TOP 10 best facial scrub: rating, how to choose, how to make at home, reviews, characteristics

Exfoliation of dead cells is simply necessary for our skin, because it is followed by cleansing the dermis and eliminating blackheads and acne. It is very important to monitor your facial skin and carry out the necessary care procedures in a timely manner. In order not to get lost in the variety of products that are incredibly numerous on the market, we have compiled a rating where you can find the best facial scrub that suits your desires and principles. Happy choosing!

How to choose a facial scrub

When choosing a facial scrub, you need to pay attention to its composition. Products with different bases are suitable for different skin types. So, for oily skin with enlarged pores and blackheads, clay-based cosmetics are suitable.

It cleanses and tightens pores. To normalize the functioning of the sebaceous glands, salicylic acid, essential oils of tea tree, mint and lemon balm are added to the composition. The abrasive components can be ground nut shells, seeds, sea sand or salt.

Gel scrubs are considered universal - they are suitable for normal and combination skin. The most common exfoliating components here are:

• ground coffee,
• fruit and berry seeds,
• nutshell,
• sugar.

Those with dry and sensitive skin are better off sticking to cream products. They not only cleanse, but also provide additional hydration. In such cosmetics, the presence of oil and plant components is welcomed, which nourish dehydrated dermal cells and restore freshness to the face.

For people prone to allergies, small plastic balls are more suitable as abrasives. They delicately remove impurities, massage and do not damage the epidermis.

Recommendations: 15 Best Face Masks

17 best peelings

9 Best Facial Brushes

FAQ

What is better for the face: a cleansing mask or a scrub?

Both products give good results when used correctly. If, after cleansing your face with a scrub, you apply a mask (for example, clay or acid) to exfoliated skin, you will get an excellent effect.

Some people, on the contrary, like to remove the remnants of a clay mask from their face with a light scrub. Most often this depends on the individual characteristics of both products. If your skin is dry and/or sensitive, we recommend using the scrub and mask on different days.

How is peeling different from scrub?

Peeling acts deeper and cleanses the skin without mechanical trauma. Compared to a scrub, peeling does not have abrasive particles and most often acts due to the acids in the composition (AHA, BHA, PHA). Peels are no more difficult to use than scrubs: after application, you need to wait the specified time and rinse off the product.

However, for those who are just starting to use peelings, it can be difficult to choose a product with the required concentration of acids. This may cause a slight burn. Scrubs seem more familiar in this regard. The products act in a similar way: they exfoliate, reduce inflammation, reduce the amount of sebum, and even out skin texture.

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The Best Inexpensive Face Scrubs

Mass-market facial scrubs are low-cost and have a moderate exfoliating effect. Manufacturers focused on the budget segment are not allowed by law to produce cosmetics that penetrate deeper than the stratum corneum.

Pure Line “Apricot kernels” – the most popular facial scrub

5

★★★★★

editorial assessment

96%

buyers recommend this product

See review▶

Pure Line “Apricot kernels” effectively exfoliates dead skin cells, improving complexion. Chamomile extract in the scrub provides a soothing and softening effect.

The formula is 66% natural and dermatologically tested to show 40% fewer dead skin cells in just one application. The scrub is sold in 50 ml laminate tubes with a screw cap.

The product has a thick consistency and is best applied to wet skin. To cleanse your face, 2-3 small peas are enough. The consumption is economical, especially considering that the product is not intended for daily use. After the procedure, it is easily washed off and does not leave a filmy feeling.

Pros:

• low price (90 rubles);
• sold in almost every store and supermarket;
• convenient packaging;
• evens out skin color;
• exfoliates well.

Minuses:

• sulfates in the composition;
• no protective membrane;
• coarsely grind the seeds.

Apricot kernels are large abrasives suitable for rough cleansing of the epidermis. When using the Clean Line scrub, those with sensitive skin may experience irritation or microdamage. It is recommended to use it no more than once every 2 weeks.

Black Pearl “BIO-program” – gentle facial cleansing

5

★★★★★

editorial assessment

95%

buyers recommend this product

Black Pearl BIO-program is an inexpensive scrub for gently cleansing facial skin. The urea and glycerin included in its composition moisturize, sunflower and camellia oils nourish the skin. Lecithin softens and tones it, panthenol relieves irritation, and vitamins C and B5 provide natural protection against adverse environmental influences.

Small abrasive components do not injure the skin and provide gentle polishing of the upper layers of the epidermis, resulting in an improved complexion. After the procedure, there is no greasy shine or filmy feeling on the face.

The scrub is sold in soft tubes of 80 ml. The screw cap and small volume make the scrub a convenient travel product. A narrow hole on the spout allows you to accurately dose the product and use it economically.

Pros:

• inexpensive (150 rubles for 80 ml);
• low consumption;
• convenient release form;
• does not cause irritation;
• effectively cleanses and moisturizes;
• Suitable for all skin types;
• pleasant aroma.

Minuses:

• parabens and other harmful components in the composition.

Many women use Black Pearl “BIO-program” not only for facial skin, but also effectively remove dead skin cells from their lips.

Organic Kitchen “Marshmallow” – softening scrub

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

86%

buyers recommend this product

See review▶

“Marshmallow” from Organic Shop is an exfoliating agent with small abrasive particles and a pronounced berry aroma. It contains crushed strawberry seeds and cane sugar. Raspberry juice, coconut oil and cranberry are responsible for softening and moisturizing the skin. The formula is not all natural, but there are no harmful or toxic components in it.

The consistency of the product resembles baby cream, to which small grains of sand have been added. This abrasive gives an excellent polishing effect without damaging delicate skin. The scrub is sold in 100 ml black plastic jars with a snap-on lid.

Pros:

• price (90 rubles per 100 ml);
• pleasant consistency;
• safe composition;
• cleanses and moisturizes;
• Suitable for sensitive skin.

Minuses:

• not everyone likes the packaging format;
• the smell is too strong.

Due to the inconvenient jar, Organic Shop scrub is not recommended to be taken with you on a trip or carried in a bag - the lid does not snap securely, and there is a possibility of spilling the product.

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comparison table

In order to compare the presented models, we suggest taking a look at their characteristics in the table below.

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The best middle market facial scrubs

The quality of middle-market cosmetics is much higher, and the price remains affordable for most customers. Plant extracts and other beneficial components are added to such scrubs in large quantities.

Manufacturers in this segment pay attention to the comfort of using the product: their compositions smell pleasant, are easy to apply and act quickly.

Yves Rocher Gommage a Mixer Scrub to Mix – natural scrub powder for gentle cleansing

5

★★★★★

editorial assessment

98%

buyers recommend this product

Yves Rocher scrub powder is designed for gentle facial cleansing. It consists of 100% natural ingredients: pumice, apricot kernels, cosmetic clay, sugar cane. Chamomile and Baikal skullcap extracts soothe the skin after cleansing, and calcium carbonate adds matteness.

Powder is added to a washing gel that is suitable for a specific skin type. This allows you to regulate the amount of abrasive particles and create your own scrub recipe each time. After the procedure, the complexion is evened out, the skin becomes soft and radiant.

The product is sold in transparent plastic bottles with a screw cap. This packaging allows you to easily dose the powder when pouring it into the gel.

Pros:

• Suitable for all skin types;
• gently cleanses dead cells;
• evens out complexion;
• natural composition;
• you can control the degree of cleaning;
• convenient packaging.

Minuses:

• price (610 rubles for 35 g);
• is not an independent tool.

Scrub powder is an abrasive additive for regular skin care cosmetics. However, the manufacturer himself insists on purchasing a special washing gel as a base, and this entails additional costs.

L'Oreal Paris “Sugar Facial Scrub” – for all skin types

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

86%

buyers recommend this product

See review▶

L'Oreal Paris Sugar Scrub is designed to cleanse the skin and reduce the number of blackheads. The formula is based on kiwi grains and 3 types of sugar: brown, yellow and white. They provide delicate removal of dead cells and promote regeneration of the upper layers of the epidermis.

The texture of the product resembles ground fruit puree with grains of sugar. Lemongrass and mint oils provide a calming effect and combat skin imperfections. An extract from coconut fruit creates an antibacterial barrier, and sucrose and glycerin retain moisture in the cells.

Very little product is needed for application, and the consumption is economical. During use, a warming effect is felt, but the scrub does not burn the skin or leave irritation. Its herbaceous-fruity aroma is pleasant and unobtrusive - reminiscent of kiwi with sourness and a hint of mint. The manufacturer promises clear matte skin and less noticeable blackheads after using the scrub for a week.

The scrub is sold in 50 ml glass jars with a screw cap that can be removed effortlessly even with wet fingers.

Pros:

• sold in all stores;
• sealed packaging;
• pleasant aroma;
• economical;
• effectively cleanses and mattifies the skin;
• reduces blackheads.

Minuses:

• expensive - 650 rubles per jar;
• small volume.

Many women note in reviews that the scrub is good not only for facial skin, but also for exfoliating lips.

Bourjois Radiance Activator – exfoliation and nourishment

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

83%

buyers recommend this product

Bourjois Radiance Activator is a popular facial care product that combines the properties of a polishing scrub and a nourishing mask. The abrasive particles here are small and there are very few of them. Women in reviews write that with regular use of the product, the face looks fresher.

The citrus-peach aroma of the scrub is pleasant, but unobtrusive. It is sold in convenient 75 ml tubes with a flip-top cap. The narrow opening on the spout allows you to accurately measure the required amount of product.

Pros:

• convenient packaging;
• pleasant aroma;
• improves complexion;
• sold in all stores;
• cleanses and nourishes the skin.

Minuses:

• not suitable for deep cleansing.

Users note that the product should be applied for 10-15 minutes, and not washed off immediately, like a regular scrub. This way the effect of the “Activator” will be more noticeable.

A few words about the structure of our skin

This may seem surprising and even a little strange, but the fact remains that the largest and heaviest organ of the human body is the skin. Its total weight can reach 10 kg!

The skin performs many important functions:

• Protects against mechanical damage, dehydration, harmful ultraviolet radiation, and penetration of pathogenic microorganisms.
• Ensures maintenance of normal body temperature.
• With sweat, harmful substances are removed through the pores, which helps cleanse and heal the body.
• The process of gas exchange occurs through the skin: carbon dioxide is released and oxygen is absorbed.
• The skin contains a huge number of nerve endings.
• Under the influence of sunlight, up to 80% of vitamin D is synthesized in the skin.

The skin consists of three layers: epidermis, dermis and hypodermis, or subcutaneous fat.

The topmost layer has water-repellent properties and gives the skin a certain shade, but its main task is to protect and generate new cells. Every day, about half a billion “newborn” cells emerge from the lower layers of the epidermis, which replace dying old ones. If the process slows down for one reason or another, then the horny scales do not peel off, but remain on the skin, making its surface uneven and its color gray and dull. Fortunately, we have the power to “spur” cell renewal and improve the appearance of our face. It is to speed up the replacement of old cells with new ones that the heroes of our today’s article - scrubs - were invented.

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The best luxury facial scrubs

Premium segment cosmetics are characterized by a high concentration of active substances. These face scrubs are made from high quality natural ingredients. They are safe and suitable for people with allergic skin.

Shiseido IBUKI Purifying Cleanser Nettoyant Purifiant – cleansing foam scrub

5

★★★★★

editorial assessment

100%

buyers recommend this product

A foaming facial scrub cleanses the skin with natural abrasive ingredients, normalizes the functioning of the sebaceous glands and does not cause dryness. After the procedure, women note softness and smoothness of the skin, a feeling of cleanliness. With regular use, pores become smaller and the skin remains matte for a long time without feeling tight.

The foaming texture of the product is pleasant and penetrates deep into the epidermis. Thanks to this, the effect of its use lasts for several days. For application you need a pea of ​​product - this is enough to whip up a fluffy foam. The foam is sold in 125 ml laminate tubes with a hinged lid.

Pros:

• can be purchased at most stores;
• convenient packaging;
• low consumption;
• does not cause allergies;
• gets rid of blackheads.

Minuses:

• expensive - almost 3 thousand rubles.

For maximum effect, the manufacturer recommends using a complex of products from the IBUKI line. It was developed specifically for women aged 25 to 30 to maintain youthful skin and protect it from adverse environmental influences.

Clarins Doux Peeling – soft peeling cream

5

★★★★★

editorial assessment

98%

buyers recommend this product

Clarins Doux Peeling is a gentle peeling based on natural clay, but there are no abrasive particles. Thanks to this, the cream is suitable for even the most sensitive skin and maintains an optimal pH level.

Primrose extract smoothes and soothes the epidermis. After the first use, women notice soft, glowing skin without blackheads. The effect of cleansing with Doux Peeling is not inferior to the results of salon procedures. After it, the skin breathes and a feeling of freshness appears.

The product is recommended for use no more than 1-2 times a week. For effective cleansing, a thin layer of cream is enough. The soft tube allows you to accurately dose the scrub and squeeze out the remaining residue to the last drop.

Pros:

• removes blackheads;
• cleanses and moisturizes the dermis;
• comfortable soft tube;
• suitable for sensitive skin;
• low consumption.

Minuses:

• the cost is more than 2 thousand for 50 ml.

Many customers note that the cleansing procedure itself with Clarins Doux Peeling is quite complicated, and you need to have enough time for the product to roll off on the skin. But the effect is worth it.

Clinique Exfoliating Scrub – a refreshing scrub for oily skin

5

★★★★★

editorial assessment

93%

buyers recommend this product

Clinique Exfoliating Scrub is a scrub for combination and oily skin. Its formula stimulates blood circulation, smoothes the epidermis, restoring its healthy glow. Menthol gives a feeling of coolness and freshness.

Deep cleansing leaves skin lighter and brighter. The abrasive particles in the composition have a round shape, due to which they massage but do not injure the face. The fragrance-free composition is suitable for women prone to allergies.

The product is made on a water basis, due to which it is washed off well, without leaving a sticky film or greasy shine on the face. The scrub is sold in soft laminate tubes of 100 ml with a hinged lid.

The tube can be opened without any problems even with wet hands - a special recess prevents your fingers from slipping off the lid.

Pros:

• cleanses and refreshes the skin;
• improves complexion;
• easy to wash off;
• hypoallergenic formula;
• economical;
• Suitable for skin prone to allergies or irritation.

Minuses:

• the price is about 2.5 thousand per tube.

Clinique Exfoliating Scrub is designed as the first step in a 3-step facial care system. This is a real must have for those with oily skin who want to solve the problem of unaesthetic shine.

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Contraindications, precautions

Even the most gentle facial scrub can be harmful if you do not follow the rules for using this product:

• you cannot scrub your skin every day - this leads to irritation and loss of moisture;
• The optimal interval for using the scrub is once every 3-4 days;
• It is permissible to scrub the area around the eyes, but choose soft formulations and protect your eyes from contact with cosmetics;
• Do not keep the product on your skin for longer than the time indicated on the package - this will cause irritation.

Important! Usually the product is kept on the face for no more than 5 minutes, massaging thoroughly. Wash it off with warm water with gentle movements without stretching the skin.

The best professional facial scrubs

Salon cosmetics have a maximum concentration of active substances and have a pronounced effect after the first application. These scrubs deeply but gently cleanse the skin. Only professional craftsmen who have been trained in working with a particular drug can work with them.

Biotherm Biosource – for daily use

5

★★★★★

editorial assessment

98%

buyers recommend this product

Biotherm Biosource contains small polyethylene particles that are responsible for exfoliating dead cells. They are barely visible, but when lathered, they are clearly felt on the skin.

When using the product, it is recommended to first foam it a little in your hands and then apply it to your face - this way it is spent more economically. The scrub is washed off very easily, leaving behind only a feeling of cleanliness.

The consistency of the gel is quite liquid, which makes it easy to squeeze out and dose. The aroma is unobtrusive and fresh, reminiscent of a sea breeze.

Pros:

• fresh aroma;
• gently exfoliates without damaging delicate skin;
• natural composition;
• economical consumption.

Minuses:

• expensive - about 1800 rubles for 150 ml;
• no moisturizing effect.

Biotherm Biosource is intended for exfoliation and deep cleansing only, after which the skin must be moisturized.

Payot with cranberry extract – cream-scrub to improve complexion

5

★★★★★

editorial assessment

95%

buyers recommend this product

Payot cream scrub contains extracts of cranberry, malachite, pineapple, and smithsonite. They cleanse and tone the skin, remove toxins, and stimulate natural cell regeneration. The product has a cooling effect, soothes and refreshes the face.

The small abrasive granules have a rounded shape, making cleaning extremely delicate. After the procedure, women do not notice any redness or irritation.

The consistency of the product is thick, but it seems to melt on the skin and spreads easily. Almost everyone likes the fruity aroma with a hint of sourness. The scrub is very economical - a pea of ​​cream is enough for washing.

Pros:

• tones and removes toxins from the upper layers of the skin;
• delicately cleanses;
• has a cooling effect;
• suitable for sensitive dermis;
• low consumption.

Minuses:

• not suitable for deep cleansing;
• price 2000 rubles.

Payot cream scrub does not provide the effect of intense exfoliation and deep cleansing of the skin. It is aimed at delicate polishing of sensitive skin. The composition evens out the texture of the epidermis, gives the face smoothness and a healthy color.

Academie Acad'aromes Express Scrub – express scrub

5

★★★★★

editorial assessment

90%

buyers recommend this product

Academie Acad'aromes Express Scrub is suitable for frequent facial cleansing and is aimed at gently exfoliating dead skin cells. The scrub is interesting for its texture without pronounced abrasive particles.

In the tube it looks like a thick paste, but when squeezed out it becomes like a cream. When applied to the face there is a feeling of being covered with powder. Scrubbing particles are represented by wood fibers, which gently cleanse but do not injure the skin. The product spreads easily and does not dry out on the face.

The effect is noticeable after the first use: the skin becomes fresh, pores are brightened and narrowed. Users note that the scrub literally polishes the face, making the skin smooth and even to the touch.

The cleansing procedure is complemented by an aromatherapy session, as Academie Acad'aromes Express Scrub contains essential oils of lavender, thyme, rosemary, cypress and geranium. Horsetail and beet extracts nourish the skin and improve complexion, and glycerin moisturizes.

The concentration of active plant components exceeds 25%, but the scrub does not cause irritation or allergies.

Pros:

• pleasant aroma;
• cleanses and moisturizes;
• suitable for any skin type;
• does not cause allergies;
• gives the face smoothness and healthy color;
• high concentration of active substances.

Minuses:

• difficult to find on sale;
• price 3500 rubles for 75 ml.

Academie Acad'aromes Express Scrub is a delicate scrub that is suitable for frequent facial cleansing. The only thing that stops many women from buying it is the prohibitive cost.

Purpose and principle of operation

The word “Scrub” came into our speech from the English word “to scrub”, which translated into Russian means “cleansing”. This cosmetic product allows you to remove dead cells of the stratum corneum. Its structure can be a cream or gel with abrasives.

They can help remove dead epithelium, remove remnants of cosmetics, and cleanse the face of blackheads. Regular use of the product allows you to renew epidermal cells and creates a rejuvenating effect.

The best cosmeceutical facial scrubs

Pharmacy cosmetics include medicinal substances and are intended for people with severe skin problems. It is recommended to use it only after consultation with a dermatologist.

La Roche-Posay “Physiological soft scrub” – for sensitive skin

5

★★★★★

editorial assessment

97%

buyers recommend this product

La Roche-Posay is a soft scrub that traditionally uses thermal water. The formula has a physiological pH level, so it does not leave behind a feeling of tight or dry skin.

The product has a jelly-like texture of a translucent color. It is filled with a large number of very small abrasives that are not visible to the eye, but are clearly felt on the skin. Due to this, cleansing occurs more thoroughly and at the same time carefully.

After using the scrub, the skin becomes smooth, velvety, and the untidy oily sheen goes away. The formula has been dermatologically tested and is recommended for people prone to skin irritations or allergies. The aroma of the product is reminiscent of expensive perfume. The scrub is easily washed off without leaving a film.

Pros:

• sold in most pharmacies;
• safe hypoallergenic composition;
• pleasant aroma;
• effective cleansing.

Minuses:

• expensive (1250 rubles for 50 ml);
• volume too small.

La Roche-Posay Soft Scrub is an ideal choice for women with sensitive or allergenic skin.

Rating of popular brands

AuthorVoting

• 1 Erborian is a Korean-French manufacturer of care and decorative cosmetics that creates technologically advanced products. The textures of their products are weightless but effective. They contain such traditional Korean plants as yuzu and ginseng. This brand is appreciated by self-care lovers not only in Korea, but also in Europe, because their products are suitable for everyone.
• 2 Clinique, a professional dermatology brand created in 1968, is still one of the most popular. The brand's products do not contain fragrances, which often cause allergies. The brand has created a successful three-step skin care system based on skin type and condition. On the market you can find foundations, mascaras, and lip products from Clinique, which are also hypoallergenic.
• 3 L'Oreal Paris is a French company founded in 1909, now one of the leaders in the cosmetics market. L'Oreal produces a wide variety of cosmetics: from hair dyes to creams with a lifting effect. Their products are mainly included in the middle price segment and are distinguished by their availability in any city in the world.
• 4 Himalaya Herbals is an Indian brand that emerged as a result of its creator’s passion for the ancient teachings of Ayurveda. Some of the medicinal plants that the brand uses are on the verge of extinction and are therefore grown on the company’s own farms. The brand treats its products responsibly, observing the international GMP standard.
• 5 Dr. Konopka's is a Russian brand with Estonian history. The founders were inspired by the recipes for cosmetics from the Tallinn pharmacist of the last century, Dr. Konopka. He successfully used plant extracts in a healing balm (consisting of 48 beneficial herbs), homemade soaps and hair products. Now the brand produces cosmetics according to Dr. Konopka’s recipes, but using modern technologies.

Also trustworthy: Etude House, The Skin House, Mi&Ko, Planeta Organica, Natura Siberica, Mirra, Sativa, La Roche-Posay, Uriage.

Top 4. ECO Laboratorie Coffee & chocolate, 40 g

Rating (2021): 4.59

48 reviews from resources were taken into account: Yandex.Market, Wildberries, IRecommend, Otzovik

The best scrub without preservatives on a natural basis. The product contains no chemical components. There is only coffee, oils and cane sugar.

• Characteristics

  Country Russia

• Average price: 206 rub.
• Active ingredients: vitamin E, ground coffee, avocado oil, cocoa extract, hazelnut oil
• Cleansing: deep
• Skin type: combination, normal

A product with 100% natural ingredients. The scrub contains cane sugar, real ground coffee and cocoa. And all this is seasoned with nourishing oils that soften the skin. The product is used to combat blackheads on the face, dryness and flaking, as well as the appearance of cellulite on the body. Judging by the responses from satisfied users, it has the best cleansing properties, evens out the tone, and nourishes the epidermis. But using the scrub is not very convenient: it comes in a zip bag in the form of a dry powder that needs to be diluted with water. Therefore, the consumption here is quite large. In addition, after washing, coffee particles remain on the walls of the sink/bathtub. Another drawback is that the scrub granules are quite large. Therefore, it cannot be used on thin and sensitive epidermis: microdamages are possible.

Advantages and disadvantages

• High-quality composition
• Cleanses and nourishes well
• Unscented coffee aroma
• Leaves skin smooth

• Inconvenient packaging
• Stains the sink/bathtub
• Damages delicate skin