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St. Ives Acne Control Apricot Scrub: The Controversial Classic We Just Can't Quit

Everything you need to know about the much-loved/hated skin care product
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Beyond acne control
Though the main purpose of this apricot scrub is to stop breakouts and to get rid of acne, it doesn't stop there. Like many good face scrubs, it can reduce the appearance of fine lines, even out your skin tone and help your skin absorb and retain moisture better. And seriously, that walnut shell powder makes sure that you get that coveted, baby-smooth skin.

Image via @stivesskin

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Moisturizer is an ally
Exfoliating daily can cause dryness since your natural oils can be polished away along with your dead skin. Because of this, you're going to want a great moisturizer in your arsenal. We also recommend pairing the scrub with a sunscreen, like La Roche-Posay Anthelios AOX Daily SPF 50 Sunscreen, $31.88, as exfoliation can cause increased photosensitivity.

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The miracle stories
St. Ives Apricot Scrub has garnered thousands of amazing reviews from users. But some of these stories go beyond the typical five stars — some of them are downright miraculous. Beauty vloggers like Jess Bunty, Nappy Fu and Kristy Newin have talked about how instrumental the scrub has been on their journey from extreme breakouts to clear skin.

Image via @nappyfu

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The lawsuit
Unfortunately, it hasn't all been sunshine and roses for the popular scrub. In 2016, Kaylee Browning and Sarah Basile sued Unilever United States Inc. over the St. Ives Apricot Scrub. Browning and Basile alleged that the scrub is actually more harmful than helpful due to the abrasiveness of the crushed walnut shells, with full backing from professional dermatologists.

Image via Imaxtree

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Famous St. Ives fans
Lawsuit or no, the iconic scrub has still maintained its popularity over the years. Some of the world's biggest stars even use it: Jennifer Lawrence spilled that she exfoliates twice a week with it and Gigi Hadid told Allure that she swears by the scrub to ward off dead skin. Self-proclaimed drugstore queen Serayah McNeil confessed her love for the scrub as well.

Image via Imaxtree

BY JOELLE GARCIA | JUL 24, 2018 | SHARES
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