Omar Khalid
St. Ives Apricot Scrub is a popular exfoliating scrub that has been in the spotlight for its alleged skin benefits and drawbacks. While some users appreciate its ability to smooth out rough skin and provide a refreshing feel, others have raised concerns about its potential to cause skin damage, particularly in the form of micro-tears and skin irritation. The product's use of crushed walnut shells as the primary exfoliating ingredient has been a subject of controversy, with lawsuits claiming that it can lead to long-term skin damage. Additionally, there have been accusations of greenwashing, with doubts about the naturalness of its ingredients, including synthetic fragrances and potentially harmful chemicals. With varying experiences and opinions, the St. Ives Apricot Scrub remains a highly debated topic in the skincare world, prompting discussions about the safety and effectiveness of mechanical exfoliants.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic content | The product contains walnut shell powder, which some sources claim is plastic. However, there is no definitive evidence to support this claim. |
| Skin irritation | Some users have reported skin irritation, redness, and breakouts after using the product. |
| Micro-tears | The walnut shell powder in the scrub is alleged to create microscopic tears in the skin, exposing it to infections and irritation. However, there is no evidence to support this claim. |
| Noncomedogenic | The product claims to be noncomedogenic, meaning it doesn't clog pores. However, this claim has been disputed by some users. |
| Dermatologist tested | The product claims to be dermatologist tested, but some dermatologists say it is too harsh and abrasive for the skin. |
| Lawsuit | A class-action lawsuit was filed against the product in 2017, alleging long-term skin damage. The lawsuit was dismissed in 2018. |
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What You'll Learn
St. Ives Apricot Scrub contains crushed walnut shells
St. Ives Apricot Scrub is a popular exfoliating scrub that has been in the market for decades. It is a cult-favorite formula, with celebrity endorsements and a large fan following. However, it has also faced a lot of backlash and a lawsuit in 2017. The lawsuit claimed that the crushed walnut shells used in the scrub were causing damage to users' skin. The plaintiffs alleged that the crushed walnut powder creates microscopic tears in the skin, exposing it to infections and irritation. They also claimed that the label's assertion of being non-comedogenic (not clogging pores) was false.
St. Ives, owned by Unilever, denied these claims and stated that there was no proof that the Apricot Scrub was a safety hazard or defective. They argued that the product had been dermatologist-tested and approved. The lawsuit was dismissed by a U.S. District Court judge in December 2018.
The St. Ives Apricot Scrub contains crushed walnut shells, also listed as Juglans Regia (Walnut) Shell Powder in the ingredients, as its primary exfoliating ingredient. Walnut shell powder is a natural exfoliant that gives the skin a deep cleanse and removes impurities. The walnut shells are finely milled and polished to ensure they are safe for the skin.
The use of walnut shells in the scrub has been a topic of debate. Some people claim that the walnut shells are too harsh and have sharp edges that can cause microscopic tears in the skin, leading to long-term skin damage. Others argue that the walnut shells are effective exfoliators that leave their skin feeling fresh and clean. It is recommended to use the scrub 2-4 times a week for optimal results.
The St. Ives Apricot Scrub is a highly discussed product with a large fan base and detractors. While the lawsuit against the product was dismissed, it is essential to note that everyone's skin is different, and some people may find certain ingredients or products too harsh for their skin. It is always recommended to do a patch test and consult a dermatologist before using any new skincare product.
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The product has faced multiple lawsuits
The St. Ives Apricot Scrub has faced multiple lawsuits. In 2016, a lawsuit was filed against St. Ives, claiming that the crushed walnut shells used in its scrubs were damaging to the skin. The lawsuit was dismissed in 2018, but it resurfaced due to Kylie Jenner's new walnut face scrub.
In 2017, a $5 million class-action lawsuit was filed against Unilever, the company that manufactures St. Ives, by Kaylee Browning and Sarah Basile. The plaintiffs alleged that the scrub was too harsh and caused "micro-tears" in the skin, leading to acne, infection, and wrinkles. They also claimed that the product's label, which stated it was "'dermatologist tested' and "noncomedogenic," was misleading and incorrect.
Unilever responded to the lawsuit by stating that they stood by their dermatologist-tested formula and that there was no proof that the Apricot Scrub was a safety hazard or defective. A U.S. District Court judge agreed and dismissed the lawsuit, concluding that the plaintiffs failed to prove their claims.
The St. Ives Apricot Scrub has been a popular and cult-favorite product for many years, with some celebrities endorsing it. However, it has also faced backlash and negative reviews from consumers who have experienced inflammation, redness, and breakouts after using the product. While the lawsuits against St. Ives were dismissed, they sparked a debate about the potential risks of using exfoliating scrubs with harsh ingredients.
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Dermatologists say the product is too harsh for skin
St. Ives Apricot Scrub is a popular exfoliating scrub that uses crushed walnut shells to exfoliate. While it has been a cult favourite for years, dermatologists and estheticians have expressed concerns about its harsh effects on the skin.
The product's label recommends using it 3-4 times a week. However, some users have experienced adverse effects such as redness, dryness, and breakouts even when using the product as instructed. One user shared that their skin started peeling off like they had a sunburn after using the scrub twice. Another user noticed light redness and acne pimples after trying the product again in their 30s.
Dermatologists have weighed in on the concerns, stating that while exfoliating can help remove dead skin cells and improve skin appearance, it can cause more harm than good if done too frequently or with a method that is too abrasive. St. Ives Apricot Scrub falls into the latter category, with some dermatologists describing it as "like using sandpaper on your face". The scrub's walnut shell powder particles are smaller than average, resulting in stronger exfoliation that can lead to microscopic tears in the skin, exposing it to infections and irritation.
The lawsuit against St. Ives claimed that the product caused long-term skin damage and was unfit to be sold as a facial scrub. While the lawsuit was dismissed, and St. Ives maintains that their formula is dermatologist-tested, some dermatologists disagree. They advise that physical exfoliants, especially walnut and apricot scrubs, should be avoided by those with sensitive skin or inflammatory skin conditions. Instead, they recommend light scrubs with smooth beads or light chemical exfoliants for safer and more effective exfoliation.
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The product is marketed as noncomedogenic
St. Ives Apricot Scrub is marketed as a noncomedogenic product, meaning that it does not clog pores. However, this claim has been disputed by some users and dermatologists, who argue that the scrub's exfoliating particles, such as crushed walnut shells or apricot pits, can be too harsh on the skin and cause microscopic tears, leading to potential skin damage and irritation.
The product faced a class-action lawsuit in 2017, alleging that the scrub caused long-term skin damage and was unfit to be sold as a facial exfoliant. The lawsuit was initially dismissed in 2018, but it sparked discussions about the potential dangers of using abrasive exfoliating products.
The St. Ives website describes the product as "Packed with 100% natural exfoliants including milled walnut shells and apricot pits," and claims that it provides a deep cleansing exfoliation. It is recommended for individuals with balanced to oily skin and is said to leave skin clean, glowing, and super-smooth.
While some users appreciate the deep exfoliation provided by the product, others have reported negative experiences, including inflammation, redness, and breakouts. The subreddit r/SkincareAddiction, in particular, has voiced concerns about the scrub's abrasiveness and potential to irritate the skin.
The debate surrounding St. Ives Apricot Scrub highlights the varying experiences and skin sensitivities of different individuals. While some may find the product effective and enjoyable to use, others may find it too harsh for their skin. It is always advisable to patch-test new skincare products and consult a dermatologist if you have specific skin concerns or sensitivities.
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The product is marketed as dermatologist-tested
St. Ives Apricot Scrub is marketed as "dermatologist-tested" and has been a cult favourite for decades. However, it has also faced a lot of backlash over the years. The product has been criticised for being too harsh on the skin, with some users reporting inflammation, redness, and breakouts.
In 2016, a lawsuit was filed against St. Ives claiming that the crushed walnut shells used in its scrubs were causing damage to users' skin. The lawsuit was dismissed in 2018, but it sparked a debate about the safety and effectiveness of exfoliating scrubs.
The St. Ives Apricot Scrub is made with a blend of walnut shell and apricot pit powder, which the brand claims provides deep cleansing exfoliation for clean, glowing, and smooth skin. However, dermatologists and estheticians have expressed concern over the harshness of the scrub, stating that it can cause small tears in the skin and lead to long-term skin damage.
Some users have also pointed out that while the product may deliver temporary smoothness, it can be too abrasive for sensitive skin and may cause more harm than good in the long run. It is recommended that those with sensitive skin or inflammatory conditions avoid using physical exfoliants like walnut and apricot scrubs, as they can irritate and worsen existing issues.
Despite the mixed reviews and concerns raised by dermatologists, St. Ives maintains that their Apricot Scrub is dermatologist-tested and safe for use. The brand highlights its long history of consumer satisfaction and stands by the effectiveness of their formula.
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Frequently asked questions
St. Ives Apricot Scrub does not contain plastic microbeads. However, it does contain crushed walnut shells, which some people claim cause microscopic tears in the skin.
Alternatives to St. Ives Apricot Scrub include Dermologica, Simple smoothing facial scrub, and Neutrogena Naturals purifying pore scrub.
St. Ives Apricot Scrub is an affordable, cult-favorite product that is effective at smoothing out rough parts of the face.
Some people have claimed that St. Ives Apricot Scrub causes skin irritation, redness, breakouts, and premature aging. It has also been alleged that the product causes microscopic tears in the skin, exposing it to infections and irritation.
