# SKINFOOD Black Sugar Perfect Essential Scrub 2X for combination skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/combination-skin

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

Brand: [SKINFOOD](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/skinfood)
Category: [Exfoliants](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/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 products fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your combination skin due to sucrose and black sugar extract, which help smooth texture by removing dead skin cells.
- Glycerin and sucrose provide humectant action, offering some hydration to your skin, but the formula lacks specialized ingredients for optimal oil control on your oily areas.
- The product is safe for your combination 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/uk/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/combination-skin): Average (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/mature-skin): Superior
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Superior
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

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

## 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/))
- 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 combination skin better

- Niacinamide and ferulic acid incorporated in a stable multiple emulsion successfully reduced melanin, sebum, and skin erythema while improving skin elasticity and hydration in human skin compared to a placebo. ([BioMed Research International, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35342760/))
- 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

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 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 Skinfood Black Sugar Scrub 2X work for combination skin?

Skinfood Black Sugar Perfect Essential Scrub 2X works moderately well for combination skin by smoothing texture and offering some hydration, but it lacks specialized ingredients for optimal oil control on oily areas. An exfoliant treatment for combination skin needs effective ingredients like niacinamide, propolis, or zinc PCA to regulate oiliness and enhance radiance without causing irritation or unsuitability.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Sucrose and black sugar extract help smooth texture by removing dead skin cells, while glycerin and sucrose provide hydration. However, a product for combination skin needs ingredients like niacinamide, propolis, or zinc PCA to regulate oiliness without any risk of irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Black Sugar Extract do for combination skin?

Black Sugar Extract helps gently smooth and soften combination skin by providing gentle exfoliation and moisture. This type of skin needs a balanced formula with hydrating ingredients that keep dry areas smooth while managing oil without clogging pores.

### What does Jojoba Oil do for combination skin?

Jojoba oil fits combination skin well because it matches your natural oils to keep dry areas soft while calming any redness or irritation. It helps balance your skin without feeling heavy or greasy, and may also improve moisture and firmness.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29465384/), [Frontiers in Pharmacology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38344180/)

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

This exfoliant goes as a weekly treatment step in the evening routine. A product of this type for combination skin needs specialized oil-balancing ingredients to better manage oily areas.

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

You can use this exfoliant on nights when you are not applying retinol, as using both together on combination skin may cause irritation. Apply the scrub after cleansing, rinse it off completely, and then follow with your usual toner and moisturizer.

### How often should I use this exfoliant?

This exfoliant treatment works once a week for your combination skin, and people who tolerate it well and see good results can carefully use it more often. It helps smooth texture by removing dead skin cells while providing some hydration, but combination skin of this type also needs specialized ingredients for optimal oil control on oily areas.

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

This exfoliant is unlikely to cause breakouts or clogging for combination skin because it is safe and free of harsh ingredients. To work best for your skin, an exfoliant of this type needs balancing ingredients that help control oil on your oily areas.

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — £36.96 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Niacinamide 15% Firming Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-niacinamide-15-firming-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — £24.20 at Amazon
- [Augustinus Bader The Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/augustinus-bader/the-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — £248.00 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — £14.99 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — £30.37 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — £14.80 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.co.uk: £21.29 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01828IO0Y?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 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/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-essential-scrub-2x/for/combination-skin