# St. Ives Apricot Scrub for acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/st-ives/apricot-scrub/for/acne-prone-skin

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

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

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

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

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your combination skin due to the physical exfoliation from Juglans Regia Shell Powder and chemical exfoliation from Glycolic Acid, which also aids in seboregulation.
- While it provides general hydration and cleansing benefits, the formula lacks specialized ingredients like salicylic acid to effectively target your acne, blemishes, and breakouts.
- The product is safe for your combination skin, as it contains soothing Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract and avoids harsh or prohibited ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

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

- 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 acne-prone skin better

- A 30% supramolecular salicylic acid peel improved the global acne grading score and skin barrier indicators, decreased cutaneous microbiome richness and evenness along with Staphylococcus proportion, reduced inflammatory cytokines, and increased caveolin-1 expression in 28 patients with moderate-to-severe acne vulgaris. ([Dermatology and Therapy, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36350527/))
- Treatment with 45% mandelic acid peel showed nearly equal overall efficacy as 30% salicylic acid peel in patients with mild-to-moderate facial acne vulgaris, but with fewer adverse effects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31553119/))
- 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/))

## 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 this exfoliant PM once a week to start, and gradually increase if your combination skin tolerates it well. Always apply SPF the next morning to protect your clear skin.
- Apply the exfoliant after cleansing and toning, but right before your moisturizer step. This ensures the treatment targets blemishes effectively.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliant into your skin without rubbing. Let it absorb for a minute before moving to the next step.
- Apply the exfoliant on clean, dry skin to help control breakouts safely. Since your skin is not sensitive, this dry application method ensures good product absorption.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area and do a patch test before your first use. Do not mix this exfoliant with other strong acids in the same routine.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/028e5e793422a3b665c02ff502cf5a68.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does St. Ives Apricot Scrub work for acne-prone skin?

St. Ives Apricot Scrub works decently for acne-prone skin by offering moderate physical and chemical exfoliation that helps clear away dead skin, but it lacks targeted ingredients like salicylic acid for breakouts. For this skin, a product needs effective ingredients that target acne and blemishes while ensuring safety and zero irritation, often including salicylic acid alongside balanced hydrating and soothing components.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/)

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

Glycolic acid and apricot fruit extract help clear pores and smooth acne-prone skin. Because this exfoliant lacks specialized ingredients like salicylic acid to effectively target breakouts, an exfoliant for this skin needs salicylic acid and soothing ingredients to calm blemishes.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/)

### What does Apricot Fruit Extract do for acne-prone skin?

Apricot Fruit Extract helps calm acne-prone skin by reducing irritation and fighting inflammation without clogging pores. This extract also provides antioxidant benefits that protect sensitive or breakout-prone areas from daily stress.
Sources: [International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42353048/), [Molecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40430258/)

### What does Walnut Shell Powder do for acne-prone skin?

Walnut shell powder is too harsh and abrasive for acne-prone skin because it can cause micro-tears and worsen redness and inflammation. Acne-prone skin needs very gentle cleansers with soothing ingredients and mild surfactants that clean the skin without damaging the protective barrier.

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

This exfoliant goes in your weekly routine, as Lovi routines start exfoliating steps once a week before you can carefully use them more often. Because this product offers only average results for acne-prone skin, it needs specialized ingredients like salicylic acid to effectively target blemishes and breakouts.

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

You can use this exfoliant in the same routine as retinol, but it is unlikely to be the best fit for your acne-prone skin because it lacks specialized ingredients like salicylic acid. To properly target breakouts, this skin type needs targeted blemish-fighting ingredients and gentle chemical exfoliants that clear pores without causing irritation.

### How often should I use this exfoliant?

Start by using this exfoliant once a week, and if your skin feels comfortable and you see good results, you can carefully use it more often. Acne-prone skin needs specialized ingredients like salicylic acid to effectively target breakouts and blemishes.

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

This exfoliant may cause breakouts or irritation for acne-prone skin because walnut shell powder and glycolic acid can be too abrasive, and the formula lacks specialized ingredients like salicylic acid to target blemishes. To better fit acne-prone skin, a product of this type needs soothing and targeted ingredients like salicylic acid to clear pores without causing irritation.

### 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 acne-prone skin

- [First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/first-aid-beauty/facial-radiance-pads/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €33.00 at Amazon
- [Sulwhasoo Clarifying Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/sulwhasoo/clarifying-mask/for/acne-prone-skin) — Average fit — €43.94 at Amazon
- [Kora Organics Turmeric Brightening & Exfoliating Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/kora-organics/turmeric-brightening-and-exfoliating-mask/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €16.90 at Notino

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [B.LAB Matcha Hydrating Foam Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/b-lab/matcha-hydrating-foam-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €13.40 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €19.99 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €18.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in Ireland 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/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/st-ives/apricot-scrub/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/st-ives/apricot-scrub/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/st-ives/apricot-scrub/for/acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/st-ives/apricot-scrub/for/acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/st-ives/apricot-scrub/for/acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/st-ives/apricot-scrub/for/acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/st-ives/apricot-scrub/for/acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/st-ives/apricot-scrub/for/acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/st-ives/apricot-scrub/for/acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/st-ives/apricot-scrub/for/acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/st-ives/apricot-scrub/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/st-ives/apricot-scrub/for/acne-prone-skin