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Skin Care
How to Use a Sugar Scrub for Glowing Skin Download Article Baby-soft skin, here you come Co-authored by Diana Yerkes
Last Updated: April 22, 2025 References
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Choosing a Sugar Scrub
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Applying the Sugar Scrub
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How Can You Use a Sugar Scrub for Exfoliation?
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Expert Q&A
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This article was co-authored by Diana Yerkes. Diana Yerkes is a Skincare Professional and the Lead Esthetician at Rescue Spa in New York City, New York. With over 15 years of experience, Diana helps others with their skin care needs by incorporating natural and high-performing products and treatments into their routines while providing nutrition insights and educating clients on better skin care habits. Diana is a member of the Associated Skin Care Professionals (ASCP) and holds certifications from the Wellness for Cancer and Look Good Feel Better programs. She received her esthetics education from the Aveda Institute, the International Dermal Institute, and the Biologique Research Academy. There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 188,936 times.
Dry, flaky, or oily skin is a major bummer. And while you can find a rejuvenating treatment at the spa, you can also score smooth skin in the shower with a sugar scrub. Applying one properly (and frequently) can help exfoliate your body and remove dead skin cells, leaving skin silky soft.[1]X Expert Source Diana YerkesSkincare ProfessionalExpert Interview
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Part 1 Part 1 of 2:
Choosing a Sugar Scrub
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1 Look for a scrub with fine particles. A coarse sugar scrub can irritate and even tear sensitive skin. Smaller sugar granules are gentler and less abrasive.[2]X Expert Source Diana YerkesSkincare ProfessionalExpert Interview
Brown sugar is one of the softest sugars and works well on your face and body.[3]XResearch source
Turbinado sugar (also known as raw sugar) tends to have larger particles so if you see it as an ingredient, be aware that it’s a rougher scrub.[4]XResearch source
2 Pick a hydrating scrub if you have very dry skin. While sugar is naturally a humectant (meaning it locks in moisture), some scrubs are more moisturizing than others.[5]XResearch source Choose one with skin-replenishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, coconut or avocado oil, glycerin, or essential oils if your skin is prone to dehydration. Advertisement
3 Select a scent based on aromatherapy properties. Look for scrubs that include essential oils to match your needs. For example, if you're stressed out, a lavender scent is calming.[6]X Expert Source Diana YerkesSkincare ProfessionalExpert Interview And if you're feeling fatigued, lemon or peppermint scents are energizing.
Other popular aromatherapy scents include eucalyptus for clearing your sinuses, patchouli for soothing anxiety, and rosemary for increasing concentration.[7]XResearch source
4 Make your own sugar scrub if you're on a budget. Using basic ingredients from your pantry like olive oil, honey, and brown sugar, you can DIY a sugar scrub at home.[8]X Expert Source Diana YerkesSkincare ProfessionalExpert Interview
Whipping up your own sugar scrub means you can control exactly what goes in it, thus avoiding any chemicals or additives that could be harmful to you or the environment.
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Applying the Sugar Scrub
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1 Wet your skin. Warm water will soften your skin and prepare it for exfoliation. A good rule of thumb is to soak in the tub or stand under the shower for 5 to 10 minutes before you begin scrubbing.
Water that’s too hot can dry out your skin. The optimal temperature for your skin is a lukewarm temperature below 105 °F (41 °C) (if your skin is turning red, it’s too hot!).[9]XResearch source
If you’re going to shave your legs, do so before using the sugar scrub to avoid stinging and irritation.
Wash your skin before you scrub to remove sweat, dirt, and makeup. Otherwise scrubbing could push it further into the skin.
2 Massage the scrub into your skin. With gentle pressure, rub the sugar scrub into your skin in a circular motion using the pads of your fingers.[10]X Expert Source Diana YerkesSkincare ProfessionalExpert Interview This not only sloughs off dead skin, it also boosts circulation and stimulates the production of collagen in your body, a protein that helps fight wrinkles and keeps skin looking young.[11]XResearch source
Start at the top of your body and work down.
Be careful not to scrub too vigorously as it could damage your skin.
3 Rinse with warm water. There’s no need to use shower gel or soap following your scrub. For extra hydration and smoother skin, let the scrub sit on your body for a couple of minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
4 Dry off. Gently use a towel to pat your body completely dry.
5 Finish with lotion or body oil. Once you’re dry, apply lotion or body oil to moisturize your newly exfoliated skin. Do this immediately after drying off while your pores are still open and able to absorb the moisturizer easier and faster.[12]XResearch source
Have a jar of extra virgin coconut oil laying around. It can double as a cheap yet effective moisturizer thanks to its high level of saturated fats. Only use it if you aren’t prone to breaking out.[13]XResearch source
Always apply sunscreen after exfoliating as your skin is more vulnerable. Use one that's SPF 30 or higher and has broad-spectrum protection.[14]X Trustworthy Source American Academy of DermatologyProfessional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source
6 Repeat once or twice a week. Sugar scrubs shouldn’t be part of your daily beauty routine. Over-exfoliating can irritate your skin so aim to use a sugar scrub no more than three times per week at most.[15]XResearch source
Don’t use a sugar scrub on skin that’s sunburned or highly sensitive. You should also avoid it after any type of medical or cosmetic surgery or after a chemical peel - in both instances, your body is trying to recover from what is essentially a trauma and any harsh scrubbing could prevent proper healing.[16]XResearch source
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How Can You Use a Sugar Scrub for Exfoliation?
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Question How many times a week should you use a sugar scrub? Laura Martin Licensed Cosmetologist Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist based in Milledgeville, Georgia. She has been working as a hair stylist since 2007, and began a career as a cosmetology teacher in 2013. She worked as a teacher at Arrojo Cosmetology School, teaching cosmetology practices, hairstyling, and hair color application. She also brought her cosmetology expertise to her work as a staff writer for fashion blog Style Noted, writing pieces related to hair and fashion. She received an MFA in Creative Writing from Georgia College & State University, where she was also an English Teaching Fellow. Additionally, she received a BA in Creative Writing and Literature from New York University. Laura Martin Licensed Cosmetologist Expert Answer You can use a scrub 2-3 times a week. More frequent use may cause irritation. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 3 Helpful 17
Question What is a sugar scrub good for? Laura Martin Licensed Cosmetologist Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist based in Milledgeville, Georgia. She has been working as a hair stylist since 2007, and began a career as a cosmetology teacher in 2013. She worked as a teacher at Arrojo Cosmetology School, teaching cosmetology practices, hairstyling, and hair color application. She also brought her cosmetology expertise to her work as a staff writer for fashion blog Style Noted, writing pieces related to hair and fashion. She received an MFA in Creative Writing from Georgia College & State University, where she was also an English Teaching Fellow. Additionally, she received a BA in Creative Writing and Literature from New York University. Laura Martin Licensed Cosmetologist Expert Answer A sugar scrub removes dead skin cells and unclogs pores. It's great for making skin look clear and refreshed. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 3 Helpful 20
Question Can I use sugar to scrub my face? Laura Martin Licensed Cosmetologist Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist based in Milledgeville, Georgia. She has been working as a hair stylist since 2007, and began a career as a cosmetology teacher in 2013. She worked as a teacher at Arrojo Cosmetology School, teaching cosmetology practices, hairstyling, and hair color application. She also brought her cosmetology expertise to her work as a staff writer for fashion blog Style Noted, writing pieces related to hair and fashion. She received an MFA in Creative Writing from Georgia College & State University, where she was also an English Teaching Fellow. Additionally, she received a BA in Creative Writing and Literature from New York University. Laura Martin Licensed Cosmetologist Expert Answer You'll want to mix the sugar with something hydrating like olive or almond oil. Oil helps the sugar spread and avoids creating tears in the skin. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 7 Helpful 16
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Co-authored by: Diana Yerkes Skincare Professional This article was co-authored by Diana Yerkes. Diana Yerkes is a Skincare Professional and the Lead Esthetician at Rescue Spa in New York City, New York. With over 15 years of experience, Diana helps others with their skin care needs by incorporating natural and high-performing products and treatments into their routines while providing nutrition insights and educating clients on better skin care habits. Diana is a member of the Associated Skin Care Professionals (ASCP) and holds certifications from the Wellness for Cancer and Look Good Feel Better programs. She received her esthetics education from the Aveda Institute, the International Dermal Institute, and the Biologique Research Academy. This article has been viewed 188,936 times. 22 votes - 91% Co-authors: 10Updated: April 22, 2025 Views: 188,936 Categories: Featured Articles | Body Scrubs | Skin CareArticle SummaryX
To use a sugar scrub, first take a 5 to 10 minute shower, which will soften your skin and make it easier to exfoliate. After you shower, massage the scrub into your skin using gentle, circular motions. For extra smooth skin, let the scrub sit on your body for a couple of minutes. Then, rinse it off with warm water. The scrub will cleanse your skin, so you don’t need to use soap after rinsing it off. Since your skin may be a bit sensitive after the scrub, gently pat yourself dry with a towel so you don't irritate it. Once you’re dry, apply a light lotion or body oil to keep your newly exfoliated skin moisturized. To learn how to choose the right sugar scrub for your skin type, read more from our Beauty co-author!Did this summary help you?YesNo
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Kate Panthera
Sep 19, 2019
"I was wondering which came first, using the sugar scrub or washing the skin. None of the other articles I looked at made mention of it, and this article says quite clearly in what order to do it."..." more
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Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Co-authored by: Diana Yerkes Skincare Professional Co-authors: 10Updated: April 22, 2025 Views: 188,93691% of readers found this article helpful. 22 votes - 91% Click a star to add your vote
Kate Panthera
Sep 19, 2019
"I was wondering which came first, using the sugar scrub or washing the skin. None of the other articles I looked at made mention of it, and this article says quite clearly in what order to do it."..." more Share yours!
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Download Article Baby-soft skin, here you come Co-authored by Diana Yerkes 
How toMake an Olive Oil and Sugar Scrub 
How toGet Soft Skin Quickly 
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Co-authored by: Diana Yerkes Skincare Professional This article was co-authored by Diana Yerkes. Diana Yerkes is a Skincare Professional and the Lead Esthetician at Rescue Spa in New York City, New York. With over 15 years of experience, Diana helps others with their skin care needs by incorporating natural and high-performing products and treatments into their routines while providing nutrition insights and educating clients on better skin care habits. Diana is a member of the Associated Skin Care Professionals (ASCP) and holds certifications from the Wellness for Cancer and Look Good Feel Better programs. She received her esthetics education from the Aveda Institute, the International Dermal Institute, and the Biologique Research Academy. This article has been viewed 188,936 times. 22 votes - 91% Co-authors: 10 Updated: April 22, 2025 Views: 188,936 Categories: Featured Articles | Body Scrubs | Skin Care Article SummaryX
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1 Look for a scrub with fine particles. A coarse sugar scrub can irritate and even tear sensitive skin. Smaller sugar granules are gentler and less abrasive.[2] 
2 Pick a hydrating scrub if you have very dry skin. While sugar is naturally a humectant (meaning it locks in moisture), some scrubs are more moisturizing than others.[5] Choose one with skin-replenishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, coconut or avocado oil, glycerin, or essential oils if your skin is prone to dehydration. Advertisement 
3 Select a scent based on aromatherapy properties. Look for scrubs that include essential oils to match your needs. For example, if you're stressed out, a lavender scent is calming.[6] And if you're feeling fatigued, lemon or peppermint scents are energizing. 
4 Make your own sugar scrub if you're on a budget. Using basic ingredients from your pantry like olive oil, honey, and brown sugar, you can DIY a sugar scrub at home.[8] 
1 Wet your skin. Warm water will soften your skin and prepare it for exfoliation. A good rule of thumb is to soak in the tub or stand under the shower for 5 to 10 minutes before you begin scrubbing. 
2 Massage the scrub into your skin. With gentle pressure, rub the sugar scrub into your skin in a circular motion using the pads of your fingers.[10] This not only sloughs off dead skin, it also boosts circulation and stimulates the production of collagen in your body, a protein that helps fight wrinkles and keeps skin looking young.[11] 
3 Rinse with warm water. There’s no need to use shower gel or soap following your scrub. For extra hydration and smoother skin, let the scrub sit on your body for a couple of minutes before rinsing thoroughly. 
4 Dry off. Gently use a towel to pat your body completely dry. 
5 Finish with lotion or body oil. Once you’re dry, apply lotion or body oil to moisturize your newly exfoliated skin. Do this immediately after drying off while your pores are still open and able to absorb the moisturizer easier and faster.[12] 
6 Repeat once or twice a week. Sugar scrubs shouldn’t be part of your daily beauty routine. Over-exfoliating can irritate your skin so aim to use a sugar scrub no more than three times per week at most.[15] 
Laura Martin Licensed Cosmetologist Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist based in Milledgeville, Georgia. She has been working as a hair stylist since 2007, and began a career as a cosmetology teacher in 2013. She worked as a teacher at Arrojo Cosmetology School, teaching cosmetology practices, hairstyling, and hair color application. She also brought her cosmetology expertise to her work as a staff writer for fashion blog Style Noted, writing pieces related to hair and fashion. She received an MFA in Creative Writing from Georgia College & State University, where she was also an English Teaching Fellow. Additionally, she received a BA in Creative Writing and Literature from New York University. 