St. Ives Acne Control Apricot Face Scrub 4-Pack, 2% Salicylic Acid Deep Exfoliator for Clear Pores

St. Ives Acne Control Apricot Face Scrub is a deep-exfoliating facial scrub with 2% salicylic acid and natural apricot and walnut exfoliants designed to help clear and prevent breakouts while smoothing skin.

If you deal with recurring blemishes and blocked pores, this scrub combines chemical and physical exfoliation to address both. The formula pairs beta-hydroxy acid (salicylic acid) to penetrate pores with finely milled walnut shell and apricot pit powders to buff away dead skin. It’s formulated to be non-comedogenic and dermatologist tested, and the packaging reflects eco-conscious choices with over half recycled plastic in the tube.

How does this scrub help reduce breakouts?

The scrub uses 2% salicylic acid, a pore-penetrating beta-hydroxy ingredient that helps clear oil and debris inside follicles. Combined with natural exfoliating particles, it loosens and removes the surface buildup that can contribute to breakouts, so pores look clearer over time.

• 2% salicylic acid for pore-level exfoliation
• Natural walnut shell and apricot pit powders remove dead skin
• Non-comedogenic formula to avoid clogging pores
• Dermatologist tested for routine facial use

Will this scrub be too harsh for sensitive or acne-prone skin?

The scrub balances chemical and physical exfoliation to target blemishes without excessive stripping when used as directed. If your skin is sensitive, reduce frequency and observe how your skin reacts; many users find 2–3 times per week effective without irritation.

• Use a dime-sized amount and gentle circular motions
• Limit use to 2–3 times weekly for most acne-prone skin
• Skip on active irritation or open wounds and consult a dermatologist if concerned
• Leaves skin prepped for moisturizer to support the skin barrier

How should I incorporate this scrub into my skincare routine?

Introduce the scrub as a targeted exfoliant after makeup removal and before serums or moisturizers. Pat skin dry after rinsing, then follow with a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer and daytime SPF as needed; exfoliants can increase sun sensitivity.

• Use on damp skin — massage gently, then rinse thoroughly
• Follow with a soothing moisturizer to maintain hydration
• Apply broad-spectrum SPF during daytime after exfoliation
• Pair with complementary gentle cleansers or hydrators for best results

What makes this formula more sustainable and skin-friendly?

Beyond active ingredients, the product emphasizes natural exfoliants and cleaner formulation choices to reduce environmental and skin impact. The tube contains over 50% recycled plastic and the brand is PETA-certified cruelty-free, aligning product performance with mindful packaging.

• 92% naturally derived formulation with nutrient-rich apricot extract
• Contains 100% natural exfoliant powders instead of microplastics
• Paraben-free and cruelty-free certification noted on packaging
• Recycled-plastic tube reduces single-use virgin plastic

Who is this for: This face scrub is aimed at people with oily or acne-prone skin who want a targeted exfoliant to reduce clogged pores and visible blemishes. It’s suited to those comfortable using a BHA product in combination with gentle physical exfoliants and who follow up with hydrating, non-comedogenic skincare. If you have very dry, rosacea-prone, or actively inflamed skin, start slowly or consult a skin professional before regular use.

Ingredients

Water, Juglans Regia (Walnut) Shell Powder, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Propylene Glycol, Sodium Laureth S