15 Best Face Scrubs for Radiant Skin: Tested by Experts

People often encounter many products when delving into the world of skincare. Face scrubs are particularly significant in maintaining healthier and more radiant skin. With multiple brands launching their diverse scrub collections every year, finding the perfect product might appear challenging yet exciting.

A face scrub typically acts as an exfoliating agent, enhancing overall facial outlook by removing dead cells from the surface of your skin. Packed with tiny particles or granules that gently massage and clean pores, they target impediments like excess oil secretion and blackheads, among other common concerns, to achieve a clearer complexion.

In fact, according to the Journal of American Academy Dermatology (JAAD), nearly 31% of individuals between ages 20 and 40 incorporate some form of exfoliation, such as using a scrub, into daily skincare routines, believing it imparts a slightly polished glow while encouraging a faster cell turnover rate, enabling fresher layers beneath to emerge rapidly.

However, it's crucial not to select any available option but rather invest in the right one tailored to an individual's specific requirements. What works wonders on someone else's skin might not give identical results when applied elsewhere, primarily due to differences within each person's epidermal qualities.

Thus, picking ideal versions amongst numerous reminiscent ones is pivotal; hence, here are fifteen top-rated expert-tested options guaranteed to turn heads around, beaming lustrously delightfully gorgeous faces without burning holes in pockets.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall: Neutrogena Refreshingly Clear Daily Exfoliator

Also Great: Himalaya Gentle Exfoliating Daily Face Wash

Best Multi-Action: Clearasil 5-in-1 Multi-Action Exfoliating Face Scrub

Best For Men: L'Oreal Men Expert Hydra Energetic Exfoliating Face Scrub

Best For Sensitive Skin: Mary Kay Exfoliating Scrub

Best Value: Acure Brightening Facial Scrub

Also Great For Men: Gentle Face Scrub

Best For Acne Prone Skin: SkinMedica's AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser

Best Drugstore: St. Ives Fresh Skin Scrub Apricot

Best For Oily Skin: Origins Ginzing Refreshing Scrub Cleanser

Neutrogena Refreshingly Clear Daily Exfoliator

Price & availability: £5.29 (purchase Neutrogena Refreshingly Clear Daily Exfoliator)

Item form: Cream

Skin type: All

Finish type: Natural glow after use

Material information: Tube

User rating according to customer reviews: 5 / 5

Why we chose it: The Neutrogena Refreshingly Clear Daily Exfoliator, a 150ml skincare innovation by the trusted company Neutrogena, offers gentle solutions for all skin types. Filled with Vitamin C-rich pink grapefruit and microbeads, this product subtly removes dead cells while brightening your skin and reducing discoloration. It includes salicylic acid to counter breakouts by dissolving excess oil in pores - an excellent feature for oily or acne-prone skin. The non-comedogenic design promises no pore-clogging issues, making it suitable for various sensitive or non-sensitive skins because of its complete oil-free formula. Its travel-friendly packaging allows you to maintain regular skincare on-the-go effortlessly. For best results after wetting the face, apply the exfoliator gently, then rinse thoroughly using the pat drying technique; when used alongside other products within the same range, it delivers an optimal cleansing experience.

Pros	Cons
Suitable for all skin types, including those prone to sensitivity. Oil-free and Non-comedogenic properties prevent breakouts. Pink Grapefruit ingredient provides brightness due to decreasing dark spot appearances. The micro-bead feature gently cleanses without causing abrasion. Enriched with Salicylic acid, combating acne effectively.	The scent of Pink Grapefruit might not appeal to all users. Regular use of the product is required for visible results.

Himalaya Gentle Exfoliating Daily Face Wash

Price & Availability: £3.81 (buy Himalaya Gentle Exfoliating Daily Face Wash)

Item Form: Cream

Skin Type: All

Finish Type: Natural

Material Information: Tube

User Rating:5/5 (based on 104 customer reviews)

Why we choose it: Himalaya Gentle Exfoliating Daily Face Wash is the key to unlocking radiant and healthy skin. This specially formulated face wash offers cleansing and gentle exfoliation for a fresh, rejuvenating experience daily.

Key Ingredients such as Apricot granules provide mild yet effective scrubbing of dead cells, ushering in new cell growth while preventing blackhead formation. Neem and Lemon work harmoniously to remove excess oils deep within your pores, resulting in cleaner skin devoid of clogged pore issues. Aloe vera soothes any potential redness or irritation while maintaining optimal hydration levels and is friendly to all skin types.

Careful dermatological testing ensures that this powerful formula remains kind even to sensitive skins without sacrificing its effectiveness at giving you just-cleaned freshness each day along with natural radiance worthy of notice. It is the perfect addition for those desiring healthier-looking complexions.

Pros	Cons
Dermatologically tested; proven safe for all kinds of skin. Effective deep-cleansing action courtesy of Neem and lemon ingredients. Mild but efficient scrubbing, thanks to apricot kernels, prevents over-exfoliation Moisturising properties due to Aloe Vera ingredient\prevents dryness Affordable price points are beneficial for users looking at cost-effective skincare solutions.	Concentrated formulas might need water dilution before use, which some people find inconvenient.

Clearasil 5-in-1 Multi-Action Exfoliating Face Scrub

Price & Availability: £5.99 (buy Clearasil 5-in-1 Multi-Action Exfoliating Face Scrub)

Item form: Cream

Skin type: All

Finish type: Natural

Material Information - Tube

User rating based on customer reviews – 4.9/5

 

Why we chose it: The Clearasil 5-in-1 Multi-Action Exfoliating Face Scrub is an innovative skincare solution designed to address all your skin needs. It actively works on five significant skin concerns: unclogging pores, reducing oiliness and shine for a well-balanced complexion, and smoothly exfoliating dead cells, leading to natural cell renewal.

Each application is enriched with acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid, which penetrates deep into the pores, clearing the root causes of breakouts. Soothing elements calm any irritation. The non-comedogenic scrub ensures effective yet gentle cleansing without stripping away essential moisture,, leaving a fresh feeling afterafter every rinse.

Suitable for hormonal or stress-related breakout scenarios, it guarantees a visibly clearer glow, ensuring radiant, flawless, smooth skin isn't just a dream anymore.

Pros	Cons
Powerful multi-action scrub catering comprehensive skincare in a single tube Gently buffs away dead cells, sharpening facial textures and promoting cell renewal Enriched blend combats acne triggers, ensuring a breakout-free complexion	Not recommended for extra sensitive skin due to harsh chemicals present like Salicylic acid A few users reported post-scrub dryness

L'Oreal Men Expert Hydra Energetic Exfoliating Face Scrub

Price & Availability: £5.99 (Buy L'Oreal Men Expert Hydra Energetic Exfoliating Face Scrub)

Item Form: Cream

Skin Type: All

Finish type: Natural

Material Information: Tube of 100ml

User Rating: 4.9/5

Why we chose it: L'Oreal Men Expert Hydra Energetic Exfoliating Face Scrub is the skincare essential aimed at addressing men's specific needs, ensuring they always put their best face forward. This potent formulation with dual-action scrubbing agents deeply cleanses pores and removes dead skin cells for an energised complexion that projects a youthful glow. Infused with Vitamin C and exfoliating beads, it fights off dullness while enhancing natural vitality irrespective of daily stressors encountered during work or post-workout sessions. Lightweight, non-greasy, and subtly fragrant - this product appeals to diverse skin types, while its conveniently sized tube perfectly suits the modern man's travel-friendly lifestyle. Elevate your skincare routine by embracing L'Oreal Men Expert Hydra Energetic Exfoliating Face Scrub for daily vivacious radiance.

Pros	Cons
The deep-cleansing formula ensures comprehensive pore unclogging. Dual-action agents eliminate dead cells, imparting a radiant glow. Infused with Vitamin C, it fights dullness, promoting natural skin vigor. Lightweight and non-greasy, suitable for all skin types Sized perfectly to accommodate travel or gym bags.	The scent might be strong for some users. Consistent use is needed to see clear results.

Mary Kay Exfoliating Scrub

Price & availability: £15.67 (buy Mary Kay Exfoliating Scrub)

Item form: Cream

Skin type: All

Finish type: Smooth and polished skin

Material information: Tube

User rating: 5/5

Why we chose it: The gentleness of this exceptional Mary Kay scrub, Mary Kay Exfoliating Scrub, imbued with a pearlescent sheen, offers an incredible exfoliation experience. It polishes away lifeless skin cells whilst unclogging pores in preparation for the next step in one's beauty routine. It is Ideal to use bi-daily or thrice weekly, ensuring that the skin does not feel drained or dried after application. Expect to see nourished looks and a super soft feeling upon regular use.

Women have praised Mary Kay's exfoliator—according to independent third-party consumer studies, an impressive 92% testify that their skin feels incredibly supple after use.

Pros	Cons
Buffs dead skin cells proficiently. Unclogs pores, effectively making them appear smaller. It preps the complexion perfectly before the application of further skincare products.	It has a higher price point when compared to drugstore brands but is well worth considering its effectiveness.

Acure Brightening Facial Scrub

Price & Availability: £9.23 (buy Acure Brightening Facial Scrub)

Item form: Cream

Skin type: All

Finish type: Natural

Material information: Tube

User rating: 4.6/5

Why we chose it: The Acure Brightening Facial Scrub is a marvel of skincare that breathes life into dull skin with its robust blend of natural ingredients and nutrients drawn from sea kelp and French green clay. The uniqueness lies in lemon peel's cleansing power, which collaborates excellently with the purity expelled by French green clay to exfoliate dead cells, providing a fresh, radiant complexion after every use.

Moreover, Madonna lily makes an entry as the remarkable ingredient with brightness enhancement properties, giving your face the glow it deserves! An ideal skincare routine includes using this product three times weekly on wet skin following gentle fingertip application before rinsing thoroughly for softened glowing skin results. This versatile cream is made suitable for all types of skin, lending equal advantages across complexions while posing zero harm thanks to being formulated without Parabens, Sulphates, Mineral oil, etcetera - only vegan-friendly components making up what become a certified cruelty-free must-have skincare product.

The size available is handily packaged within a 4 fl Oz tube; although packaging appears slightly diverse depending upon purchase, it ensures identical content inside each pack.

Pros	Cons
Brings out radiance in any skin type. Removes impurities effectively through Sea kelp super-nutrients. Softens skin texture, boosting overall appearance. Vegan-friendly formulation boasts safety during usage.	Fragrance might not appeal universally due to its unique combination. It might cause an initial tingling sensation or redness on sensitive skin post usage, albeit rarely witnessed cases amongst users, but still noteworthy.

Gentle Face Scrub

Price & Availability: £13.32 (buy Gentle Face Scrub)

Item Form: Cream

Skin Type: All

Material Information: Tube

User Rating: 5/5

Why we chose it: The Gentle Face Scrub, with its natural origin ingredients accounting for a staggering 99%, renews and revitalises the skin in an eco-friendly fashion. Each use of this innovative product eradicates impurities while unclogging pores to unleash fresh, vibrant skin beneath.

This unscented vegan formula is made in France but has universal appeal. It's touted as silicone-free, paraben-free, and mineral oil-free, making it suitable regardless of one's skin type. For optimal results, apply once or twice weekly to a damp face and neck.

Pros	Cons
Packed with natural ingredients. Vegan-friendly formulation. Suitable universally across all skin types. Free from harmful elements like silicones, parabens, and mineral oils	Slightly pricier than other options on the market.

SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser

Price & Availability: £37.62 (Buy SkinMedica's AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser)

Item Form: Cream

Skin Type: All

Material Information: Tube

User Rating 4.8/5

Why we choose it: Experience a radiant and refreshed complexion with the help of SkinMedica's AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser. This powerful mix utilises alpha and beta hydroxy acids to expel dead skin cells, while jojoba spheres gently exfoliate, minimising irritation. Meanwhile, lavender soothes inflammation, while citrus oils provide a mild astringent effect that minimises large pores.

Key Ingredients present are Lactic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Citric Acid, Malic Acid derived from Sugar Cane extract, and Salicylic acid,, which is responsible for the gentle yet effective exfoliation process,. Jojoba oil provides softness without causing any harm or disturbance to all types of skin.

Benefits include an improved appearance in terms of texture and tone while thoroughly cleansing, leaving behind an appealing smoothness, and ensuring that this product alone appropriately caters to every morphological aspect related to one's face.

Pros	Cons
Gentle exfoliation action using natural ingredients. Suitable for all types of skins. It improves visual aspects like texture and tone and gives a smoother touch.	A higher-end price range might not be suitable for everyone, budget-wise. Due to individualistic preferences, the strong aroma from essential oils might not appeal to different olfactory senses.

St. Ives Fresh Skin Scrub Apricot

Price & Availability: £9.40 (purchase St. Ives Fresh Skin Scrub Apricot)

Item form: Cream

Skin type: All

Finish Type: Refreshing

Material Information: Tube

User Rating 4.6/5

Why we chose it:  St. Ives Fresh Skin Scrub Apricot is an oil-free facial treatment that deeply cleans pores and helps stop breakouts before they occur. Packed with a hearty dose of apricots, this scrub completely rids the skin surface of grime and impurities while leaving it feeling velvety soft and looking incredibly radiant.

The power-packed list of ingredients includes cornmeal sourced from France, which provides gentle yet effective exfoliation to sweep away dead cells. Glycerin ensures hydration isn't compromised, thus delivering freshness without drying out your skin.

The St.Ives Fresh Skin Scrub Apricot boasts many benefits that contribute to the radiance and healthiness of your skin. Firstly, it offers exceptional cleansing properties that effectively remove dirt, oil, or makeup residues lodged deep within the pores. Secondly, with Corn Kernel Meal as an active ingredient - a powerful yet tender component providing natural exfoliation properties - this scrub is adept at leaving your complexion smooth and refreshed. Thirdly, its non-drying formula maintains an optimal moisture balance for a visibly healthy-looking complexion without causing any dryness or flakiness often experienced post-exfoliating treatments. Lastly but importantly, its hypoallergenic nature makes it suitable even for sensitive skin types, offering gentle yet thorough cleansing.

Pros	Cons
Natural Ingredients Derived Exfoliants Non-Drying Formula Gentle Enough For Daily Use Affordable Price Point For Various Types, Including Normal To Oily	Not suitable for highly sensitive skin prone to redness Some might find apricot kernel granules slightly abrasive It might not be compatible with extremely dry, flaky patches

Origins Ginzing Refreshing Scrub Cleanser

Price & availability: £19.59 (buy Origins Ginzing Refreshing Scrub Cleanser)

Item form: Gel

Skin type: Suitable for all skin types

Finish type: Natural and Radiant

Material information: Tube packaging.

User rating: 4.4 /5

Why we choose it: The Origins Ginzing Refreshing Scrub Cleanser is a dual-function face wash and exfoliator, leaving the skin radiant and thoroughly clean without stripping natural oils. Formulated with radiance-boosting ingredients like Panax ginseng and caffeine, it gently unclogs pores using jojoba and carnauba wax to prevent future breakouts. The product also features a stimulating blend of grapefruit, lemon, and spearmint essential oils for a refreshing sensory experience. This vegetarian-friendly formula is free from parabens or phthalates, making it ideal for those mindful of personal health safety alongside environmental ethics.

Pros	Cons
Vegetarian formulation - assures users against potential harm from animal-derived ingredients. Key Ingredients include Panax Ginseng & Caffeine boosting radiance. No Paraben/ Phthalate/SLS usage – lowers toxic exposure risk significantly. It contains a refreshing essential oil blend that adds sensorial pleasure to each application.	Limited suitability across diverse groups, specifically targeting needs like anti-aging, etc., Pricey relative to other brands, given volume size, The absence of Pump dispenser risks hygiene factors, The lack of a fragrance-free version might deter sensitive skins due to the presence of potent citrus Essential Oils

Mineral Glow Face Scrub

Price & availability: £8.62 (buy Mineral Glow Face Scrub)

Item form: Cream

Skin type: All

Finish type: Natural

Material information: Tube package

User rating: 4/5

Why we choose it: Dive into a divine skincare experience with the Aroma Magic Mineral Glow Face Scrub, expertly crafted to gently exfoliate and reveal naturally radiant skin underneath the surface. Harnessing the power of nature's finest extracts and minerals in its formulation, it caters to an eco-conscious demographic committed to healthy skin and environmental well-being.

As a paraben-free product, it ensures no unwanted additives contact your precious visage while leaving behind supple, nourished skin that remains hydrated for longer periods. Not merely content as a face scrubber but elevating itself into another category altogether, this magnificent blend provides users with an almost spa-like ambiance within their homely confines.

Pros	Cons
Gentle yet efficient exfoliation. Formulated using natural ingredients, minimising potential irritation. Paraben-Free Formula promoting healthier skin care practice. Provides thorough hydration owing to its unique nourishing blend.	The price might be slightly high considering the quantity per tube. It lacks features in comparable premium scrubs, like anti-aging components or SPF protection, which competitors offer elsewhere.

Clarins Fresh Scrub

Price & Availability: £25.08 (buy Clarins Fresh Scrub)

Item form: Cream

Skin type: All

Finish type: Natural

Material Information: Tube

User rating: 4.7/5

Why we choose it: The Clarins Fresh Scrub is a fusion of Organic Leaf of Life extract and wood cellulose microbeads that are friendly to the environment and offer exemplary results by hydrating skin intensely while gently sweeping away dead cells with its tender exfoliating power. This product caters to all individuals, regardless of their skin type or daily routine preferences, whether in the mornings or evenings.

Pros	Cons
Gently exfoliates Leaves complexion looking radiant Eco-friendly ingredients	The texture might not sit well on sensitive skins Not recommended for those sensitive to fragrance

APIVITA Express Beauty Face Scrub Olive for Deep Exfoliation

Price & availability: £22.73 (buy APIVITA Express Beauty Face Scrub Olive)

Item form: Cream

Skin type: All

Finish Type: Natural, Radiant

Material Information: Tube

User rating: 4.8/5

Why we chose it: APIVITA Express Beauty Face Scrub Olive with olive is a natural and high-performing skincare product that grants the user deep exfoliation, offering radiance to the skin surface as never experienced before! Enriched with 98% nature-derived ingredients- this facial scrub revitalises your complexion by removing impurities and dead skin cells while giving it an instant glow in under ten minutes.

Expertly designed for every individual regardless of their skin type, individuals are advised to apply an ample layer on clean facial areas, avoiding sensitive regions like eyes, and let it absorb all those beneficial qualities into their pores for around ten minutes, after which users wipe off the surplus mask using a moisture-laden cotton pad followed by rinsing off well with water. Incorporate such regimen one or twice weekly, strictly limiting its external usage.

Pros	Cons
Contains 98% natural - an ideal choice among conscious consumers. Offers rich hydration promoting supple radiant-looking kin. Non-drying formula, making it suitable for various skin types. Removes dullness, revealing naturally beautiful glowing skin beneath.	Eye contact during application must be avoided due to potential irritation risk; hence, careful use is required. It might require frequent rinsing after application to ensure no residual content is left behind, which could potentially cause blockage issues later on.

Reshma Beauty Kale Scrub

Price & availability: £5.68 (Buy Reshma Beauty Kale Scrub)

Item form: Cream

Skin type: All

Finish type: Matifying

Material information: Tube

User rating: 4.4 / 5

Why we chose it: Subtly exfoliating and deeply nourishing,Reshma Beauty Kale Scrub is designed for all skin types. This product uses the moisturising properties of kale to aid in hydrating the skin, potentially leading to a more supple complexion over time,. Its cleansing attributes are known to effectively purify the epidermis.

Kale, nature's leafy green powerhouse, is abundant in nutrients, so this face scrub provides nourishment, resulting in revitalised and rejuvenated appearances over time; glow enhancement is one notable outcome when used regularly.

It'sIts fine granules gently slough off excess dead cells from facial surfaces, promoting smoother texture overall. This indirectly encourages a youthful-looking appearance because it supports optimal cutaneous health.

Pros	Cons
Efficient hydration support Potent nutrient infusion guarantees vitalization. Gentle Exfoliation suitably promotes smooth skin texture.	It might not be suitable for extremely sensitive skins without preliminary testing It is not specifically formulated for certain problems like acne or dark spots.

DERMA E Microdermabrasion Scrub with Dead Sea Salt & Citrus Essential Oils

Price & availability: £15.63 (purchase DERMA E Microdermabrasion Scrub)

Item form: Cream

Skin type: All

Material information: Jar

User rating: 4.6/5

Why we chose it: Experience the sensation of spa-quality skincare in the comfort of your home with DERMA E Microdermabrasion Scrub. This powerhouse blend meticulously eliminates dead skin cells to revitalise uneven, ageing skin. A delicious fusion of Dead Sea salt smooths wrinkles while dislodging dull surface dermis, leaving behind a refreshed appearance. Immerse yourself in invigorating citrus oil extracts, which soften for a glowing complexion.

An earthy concoction enriched by Kaolin clay effectively purges impurities from pores and sops up excess oils on your face without stripping away natural moisture—rewardingly revealing a healthy glow beneath it all! Sweet Almond, Grape Seed,, and Jojoba oil condition deeply into every pore during exfoliation, providing you with week-long rejuvenation after just two uses per week.

Compliments come naturally when using this entirely plant-based formula, which resonates with nature's best offerings. It is free from parabens, sulphates, or genetically modified organisms and packed full of recyclable packaging.

Pros

Cons

Spa quality micro-pestle effect gently sheds dead cells. Rejuvenate looks, giving youthful appearances when used twice weekly. A strategic cocktail of natural ingredients nourishes deep beneath the visible layers, promoting healthier-looking radiance. 100% vegan product offering eco-friendly, ethical, great skincare solutions with impunity from harmful chemicals or GMO products contained in other brands

It might not suit people allergic to any specific ingredient found among its all-natural components

Bottom Line

Facial scrubs play a crucial role in skin care, offering the benefits of deep cleansing and rejuvenation. When incorporated into regular skincare routines, they help to remove dead skin cells while unclogging pores - key to maintaining clear and healthy skin. The right scrub aids in boosting radiance by stimulating circulation and promoting cellular renewal. Scrubs with specific ingredients target diverse concerns like acne or dryness; customising them for individual needs makes it easier to achieve desired results. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the top-rated facial scrub?

The top-rated facial scrub varies depending on individual skin needs and preferences, but a popular choice among many users is the Neutrogena Refreshingly Clear Daily Exfoliator.

Which scrubs are best for the face?

Facial scrubs that receive high praise often include Clearasil 5-in-1 Multi-Action Exfoliating Face Scrub for its multi-action effects and L'Oreal Men Expert Hydra Energetic Exfoliating Face Scrub for men.

Do dermatologists recommend facial scrubs?

Dermatologists recommend using facial scrubs carefully, considering their physical nature, which can cause microtears if misused or overdone. They generally suggest products with gentler ingredients like jojoba beads rather than harsh ones such as apricot kernels.

What is the best natural face scrub?

For natural face scrub options, Acure Brightening Facial Scrub has gained popularity. Its vegan formulation, boasting sea kelp and French green clay, assures effective impurity removal while illuminating the complexion.