# Equate Blackhead Clearing Scrub for oily acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: High fit for oily acne-prone skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/equate/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/oily-acne-prone-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Canada.

Brand: [Equate](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/equate)
Category: [Exfoliants](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/best/exfoliators)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily acne-prone skin: shine, breakouts, blemishes, and enlarged pores. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A great choice for oily acne-prone skin; a few exfoliants fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Offers highly effective exfoliation for your oily, acne-prone skin due to salicylic acid and polyethylene, which decongest pores and reduce breakouts without irritation.
- Menthol provides a soothing sensation, enhancing the overall comfort for your skin.
- The product is safe for your skin, as it lacks harsh ingredients and contains soothing components.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/equate/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/equate/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/dry-skin): Low
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/equate/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/equate/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/sensitive-skin): Low
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/equate/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/equate/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/equate/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/equate/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/equate/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High (this page)

## Key ingredients

Salicylic Acid, Oil-Free Formula

## What the research says

- Topical application of 30% salicylic acid in polyethylene glycol effectively cleared comedones and papules in 436 patients with acne while causing no stinging, burning, edema, bleeding, or crusting. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18363720/))
- 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/))
- Cooling skin temperature or applying topical menthol reduced histamine-induced itch intensity and flare diameters in healthy male volunteers. ([Neuroscience Letters, 1995](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7624016/))
- Polyethylene is safe for use in cosmetic formulations at described practices of use and concentrations, supported by low systemic toxicity, lack of significant irritation or sensitization in most animal and human evaluations, and the absence of genotoxicity or chemical carcinogenicity. ([International Journal of Toxicology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17365139/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

This scrub is highly praised for its ability to clear pores, remove excess oil, and manage breakouts using 2% salicylic acid. While it is effective for many, some users with sensitive or dry skin find the physical exfoliation too harsh, occasionally leading to irritation or dryness.

- Liked: Affordable price (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Clears breakouts (often mentioned)
- Liked: Effective cleansing (often mentioned)
- Liked: Smoother skin (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes irritation (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Too harsh/abrasive (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Drying effect (rarely noted)
- Disliked: No visible results (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this exfoliant as part of your PM routine once a week to start, increasing frequency only if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply the exfoliant after cleansing and toning, but before your final moisturizer step.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliant into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the product directly onto clean, dry skin for the best results against breakouts.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area and always use a daily SPF since exfoliating makes skin more sensitive to the sun.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/028e5e793422a3b665c02ff502cf5a68.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Equate Blackhead Clearing Scrub a great fit for oily acne-prone skin?

This scrub is a great fit because it contains salicylic acid to clear out pores and reduce breakouts on oily, acne-prone skin without causing irritation. It also includes menthol to help soothe your skin and keep it comfortable.
Sources: [Dermatologic Surgery, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18363720/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

### Which ingredients make this exfoliant a good fit for oily acne-prone skin?

Salicylic acid and polyethylene make this exfoliant a great fit by unclogging pores and clearing breakouts on oily skin without causing irritation. Menthol also helps by providing a soothing and cooling sensation that keeps your skin comfortable.
Sources: [Dermatologic Surgery, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18363720/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

### What does Salicylic Acid do for oily acne-prone skin?

Salicylic acid helps clear breakouts and keeps oily skin balanced by reducing oil levels and calming inflammation. It is well suited for oily, acne-prone skin because it targets pimples while helping keep the skin hydrated and protected.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40682377/), [Experimental Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30972839/)

### What does Oil-Free Formula do for oily acne-prone skin?

Oil-Free Formula helps clear deep-pore impurities and leaves oily skin feeling fresh without triggering extra oil production. This type of product works best when it is gentle enough to preserve your skin barrier while managing breakouts.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16910029/)

### Where does it go in a skincare routine for oily acne-prone skin?

This exfoliant goes in your weekly routine, starting at once a week and cautiously increasing if your skin tolerates it well. It helps clear pores and reduce breakouts on oily, acne-prone skin without causing irritation.

### Can I use this exfoliant with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this exfoliant alongside retinol by applying the exfoliant first and following with your retinol on alternate nights to avoid making your skin too dry or sensitive. Using these active ingredients at different times helps keep your skin clear while maintaining a safe routine.
Sources: [American Family Physician, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23062156/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

### How often should I use it?

Start by using this exfoliant once a week, and if your skin tolerates it well and you see good results, you may carefully use it more often. Salicylic acid helps clear pores and reduce breakouts when used consistently.
Sources: [Dermatologic Surgery, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14725662/), [Dermatologic Surgery, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16640681/)

### Can this exfoliant clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for oily acne-prone skin?

This exfoliant is a great fit because salicylic acid and polyethylene help clear out pores and reduce breakouts for oily acne-prone skin without causing irritation. Salicylic acid clears clogged pores and reduces blemishes, though some reviewers mention a drying or slightly harsh effect.
Sources: [Dermatologic Surgery, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18363720/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

### Is it fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/first-aid-beauty/facial-radiance-pads/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — CA$33.00 at Amazon
- [CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/acne-foaming-cream-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — CA$27.47 at Amazon
- [MZ Skin Cleanse & Clarify Dual Action AHA Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/mz-skin/cleanse-and-clarify-dual-action-aha-cleanser-and-mask/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Average fit — CA$119.95 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.96 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$37.60 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$29.98 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in Canada has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Water, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Glycerin, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Polyethylene, Salicylic Acid, Glycol Distearate, Peg-12 Dimethicone, Xanthan Gum, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Tetrasodium Edta, Menthol, Sodium Hydroxide, Blue 1, Ci 16035
## 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/equate/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/equate/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/equate/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/equate/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/equate/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/equate/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/equate/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/equate/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/equate/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/equate/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/equate/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/equate/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/equate/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/oily-acne-prone-skin