St. Ives is one of the best-known brands in the world of skin care — and there's one product that's particularly iconic: the St. Ives Acne Control Apricot Scrub, $2.79. This so-called "miracle" scrub is formulated with apricot fruit extract and walnut shell powder, as well as salicylic acid to help reduce breakouts and prevent acne. Together, the ingredients leave your pores feeling squeaky clean.
Despite over 3,700 positive reviews on Amazon, the scrub has faced some controversy over recent years, including a high-profile lawsuit claiming it's too abrasive and damaging to skin. Read on to get the skinny on the popular face scrub.
According to thousands of reviewers, this product yields real results. But for first-time users, just as with any other skin product, always be cautious and follow the instructions on how to use the scrub. Start with a damp face and gently massage skin with the product on your fingertips. Avoid scrubbing too hard or you could actually cause irritation or damage your skin. If any discomfort occurs, stop using immediately. But if the scrub feels great — like it should — continue using and feel free to gradually increase your usage, if you so wish.
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.
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.
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.
