This Candy Cane Peppermint Sugar Scrub brings that classic scent into a simple, homemade skincare treat that feels festive without being fussy. There’s something instantly nostalgic about the scent of peppermint during the winter months. It’s fresh, crisp, and unmistakably tied to the holidays.
A Festive Homemade Scrub for Winter Skin
This is one of those easy recipes that comes together in minutes but feels extra special. Perfect for chilly winter showers, dry winter skin, and holiday gift giving. Whether you keep a jar for yourself or make a batch to share, this scrub is a cheerful reminder that self-care can be simple, affordable, and made right at home.
Why Use a Sugar Scrub in Winter?
Winter weather can be tough on skin. Cold air, indoor heating, and frequent handwashing often lead to dryness and rough patches. Sugar scrubs help gently remove dead skin cells while nourishing oils replenish moisture, leaving skin softer and smoother.
Because sugar dissolves as you use it, it’s a gentler exfoliant than many store-bought scrubs. Making it ideal for regular winter use when skin needs extra care.
Why Peppermint?
Peppermint essential oil isn’t just festive — it’s functional.
- Creates a refreshing, cooling sensation
- Helps wake up tired winter skin
- Leaves skin feeling clean and invigorated
- Adds that classic candy cane scent without artificial fragrance
This scrub feels especially nice in the morning or after a long day when you want something energizing yet comforting.
Easy Candy Cane Peppermint Sugar Scrub Recipe
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Equipment
Materials
- 1 Cup White Sugar
- ½ Cup Coconut Oil
- 10 Drops Peppermint Essential Oil
- Optional: 1 drop red food coloring for a candy cane swirl
Instructions
How to Make Candy Cane Peppermint Sugar Scrub
- Add the white sugar to a mixing bowl. Stir in the coconut oil until fully combined. Add the peppermint essential oil and mix well.1 Cup White Sugar, ½ Cup Coconut Oil, 10 Drops Peppermint Essential Oil
- If using food coloring, add one drop only and gently Mix it through the scrub. If you want the candy cane effect, use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the color through the scrub without overmixing. Do not fully mix for a candy cane effect.Optional: 1 drop red food coloring
- Spoon into a clean glass jar and seal tightly.
Notes
Peppermint Strength & Sensitivity
Peppermint essential oil is potent. If you have sensitive skin or are new to essential oils, start with 6–8 drops and adjust in future batches.Natural Coloring Alternative
If you prefer a natural look, you can skip coloring entirely or use a very small pinch of beetroot powder for a soft pink tint.Kid-Friendly or Sensitive Skin Option
For children or very sensitive skin, reduce peppermint essential oil to 3–5 drops and skip the food coloring.Slip Warning
Coconut oil can make shower surfaces slippery. Rinse the tub or shower floor after use.How to Use Sugar Scrub
Apply a small amount of scrub to damp skin and massage gently using circular motions. Focus on hands, elbows, knees, and feet. Rinse well with warm water and pat skin dry.
Use 1–3 times per week, depending on your skin’s needs. Avoid broken or irritated skin.
Best Time of Day to Use It
This scrub is especially refreshing in the morning or when you need a quick pick-me-up during the busy holiday season.
Why White Sugar Works Best Here
White sugar is finer than raw sugar, making it gentler for winter-dry skin and better for frequent use.
Optional Candy Cane Swirl (Totally Optional!)
The red swirl is purely decorative, but it adds a fun holiday touch that makes this scrub extra giftable. If you prefer a completely natural look, feel free to skip the coloring. The scent alone gives it all the festive charm it needs.
Tip: A toothpick or skewer works well for gently swirling the color through the scrub without overmixing.
A Budget-Friendly Way to Pamper Yourself
This scrub costs just a fraction of what similar holiday scrubs sell for in stores. With a few basic ingredients, you can make multiple jars — enough for personal use and gifting — while keeping your skincare routine simple and affordable.
Homemade scrubs like this are a great reminder that you don’t need luxury prices to enjoy quality self-care.
Perfect for Holiday Gift Giving
Candy Cane Peppermint Sugar Scrub makes a wonderful handmade gift for:
- Teachers
- Neighbors
- Stockings
- Holiday hostess gifts
- Craft fairs or church bazaars
Package it in a small glass jar, add a festive label or printable tag, and tie with twine or ribbon. Pair it with a washcloth or loofah for an easy, thoughtful gift.
Make-Ahead Tip for Holiday Gifting
These scrubs can be made a week or two ahead of gifting and stored until ready to package.
Storage & Shelf Life
Store in a sealed glass jar in a cool, dry place. Because this recipe contains no water, it will keep for up to 3 months.
Always use clean, dry hands or a spoon to avoid introducing moisture.
It’s a small, homemade way to bring a little holiday cheer into everyday routines.
This Candy Cane Peppermint Sugar Scrub is simple, cheerful, and practical. A little jar of holiday comfort that’s easy to make, lovely to use, and even better to share.
A fun and inexpensive way to keep your skin glowing in the winter.