# Equate Beauty Blackhead Clearing Scrub for combination skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for combination skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: Low Risk.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/equate-beauty/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/combination-skin

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

Brand: [Equate Beauty](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/brands/equate-beauty)
Category: [Exfoliants](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/best/exfoliators)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with combination skin: an oily T-zone, enlarged pores, and dry cheeks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for combination skin; other exfoliants fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your combination skin, as salicylic acid helps decongest pores and manage oily shine. Menthyl lactate provides a cooling sensation, enhancing comfort for your skin type.
- The formulation is safe for your combination skin, avoiding harsh ingredients that could cause irritation.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Salicylic Acid, Oil-Free Formula, Jojoba Esters, Menthyl Lactate

## What the research says

- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Topical formulations containing 3.75% glycerol and 1.25% hydrolyzed jojoba esters produced significantly lower evaporative TEWL values compared to glycerol alone at 8 and 24 hours posttreatment in human subjects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19146603/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

Users frequently praise this scrub for its ability to clear blackheads, reduce breakouts, and deep-clean pores, making it a popular choice for those with oily or acne-prone skin. While highly effective for many, some users find the formula slightly harsh or note a strong scent, suggesting it may be better suited for those who are not overly sensitive.

- Liked: Affordable price (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Effective blackhead removal (often mentioned)
- Liked: Breakout control (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Deep pore cleansing (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Harsh on skin (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Strong scent (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Potential irritation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Waxy residue (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this exfoliant product in your PM routine starting once a week, then increase frequency carefully if your skin feels fine.
- Apply this exfoliant step after cleansing and toner, but right before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliant into your skin and wait a minute before layering.
- Apply the exfoliant to clean, dry skin to help control your oily shine comfortably.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/028e5e793422a3b665c02ff502cf5a68.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Equate Blackhead Clearing Scrub work for combination skin?

This scrub works reasonably well for your combination skin because salicylic acid helps clear pores and control oily shine while menthyl lactate adds a cooling feel. However, combination skin needs an exfoliant that is exceptionally safe with no irritation risks, perfectly balances oil and hydration, and enhances texture and brightness without compromising overall skin health.
Sources: [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

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

Salicylic acid helps decongest pores and manage oily shine, while menthyl lactate provides a cooling sensation to enhance comfort on your combination skin. A product of this type needs high-quality ingredients that safely address texture and brightness while balancing exfoliation and hydration to care for both oily and dry areas effectively.
Sources: [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

### What does Salicylic Acid do for combination skin?

Salicylic acid helps clear clogged pores and balance oily areas while remaining gentle enough for dry spots on combination skin. It reduces breakouts and oiliness effectively with a low likelihood of irritation.
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/)

### What does Oil-Free Formula do for combination skin?

An oil-free formula helps manage combination skin by keeping oily areas clear without making dry patches feel tight or stripped. This type of product works best when it balances lightweight hydration with gentle cleansing to support the skin barrier across different facial zones.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16910029/), [Dermatologic Therapy, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14728695/)

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

This exfoliant goes in your weekly routine as an exfoliating step. A product of this type works best for combination skin when it includes salicylic acid to clear pores and oil-free ingredients that keep your skin feeling fresh and balanced.

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

It is best to avoid using this exfoliant and retinol in the same routine, as combining them may cause excessive dryness and irritation on your combination skin. Use this scrub on your weekly care days and apply your retinol on separate nights.

### How often should I use this exfoliant?

This exfoliant can be used once a week to start, and people who tolerate it well and see good results may carefully use it more often. Salicylic acid helps decongest pores and manage oily shine, while a gentle, hydrating formula with soothing ingredients is needed for this skin to prevent dryness.

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

This exfoliant is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for your combination skin since salicylic acid helps clear out pores and manage oily shine, though a product of this type needs gentle ingredients that hydrate dry areas and balance oil without causing irritation.
Sources: [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Cetyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/dermalogica/daily-microfoliant/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €76.00 at Amazon
- [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €21.45 at Amazon
- [SOME BY MI AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/some-by-mi/aha-bha-pha-30-days-miracle-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €20.50 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €56.86 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [La Mer The Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/la-mer/the-tonic/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €115.30 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €16.50 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Salicylic Acid, Cetyl Alcohol, Ppg-15 Stearyl Ether, Synthetic Wax, Microcrystalline Wax, Steareth-21, Polysorbate 60, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Xanthan Gum, Menthyl Lactate, Jojoba Esters, Ci 77510
## 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-beauty/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/equate-beauty/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/equate-beauty/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/equate-beauty/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/equate-beauty/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/equate-beauty/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/equate-beauty/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/equate-beauty/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/equate-beauty/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/equate-beauty/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/equate-beauty/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/equate-beauty/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/equate-beauty/blackhead-clearing-scrub/for/combination-skin