# St. Ives Apricot Scrub for dry sensitive skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for dry sensitive skin.**
Dry Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/st-ives/apricot-scrub/for/dry-sensitive-skin

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

Brand: [St. Ives](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/st-ives)
Category: [Exfoliants](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/best/exfoliators)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dry sensitive skin: flakiness, tightness, redness, fine lines, and wrinkles. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for dry sensitive skin; other exfoliants fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your dry and sensitive skin, as Juglans Regia Shell Powder and Glycolic Acid provide both physical and chemical exfoliation, though the physical component may be too abrasive.
- Glycerin and Urea offer some hydration, but the formula lacks sufficient emollients to deeply address your dry or flaky skin concerns.
- The product is safe for your skin due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Prunus Armeniaca Fruit Extract Apricot Fruit Extract, Juglans Regia Shell Powder, Glycolic Acid, Niacinamide, Caffeine

## What the research says

- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- Bitter apricot essential oil inhibited human HaCaT keratinocyte growth with an IC50 of 142.45 ug/ml by inducing G0/G1 cell cycle arrest and apoptosis through death receptor, mitochondrial, and NF-kB pathways. ([International Immunopharmacology, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26971222/))
- Kombucha-mediated fermentation of apple, apricot, and cherry leaf agro-waste extracts increased phenolic content and enhanced antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-ageing properties while reducing oxidative stress in skin cells without cytotoxicity compared to unfermented extracts. ([International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42353048/))
- Repeated short-contact 70% glycolic acid peels provided superior results in atrophic acne scars compared to daily low-strength glycolic acid cream or placebo in 58 women over 24 weeks. ([International Journal of Dermatology, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11095203/))
- Serial glycolic acid peels combined with a modified Kligman formula significantly reduced facial PIH severity in Indian patients compared to the modified Kligman formula alone. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28114204/))
- Topical post-laser application of human adipocyte-derived mesenchymal stem cell media combined with niacinamide significantly improved wrinkle index, melanin index, patient satisfaction, and investigator esthetic improvement scores compared to vehicle cream in patients with aging skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33103316/))
- Topical nicotinamide prevented solar-simulated UV-induced immunosuppression in healthy volunteers, and men experienced immunosuppression at solar-simulated UV doses three times lower than those required for women. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17882270/))
- Topical 5% niacinamide applied twice daily for 12 weeks reduced fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmented spots, red blotchiness, and skin sallowness, and improved skin elasticity compared to vehicle control in 50 female white subjects with facial photoaging. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16029679/))
- A topical cosmetic slimming product containing tetrahydroxypropyl ethylenediamine, caffeine, carnitine, forskolin and retinol significantly reduced body circumferences and improved skin aspect compared with placebo in 78 women over 12 weeks. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21564138/))
- Topical sunscreen formulations containing caffeine combined with UV filters increased in vivo anti-UVB protection by approximately 25% and showed higher SPF values compared to caffeine-free sunscreen, while being well tolerated by the skin of healthy subjects. ([Frontiers in Physiology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31130869/))
- Caffeine gel combined with choline geranate showed high skin permeation capacity and superior clinical results in cellulite treatment compared to caffeine gel without ionic liquid. ([AAPS PharmSciTech, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33796955/))

## Why other exfoliants fit dry sensitive skin better

- Phytosphingosine increased filaggrin metabolism and skin hydration in human skin by stimulating filaggrin biosynthesis and degradation leading to natural moisturizing factor formation. ([Archives of Dermatological Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28936777/))
- A cream containing panthenol, prebiotics, and probiotic lysate improved facial sensitive skin symptoms and skin barrier function in 110 participants over 28 days. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38186043/))
- A panthenol-enriched mask improved skin hydration, regulated sebum, and reduced redness and TEWL across dry sensitive, oily sensitive, and oily acne skin subgroups with excellent tolerance and no adverse reactions. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38366684/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this product is frequently praised by users with normal to oily skin for its deep exfoliation and ability to leave skin feeling smooth and refreshed. However, a significant number of users, especially those with sensitive skin, report that the physical exfoliants are too abrasive, leading to redness and irritation.

- Liked: Effective exfoliation (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Affordable price (often mentioned)
- Liked: Refreshing scent (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Causes irritation (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Too abrasive (often mentioned)
- Liked: Softens skin (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Potential damage (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Drying effect (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your exfoliant PM once a week to help with dryness. Start ⏳3 times a week only if your sensitive skin tolerates it well.
- Apply the exfoliant after cleansing and toning, but always before your favorite moisturizer .
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliant into your skin and avoid any rubbing. Let it absorb ⏱ for a minute before layering.
- Since your skin is reactive and sensitive, apply the exfoliant on completely dry skin for better tolerance.
- 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

### How well does St. Ives Apricot Scrub work for dry sensitive skin?

St. Ives Apricot Scrub works only moderately well for dry sensitive skin because its physical scrub bits may feel too rough and it lacks rich softening ingredients to fully soothe flaky spots. An exfoliant for this skin needs gentle hydrating ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture and protect the skin barrier.

### Which ingredients make this exfoliant a good fit for dry sensitive skin?

Glycerin and urea help hydrate dry skin, though this scrub needs rich emollients, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid to deeply care for dry sensitive skin without being too abrasive.

### What does Apricot Fruit Extract do for dry sensitive skin?

Apricot Fruit Extract helps nourish and soften dry sensitive skin while providing soothing comfort. This ingredient is generally well-tolerated and unlikely to cause irritation when used in gentle formulations.

### What does Walnut Shell Powder do for dry sensitive skin?

Walnut Shell Powder is typically too harsh for dry sensitive skin because it can cause tiny tears and worsen irritation on delicate skin barriers. This skin type needs very gentle cleansers and rich moisturizers that soothe dryness without scrubbing.

### Where does this exfoliant go in a skincare routine for dry sensitive skin?

This exfoliant works for your dry sensitive skin once a week, though the physical scrub bits may feel too rough. To properly care for dry skin, this type of product needs gentle chemical exfoliants paired with rich hydrators and soothing ingredients to smooth flakes without irritation.

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

It is best to avoid using this exfoliant on the same night as retinol, as combining them may cause too much irritation and redness on dry sensitive skin. Instead, alternate nights or use a gentle chemical exfoliant with rich emollients and soothing ingredients.

### How often should I use this exfoliant?

Start using this exfoliant just once a week, as physical scrubs can feel too rough on dry and sensitive skin. If your skin handles it well without irritation, you may carefully use it a bit more often.

### Can this exfoliant clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for dry sensitive skin?

This exfoliant is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts on dry sensitive skin, but it may cause irritation because the physical bits are quite abrasive. Dry and sensitive skin needs products with gentle physical or chemical scrub agents and rich, soothing oils or butters that hydrate without scratching.

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

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (parfum). Cetearyl alcohol and cetyl alcohol are fatty alcohols, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for dry sensitive skin

- [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.19 at Amazon
- [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$30.56 at Amazon
- [innisfree Green Tea Enzyme PHA Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/innisfree/green-tea-enzyme-pha-toner/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$32.50 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.19 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$49.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [d'Alba UVessence Mild Waterfull Sun Cream SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/d-alba/uvessence-mild-waterfull-sun-cream-spf-50/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$38.00 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Glyceryl Stearate Se, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Glycol Stearate, Juglans Regia Shell Powder, Glyceryl Stearate, Peg 100 Stearate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Zea Mays Meal Kernel Zea Mays Kernel, Prunus Armeniaca Fruit Extract Apricot Fruit Extract, Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract Matricaria Flower Extract, Helianthus Annuus Extract Sunflower Extract, Primula Veris Extract, Sambucus Nigra Flower Extract, Arginine, Ascorbic Acid, Butylene Glycol, Caffeine, Carbomer, Ceteareth 20, Dimethicone, Disodium Edta, Glycolic Acid, Jojoba Esters, Niacinamide, Peg 12 Dimethicone, Petrolatum, Polysorbate 60, Propylene Glycol, Sodium Chloride, Sorbitol, Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Stearic Acid, Tocopheryl Acetate, Triethanolamine, Urea, Dmdm Hydantoin, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate, Parfum, 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/st-ives/apricot-scrub/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/st-ives/apricot-scrub/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/st-ives/apricot-scrub/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/st-ives/apricot-scrub/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/st-ives/apricot-scrub/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/st-ives/apricot-scrub/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/st-ives/apricot-scrub/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/st-ives/apricot-scrub/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/st-ives/apricot-scrub/for/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/st-ives/apricot-scrub/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/st-ives/apricot-scrub/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/st-ives/apricot-scrub/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/st-ives/apricot-scrub/for/dry-sensitive-skin