In my opinion, scrubs are at the heart of Willow and Sage. Every issue features at least one scrub recipe, whether sugar or salt based, seasonal or not. We often elevate it just that much more with pretty packaging, something any reader could easily replicate.

I’ve personally crafted a number of them, and I love how customizable they are depending on the recipient. I’ve made scrubs for family members, as party favors, for Christmas gifts, and with certain skin needs in mind. The ingredients are humble yet mighty. Here are a few recent scrubs we’ve featured in Willow and Sage to get you started as we welcome fall.

SIMPLE SCRUB RECIPES

1. DIY Coffee Scrub

RECIPE BY DANA BUCHANAN | AUTUMN 2026 ISSUE

You Will Need
• Bowl
• 1 TB. used coffee grounds, dried
• 1/2 TB. raw sugar
• 1/4 – 1/2 TB. coconut oil
• 1/2 tsp. cinnamon/sea salt (optional)
• Spoon

To Make

In a bowl, mix all the ingredients together until it feels right. Make only what you need for one use; the method and mixing daily are part of the care journey. Use this scrub on your face, hands, or entire body. Let the smell, feel, and process help ground you.

2. Vanilla & Grapefruit Lip Scrub

RECIPE BY MYSTI GATES | AUTUMN 2026 ISSUE

You Will Need
• Double boiler
• 6.4 g beeswax: white, cosmetic-grade
• 19.2 g coconut oil
• Spoon
• 3/4 tsp. argan oil
• Bowls
• 100 g granulated sugar
• 4–6 drops vanilla essential oil
• 6–8 drops grapefruit essential oil
• Jars: 1-oz. (4)

To Make

In a double boiler, melt the beeswax and coconut oil, stirring until completely liquid. Remove from the heat and allow to cool for one to two minutes; the mixture should remain liquid but not hot enough to melt the sugar. Stir in the argan oil. In a bowl, add the sugar, and slowly pour the warm oil and wax mixture over the sugar, stirring continuously. Mix until the texture resembles moist sand or thick cookie dough. If needed, add a bit more sugar for a thicker texture or a few drops of oil if the mixture seems too dry.

Divide the scrub evenly between two small bowls. Add the vanilla essential oil to one bowl and the grapefruit essential oil to the other bowl, and mix thoroughly so each one is evenly scented.Spoon the scrub into 1-ounce jars. Tap jars lightly on the counter to settle the mixture, and smooth the tops. Allow to set for 20–30 minutes before sealing.

To use, apply a small amount of scrub to clean, dry lips. Gently massage in circular motions to exfoliate, and wipe away or rinse off. Use two to three times per week, or as needed. Because this scrub contains no water, it will generally keep for 6–12 months when stored in a cool, dry place. Avoid introducing water into the jars.

3. Cardamom & Vanilla Sugar Scrub

RECIPE BY JULIA LINSTEADT | AUTUMN 2026 ISSUE

You Will Need
• Knife
• Vanilla bean
• Spoon
• Bowl
• 1 cup coconut oil
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1 tsp. ground cardamom
• 5–10 drops cardamom essential oil
• 5–10 drops vanilla essential oil
• Airtight jars: 8-oz.

To Make

Slice the vanilla bean down the center and pull the sides apart, revealing the tiny seeds inside. Use a spoon to scoop the seeds into a bowl. Add all of the remaining ingredients to the bowl, and blend until thoroughly combined, ensuring the cardamom, vanilla bean, and essential oils are evenly distributed throughout the sugar and coconut oil base. The scrub is well-mixed when a small amount loosely holds together when formed into a ball. Spoon the scrub into airtight jars.

In the shower or bath, massage 1–2 tablespoons of the scrub onto your hands, arms, legs, and feet. Thoroughly rinse to remove the scrub. After the gentle exfoliation, skin will feel smooth, rejuvenated, and moisturized. Store the scrub in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Always use a dry spoon to scoop, as introducing water into the jar can shorten its shelf life. Store for up to six months.

Danielle Williams is the managing editor for Willow and Sage, Art Quilting Studio, A Somerset Halloween, and GreenCraft Magazine. She lives with her family in Orange County, California.

Disclaimer/Safety Information

NOTE: Always test a small area of your skin, first, to check for sensitivity. Avoid contact with eyes and approach all ingredients with extreme caution if you have any skin sensitivity or allergies.

The information provided on flourish is not intended to diagnose, prevent, or treat any medical condition. Content is based on personal research and experiences and is meant for inspirational purposes only. We are not licensed nutritionists or medical professionals, and you should always consult with your doctor, particularly if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.