MYO Lip Scrubs: 5 Fun Flavors to Concoct Right in Your Kitchen

Using lip scrubs may not be your top priority, but when your lips start to exhibit dryness and roughness, it’s among the few things that can save them from cracking and discomfort. Usually, lip scrubs comprise two main ingredients: one exfoliant and one nourishing agent, such as an oil. Its primary purpose is to exfoliate dead skin cells and smoothen the lips.

The benefits of using lip scrubs will leave you addicted. Not only are they good enough to eat (check the label if they actually are), but they also prep your lips nicely for a nourishing balm and help lip color glide on like a dream. The best part? You can make your own with ingredients in your kitchen. Here are some homemade lip scrubs to whip up with Vaseline Petroleum Jelly.

Coconut oil is excellent at moisturizing dry skin, reducing inflammation from UV damage, and promoting wound healing. Meanwhile, honey has antibacterial and moisturizing properties to soften the lips. Take two tablespoons of sugar and mix it with Vaseline, coconut oil, and honey. When making lip scrubs, keep in mind to keep the solid to liquid ratio 2:1 to achieve the right consistency. Feel free to adjust the mixture to your liking and comfort level.

If you want a lip scrub that looks and tastes like dessert, this is it. Chop two medium-sized strawberries into large chunks and crush them with a fork. Keep the “seeds” also known as achenes in the mixture. Add Vaseline and sugar. Mix well but avoid turning it into a smooth paste. You want it to be sticky — not dripping —when you apply it to your lips.

Brown sugar or coconut sugar is great with cinnamon, which delivers several known benefits to the skin. These include antiseptic, anti-fungal, and antibacterial properties. If you have acne-prone skin and are afraid of inflammation, this is the lip scrub for you. Use a tiny amount of cinnamon, especially if you’re using the powdered kind since the flavor can be strong. Mix it with coconut sugar and Vaseline. You can add a drop of non-comedogenic oil, such as jojoba oil if you find the mixture too dry.

Coffee grounds are natural exfoliants that are widely used for the body. It has antioxidant and antibacterial properties that help protect the skin against germs and infection. You don’t need sugar for this one since you already have an exfoliating agent. If you don’t have ground coffee beans, good old instant coffee (not 3-in1, please!) will do. Mix two tablespoons with Vaseline and a drop of vanilla extract for sweetness.

Aloe vera is known for its healing and nourishing properties on the skin. It adds moisture, fights infections, and can help keep the lips looking young and plump. Since almost everyone has an aloe vera plant at home (if you don’t, ask a neighbor), this one is a no-brainer. Cut a stem off with a clean blade. Slice it open and scrape the gel from the stem. Mix a teaspoon of aloe vera gel with two teaspoons sugar and Vaseline. Adjust the mix to your desired consistency.

Gently apply the scrub on your lips using small, circular motions. Rinse with water and pat dry. Apply Vaseline Petroleum Jelly to soften and lock moisture in. Use lip scrubs once a week to keep your lips soft and smooth.