Your lip gloss might be poppin’, but if your lips are flaky underneath… yeah, we need to talk.
Fact: Your lips have zero oil glands. That means no natural moisture, no barrier protection, and a VIP ticket to dry, cracked, crusty-ville if you’re not taking care of them.
And no, you don’t need a $45 lip product to get a smooth, plump, and attractive lip. What you need is a consistent TLC, and a good DIY lip scrub that you can get from your kitchen.
Why You Need a Lip Scrub
Let’s be real — you exfoliate your face, moisturize your body, but sis… what about your lips? Okay, first off — your lips are delicate AF. They have thinner skin than your face, zero natural moisture, and they’re constantly exposed to sun, wind, and your iced coffee straw.
Also, if you’re someone who bites your lips or licks them when they’re dry (guilty!), you’re making things worse.
A good lip scrub isn’t just a bougie extra — it’s a glow-up essential. It sloughs off dead skin, brings out your natural lip color, and preps your pout for the perfect gloss or tint. And let’s not even talk about how much smoother your lipstick looks after a scrub session.
While there are plenty of luxe options out there (hi, Dior Addict Lip Sugar Scrub), the DIY route is just as effective and way more fun!
The 3 Rules of a Good Lip Scrub
Before we dive into recipes, a little framework:
- A gentle exfoliant: Sugar is classic. Coffee works too. Anything too coarse (like salt) might be too harsh on your lips.
- A hydrating base: Think honey, coconut oil, or shea butter—something emollient that moisturizes while you exfoliate.
- A flavor or benefit booster: Optional, but fun. Vanilla extract, cinnamon (just a pinch!), matcha powder, or even vitamin E oil can give your scrub a skin-loving edge.
5 DIY Lip Scrub Recipes That Work
Each one takes under 2 minutes to make.
1. The Classic Brown Sugar + Honey Combo
This one’s timeless—and honestly, better than most things you’ll find in a tub.
You’ll need:
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon raw honey
- A few drops of coconut oil (optional, for glide)
Why it works: Brown sugar is a softer exfoliant than white sugar, and honey is a natural humectant, which means it draws moisture into the lips. It also has antimicrobial properties, so it soothes while it softens. According to a 2017 study, honey’s wound-healing and antibacterial abilities make it especially helpful on cracked skin.
2. Coffee & Cocoa Morning Scrub
This one smells like dessert. But better.
You’ll need:
- 1 teaspoon ground coffee (unused)
- 1/2 teaspoon cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- A pinch of cinnamon (optional)
Why it works: Coffee’s fine texture makes it a great exfoliant, and caffeine can temporarily plump the lips by boosting circulation. Cocoa is rich in antioxidants that nourish and protect the skin, while olive oil deeply hydrates and softens. A pinch of cinnamon can enhance circulation to the lips for a naturally flushed look, but it can be irritating in large amounts, so just a little goes a long way.
3. Coconut Sugar + Vanilla Extract
This is the one I use before any date night. Or, you know, a coffee run where I still want to look like that girl.
You’ll need:
- 1 teaspoon coconut sugar
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
- 1–2 drops vanilla extract
Why it works: Coconut sugar is slightly coarser but melts into the lips quickly. Paired with coconut oil, it’s hydrating enough to skip balm after. Plus, that vanilla scent? Undeniably pretty.
4. Matcha + Shea Butter Detox
For when your lips feel dull or irritated.
You’ll need:
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon matcha powder
- 1/2 teaspoon shea butter (softened)
- 1/2 teaspoon jojoba oil or sweet almond oil
Why it works: Matcha is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. Shea butter repairs the skin’s barrier, and the oils lock in moisture. It’s a little more indulgent, but your lips will love you for it.
5. Pink Himalayan Lip Polish
Because your scrub can be cute and functional.
You’ll need:
- 1 teaspoon fine pink Himalayan salt
- 1 teaspoon rosehip oil or almond oil
- A few drops of rosewater (optional)
Why it works: This is your go-to for days when you want something a little extra. The pink salt exfoliates beautifully, but use it gently. Rosehip oil is packed with vitamin A and C, known for repairing damaged skin and evening tone. Rosewater gives it a sensorial, spa-like edge. Overall, this lip scrub not only helps with smoothing your lips but also helps lighten dark lips
How to Use Your Lip Scrub Like a Pro
You only need to exfoliate your lips once or twice a week. Anything more, and you risk overdoing it.
Step-by-step:
- Apply a small amount of your scrub to clean your lips.
- Massage in gentle circles with your fingertip or a soft toothbrush for about 30 seconds.
- Rinse off with lukewarm water.
- Follow with a thick balm or lip mask (I like Laneige’s Lip Sleeping Mask, especially in vanilla).
That’s it. No complicated steps. Just smooth, plump lips that don’t flake halfway through the day.
A Few Extra Tips (Because You Deserve the Best)
- Always test new scrubs on the inside of your wrist first. Some natural ingredients can irritate sensitive skin.
- Don’t exfoliate chapped lips. If your lips are cracked or bleeding, let them heal first. Stick to hydration.
- Follow up with SPF. Yes, your lips need it too. Try a balm with SPF 30, like EltaMD UV Lip Balm.
Try Any of These Lip Scrubs Now, Your Lips Will Thank You
You don’t need to spend £30 on a lip polish that smells like a bakery. You don’t even need to leave your house. With a few ingredients, a clean jar, and two minutes of your time, you’ve got everything you need to create a routine that feels personal and beautiful.
Because there’s something therapeutic about knowing you can take care of yourself with what you already have.
And there’s something even better about lips that feel good even when no one’s watching. Trust me. You’ll feel it every time you smile!
Go ahead and try out these DIY lip balms and enjoy those soft, plump lips as you go!
