Cinnamon Vanilla Coffee Body Scrub
The Alpine Refresh: Cinnamon Vanilla Coffee Body Scrub
In colder months at high altitude, circulation can feel sluggish. This recipe uses coffee grounds - known for their ability to stimulate blood flow and temporarily tighten the skin. The addition of cinnamon makes this a truly invigorating treat.
The drier climate creates dry, itchy skin which can be relieved by body scrubs such as the cinnamon vanilla coffee body scrub.
This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase.
Why This Recipe Works for High Altitude
Caffeine Kick: For those of us living at elevation, caffeine helps reduce the appearance of puffiness and gives the skin a firmer, more energized look.
Warming Cinnamon: Cinnamon Bark essential oil increases local circulation. It’s fantastic for days when the frigid air has chilled you to the bone.
Exfoliation Duo: Combining sugar and coffee grounds provides a multi-level exfoliation to smooth the toughest dry patches on heels and elbows.
How to Make Cinnamon Vanilla Coffee Body Scrub
Yields: Approx. 2 cups
Prep time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup coffee grounds (freshly used and dried, or new)
½ cup coconut oil (virgin or fractionated)
7-8 drops cinnamon bark essential oil
1/8 teaspoon vanilla extract
Equipment
Measuring cups and spoons
Mixing bowl (a Pyrex glass measuring cup is ideal)
Fork
Instructions
Mix Dry Ingredients: In your mixing bowl, combine the 1 ½ cups sugar and ½ cup coffee grounds. Use your fork to whisk them together until the coffee is evenly distributed through the sugar.
Add the Carrier Oil: * If using virgin coconut oil, melt it in the microwave for about 30 seconds until liquid, then pour over the dry ingredients.
If using fractionated coconut oil, simply pour it in directly.
Add the Scent: Add 7–8 drops of cinnamon bark essential oil and 1/8 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Note: Cinnamon bark is potent! Stick to the lower limit to ensure it’s soothing, not irritating.
Stir Thoroughly: Mix everything together with your fork until the sugar and coffee grounds are fully saturated and "glistening" with the oil.
Seal and Store: Scoop the scrub into a jar with a tight-fitting lid.
How to Use
In circular motions, massage gently onto damp skin, starting from your feet and moving up toward your heart to maximize the circulatory benefits. Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
A Note on Cinnamon Safety: Because Cinnamon Bark is a warming oil, it can be intense on sensitive skin and you should always do a patch test first. For sensitive skin, you can swap the Cinnamon Bark for Cinnamon Leaf oil, which is slightly milder.
