Fig Scrub Mask
Fig Scrub Mask
Product Description
Product overview
A dual-action exfoliating wash-off mask with 1.2% fig powder from Yeongam, South Korea, and black sugar. The fig enzyme (ficin) gently dissolves dead skin cells while fine sugar granules physically buff away impurities, leaving skin smooth, clear, and deeply moisturized in just 10 minutes.
Dual Exfoliation System
Fig enzyme (ficin) chemically dissolves dead cells while black sugar granules physically buff the surface for a thorough yet gentle exfoliation.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDual Exfoliation System
Fig enzyme (ficin) chemically dissolves dead cells while black sugar granules physically buff the surface for a thorough yet gentle exfoliation.
Moisture Barrier Support
Ficin breaks down into Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF), creating a protective moisture barrier that keeps skin hydrated after exfoliation.
Multi-Grain Exfoliants
Sweet almond seed meal and walnut shell powder provide additional gentle physical exfoliation alongside the dissolving sugar crystals.
Vegan & Clean Formula
Plant-based, cruelty-free formula with only 12 ingredients. Free from silicones, parabens, sulfates, mineral oil, and animal-derived ingredients.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone. However, contains synthetic fragrance (Parfum), which some practitioners advise avoiding during pregnancy. Consult your doctor.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (fatty acid esters) and PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, both of which can feed malassezia yeast.
Very low risk of clogging pores. Most ingredients are non-comedogenic and the product is rinsed off, further reducing pore-clogging risk.
Formulated without animal-derived ingredients and never tested on animals. Certified by the brand.
Contains finely ground walnut shell, which is less abrasive than in older scrubs but may still be too rough for very sensitive or compromised skin. Always use gentle pressure.
Includes synthetic fragrance (Parfum). Those with fragrance sensitivities or very reactive skin should patch test before full application.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSFicus Carica (Fig) Fruit Powder 1.2%Proven
Sourced from Yeongam, South Korea, and dried over a 12-hour process to preserve the proteolytic enzyme ficin. Fig powder gently dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells while delivering polyphenols, omega fatty acids, and vitamins A, B1, and B2.
- Enzyme: Ficin is a proteolytic enzyme that breaks down keratin in dead skin cells for chemical exfoliation.
- NMF Production: Ficin breaks down into Natural Moisturizing Factor components, reinforcing the skin's moisture barrier.
- Antioxidants: Rich in polyphenols that help protect against environmental free radical damage.
Sucrose (Black Sugar) BaseProven
Fine black sugar crystals serve as the primary physical exfoliant. The granules dissolve with warmth and water during the massage step, making them progressively gentler. Sugar also contains trace glycolic acid for mild chemical exfoliation.
- Exfoliation: Crystalline structure physically removes dead cells, softening as it dissolves with body heat.
- Humectant: Sugar is a natural humectant that draws moisture to the skin surface.
- Glycolic Acid: Contains trace amounts of natural glycolic acid to enhance texture refinement.
Sweet Almond Seed MealPromising
Finely milled almond seed provides a softer physical exfoliation compared to sugar. Rich in vitamin E and fatty acids, it nourishes the skin while buffing away dead cells and smoothing rough texture.
- Physical Exfoliant: Soft, round particles offer gentle mechanical exfoliation without micro-tears.
- Vitamin E: Natural antioxidant that soothes and conditions the skin during exfoliation.
Walnut Shell PowderTraditional
Finely ground walnut shell provides deeper mechanical exfoliation for stubborn dead skin and congested areas. The particles in this formula are ground much finer than in older-generation scrubs.
- Deep Exfoliation: Harder particles target areas with significant buildup such as the nose and forehead.
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride BaseProven
A lightweight emollient derived from coconut oil and glycerin. Forms the smooth, spreadable base of the mask and leaves an emollient film that prevents post-exfoliation tightness and dryness.
- Emollient: Creates a protective layer that locks in moisture and prevents irritation during exfoliation.
- Texture Agent: Gives the mask its signature sherbet-like, easy-to-spread consistency.
12 ingredients
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Sucrose, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Stearalkonium Hectorite, C13-15 Alkane, Ficus Carica (Fig) Fruit Powder, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Seed Meal, Fragrance (Parfum), Juglans Regia (Walnut) Shell Powder, Caprylyl Glycol, Caramel
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as a "Step 0" boosting mask on clean skin before your regular routine, 1–2 times per week. By removing dead skin first, your toner, serum, and moisturizer absorb more effectively.
How to use
HOW TO USEScoop & Apply
Using the provided spatula, scoop an adequate amount and spread evenly over clean, dry (or slightly damp) skin. Avoid the eye and lip area.
Wait 10–15 Minutes
Leave the mask on and let the fig enzyme work. The ficin will gently dissolve dead skin cells while the sugar softens from your body heat.
Massage Gently
Wet your hands and massage the face in gentle circular motions. The sugar granules will melt and exfoliate as you scrub. Use light pressure only.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse off with lukewarm water until all residue is removed. The mask emulsifies to a milky consistency and washes off easily without leaving a film.
Follow with Skincare
Immediately follow with your toner and hydrating products. Your freshly exfoliated skin will absorb active ingredients more effectively. Use 1–2 times per week.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dull, rough, or uneven skin texture
- You prefer physical exfoliation over chemical acids
- Your skin cannot tolerate AHA/BHA chemical exfoliants
- You want a product that exfoliates AND hydrates
- You enjoy a spa-like experience at home
- You want better absorption from your serums and moisturizers
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- Your skin is extremely sensitive or currently compromised
- You have active breakouts, open wounds, or sunburn
- You are sensitive to synthetic fragrance (Parfum)
- You have a tree nut allergy (contains almond and walnut)
- You strongly prefer fragrance-free products
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESEffectively removes excess sebum and dead cell buildup without over-stripping. Leaves skin clean and smooth without greasy residue.
Ideal match. Clears congested T-zone areas while the emollient base keeps drier cheeks moisturized. Most-recommended skin type by reviewers.
Perfect weekly maintenance treatment. Boosts radiance and improves product absorption without disrupting the skin's balance.
The emollient base prevents dryness, but follow with a rich moisturizer immediately after. Use once per week maximum. Applying on damp skin makes it gentler.
Contains walnut shell powder and fragrance. Apply on damp skin with very light pressure and limit to once per week. Patch test first. Not recommended for very reactive skin.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5) and wash-off formula minimize breakout risk. Avoid active inflamed breakouts. Not suitable for fungal acne.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Instant Smoothness & Glow
Immediately noticeable softness and smoothness after rinsing. Dead skin is visibly removed and skin feels clean and polished. Most users report a brighter, more radiant complexion right away.
90% noticed improvementImproved Texture & Product Absorption
With consistent weekly use, rough patches and flaky areas diminish noticeably. Serums and moisturizers absorb faster and feel more effective on freshly exfoliated skin.
80% noticed improvementBrighter, More Even Complexion
Regular exfoliation supports healthier cell turnover. Skin tone appears more even, dullness is reduced, and pores look less congested. Makeup applies more smoothly.
70% noticed improvementSustained Clarity & Softness
Ongoing use maintains smooth, clear skin and prevents dead cell buildup. Many users report a sustained improvement in overall skin texture and radiance with continued weekly use.
75% noticed improvementRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Dual exfoliation (enzyme + physical) for thorough yet gentle results
- Leaves skin incredibly smooth and soft immediately after use
- Does not strip or dry out the skin; maintains moisture
- Fine sugar granules dissolve with warmth for adjustable intensity
- Clean, short ingredient list with only 12 ingredients
- Vegan and cruelty-free formula
- Beautiful glass jar packaging with included spatula
- Pleasant sweet fig scent enjoyed by most users
Criticized
- Contains synthetic fragrance (Parfum) that some find too strong
- Walnut shell powder may be too abrasive for very sensitive skin
- Glass jar is heavy and fragile; not ideal for travel
- Not fungal acne (malassezia) safe
- Requires careful rinsing to fully remove all particles
- 120g jar may not last long with regular weekly use
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
The original K-beauty sugar scrub mask. Coarser sugar granules and a simpler formula without fig enzyme. More abrasive but highly effective at a fraction of the price. Contains lanolin (not vegan).
Black sugar-based scrub with shea butter and cranberry seed oil. No enzymatic exfoliation component. Richer texture, better for dry skin but lacks the fig enzyme dual-action approach.
Sherbet-textured sugar mask with grapefruit and raspberry seed oil. Finer granules and more hydrating finish. Functions as mask, scrub, and cleansing balm but without enzymatic exfoliation.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Klairs Youthful Glow Sugar Mask
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the lid tightly sealed after use. Use the included spatula to avoid introducing bacteria.
Heavy glass jar with screw-on cap, inner protective plastic lid, and wooden spatula included. Premium, eco-conscious packaging.
Not ideal for travel — glass jar is heavy and fragile. Consider the 31g travel-size tube for on-the-go use. Full size exceeds 100ml equivalent but is allowed in checked luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThe formula does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters — the main ingredients to avoid during pregnancy. However, it does contain synthetic fragrance (Parfum), which some healthcare providers recommend avoiding during pregnancy and breastfeeding as a precaution. We recommend consulting your doctor or midwife before use.
No. This product is not fungal acne safe. It contains Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, a fatty acid ester derived from coconut oil that can feed malassezia yeast. It also contains PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, another potential trigger. If you have fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis, we recommend choosing a different exfoliator.
Do not use this scrub mask on the same day as retinol, AHA, BHA, or other strong exfoliating actives to avoid over-exfoliation. You can alternate days — for example, use the Fig Scrub Mask on Monday and your chemical exfoliant or retinol on Wednesday. Vitamin C serums can generally be used in the same routine after the scrub mask, as your freshly exfoliated skin will absorb it more effectively.
This scrub mask works best for combination, normal, and oily skin types. It is also suitable for dry skin when used on damp skin with gentle pressure, followed by a rich moisturizer. Those with very sensitive or reactive skin should patch test first and use with caution, as it contains walnut shell powder and fragrance.
You will see and feel results immediately after the first use — skin feels noticeably smoother and looks brighter. With consistent use (1–2 times per week), most users notice improved texture and reduced dullness within 2–3 weeks. By 4–6 weeks of regular use, expect a more even complexion and better overall skin clarity.
Use it as a "Step 0" before your regular skincare routine, on clean skin. Apply the mask, wait 10–15 minutes, massage and rinse. Then proceed with your toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen as usual. By removing dead skin first, your subsequent products will penetrate and absorb more effectively. Use 1–2 times per week.
This product has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, meaning it has a very low risk of clogging pores. The main base ingredient (Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride) has a low comedogenic rating, and since this is a wash-off product that gets fully rinsed after 10–15 minutes, the risk of pore congestion is minimal.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. The 120g jar typically lasts 3–4 months when used 1–2 times per week. Always use the included spatula instead of your fingers to maintain hygiene, and keep the lid tightly sealed between uses.
Verdict: The I'm From Fig Scrub Mask is an excellent dual-action exfoliator that stands out from typical sugar scrubs thanks to its fig enzyme (ficin) technology. The combination of enzymatic and physical exfoliation delivers noticeably smoother, brighter skin from the very first use without leaving skin tight or dry. With only 12 clean, vegan-friendly ingredients, it is one of the most straightforward scrub masks on the market. The main drawbacks are the synthetic fragrance, walnut shell powder that may concern sensitive skin users, and the fact that it is not fungal acne safe. Overall, it is a premium yet effective exfoliating treatment that earns its place in a weekly K-beauty routine.
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
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 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sucrose
Skin Conditioning, Humectant, Flavoring Agent, Soothing
|
|
|
| 0 |
PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate
Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Stearalkonium Hectorite
Viscosity Controlling, Suspending Agent - Nonsurfactant, Gel Forming
|
|
|
| 0 |
C13-15 Alkane
Solvent
|
|