# SKINFOOD Black Sugar Perfect Essential Scrub 2X for oily acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/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: [SKINFOOD](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/skinfood)
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.

Works for oily acne-prone skin; other products fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your oily skin due to sucrose and black sugar extract, which help smooth texture but provide only mild benefits for your acne, blemishes, and breakouts.
- Glycerin and the oils present offer some humectant action and nourishment, but the formula lacks sufficient ingredients for optimal oil control on oily skin.
- The product is safe for your oily skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/mature-skin): Superior
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Superior
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average (this page)

## Key ingredients

Black Sugar Extract, Jojoba Oil, Macadamia Oil, Carica Papaya Extract, Shea Butter

## What the research says

- The combination of sucrose dilaurate and sucrose laurate suppressed HMGB1 release, melanin production, melanocyte dendricity, and melanosome transfer in vitro, and reduced the appearance of facial spots compared to vehicle in an 8-week human use test. ([Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35014730/))
- Sucrose ester in an ibuprofen hydrogel increased skin hydration and ibuprofen penetration more intensely than a gel without sucrose ester without causing greater alterations in the stratum corneum structure in hairless mice. ([Pharmaceutical Development and Technology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20715904/))
- Topical application of the nonsugar fraction of brown sugar prevented chronic UVB-induced skin thickness increases, elasticity loss, wrinkles, pigmentation, and vascular changes in melanin-possessing hairless mice, which may be mediated by inhibiting MMP-2 and VEGF expression. ([Journal of Natural Medicines, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19050991/))
- Clay jojoba oil facial masks reduced total skin lesions by a mean of 54% after 6 weeks in 133 participants with acne-prone, lesioned skin and mild acne compared to baseline. ([Forschende Komplementarmedizin, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22585103/))
- Topical application of jojoba wax reduced LPS-induced secretion of IL-6, IL-8, and TNFα by approximately 30% and increased the synthesis of pro-collagen III and hyaluronic acid compared to untreated skin in an ex-vivo human skin organ culture model. ([Frontiers in Pharmacology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38344180/))
- Topical jojoba oil application in male mice decreased exercise-induced pro-inflammatory gene expression (Il-1b and Il-6 in soleus, Il-1b in gastrocnemius) compared to untreated exercised mice. ([Biomolecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41154623/))
- Topical papain treatment may slightly decrease pain within 30 minutes in humans stung by Chrysaora chinensis compared to placebo. ([Wilderness & Environmental Medicine, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26827260/))
- A fixed combination of hydroxypinacolone retinoate, retinol glycospheres, and papain glycospheres in aqueous gel applied once daily for 12 weeks achieved a 41% mean reduction in GAGS score and a 40.8% mean reduction in total lesions, with 15.3% of patients experiencing mild to moderate local side effects, in 94 evaluable patients with comedonal-papular, mild to moderate acne of the face. ([Giornale Italiano Di Dermatologia E Venereologia, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25876142/))
- Reflux extraction of Carica papaya leaves yielded higher antioxidant capacity and superior in vitro wound-healing activities including fibroblast proliferation, cell migration, and collagen synthesis in human skin fibroblasts compared to ultrasonic-assisted extraction and agitation. ([Molecules, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31991676/))
- A combination cream of stimu-tex AS and saccharide isomerate reduced erythema, increased skin capacitance, and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to placebo in 20 subjects after fractional CO2 laser procedure without causing serious adverse events. ([Lasers in Medical Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41134387/))
- A skin barrier restoring cream with shea butter, silkflo, and vitamin E increased type I procollagen synthesis, enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity, decreased reactive oxygen species generation, and promoted hyaluronic acid production in H2O2-stimulated human keratinocyte cells compared to untreated cells. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39528438/))

## Why other products fit oily acne-prone skin better

- Adapalene 0.1%-benzoyl peroxide 2.5% fixed-dose combination gel provided significantly greater, synergistic efficacy and a faster onset of action compared with the vehicle, adapalene monotherapy, and benzoyl peroxide monotherapy in patients with acne vulgaris. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19466959/))
- Topical benzoyl peroxide 5% gel treatment improved acne severity, sebum, stratum corneum hydration, and transepidermal water loss, while significantly reducing microbial diversity and the prevalence of Cutibacterium in 33 patients with acne vulgaris. ([Dermatologic Therapy, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34962033/))
- A cream combining propolis, tea tree oil, and Aloe vera reduced erythema scars, acne severity index, and total lesion count better than erythromycin cream in sixty patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris compared to placebo. ([Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/))

## What reviewers say

Users report this scrub effectively removes dead skin cells and refines texture, leaving skin soft and polished. It is praised for its moisturizing finish, but those with sensitive or acne-prone skin should be cautious as the sugar granules can be abrasive if not properly dissolved.

- Liked: Leaves skin smooth (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Effective exfoliation (often mentioned)
- Liked: Non-drying (often mentioned)
- Liked: Pleasant scent (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Too abrasive (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Hard to spread (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Messy packaging (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Scent too strong (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

### How well does Skinfood Black Sugar Perfect Essential Scrub 2X work for oily acne-prone skin?

Skinfood Black Sugar Perfect Essential Scrub 2X is an average fit for oily acne-prone skin because it smooths texture with sugar, but does little for breakouts and lacks oil control. An exfoliant treatment for this skin needs ingredients like niacinamide, propolis, benzoyl peroxide, or Vitamin C to control oil and clear acne.

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

Sucrose and black sugar extract help smooth your skin, while glycerin and various oils offer some nourishment. However, an exfoliant of this type needs ingredients like niacinamide, propolis, or benzoyl peroxide to properly control oil and treat acne.

### What does Black Sugar Extract do for oily acne-prone skin?

Black Sugar Extract helps gently clear away dead skin cells to keep pores clean and smooth. For oily, acne-prone skin, a product of this type needs to balance oil and provide soothing ingredients that keep the skin calm and clear.

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

Jojoba oil helps calm oily, acne-prone skin and may reduce blemishes when used regularly in your routine. Studies show that clay masks with jojoba oil can significantly decrease skin breakouts and lesions over a few weeks.
Sources: [Forschende Komplementarmedizin, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22585103/)

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

This exfoliant treatment fits into an oily acne-prone skincare routine as a weekly step applied in the evening after cleansing. While it helps smooth texture, this skin type needs a product with strong oil-controlling ingredients and targeted blemish-fighting benefits for a better fit.

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

You can use this exfoliant in your routine, but avoid using it on the same night as retinol to help prevent extra dryness and irritation. On nights you use this scrub, skip the retinol and follow with a soothing moisturizer, and always use an oil-free sunscreen during the day since exfoliants make your skin more sensitive to the sun.

### How often should I use this exfoliant?

Start by using this exfoliant once a week, and if your oily skin tolerates it well and you see good results, you may carefully use it more often. Oily acne-prone skin needs a product of this type that also provides oil control and ingredients that help clear blemishes.

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

This exfoliant is unlikely to cause irritation on oily acne-prone skin, but its heavy oils and butters provide limited oil control and may not help clear up your breakouts. Oily acne-prone skin needs lightweight formulas with powerful clarifying and oil-balancing ingredients to stay clear.

### Is this exfoliant fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [COSRX Galactomyces 95 Tone Balancing Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cosrx/galactomyces-95-tone-balancing-essence/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$24.49 at Amazon
- [Purito Centella Unscented Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/purito/centella-unscented-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — CA$23.25 at Amazon
- [Skin1004 Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skin1004/probio-cica-intensive-ampoule/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — CA$24.44 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

- Amazon.ca: CA$24.99 (https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B016ZILG9O?tag=lovi-care-web-product01-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 2 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Sucrose, Glycerin, Peg-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Candelilla Wax, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Lanolin, Stearalkonium Hectorite, Limnanthes Alba Seed Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Shea Butter, Water, Sorbitan Laurate, Caramel, Ethylhexylglycerin, Butylene Glycol, Oenothera Biennis Oil, Olea Europaea Oil Fruit Olive Oil Fruit, Camellia Oleifera Seed Oil, Jojoba Seed Oil, Black Sugar Extract, Rice Ferment Filtrate Sake Ferment Filtrate, Lemon Fruit Extract, Pyrus Malus Fruit Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Fruit Extract, Carica Papaya Fruit Extract, Lepidium Meyenii Root Extract, Sarcodon Aspratus Extract, 1,2-Hexanediol, Phenoxyethanol
## 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/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/oily-acne-prone-skin