DIY Coffee Scrub (Without Coconut Oil)

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There’s something ridiculously satisfying about making your skincare. You know exactly what’s in it, it costs a fraction of store-bought, and you get to feel smug every time you avoid all that plastic packaging.

This DIY coffee scrub without coconut oil is my go-to when my skin needs a pick-me-up – it smells like a coffee shop, makes my skin baby-soft, and is totally customizable to whatever your skin is craving.

In this guide, I’ll share:

• Why coffee scrubs are so good for your skin
• Why I ditched coconut oil for this recipe
• Step-by-step to make it
• Tips to keep it fresh
• The truth about cellulite, stretch marks & scrubs

Let’s jump right in. 

Why I love this coffee scrub (and you might too)

Over the years, I’ve tried different exfoliators – sugar scrubs, salt scrubs, fancy jars with pricey price tags. But once I made this recipe, I never went back to any of them. Here’s why:

• Unclogs pores & removes dead skin – No more dull, tired-looking skin.
• Smooths and evens skin tone – The texture difference is instant.
• May reduce the look of cellulite & stretch marks – Caffeine boosts circulation.
• Smells amazing – Honestly, it’s like a coffee spa treatment at home.
• Zero waste friendly – Make it from used coffee grounds, and you’ve saved them from the bin.

Why I skip coconut oil

The internet loves coconut oil. But my skin? Not so much. It’s got a comedogenic rating of 4, which means it can clog pores and cause breakouts – not what I’m looking for.

Instead, I use jojoba oil:

• Lighter and absorbs quickly
• Still moisturizing without being greasy
• Has a rating of 2, so it’s far less likely to block pores

If coconut oil works for you, go for it. But if you’ve ever wondered why your DIY scrubs make you break out, this switch might be your skin’s new best friend.

💡 Fun fact: Jojoba “oil” isn’t actually an oil – it’s a liquid wax ester. Its structure is very similar to our skin’s own sebum, which is why it sinks in so easily and helps balance oil production without clogging pores.

What you’ll need

1. Coffee grounds

Fresh or used – both work. Coffee is packed with antioxidants and helps fight inflammation. It can help reduce hyperpigmentation, and it is anti-inflammatory and antibacterial. Caffeine temporarily tightens skin and wakes it up, too (literally)… plus, it may help reduce the appearance of cellulite, too. (1, 2)

Used coffee ground tip: If you’re using used grounds, dry them first so your scrub lasts longer. Otherwise, store in fridge, and use within 5 days. Once, I forgot a jar of scup with used coffee grounds, and after a week I opened it to find blue-green fungus that looked like mold. 😀

2. Sugar

It helps to gently remove dead skin cells, and it is a natural humectant, meaning that it helps to retain moisture for your skin rather than drying it. Brown sugar is softer (better for your face), while white sugar gives a stronger scrub (great for the body).

3. Jojoba oil

Jojoba oil is moisturizing, antibacterial, and absorbs like a dream. It balances the oil in the skin, and it is non-comedogenic, suitable for acne-prone skin and acne scarring. Having super dry skin? Try olive oil instead.

4. Essential oils

• Tea tree – antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and great for acne-prone skin
• Lavender or sandalwood for sensitive skin
• Clary sage or rosemary for oily skin
• Carrot seed or pomegranate oil for pigmentation

5. Vitamin E (optional)

Vitamin E extends shelf life and gives your skin an antioxidant boost.

Instructions:

1. In a clean jar, mix your coffee grounds and sugar.
2. Pour in the jojoba oil and stir until it looks evenly coated.
3. Add essential oil and vitamin E if you’re using them.
4. Seal in an airtight container. Done.

How I use it

1. Hop in the shower and let warm water soften your skin for a couple of minutes.
2. Take a spoonful of scrub and gently massage it in circular motions.
3. Let it sit for a minute if you want extra caffeine magic.
4. Rinse off and enjoy the softness.

How often?

• Body: 2–3 times a week
• Face: 1–2 times a week

Storage tips

• Fresh grounds: Stays good for 1–2 months in a sealed jar.
• Used grounds: Lasts up to 5 days in the fridge, unless dried.

How to dry used grounds: Spread on a baking tray, bake at low heat (20–30 min, stirring occasionally), then cool and store in a clean, dry jar.

A few warnings

• Avoid using on irritated or broken skin.
• Always patch test before using on your face.
• Don’t scrub too hard – you’re exfoliating, not sanding furniture.

FAQ

Does it help cellulite?
It can make it look less noticeable for a while, but it’s not a magic eraser.

Before or after shaving?
I like it after – you get silky smooth skin and avoid razor clogging.

Will it clog my drain?
Yes, if you’re not careful. Use a drain catcher and you’re fine.

Is DIY coffee scrub good for your face?
Yes! It helps remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and reduce inflammation. Just be gentle and don’t overdo it — your facial skin is more delicate than the rest of your body.

Can I use a coffee scrub every day?
No – daily exfoliation can damage your skin’s protective barrier, making it more sensitive and prone to irritation

Does it help with cellulite or stretch marks?
It can reduce their appearance by boosting circulation and tightening the skin!

Final thoughts

This DIY coffee scrub without coconut oil is:

• Cheap
• Zero waste
• Genuinely effective

It’s one of those little rituals that makes you feel like you’ve got your life together (even if you’re still in yesterday’s hoodie).

Make it, use it, love it – and let me know how your skin feels after.

💌 P.S. If you like easy, natural swaps like this, join my Good News Monday newsletter for eco tips + my free Green Beauty e-book.