Learn how to make an emulsified sugar scrub that removes dead skin cells and leaves you feeling soft and refreshed. By using lovely oils and butters for hydration and sugar for exfoliation, this emulsified sugar scrub is delightful. We include an emulsifier, which truly serves as the star ingredient in this scrub. It adds body, aids in washing off the oils, and enhances the texture of the scrub.
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What is an emulsified scrub?
The main difference between an emulsified sugar scrub and a regular sugar scrub is that an emulsified one creates more of a lotion consistency. When the emulsified scrub comes into contact with water, it creates a creamy exfoliating lotion on your skin. This is because the emulsion starts when you add water.
We add emulsifying wax, which is what creates the lotion-like consistency. It also adds more body to the sugar scrub. By that, I mean that when you put the scrub on your skin, it tends to stay better than traditional oil and water scrubs, allowing you to get better exfoliation and more moisturization.
In addition to being easier to use, it also rinses off without a greasy residue. This is because the emulsifying wax allows the oil to wash off your skin easier.
Benefits of emulsified scrub
- Texture that adheres to skin and allows a better scrub
- Ease of use
- Rise off easily
- Doesn’t leave mess in shower
How to create sugar scrubs that are moisturizing
In this emulsified sugar scrub, I use Kokum butter—a fantastic moisturizer that doesn’t clog pores. Extracted from the fat of the kokum fruit, native to India, it’s rich in stearic acid, vitamin E, and fatty acids.
Another advantage of Kokum butter is its occlusive property, creating a protective barrier on your skin against environmental stressors while sealing in moisture. This, in turn, leaves our skin smooth and soft.
We also incorporate a carrier oil to slightly thin the scrub and enhance its moisture content. I’m using Hazelnut Oil, but feel free to choose any preferred carrier oil. In rinse-off formulas, I typically avoid the more expensive oils.
The secret behind this scrub’s ability to spread and create a lotion-like consistency lies in the emulsifier and co-emulsifier. I utilize BTMS 50 as the emulsifier and cetyl alcohol as the co-emulsifier. BTMS 50 effectively emulsifies the oil and water, responsible for the creaminess it achieves upon contact with water. This emulsion aids in removing dead skin cells and rinsing them off your skin. Additionally, BTMS 50 contributes conditioning properties that leave the skin feeling incredibly smooth.
The co-emulsifier we use is cetyl alcohol. Despite its name containing ‘alcohol’, typically associated with drying, this component isn’t drying for the skin at all. Instead, it enhances emollience and spreadability in our sugar scrub.
Is sugar a good exfoliant?
I adore sugar as an exfoliant for its gentle application on the skin. An alternative to sugar is salt. However, the drawback of using salt is that it stings if there are any cuts on your skin. Personally, I prefer sugar over salt, but you can choose whichever you prefer for your scrub.
Which sugars are suitable for a sugar scrub?
- Granulated White Sugar – This is my preferred sugar for use in scrubs. Its larger granules provide effective exfoliation that gradually diminishes as the sugar dissolves.
- Brown Sugar – This is a suitable option for individuals with more sensitive skin. Its granules are smaller compared to white sugar.
- Caster Sugar – This type has the smallest granules and is gentle enough for use on more sensitive areas like your face.
How to scent a sugar scrub
Although you can definitely use your scrub without scent and color, customizing it elevates the experience. Personally, I love matching fragrance oil with a color—these small additions truly transform an ordinary sugar scrub into a more luxurious one.
In this recipe, I use Coconut and Lime Verbena fragrance oil—a delightful blend of tangy citrus, delicious pineapple, and warm sandalwood.
I just can’t bring myself to make my sugar scrub lime green or yellow. I don’t think either of those colors works well for a scrub. (What do you think? Can they work?) Instead, I’ve opted to color it with a shade of blue called Black Sea.
Note on Preserving
Since we’re creating a sugar scrub intended for use in the shower or bath, it’s strongly recommended to include a preservative. Even if stored in a sealed container, it’s probable that when you use it, you’ll repeatedly dip your hand into the container. Without a preservative, any water that gets into the sugar scrub could cause mold and bacteria to develop.
We also include Vitamin E oil to prolong the shelf life of our butter and oil. While it’s not a preservative, it does assist in slowing down the oxidation process that causes oils to turn rancid.
Coconut Lime Verbena Emulsified Sugar Scrub
Equipment
- Scale
Ingredients
Heat Phase Ingredients
- 1.04 ounce | 11.5% Kokum Butter
- 2.61 ounce | 29% Hazelnut Oil
- 0.54 ounce | 6% BTMS 50
- 0.18 ounce | 2% Cetyl Alcohol
Cool Down Ingredients
- 0.05 ounce | 0.5% Germall Plus Preservative
- 0.09 ounce | 1% Vitamin E Oil
- 0.36 ounce | 4% Coconut and Lime Verbena Fragrance Oil
- 4.14 ounce | 46% Granulated White Sugar
Instructions
- Place the kokum butter, hazelnut oil, BTMS 50, and cetyl alcohol into a heat-safe bowl. Put the bowl on a double boiler over low heat until everything is fully melted. It's important to heat it slowly on a low heat to preserve the integrity of the ingredients.
- After the ingredients have melted, remove them from the heat. Dry the outside of your heat-safe container
- Allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes until the container is not hot to the touch.
- Add the vitamin E oil, Germall Plus, Coconut and Lime Verbena Fragrance Oil, and mica powder. Mix everything together until fully combined.
- Add the sugar and mix thoroughly. Allow it to rest; it will thicken as it sits.
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