The 9 Best Lip Scrubs for Soft, Smooth, and Kissable Lips
It’s safe to say that everyone wants soft, smooth, and hydrated lips, right? Here’s the catch: Factors like cold weather, dehydration, and even certain lip products can leave your lips feeling dry, chapped, and flaky. That’s where a good lip scrub comes in. By gently exfoliating, lip scrubs slough away dead skin cells, revealing a softer, smoother pout underneath. The best part? Many lip scrubs also contain nourishing ingredients like oils and butters to keep your lips moisturized and healthy-looking.
Before we get into the best lip scrubs on the market, let’s talk about why exfoliating your lips is a must. According to dermatologist Dr. Lily Chen, “The skin on your lips is thinner and more delicate than the rest of your face, making it more prone to dryness and cracking. Regular exfoliation not only smooths the surface but also enhances the absorption of hydrating products like lip balms and oils.”
With that in mind, we rounded up nine of the best lip scrubs that deliver serious results. Whether you’re dealing with dry winter lips, prepping for a big event, or just want a little extra self-care, these picks will have your lips feeling ultra-soft in no time.
1. Fresh Sugar Lip Polish
A cult favorite for a reason, the Fresh Sugar Lip Polish is a must-have for anyone looking to achieve soft, supple lips. This scrub is formulated with real brown sugar crystals, which work to gently buff away dryness, while shea butter and jojoba oil deeply nourish and condition. The result? Lips that feel baby-soft and smooth without any irritation.
Why we love it:
Brown sugar exfoliates without being too harsh
Hydrating shea butter prevents lips from drying out
Leaves lips feeling silky and refreshed
2. Lush Honey Lip Scrub
When it comes to natural, handmade beauty products, Lush is a brand that never disappoints. Their Honey Lip Scrub is packed with castor sugar for effective exfoliation and honey to naturally soothe and moisturize. Plus, the hint of vanilla makes it an absolute treat to use.
Why we love it:
Made with all-natural, food-grade ingredients
Honey provides antibacterial and healing properties
Delicious vanilla-honey flavor
3. Frank Body Lip Scrub
Known for their coffee-based skincare, Frank Body brings the same energy to their Lip Scrub. This exfoliator is made with coffee seed extract, sugar, and macadamia oil to slough off dead skin while nourishing lips. The best part? It preps your pout perfectly for lipstick application.
Why we love it:
Coffee seed extract invigorates and refreshes lips
Sugar and walnut shell powder provide thorough exfoliation
Macadamia oil delivers deep moisture
4. Bite Beauty Agave+ Weekly Lip Scrub
For those who prefer a gentle yet effective exfoliator, the Bite Beauty Agave+ Weekly Lip Scrub is a game-changer. This scrub combines the power of fair-trade golden sugar with papaya enzymes to exfoliate both physically and chemically. It also contains agave nectar, renowned for its soothing and hydrating properties.
Why we love it:
Dual-action exfoliation (physical and enzymatic)
Agave nectar provides deep nourishment
Perfect for sensitive lips
5. e.l.f. Lip Exfoliator
On a budget? No problem. The e.l.f. Lip Exfoliator is an affordable and effective option. Packaged in a convenient lipstick-like tube, this scrub is infused with sugar, vitamin E, shea butter, and avocado oil to buff away dry patches and leave lips feeling incredibly soft.
Why we love it:
Budget-friendly and travel-friendly
Infused with hydrating ingredients like shea butter and avocado oil
Easy-to-use twist-up design
6. Sara Happ The Lip Scrub
For those who love a little luxury in their beauty routine, Sara Happ’s The Lip Scrub is a must-try. This rich, sugar-based scrub comes in decadent flavors like Brown Sugar and Vanilla Bean, making lip care feel like an indulgence. Infused with jojoba and grapeseed oils, it not only sloughs off dry flakes but also deeply nourishes.
Why we love it:
Luxe flavors make exfoliating feel like a treat
Jojoba and grapeseed oils keep lips soft and hydrated
Gentle but effective formula
7. Beauty Bakerie Sugar Lip Scrub
If you want something fun and effective, the Beauty Bakerie Sugar Lip Scrub is an excellent choice. It’s made with natural sugar crystals to gently exfoliate, while sweet almond oil ensures lips stay smooth and conditioned. Plus, the brand’s adorable packaging makes it a great gift for beauty lovers.
Why we love it:
Natural sugar gently buffs away dead skin
Sweet almond oil hydrates and smooths lips
Adorable, bakery-inspired packaging
8. Fenty Beauty Pro Kiss’r Lip-Loving Scrubstick
Leave it to Rihanna to create a lip scrub that’s both effective and convenient. The Fenty Beauty Pro Kiss’r Lip-Loving Scrubstick is a mess-free, stick-based exfoliator that buffs away dry skin without the hassle of a jar. Enriched with apricot seed oil, it leaves lips feeling soft and supple.
Why we love it:
Stick format makes for easy, mess-free application
Apricot seed oil deeply conditions lips
Perfect for on-the-go use
9. Milani Rose Sugar Lip Scrub
If you’re a fan of floral-infused beauty products, the Milani Rose Sugar Lip Scrub is a dreamy option. Packed with real sugar crystals and rose oil, this scrub exfoliates while delivering a beautiful, subtle rose scent. It’s also budget-friendly, making it a great choice for those who want an affordable yet effective lip care solution.
Why we love it:
Rose oil soothes and hydrates
Sugar crystals provide effective exfoliation
Affordable price point
How to Use a Lip Scrub
To get the best results from your lip scrub, follow these simple steps:
Apply to Clean Lips – Start with dry, bare lips for the scrub to work its magic.
Gently Massage – Using your fingertip or a soft toothbrush, massage the scrub in circular motions for 30–60 seconds.
Rinse or Wipe Off – Remove with warm water or a damp cloth.
Follow Up with Lip Balm – Lock in hydration with a nourishing lip balm or oil.
Use 2-3 Times a Week – Avoid over-exfoliating, which can lead to irritation.
What is a lip scrub, and how does it work?
A lip scrub is a skincare product designed to exfoliate and remove dead skin cells from the lips. It usually contains small granules, such as sugar or salt, suspended in a nourishing base like oils or butters. The exfoliating action helps to smooth out rough patches, making lips softer and more hydrated. Regular use of a lip scrub also improves the absorption of lip balms and treatments.
How often should I use a lip scrub?
Most experts recommend using a lip scrub two to three times per week. Over-exfoliating can lead to irritation, sensitivity, and even dryness, so it’s essential to find a balance. If your lips are feeling extra chapped or sensitive, reduce the frequency and focus on hydrating products instead.
What ingredients should I look for in a lip scrub?
The best lip scrubs contain both exfoliating and moisturizing ingredients. Exfoliators like sugar, salt, or fruit enzymes help slough off dead skin, while hydrating agents like shea butter, coconut oil, or honey replenish moisture. Avoid harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances if you have sensitive lips.
Can lip scrubs help with dark or pigmented lips?
Yes, regular exfoliation can help brighten dark lips by removing dead skin cells and improving circulation. Some scrubs contain brightening ingredients like lemon, turmeric, or vitamin C, which can further enhance lip color over time. However, sun protection is key—always apply a lip balm with SPF to prevent further pigmentation.
Should I use a lip scrub before applying lipstick?
Absolutely! Exfoliating your lips before applying lipstick creates a smooth, even surface, which helps lipstick glide on flawlessly and last longer. This is especially useful when wearing matte or liquid lipsticks, which can emphasize dry patches if lips aren’t prepped properly.