Lemonade Smoothing Scrub
Lemonade Smoothing Scrub
Product Description
OLEHENRIKSEN Lemonade Smoothing Scrub is a dual-action face exfoliant that pairs a 10% AHA blend (glycolic + lactic acids) with ultra-fine sugar and lemon peel powder to physically and chemically resurface skin. Inspired by a summer glass of lemonade, this slushie-textured scrub instantly polishes away rough, dull buildup and reduces the look of pores, while holy basil and chamomile help calm the skin. Vegan, gluten-free, cruelty-free and Clean at Sephora.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Dual-Action Exfoliation
Combines chemical AHAs with physical sugar and lemon peel particles to loosen and sweep away dead cells in one step.
10% AHA Resurfacing
Glycolic and lactic acids retexturize, even tone and visibly reduce the look of pores after a single use.
Real Lemon Brightening
Lemon peel powder and fruit extract deliver vitamin C and antioxidants for a fresher, brighter, more radiant complexion.
Soothing Botanicals
Holy basil and chamomile extracts help calm and comfort skin so exfoliation feels gentler and less stripping.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Glycolic and lactic acids increase sun sensitivity. Daily broad-spectrum SPF is essential while using and for a week after.
Topical AHAs are generally considered low-risk, but with 10% acids plus citrus essential oils and fragrance, check with your OB first.
Contains polysorbate 80, sorbitan oleate, coconut acid and a ferment that may feed malassezia. Rinse-off lowers risk but it isn't FA-safe.
Don't stack on the same night as retinol, strong vitamin C or other AHA/BHA exfoliants to avoid over-exfoliation and irritation.
This product contains active ingredients; the brand suggests testing a small amount on the forearm before facial use.
Contains limonene, linalool, citral and citrus oils. Those with reactive or compromised-barrier skin should approach with caution.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π Glycolic Acid ~4β5% Proven
The most researched alpha hydroxy acid. The smallest AHA molecule, it penetrates efficiently to dissolve the bonds between dead surface cells, revealing smoother, brighter, more even skin.
- Function: Chemical exfoliation, tone evening, pore refining
- Evidence: Shown in studies to boost cell turnover and stimulate collagen with regular use
π₯ Lactic Acid In 10% AHA Proven
A gentler, larger AHA that exfoliates while also acting as a humectant. Paired with glycolic acid, it rounds out the 10% AHA blend so skin is resurfaced without feeling completely stripped.
- Function: Exfoliation plus hydration support
- Evidence: Well-documented for improving texture, tone and surface hydration
π¬ Sugar & Lemon Peel Powder Physical Promising
Ultra-fine sucrose granules and lemon peel powder physically buff away rough, flaky skin and trapped debris, giving that immediate post-scrub smoothness many reviewers describe as βglass skin.β
- Function: Mechanical (physical) exfoliation and polishing
- Source: Naturally derived sugar and real lemon peel
π Lemon Fruit Extract (Vitamin C) Brightening Promising
Citrus limon fruit extract supplies a dose of natural vitamin C and antioxidants that help brighten dullness and defend skin against everyday environmental stress, while delivering the signature fresh-lemonade scent.
- Function: Antioxidant support and radiance boost
- Source: Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract
πΏ Holy Basil & Chamomile Soothing Promising
Ocimum sanctum (holy basil) and chamomilla recutita (chamomile) extracts are included to calm and comfort skin, helping to offset the potential irritation from a high-potency dual exfoliant.
- Function: Calming and soothing botanicals
- Source: Holy Basil Leaf & Chamomile Flower extracts
39 ingredients
Aqua/Water/Eau, Glycerin, Glycolic Acid, Sucrose, Hydrated Silica, Polyglyceryl-10 Dipalmitate, Propanediol, Lactic Acid, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Lactate, Acrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Copolymer, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Powder, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract, Ocimum Sanctum (Holy Basil) Leaf Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugarcane) Extract, Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Peel Extract, Santalum Album (Sandalwood) Extract, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Peel Oil, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Coconut Acid, Sodium Riboflavin Phosphate, Dimethylhydroxy Furanone, Isohexadecane, Polysorbate 80, Sodium Isethionate, Sorbitan Oleate, Triethyl Citrate, Vanillin, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Limonene, Linalool, Citral.
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use at night, 2β3 times per week, on a cleansed and wet face. Because it exfoliates, always follow with hydration and lock in your routine with daily SPF the next morning.
π How to Use
Apply to Wet Skin
After cleansing, dispense a dime-to-nickel-sized amount onto damp face and neck. A little goes a long way.
Massage Gently
Work in light, upward circular motions for about 30β60 seconds. Let the sugar do the work β avoid heavy pressure.
Let It Sit (Optional)
Leave on for up to 2 minutes so the AHAs can deepen their chemical exfoliation, or rinse right away.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse off completely with lukewarm water and pat dry. Avoid the eye area throughout.
Hydrate & Protect
Follow with serum and moisturizer. Apply broad-spectrum SPF every morning while using this product.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You want a quick, satisfying weekly exfoliation that visibly smooths texture
- Your skin is normal, oily or combination and prone to dullness or congestion
- You like both physical scrubs and chemical acids β and want them in one step
- You enjoy a fresh, uplifting citrus scent in your routine
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have very sensitive, reactive or rosacea-prone skin
- You're sensitive to fragrance or essential oils
- You're following a strict fungal-acne-safe routine
- You already use strong retinoids or daily acids and over-exfoliate easily
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Dual exfoliation clears buildup and helps refine pores, leaving skin fresh without residue.
Evens out rough, congested zones while the botanicals keep drier areas comfortable.
A reliable weekly polish that delivers instant smoothness and glow with minimal fuss.
Sweeps away flakes nicely, but follow with a richer moisturizer and limit to once a week.
10% AHA plus gritty particles and fragrance can irritate reactive skin β patch test and use sparingly.
Helps with texture and congestion; not fungal-acne safe and best avoided on active inflamed breakouts.
π Results Timeline
Instant Smoothness
Skin feels noticeably softer, polished and refreshed right away, with a brighter, more even surface.
100% noticed smoother skin in brand testingBrighter, Clearer Texture
With 2β3 uses per week, dullness fades, rough patches diminish and makeup applies more evenly.
~85% report smoother textureRefined Pores & Tone
Continued AHA exfoliation visibly reduces the look of pores and helps even out overall tone.
~78% report more even toneLasting Radiance
Regular, consistent use supports ongoing cell turnover for a sustained smooth, healthy-looking glow.
~72% report a lasting glowβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Leaves skin instantly smooth, soft and glowing
- Effective dual physical + chemical exfoliation in one step
- Delightful, true-to-life fresh lemonade scent
- Clean, vegan, gluten-free and cruelty-free formula
- Mess-free squeeze tube; great for congestion and dull texture
β Criticized
- Sugar particles can feel scratchy or jagged for some
- Fragrance and essential oils may irritate sensitive skin
- Not fungal-acne (malassezia) safe
- Requires diligent daily SPF due to AHAs
- Smaller tube can feel pricey for the amount
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Delivers the same glycolic-acid chemical exfoliation at a fraction of the price, but it's a leave-on toner with no physical scrub or lemon scent.
A gentle leave-on AHA treatment for texture and tone. More hands-off and less abrasive, but lacks the instant scrubbed-smooth sensation.
A classic, ultra-cheap physical scrub for the polishing sensation only. No AHAs, coarser grains, and not as refined or soothing.
π Comparison with Competitors
OLEHENRIKSEN Lemonade Smoothing Scrub (Featured)
$32.00Fresh Sugar Face Polish
$65.00Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant
$52.00Tatcha The Rice Polish
$68.00π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight; keep the cap closed
Hygienic squeeze tube with flip cap β minimizes mess and contamination
Yes β 90g full size is well under the 100ml carry-on limit
β Frequently Asked Questions
Topical AHAs like glycolic and lactic acid are generally considered low-risk during pregnancy because little is absorbed, and the formula is free of retinoids, salicylic acid and hydroquinone. However, with a 10% acid blend plus citrus essential oils and fragrance, we mark it as Caution. Always confirm with your OB-GYN or midwife before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
No. It contains polysorbate 80, sorbitan oleate, coconut acid and a ferment filtrate, which can potentially feed malassezia. Because it's a rinse-off product with short contact time, the practical risk is lower than with a leave-on, but it is not considered fully fungal-acne safe.
Avoid using it on the same night as retinol, strong vitamin C or other AHA/BHA exfoliants, since this scrub already provides 10% AHAs plus physical exfoliation. Stacking actives risks irritation and over-exfoliation. Alternate nights and listen to your skin.
It performs best on normal, oily and combination skin that struggles with dullness, rough texture or congestion. Dry skin can use it with extra moisturizer and less frequency, while very sensitive or reactive skin should patch test first or consider a gentler enzyme exfoliant.
Smoothness is immediate β skin feels polished after the first use. With consistent use 2β3 times a week, expect brighter, clearer texture within 1β2 weeks and more refined-looking pores and even tone after about 4 weeks.
Use it at night after cleansing, on wet skin. Massage in, leave for up to two minutes if you like, then rinse. Follow with toner, serum and moisturizer. The next morning, always apply broad-spectrum SPF. Use 2β3 times per week, not daily.
It has a low comedogenic rating of about 2 out of 5. It's water- and glycerin-based and rinses off, so it's unlikely to clog pores for most people. A couple of emulsifiers (like sorbitan oleate) rate mildly comedogenic, but their short contact time keeps overall risk low.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is approximately 12 months. Store it in a cool, dry place, keep the cap closed, and replace it if the color, scent or texture noticeably changes.
Verdict: The OLEHENRIKSEN Lemonade Smoothing Scrub is a genuinely fun, effective two-in-one exfoliant that delivers instant glass-skin smoothness thanks to its 10% AHA blend, ultra-fine sugar and real lemon. It's a standout for oily and combination skin chasing brighter, refined texture, and the fresh lemonade scent makes exfoliating something to look forward to. Just go in with a light hand: the gritty particles and fragrance can be too much for very sensitive skin, it isn't fungal-acne safe, and the acids make daily SPF essential. Used 2β3 times a week with sun protection, it earns its cult following.
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 skinβs 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 Β«promisesΒ» 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
Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting 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
|
|
| 4 |
Glycolic Acid
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Exfoliant, Exfoliating, Buffering
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Sucrose
Skin Conditioning, Humectant, Flavoring Agent, Soothing
|
|
|
| 0 |
Hydrated Silica
Absorbent, Abrasive
|
|