The holiday season is the perfect time to get creative with your gift-giving. Instead of picking something off a shelf, why not create something unique that shows how much you care?

Not only do homemade gifts they show you’ve put time and thought into making something unique, but they are also better for the planet. DIY gifts can be more sustainable, using natural ingredients and reducing the need for mass-produced, single-use packaging. You can reuse jars you already have on hand.

DIY gifts are often more budget-friendly, which can be especially helpful during the holiday season when spending can add up.

One of our favourite gifts for the season is a Vanilla Lavender Sugar Scrub. It’s a gentle exfoliating treatment used to soften, smooth and rejuvenate the skin. The scrub's sugar crystals work to slough away dead skin cells, revealing fresh, glowing skin beneath, while the lavender essential oil provides a calming, spa-like aroma, helping to relieve stress and promote relaxation.

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Ingredients

• 2 cups of preferred sugar (we used organic brown sugar)
• 1/2 cup carrier oil (we used coconut)
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 10 drops lavender (or any) essential oil

Steps

1. Combine the sugar and oils: In a mixing bowl, add 2 cups of sugar, 1/2 cup of your preferred carrier oil (like coconut, almond, or jojoba oil), and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
2. Add essential oil: Add 10 drops of lavender essential oil (or your preferred scent) to the bowl. Adjust the number of drops if you want a stronger or milder fragrance.
3. Mix well: Stir all the ingredients together until fully combined. The texture should be thick and grainy, but add a bit more oil if you prefer a softer consistency.
4. Transfer to jars: Spoon the mixture into clean, airtight, glass jars. Seal the lid tightly to preserve freshness.
5. Use and enjoy: To use, apply a small amount to damp skin, gently massaging in circular motions. Rinse off with warm water and pat dry for smooth, moisturised skin.

Get creative making cute handmade labels or personalising the packaging; such as tying up the top of the jar with twine or a wax seal, adding stickers, a handwritten ingredients tag etc.

The scrub will generally last 1-3 months if stored properly. Here are some tips for extending its shelf life:

• Store in an airtight container to prevent the scrub from drying out or spoiling.
• Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, as heat and light can degrade the essential oils and carrier oil.
• Use clean, dry hands or a spoon to scoop out the scrub, which helps avoid introducing bacteria or moisture. If you notice any changes in scent, texture, or colour, it’s best to discard it and make a fresh batch.

Need more gift ideas?

If you’re looking for another thoughtful gift to pair with this scrub, Oskaya Sea Moss Powder is a great wellness gift. It’s an all-natural product that supports energy, digestion, skin health, and immunity – everything your loved ones need to feel their best. Whether it’s added to smoothies, chia puddings, or broths, it’s an easy and versatile way to boost overall skin and gut health.