Five of the best: facial scrubs (2025)

Gentle Face Exfoliator
£15.75 for 70ml, Liz Earle (uk.lizearle.com)
They say This gentle exfoliator for congested or flaky skin contains fine jojoba beads to buff away dead skin cells, eucalyptus oil to help purify and cocoa butter and sweet almond oil to keep skin soft and moisturised.

We say Liz Earle promises that its exfoliator is a “smoothing trouble-shooter”. This might sound like corporate speak for a spin doctor, but it’s actually an accurate description of what jojoba beads (and elbow grease) can do for congested or flaky skin. The beads are so fine that the formula doesn’t feel abrasive when rubbed into the crevices around your nose, chin and jawline. Meanwhile eucalyptus oil, cocoa butter and sweet almond oil leave skin soft and not too squeaky clean.

It’s not suitable for sensitive skin and ideally should be used straight after cleanser (we can attest to the brilliance of Liz Earle’s Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser, £15.50 for 100ml).

Fruit Scrub
£13.50 for 50ml, Green People (greenpeople.co.uk)
They say Gentle, alcohol-free organic face scrub for soft, radiant skin.

We say The smell of Green People’s exfoliator is such a delicious blend of jojoba, apricot, marshmallow and mandarin that it makes the process of buffing away dead skin cells surprisingly pleasant. Unlike many scrubs, it’s suitable for all skin types, including those with eczema and psoriasis, because of its 88 per cent organic ingredients and smooth texture. It’s the jojoba that deep-cleans the skin by removing the impurities, while marshmallow and rosemary soothe any irritation. Apply the exfoliator to clean, dry skin once or twice a week — rigorously scrubbing in little circles — and skin will be smoother, more nourished and naturally glowing.

Detox Brightening Fizzy Powder Wash
£38 for 60g, NUDE (spacenk.com)
They say A tri-weekly effervescent enzymatic powder wash that brightens skin with potent vitamin C.

We say Unlike most other face scrubs you’ll come across, this one comes in powder form. You shake a little of the potent dust on to the palm of your hand and splash it with water to create a crunchy sort of paste. This mostly dissolves on application so the scrub doesn’t feel like sandpaper on your skin. The enzymes in the formula slough away dead skin cells (much like an enzyme peel), which leaves your complexion looking noticeably refreshed. Those with sensitive skin should try the gentle version of the wash (also £38, spacenk.com). The nourishing ingredients list of coconut oils and acerola extract ensure no uncomfortable tightness.

Clarins Gentle Refiner Exfoliating Cream with Natural Microbeads
£25 for 50ml, Clarins (clarins.co.uk)
They say Dual-action natural microbeads with soothing mimosa extract make a clean sweep of dull, flaky surface cells while tightening pores and preparing skin for a natural renewal.

We say “Microbeads” has become a dirty word in skincare products, but the microbeads used in Clarins’s exfoliator are natural so there’s no harshness on your skin (or the environment) once you’ve scrubbed. It’s not suitable for sensitive skin types so avoid if you are prone to breakouts and redness. If your skin ticks the normal, dry, combination or oily boxes then use once or twice a week and your face will feel fresh as a daisy. Finish with day cream and you will find that make-up glides on like a dream.

Rose Brighten & Refine Facial Scrub by Una Brennan
£5.99 for 150ml, Superfacialist by Una Brennan (boots.com)
They say Developed by Una Brennan, the Superfacialist Rose Brighten and Refine Facial Scrub is suitable for even the most sensitive skin.

We say If treating yourself doesn’t extend to weekly facials, then Una Brennan’s Superfacialist scrub is the next best thing. It’s on offer at Boots for £5.99 and does exactly what it says on the tube, moisturising, calming and brightening skin after a couple of scrubs. Skincare products scented with rose might sound alarm bells for those with sensitive skin — too cloying and powdery — but this scrub is great for even the most irritable types. A deep cleanse is essential if you wear make-up daily and the Superfacialist exfoliator is great at locking in moisture so your skin feels hydrated all day.