with dull spots. This one’s perfect if you’re figuring out how to make face scrub at home for glowing skin.

How to Make Coffee Scrub for Face at Home

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon ground coffee (not instant!)

  • 1 tablespoon yogurt or coconut oil

  • A pinch of turmeric (optional)

Instructions:
Combine the ingredients and massage gently onto your face. Leave it on for 5 minutes before rinsing.

Benefits:
Coffee face scrub is rich in antioxidants and can improve blood circulation, making it a favorite for bright, fresh-looking skin. Plus, who doesn’t love the smell of coffee?

How to Make Oatmeal Scrub for Face

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons ground oats

  • 1 tablespoon milk or aloe vera gel

Directions:
Blend oats until fine. Mix with milk or aloe and apply evenly on face. Leave for 10 mins before gently scrubbing and rinsing.

Why try it:
If you have sensitive or dry skin, this one's a gem. It's gentle, soothing, and helps calm redness.

How to Make Rice Scrub for Face

You’ll need:

  • 1 tablespoon rice flour or ground rice

  • 1 teaspoon honey

  • A splash of rose water

Steps:
Mix into a paste. Apply and scrub in soft circular motion. Wash off after a few mins.

Why it works:
Rice scrub for face brightens complexion and improves skin texture over time. It’s often used in Korean and Japanese skincare rituals.

face scrub for oily skin

Best Homemade Scrubs for Different Skin Types

No two faces are the same, and neither are their skincare needs. Making a face scrub at home lets you tailor the recipe to your unique skin type. Here's how to find your match:

Face Scrub for Oily Skin

Oily skin? Then you're no stranger to clogged pores, blackheads, and that all-day shine. A good scrub for face with oil-prone tendencies needs to balance excess sebum without stripping natural moisture.

Try This:

  • 1 tbsp multani mitti (Fuller's Earth)

  • 1 tbsp coffee grounds

  • Rose water (enough to make a paste)

Multani mitti soaks up excess oil while coffee exfoliates and tightens pores. This natural face scrub at home is ideal for people looking for how to make coffee scrub for face at home that actually works for oily skin.

Note: Use 2–3 times a week. Over-scrubbing can make skin produce even more oil. Yeah, our faces can be drama queens like that.

Face Scrub for Dry Skin

Dry skin needs something hydrating and exfoliating. Rough, flaky patches? We got you.

DIY Hydrating Scrub:

  • 1 tbsp oatmeal (ground)

  • 1 tbsp honey

  • 1 tsp olive oil

This homemade face scrub gently removes dead skin cells while moisturizing. Honey's humectant powers + olive oil's fatty acids = a dream combo.

Avoid harsh granules like walnut or sugar if your skin's feeling Sahara-dry. You don’t want to go in with sandpaper, right?

Face Scrub for Glowing Skin

Let’s be honest, we’re all after that healthy, dewy glow — like you just had 8 hours of sleep and drank 3 liters of water (even if neither are true).

Best face scrub for glowing skin:

  • 1 tbsp rice flour

  • 1 tbsp yogurt

  • A pinch of turmeric

Rice brightens, yogurt contains lactic acid for gentle exfoliation, and turmeric adds that glow-boosting magic. Seriously, if you're googling “how to make face scrub at home for glowing skin,” bookmark this recipe.

sugar scrub for face

How to Apply Scrub on Face the Right Way

A lot of people get this wrong — and then blame the scrub. Technique matters just as much as ingredients.

Step-by-Step Application and Massage Tips

  1. Start with clean skin – Wash your face with lukewarm water or a mild cleanser.

  2. Take a small amount of scrub – A teaspoon is plenty.

  3. Use your fingertips – Gently massage in circular motions. Don't use your whole hand like you’re washing a plate!

  4. Focus on areas with buildup – Like your nose, chin, and forehead.

  5. Be gentle – No scrubbing like you're sanding a table. Your skin's delicate.

  6. Rinse with lukewarm water – Cold if you want to tighten pores.

  7. Pat dry and moisturize – Always finish with a light, non-comedogenic moisturizer.

How Often to Use Scrub Based on Skin Type

  • Oily skin: 2–3 times a week

  • Dry skin: Once a week

  • Combination/Normal: 1–2 times a week

  • Sensitive skin: Once every 10 days or skip entirely — test first!

Exfoliating too often can damage your skin’s barrier and actually increase breakouts or dryness. So go easy, okay?

Coffee, Walnut, Apricot: Which Face Scrub Is Right for You?

Choosing between coffee face scrub, walnut face scrub, and apricot scrub for face depends on your skin type and sensitivity level.

  • Coffee Scrub – Great for tightening and brightening; good for most skin types.

  • Walnut Face Scrub – Powerful exfoliant, but can be too harsh for sensitive skin. Use with caution.

  • Apricot Scrub for Face – Offers a milder exfoliation; better for dry or combination skin.

Some store-bought versions of these scrubs use overly large or sharp granules that can cause microtears — especially walnut! So when possible, opt for a gentler homemade version.

rice scrub for face

Face Scrub at Home vs Store-Bought: Pros and Cons

Let’s talk real for a sec. Is making a face scrub at home really better than buying one off the shelf? The answer — like most things — is: it depends.

Pros of Homemade Face Scrubs

  • Natural ingredients: You control what goes in. No hidden sulfates or mystery "fragrance" labels.

  • Customizable: Adjust for your skin type or issues (like acne, dryness, dullness).

  • Affordable: You probably already have most of the ingredients at home.

  • Eco-friendly: Less packaging waste. Plus, you're not buying microbeads that harm marine life.

Cons of Homemade Face Scrubs

  • Short shelf life: Most DIY scrubs don’t last more than a week unless refrigerated.

  • Inconsistent texture: Some may be too runny, grainy, or just...meh.

  • Time-consuming: Let’s be honest, sometimes you just wanna grab and go.

In contrast, store-bought scrubs often come with preservatives for longer shelf life, consistent formulation, and some do contain beneficial actives like salicylic acid. But you gotta read labels carefully, because not all "natural" scrubs are actually natural. Go figure.

how to apply scrub on face

Safety Tips and Common Mistakes to Avoid With Face Scrubs

Okay, now here’s the part where we save your skin. Even the best face scrub for glowing skin can cause damage if used the wrong way. And you’d be shocked how many people make these mistakes.

Common Mistakes:

  • Scrubbing too hard: Redness and microtears are not a vibe.

  • Using large, jagged particles: Like raw sugar or crushed walnut shells. Nope.

  • Exfoliating broken or irritated skin: Let it heal first, always.

  • Skipping moisturizer afterward: Exfoliation opens the skin up; you need to seal it back in.

  • Not patch-testing: Especially when trying a new ingredient. That turmeric stain ain’t cute on day 3.

Pro Tips:

  • Always make sure your hands are clean before mixing or applying.

  • Store scrubs in clean, dry containers — glass jars are best.

  • If using perishables like yogurt or milk, refrigerate and use within 2–3 days max.

Conclusion

So, now you know exactly how to make scrub at home for face care that’s natural, budget-friendly, and actually effective. Whether you’re using a sugar scrub for face brightening, a coffee face scrub for circulation, or a rice scrub for gentle exfoliation — there’s something for every skin type.

Remember: It’s not just about what you use — it’s how you use it. Treat your skin with kindness, and it’ll glow right back at you.

Want better skin without breaking the bank? Your kitchen just might be your new skincare lab.

👉 Ready to try a recipe? Pick your favorite and share your results with a friend — or better yet, make it together!

FAQs

Which scrub is best for the face?

It depends on your skin type. Coffee and rice scrubs are great for glow, sugar scrubs work well for exfoliation, and oatmeal scrubs are ideal for sensitive skin. For a quick fix, the best face scrub for glowing skin at home is a rice + yogurt + turmeric combo.

Can I scrub my face daily?

Nope. Over-exfoliating can damage your skin’s protective barrier. Stick to 1–3 times a week depending on your skin type. Less is more.

Is coffee scrub good for oily skin?

Yes, coffee scrub is excellent for oily skin. It helps unclog pores, absorb excess oil, and improve blood flow — but don't overdo it. Twice a week is plenty.

How long can I store homemade face scrub?

Most homemade scrubs last about 3–5 days in the fridge if they contain fresh ingredients like milk or yogurt. Oil-based scrubs (like coconut oil + sugar) can last up to 2 weeks if stored in a clean, airtight jar.

 

If you enjoyed this guide on how to make face scrub at home, pass it along. Who knows — you might just start a scrub-making trend in your group chat 😉

 

This article is checked by the current qualified Dr Sujal Patil and can be considered a reliable source of information for users of the site.

Got any more questions?

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Questions from users
How often should I use a homemade scrub for it to be effective without irritating my skin?
David
103 days ago
For homemade scrubs, aim for 1-3 times a week depending on your skin. If your skin is sensitive or dry, maybe once a week or even less. Listen to your skin; it gives good feedback! If you notice any irritation, maybe dial back a bit. Consistency is key, but don't overdo it.
What are some good alternatives to coffee scrubs for people with sensitive skin?
Lily
98 days ago
For sensitive skin, I'd recommend avoiding harsh scrubs like coffee. Try oatmeal mixed with honey—it's soothing and gentle. Almond meal can work too, being soft and calming. Both are great exfoliants without the risk of irritation. As always, listen to your skin and adjust. Sometimes, less is truly more! 😊
What are some signs that a face scrub is too harsh for my skin type?
Connor
93 days ago
Dr. Anirudh Deshmukh
93 days ago
If your face scrub's too harsh, you might notice redness, irritation, or a burning sensation. Maybe your skin feels tight or overly dry after using it. Sometimes you get little bumps too. If that's happening, try using a gentler scrub or less frequent exfoliation. Your skin needs balance. Keep it happy!
What other ingredients can I use for a homemade face scrub that are good for dry skin?
Kennedy
88 days ago
Dr. Anirudh Deshmukh
88 days ago
For dry skin, you might wanna try some gentle ingredients like oats or honey in your homemade scrub. They can be really hydrating! Mixing oatmeal with some yogurt works wonders. Adding drops of almond oil can also give your skin that extra moisturizing boost. Just keepw in mind to be gentle when scrubbing!
Can I use coffee scrub on dry skin, or will it make it worse?
Skylar
83 days ago
Dr. Anirudh Deshmukh
83 days ago
Coffee scrub can work for dry skin, but be careful! It can be quite abrasive, so you might wanna mix it with something soothing like honey or yogurt to avoid over-exfoliating or more dryness. And don't scrub too hard. Moisturize well after to lock in hydration. If your skin reacts badly, maybe try something gentler.
What are some good natural ingredients to use for a DIY face scrub if I have sensitive skin?
Charlotte
78 days ago
Dr. Anirudh Deshmukh
78 days ago
For sensitive skin, try a gentle mix of oatmeal and honey for a DIY face scrub. Oatmeal is soothing and calms inflammation, while honey is moisturizing and antibacterial. Just a tablespoon of each, apply gently, and rinse with lukewarm water. Avoid harsh grains like coffee, cuz they might irritate sensitive skin. Remember, always test on a small patch first!
What are some good recipes for rice scrubs that work well for dry skin?
Leo
73 days ago
Dr. Anirudh Deshmukh
72 days ago
For a simple rice scrub for dry skin, try mixing 2 tbsp of finely ground rice (use a blender) with 1 tbsp of coconut milk or honey for extra moisture. Gently massage it onto damp skin and rinse. You might tweak it with a drop of essential oil like lavender, if you want to make it even more nourishing!
How do I adjust the coffee scrub recipe if I have sensitive skin instead of oily?
Amelia
68 days ago
Dr. Anirudh Deshmukh
67 days ago
For sensitive skin, swap the coffee with finely ground oats, as they're much gentler. Add a bit more honey for added soothing. If you keep coffee, use it less to avoid irritation. Maybe throw in a lil' aloe vera too for soothing effect. Patch test first to see how it works with your skin.
What natural ingredients work best in a homemade scrub for oily skin?
Julian
63 days ago
Dr. Anirudh Deshmukh
59 days ago
For oily skin, try using ingredients like green tea, oatmeal, and lemon. Green tea helps with excess sebum and soothes, while oatmeal gently exfoliates without irritation, and lemon can help balance the skin's oiliness. Mix them with some honey to maintain moisture and make it easy to apply. Just be gentle on your skin, don’t over-scrub!
How do I know if I'm over-exfoliating my skin with homemade scrubs?
Olivia
58 days ago
Dr. Anirudh Deshmukh
49 days ago
If your skin's feeling sensitive, dry, or getting red and irritated, you might be over-exfoliating. Your barrier could be suffering, so give it a break for a bit. Ayurveda's big on balance, so check in with how your skin reacts. Maybe focus on calming ingredients like aloe or chamomile. And remember, gentle is key!
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