My Month with the LBLS Apricot Scrub: The Good, The Gritty, The Glow
Okay, real talk. My relationship with blackheads is… complicated. It’s like they have a lease agreement on my nose and T-zone, and they never pay rent. I’ve tried those pore strips that hurt like heck, fancy chemical exfoliants that made my skin throw a tantrum, and even that “viral” baking soda trick (don’t ever do that, by the way). So when I saw the LBLS Apricot Exfoliating Scrub Gel pop up, promising to be a natural blackhead remover, I was equal parts hopeful and skeptical. Another scrub claiming to be the one? Honestly, I just bought it because the price wasn’t scary and I was desperate for something that felt satisfying to use.
Listen, I’ve been using this little orange tube for over a month now, twice a week like clockwork. Here’s the completely unfiltered, no-BS take on whether this apricot scrub is a hidden gem or just another pretty face in the crowded skincare aisle.
First Impressions: What’s in the Tube?
The LBLS Apricot Exfoliating Scrub Gel comes in a simple, squeezy tube. No fancy packaging, which I actually appreciate—it keeps the cost down. It’s 50ml, which feels a bit small in your hand, but a little goes a long way. The gel itself is a clear-ish orange color with all these tiny, beige apricot granules suspended in it. The first thing you notice is the smell. Oh my god, it smells amazing. It’s not a fake, perfumey scent; it’s genuinely like crushing fresh apricots. It’s sweet and fruity without being overwhelming. A surprisingly lovely start.
The texture is where the magic (or the menace, depending on your skin) happens. It’s a thick, jelly-like gel that spreads easily. The granules aren’t super fine like sugar, nor are they giant, jagged chunks. They’re somewhere in the middle—you can definitely feel them. I was worried they’d be too scratchy, but when mixed with water, they create this creamy, gritty-but-not-painful lather. It’s that physical scrub sensation that makes you feel like you’re really cleaning out your pores, you know?
How I Used It & The Game-Changing Moment
I stuck to the instructions: damp skin, a pea-sized amount, gentle circular motions for about 60 seconds, then rinse. I use it in the shower in the evenings, twice a week (Wednesdays and Sundays have become my “scrub days”). The first use was… fine. My skin felt clean, super smooth, and had a nice glow. But it was around week two, maybe the third use, where I had my “oh, wow” moment.
I was patting my face dry and happened to glance in the magnifying mirror (a dangerous pastime). The blackheads on my nose—those stubborn little dots that usually look like they’re dug in for the winter—looked diminished. Not gone, but definitely less prominent. The skin on my cheeks and forehead looked clearer, more even. It was the first blackhead remover product that actually showed me visible results without irritation. The deep cleansing claim started to feel real. My pores didn’t look magically vanished, but they looked cleaner, less clogged.
The oil control is another win. I have combination skin, and by midday, my T-zone is usually shiny. On the days after using this facial scrub, that oil slick takes its sweet time showing up. My makeup goes on smoother and seems to last longer. The “long-lasting fresh feel” they talk about? Yeah, that’s legit.
But It’s Not All Perfect… Let’s Talk Cons
I gotta keep it 100. While I’ve really come to like this scrub, there are a couple of things that might be dealbreakers for some.
First, the granules. While I find them effective, if you have super sensitive, rosacea-prone, or easily irritated skin, this might be too much physical exfoliation for you. You have to be gentle. No scrubbing like you’re sanding a deck. I learned that the hard way when I got a little overzealous one night and had a slightly pink nose for an hour.
Second, the size. At 50ml, it’s not huge. If you fall in love with it and start using it on your body (which it’s totally designed for, and it’s fantastic on rough knees and elbows), you’ll blow through this tube in a month. I wish they offered a bigger, more cost-effective size. For face-only use, 2-3 times a week, it lasts a decent while, but just be aware.
LBLS Apricot Scrub vs. The Competition
How does this stack up against other popular scrubs? Let’s break it down.
| Feature | LBLS Apricot Exfoliating Scrub Gel | St. Ives Apricot Scrub (The Classic) | Chemical Exfoliant (e.g., BHA Liquid) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exfoliation Type | Physical (Apricot Granules) | Physical (Walnut Shells) | Chemical (Salicylic Acid) |
| Feel | Gritty, satisfying gel | Very gritty, can be harsh | No grit, just a liquid |
| Best For | Immediate smoothness, blackhead prevention, body use | Very tough, non-sensitive skin | Deep pore cleaning, sensitive to physical scrubs |
| Price Point | Mid-range (~$30) | Budget (~$5) | Mid to High-range ($20-$40+) |
| My Take | A great middle ground—effective but gentler than old-school scrubs. | Too abrasive for most facial skin. I’d avoid it. | Super effective but doesn’t give that “clean” physical feeling. |
✅ Pros
- Actually works on blackheads: I saw visible results in reducing their appearance.
- Amazing natural scent: Smells like real apricots, not chemicals.
- Dual-purpose: Works wonderfully as both a facial scrub and a body scrub.
- Great oil control: Keeps my combination skin matte for longer.
- Leaves skin glowing: That “shiny and smooth” claim is real right after use.
❌ Cons
- Can be too harsh if you scrub too hard or have very sensitive skin.
- The 50ml tube feels small, especially if you use it on your body.
- It’s a physical exfoliant, so it’s not the absolute most modern skincare technology (but sometimes old-school feels good!).
🎯 Who Should Buy This?
This LBLS Apricot Scrub isn’t for everyone, but it could be a perfect fit for you if:
- You have combination or oily skin and struggle with blackheads and shine.
- You like the feeling of a physical scrub and find it satisfying.
- You want a product you can use on both your face and rough body skin (elbows, knees, back).
- You’re looking for an affordable facial exfoliator that’s a step up from super cheap, harsh drugstore scrubs.
- You prefer skincare with natural scents over perfumed ones.
Final Verdict: Is the LBLS Apricot Scrub Worth It?
After a solid month of testing, I’m genuinely impressed. The LBLS Apricot Exfoliating Scrub Gel delivered on its main promises for me: it smoothed my skin, helped keep my blackheads in check, and controlled oil. It’s become a staple in my weekly routine. Is it a miracle worker that will erase all pores? No. But is it one of the most effective and enjoyable blackhead remover scrubs I’ve used at this price point? Absolutely.
The key is to use it correctly—gentle pressure, not too often. If your skin can handle a physical exfoliant, this is a really good one. The smell alone is a little moment of joy in my shower. For under $30, I think it’s a solid investment for clearer, smoother, happier skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the LBLS Apricot Scrub good for sensitive skin?
It has natural apricot extracts which are gentle, but the physical exfoliation might be too harsh for very sensitive or reactive skin. I’d recommend doing a patch test on your jawline first or using it only 1-2 times a week if your skin is on the sensitive side. Listen to your skin—if it feels raw or looks red after, scale back.
How long does the LBLS Apricot Scrub last?
The tube is 50ml. If you use a pea-sized amount just on your face, 2-3 times a week, it should last you about 2 to 2.5 months. It’s a decent amount for the price, but you’ll need to repurchase a few times a year. If you use it on your body as well, expect it to last a month or so.
Can you use this apricot scrub on your body?
Absolutely! That’s one of the best things about it. The label says “for face and body” for a reason. I’ve used it on my knees, elbows, and even my back for those pesky body breakouts. It works great on rough patches, but remember, you’ll go through the tube much faster if you use it head-to-toe.
Does apricot scrub really work for blackheads?
From my experience with this specific product, yes, it can be effective. The LBLS Apricot Scrub helps by manually dislodging the top layer of gunk in your pores and preventing new buildup through regular exfoliation. It won’t suck them out like a vacuum, but it significantly reduces their appearance and makes your pores look cleaner. For best results, consistency is key—using it 2-3 times a week.
