# Clinique Exfoliating Scrub for sensitive skin **Lovi Fit: Low fit for sensitive skin.** Normal Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: Concerning. Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/clinique/exfoliating-scrub/for/sensitive-skin The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for the United Arab Emirates. Brand: [Clinique](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/brands/clinique) Category: [Exfoliants](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/best/exfoliators) This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with sensitive skin: redness, stinging, and reactions to new products. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app. A weak match for sensitive skin; the exfoliants alongside fit it better. ## Why this fit - Offers moderate exfoliation for your normal skin due to salicylic acid, which aids in smoothing texture and addressing redness, but may exacerbate your sensitivity. - The formula provides mild exfoliation for redness and irritation, though it lacks sufficient humectant ingredients for optimal hydration of your normal skin. ## Fit by skin type - [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/clinique/exfoliating-scrub/for/oily-skin): Average - [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/clinique/exfoliating-scrub/for/dry-skin): Average - [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/clinique/exfoliating-scrub/for/combination-skin): Average - [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/clinique/exfoliating-scrub/for/sensitive-skin): Low (this page) - [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/clinique/exfoliating-scrub/for/acne-prone-skin): Average - [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/clinique/exfoliating-scrub/for/dark-spots): Average - [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/clinique/exfoliating-scrub/for/mature-skin): Low - [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/clinique/exfoliating-scrub/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average - [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/clinique/exfoliating-scrub/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average ## Key ingredients Salicylic Acid, Glyceryl Stearate, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Hexylene Glycol, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate ## What the research says - Twice daily application of a multitargeted dermocosmetic cream provided comparable efficacy to benzoyl peroxide 5% gel in reducing inflammatory, non-inflammatory, and total lesions in 150 Caucasian subjects with mild-to-moderate acne over 56 days, while demonstrating superior skin tolerability. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)) - The use of a salicylic acid-based dermocosmetic significantly reduces the needed quantity of benzoyl peroxide without impacting efficacy in mild to moderate acne, and as maintenance post-benzoyl peroxide allows a significant reduction of acne relapse compared to vehicle. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/)) - A moisturizer containing licochalcone A, 1,2-decanediol, L-carnitine, and salicylic acid significantly reduced noninflammatory, inflammatory, and total acne lesion counts compared to a vehicle control in Thai patients during a 12-week maintenance phase. ([BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/)) - Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen achieved a higher cure rate (39%) than salicylic acid (24%) and a wait-and-see approach (16%) for cutaneous warts at 13 weeks in primary care patients. ([CMAJ, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20837684/)) - Treatment with 2% supramolecular salicylic acid hydrogel resulted in a regression and markedly improvement rate of 51.01% compared to 43.10% for Adapaline gel in patients with mild to moderate facial acne vulgaris, showing no significant difference in efficacy. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590107/)) - Topical 5% benzoyl peroxide plus salicylic acid achieved the greatest lesion reduction at early 2 to 4 week time points compared to benzoyl peroxide, clindamycin, and combination benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin, while 5% benzoyl peroxide plus salicylic acid and combination benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin showed similar efficacy at 10 to 12 weeks in acne patients. ([Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20488582/)) ## What reviewers say Based on a very large amount of data, this water-based, mentholated scrub is highly effective for users with oily and combination-oily skin, providing a deep exfoliation that instantly smooths texture and clears clogged pores, leading to reduced oiliness and fewer breakouts. Some users find the scrub too abrasive for sensitive or dry skin types, and the thick consistency can make it difficult to dispense. - Liked: Clears pores and oil (often mentioned) - Liked: Polishes and smooths (often mentioned) - Disliked: Difficult to dispense (often mentioned) - Liked: Cooling sensation (sometimes noted) - Liked: Efficient and long-lasting (sometimes noted) - Disliked: Too harsh for some (sometimes noted) - Disliked: Strong scent (rarely noted) - Disliked: Thick texture (rarely noted) ## How to apply - Use your exfoliant PM once a week to help with redness and irritation. Start slowly and only increase frequency if your skin feels happy and comfortable. - Apply the exfoliant after cleansing and toner , but always before your moisturizer . This ensures the product absorbs properly into the skin. - Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliant into your skin without rubbing . Let it absorb for a minute before moving on. - Since your skin is sensitive , apply the exfoliant on completely dry skin for the best tolerance. This helps prevent any extra stinging or discomfort. - Always do a patch test before your first use and avoid the delicate eye area . - Video: https://storage.pora.ai/028e5e793422a3b665c02ff502cf5a68.mp4 ## Questions and answers ### Why is Clinique Exfoliating Scrub a weak match for sensitive skin? This scrub is a weak match because its strong exfoliating ingredients may irritate sensitive skin and worsen redness. An exfoliant for sensitive skin needs gentle exfoliants and hydrating ingredients that smooth texture safely without causing irritation. ### Which ingredients make this exfoliant a poor fit for sensitive skin? This exfoliant is a poor fit for sensitive skin because it contains salicylic acid and menthol, which may sting and worsen redness. An exfoliant for sensitive skin needs gentle smoothing ingredients and soothing, hydrating components that calm the skin without causing irritation. ### What does Salicylic Acid do for sensitive skin? Salicylic acid may cause irritation on sensitive skin, so it requires careful use and good sun protection to keep skin comfortable. A product for this skin type needs gentle, soothing ingredients and a mild formula that respects the skin barrier. Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10233334/), [International Journal of Toxicology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14617432/) ### What does Glyceryl Stearate do for sensitive skin? Glyceryl Stearate helps keep sensitive skin soft and smooth by trapping moisture on the surface and preventing dryness. Because it is gentle and well-tolerated, it is unlikely to cause irritation when used in your daily routine. Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14572299/) ### Where does it go in a skincare routine for sensitive skin? This product is a weak match for sensitive skin because its scrub particles and salicylic acid may trigger redness and irritation. Sensitive skin needs gentle, soothing ingredients and hydrating hydrators that calm and protect the skin barrier instead of harsh physical and chemical scrubbing. ### Can I use this exfoliant with retinol, and in what order? Using this scrub with retinol is not recommended because the salicylic acid and physical scrub particles may easily irritate and dry out sensitive skin. Instead, sensitive skin needs gentle enzyme powders and nourishing masks that smooth texture without harsh scrubbing. ### How often should I use it? This product is a weak match for sensitive skin, so you should use it only once a week to help prevent irritation. A product of this type needs gentle exfoliating ingredients and extra hydrating humectants to keep this skin calm and smooth. ### Can this exfoliant clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for sensitive skin? This exfoliant is unlikely to clog pores, but it may cause breakouts or redness on sensitive skin because its scrub texture and salicylic acid can be too harsh. A product for this skin needs soothing ingredients and gentle hydrators like glycerin or ceramides to keep skin calm and smooth. Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/) ### Is it fragrance-free and alcohol-free? Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. ## Alternatives for sensitive skin - [First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/first-aid-beauty/facial-radiance-pads/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — AED 89.21 at Amazon - [Kora Organics Turmeric Brightening & Exfoliating Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/kora-organics/turmeric-brightening-and-exfoliating-mask/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — AED 122.93 at Amazon - [Dr. Sebagh Deep Exfoliating Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/dr-sebagh/deep-exfoliating-mask/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — AED 273.58 at Amazon ## Routine for sensitive skin ### AM - Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — AED 84.53 at Amazon - Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — AED 81.41 at Amazon - Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [Bioderma Bioderma Photoderm Mineral SPF 50+](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/bioderma/photoderm-mineral-fluide-spf50/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — AED 65.10 at Amazon ### PM - Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — AED 35.29 at Amazon - Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — AED 84.53 at Amazon - Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — AED 81.41 at Amazon - Serum or Treatment: [Paula's Choice RESIST Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/resist-super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — AED 347.75 at Amazon - Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Enrich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-probio-cica-enrich-cream/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — AED 34.80 at Amazon ### Weekly - Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — AED 35.29 at Amazon - Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — AED 84.53 at Amazon - Enzyme Powder: [Fancl Facial Washing Powder](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/fancl/facial-washing-powder/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — AED 91.68 at Amazon - Nourishing Mask: [Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Sheet Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/anua/heartleaf-77-soothing-sheet-mask/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — AED 97.63 at Amazon - Serum or Treatment: [Paula's Choice RESIST Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/resist-super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — AED 347.75 at Amazon - Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Enrich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-probio-cica-enrich-cream/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — AED 34.80 at Amazon ## Where to buy - Amazon.ae: AED 124.52 (https://www.amazon.ae/dp/B000Z4SIBY?tag=lovi00-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1) Prices checked 5 Nov 2026. ## Ingredients Water, Glyceryl Stearate, Polyethylene, Hexylene Glycol, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Disodium Oleamido Mipa-Sulfosuccinate, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Salicylic Acid, Menthol, Stearamidoethyl Diethylamine, Oleamide Mipa, Trisodium Sulfosuccinate, Sodium Sulfate, Phenoxyethanol, Methylisothiazolinone, Titanium Dioxide Ci 77891 ## About the Lovi Fit Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes. Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning. Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board). Page built Nov 8, 2026. More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt ## This page in other countries - United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clinique/exfoliating-scrub/for/sensitive-skin - United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clinique/exfoliating-scrub/for/sensitive-skin - Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/clinique/exfoliating-scrub/for/sensitive-skin - Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/clinique/exfoliating-scrub/for/sensitive-skin - France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/clinique/exfoliating-scrub/for/sensitive-skin - Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/clinique/exfoliating-scrub/for/sensitive-skin - Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/clinique/exfoliating-scrub/for/sensitive-skin - Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/clinique/exfoliating-scrub/for/sensitive-skin - Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/clinique/exfoliating-scrub/for/sensitive-skin - Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/clinique/exfoliating-scrub/for/sensitive-skin - Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/clinique/exfoliating-scrub/for/sensitive-skin - Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/clinique/exfoliating-scrub/for/sensitive-skin - United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/clinique/exfoliating-scrub/for/sensitive-skin (this page)