Deep Clean Invigorating Foaming Scrub
Deep Clean Invigorating Foaming Scrub
Product Description
Product overview
A cooling, gel-based exfoliating face scrub with glycerin and menthol that lathers into a tingly, bubbly foam to dissolve dirt, oil, and makeup while cellulose-based exfoliators sweep away dead skin cells for a deep, refreshing clean.
Cooling Menthol Sensation
Menthol delivers an invigorating, tingly cooling effect that wakes up the skin and leaves it feeling refreshed and energized after every wash.
Texture & feel
SENSORYCooling Menthol Sensation
Menthol delivers an invigorating, tingly cooling effect that wakes up the skin and leaves it feeling refreshed and energized after every wash.
Foaming Gel Lather
Light gel formula transforms into a rich, bubbly foam that dissolves surface dirt, excess oil, and makeup without leaving residue behind.
Cellulose Exfoliators
Plant-derived cellulose and microcrystalline cellulose beads provide gentle physical exfoliation to sweep away dead skin cells — no plastic microbeads.
Glycerin Hydration
Glycerin acts as a humectant to help retain moisture so the scrub cleanses deeply without stripping the skin or leaving it tight and dry.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains fragrance and menthol. No retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone. Menthol in rinse-off products is generally low-risk, but consult your OB-GYN if concerned.
Contains Synthetic Wax which may include esters that can feed Malassezia yeast. As a rinse-off product the risk is lower, but those with active fungal acne should patch test first.
Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. Oil-free, rinse-off formula is unlikely to clog pores. Glycerin has a comedogenicity rating of 0.
Clinically tested and approved by dermatologists. From the #1 dermatologist-recommended skincare brand in the United States.
Sodium Laureth Sulfate is the primary surfactant. While milder than SLS, it can be drying for very sensitive or extremely dry skin types with prolonged use.
Includes synthetic fragrance and methylparaben as a preservative. Those with fragrance sensitivities or paraben concerns should be aware.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycerin ~5-10%Proven
A powerful humectant and skin-identical ingredient that draws moisture into the skin. Helps prevent the drying effects of cleansing, leaving skin soft and hydrated rather than tight.
- Function: Moisturizer/humectant with comedogenicity rating of 0 and irritancy rating of 0
- Research: Effective at concentrations as low as 3%, with enhanced benefits for dry skin at 20-40%
- Benefit: Maintains skin lipids in a healthy liquid crystal state and helps restore skin barrier
Cellulose & Microcrystalline Cellulose ~2-5%Proven
Plant-derived physical exfoliants that replace plastic microbeads. Cellulose is the main structural component of plant cell walls and provides gentle but effective mechanical exfoliation.
- Function: Physical exfoliant, absorbent, and texture enhancer
- Source: The most abundant organic polymer on Earth — derived from plant fibers
- Eco-friendly: Biodegradable alternative to polyethylene microbeads, safe for marine environments
Menthol <1%Proven
A natural compound derived from Mentha species (peppermint oil contains 40-50% menthol). Creates the signature cooling and tingling sensation that makes this scrub feel invigorating.
- Function: Cooling agent, sensory enhancer, mild counter-irritant
- Mechanism: Activates TRPM8 cold receptors in the skin, creating the cooling sensation
- Note: Also provides a subtle minty-fresh scent to the product
Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) ~8-15%Standard
A widely-used foaming surfactant derived from coconut or palm kernel oil. Creates the rich, bubbly lather and effectively removes oils, dirt, and makeup from the skin surface.
- Function: Primary cleansing and foaming agent
- Comparison: Much milder than Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) — less likely to irritate
- Limitation: Can strip natural oils with overuse, especially on dry skin types
Lauryl Glucoside ~2-4%Proven
A mild, sugar- and lipid-based co-surfactant created from glucose and lauryl alcohol. Biodegradable and gentle, it enhances the cleansing power while reducing the irritation potential of the formula.
- Function: Gentle co-surfactant, foam booster
- Source: Derived from coconut oil and glucose (sugar)
- Benefit: Helps balance the formula's mildness, making the overall cleansing system gentler
17 ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Cellulose, Lauryl Glucoside, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Phenoxyethanol, Fragrance, Synthetic Wax, Methylparaben, Sodium Hydroxide, Menthol, Disodium EDTA, Polyquaternium-7, Sodium Benzotriazolyl Butylphenol Sulfonate, Ultramarines, Blue 1
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as Step 1 — this is a cleanser and exfoliant in one. Apply to damp skin morning or evening (or both). Follow with your regular toner, serum, and moisturizer. Always use sunscreen during the day.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Hands & Face
Splash your face with lukewarm water. Squeeze a small, dime-sized amount of scrub into wet hands.
Build the Foam
Rub your hands together, adding a little more water, and work the gel into a rich, foamy lather.
Massage Gently
Apply the foam to your face using gentle circular motions for 30-60 seconds. Avoid the delicate eye area. Focus on the T-zone and areas prone to buildup.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water, ensuring no product remains. Pat your face dry with a clean towel and continue with your routine.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want a refreshing, invigorating morning cleanser that wakes up the skin
- You have oily or combination skin that needs daily deep cleansing
- You enjoy a cooling, tingly sensation during cleansing
- You need to remove makeup, dirt, and excess oil effectively
- You want gentle physical exfoliation without harsh abrasives
- You prefer a budget-friendly drugstore option that works
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very sensitive, reactive, or rosacea-prone skin (menthol may irritate)
- You have extremely dry skin that is easily stripped by surfactants
- You are looking for a fragrance-free or paraben-free formula
- You have active eczema or dermatitis on the face
- You prefer sulfate-free cleansing systems
- You need chemical exfoliation (AHA/BHA) rather than physical
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Effectively removes excess oil and shine while the cooling menthol keeps skin feeling fresh. Non-comedogenic formula won't add to oiliness.
Great for balancing the T-zone. Glycerin helps prevent over-drying on cheeks while thoroughly cleansing oily areas. A top pick for combination types.
Works well for daily use. Provides a thorough clean without being overly aggressive. Follow with a lightweight moisturizer for best results.
Can be drying with daily use due to SLES. Use 2-3 times per week instead of daily and always follow with a rich moisturizer to replenish hydration.
Not recommended. Menthol, fragrance, and physical exfoliants can trigger irritation, redness, and stinging on reactive skin. Choose a gentle, fragrance-free option instead.
Non-comedogenic and oil-free. Helps keep pores clear with physical exfoliation. However, scrubbing inflamed acne can worsen breakouts — be gentle and avoid active pimples.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Refreshed, Cool & Clean Feeling
Skin feels instantly invigorated thanks to the menthol cooling effect. Pores appear cleaner and the face feels smooth to the touch after the very first use.
95% noticed immediatelySmoother Skin Texture
Regular exfoliation begins to smooth out rough patches and remove accumulated dead skin. Skin starts looking brighter and more even in tone and texture.
80% noticed in first weekFewer Blackheads & Clearer Pores
Consistent daily use helps reduce blackhead buildup and keeps pores visibly cleaner. Oily areas appear more refined and less congested.
70% noticed within a monthMaintained Clarity & Reduced Breakouts
Long-term users report fewer random breakouts and consistently cleaner-looking skin. Works best as a maintenance product to prevent buildup rather than as an acne treatment.
65% noticed continued improvementRatings by platform
12K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Refreshing cooling sensation that feels spa-like and energizing
- Excellent at removing dirt, oil, and makeup in one step
- A little goes a long way — one tube lasts weeks
- Affordable drugstore price point under $10
- Leaves skin feeling smooth, soft, and clean without residue
- Plant-based exfoliators instead of plastic microbeads
- Glycerin prevents the over-drying common in exfoliating cleansers
- Dermatologist tested and from a trusted brand
Criticized
- Menthol tingling can be too intense for some users
- Contains SLES which can be drying with daily use
- Contains fragrance and methylparaben — not clean beauty
- Not suitable for sensitive, rosacea, or eczema-prone skin
- Small 4.2 oz tube; no larger economy sizes available
- Exfoliating beads sometimes difficult to fully rinse away
- Some users report decreased effectiveness after months of daily use
- Blue dye (Blue 1) is unnecessary and may stain washcloths
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Very similar concept with cooling sensation and physical exfoliants. Contains glycolic and lactic acids for added chemical exfoliation. Slightly larger size (7 oz) for a lower price. More exfoliation power but may be harsher on dry skin.
A gentler alternative with micro-fine granules and vitamin E. No menthol or cooling sensation. Better suited for sensitive and dry skin types. Larger 6 oz size. Lacks the invigorating feel but is much less irritating.
Soy-based formula with moisture-rich extract for brightening and smoothing. No menthol or cooling effect. Hypoallergenic, soap-free, and oil-free. Better for dry skin but less effective at deep pore cleansing and lacks the energizing sensation.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep tube cap closed between uses to prevent the gel from drying out.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap. Easy to control dispensing and squeeze out every last bit of product.
Yes — 4.2 fl oz (124 ml) exceeds the 100 ml TSA carry-on limit. Transfer to a smaller container for flights, or pack in checked luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. This scrub does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone — the main ingredients to avoid during pregnancy. However, it does contain fragrance, menthol, and methylparaben. While menthol in rinse-off products at low concentrations is generally considered low-risk, some healthcare providers recommend avoiding it as a precaution. Always consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before adding new products during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Use with caution. The formula contains Synthetic Wax, which may include esters that can potentially feed Malassezia yeast. However, because this is a rinse-off product that stays on the skin for only 30-60 seconds, the risk is significantly lower than with leave-on products. If you have active fungal acne, patch test on a small area first or consider a verified fungal-acne-safe cleanser instead.
Yes, but be mindful of over-exfoliation. This scrub is a physical exfoliant, and layering it with chemical exfoliants (AHA, BHA) or retinol can irritate the skin. If you use retinol at night, use this scrub in the morning only. If you use AHA/BHA treatments, alternate days rather than using both on the same day. Vitamin C serums can be used after this scrub without issues — just wait for skin to dry completely before applying.
This scrub is best suited for oily and combination skin types. The SLES-based formula and menthol cooling effect work especially well for controlling excess oil and providing a deep, refreshing clean. Normal skin types can use it daily too. Dry skin types should limit use to 2-3 times per week. It is not recommended for very sensitive, rosacea-prone, or eczema-affected skin due to the menthol and fragrance.
You will feel a difference immediately — the cooling menthol sensation and smooth, clean finish are noticeable from the first use. Visible improvements in skin texture and reduced roughness typically appear within the first week. Clearer pores and reduced blackheads become noticeable after 2-4 weeks of consistent daily use. Long-term users (2+ months) report fewer breakouts and a consistently cleaner complexion.
This product is your Step 1 — it replaces both your cleanser and exfoliant. Use it on damp skin as the first step of your routine. After rinsing, continue with toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM). If you double-cleanse, use an oil cleanser or micellar water first, then follow with this foaming scrub as your second cleanse.
No — this product is non-comedogenic with a rating of 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. It is oil-free and rinses off completely without leaving pore-clogging residue. Glycerin, the main moisturizing ingredient, has a comedogenicity rating of 0. The product is designed specifically to help clean out pores, not clog them.
The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. With daily use, the 4.2 fl oz tube typically lasts 4-6 weeks since only a small dime-sized amount is needed per wash. Store with the cap closed in a cool, dry place. Unopened, the product should be used before the expiration date printed on the tube.
Verdict: The Neutrogena Deep Clean Invigorating Foaming Scrub is a reliable, affordable drugstore exfoliating cleanser that excels at delivering a deep, refreshing clean for oily and combination skin types. Its signature menthol cooling sensation and glycerin-enriched formula strike a good balance between thorough cleansing and moisture retention. The cellulose-based exfoliators are gentle enough for daily use and are an eco-friendly upgrade from older microbead formulas. However, the presence of SLES, fragrance, and methylparaben keeps it from being a clean-beauty pick, and those with sensitive or very dry skin should look elsewhere. For the price, it offers excellent value as a no-fuss, invigorating daily scrub that leaves skin feeling genuinely fresh and energized.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 3 |
Sodium Laureth Sulfate
Surfactant, Emulsifying, Cleansing, Foaming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cellulose
Viscosity Controlling, Absorbent, Bulking Agent, Opacifying, Slip Modifier
|
|
|
| 1 |
Lauryl Glucoside
Surfactant, Cleansing
|
|