Best Facial Scrubs for Men 10 Tested and Reviewed 2025

As a guy who’s always been pretty serious about my grooming routine (or at least trying to be!), I’ve learned that a good facial scrub isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. We men often face issues like clogged pores, ingrown hairs from shaving, and generally rougher skin texture. Finding the best facial scrubs for men can genuinely transform your skin, making it smoother, clearer, and prepped for a better shave. Over the past few weeks, I’ve put 10 popular men’s facial scrubs through their paces, testing them on different skin types and seeing how they stood up to daily grime, oil, and the rigors of a busy life. My goal was to find out which ones truly deliver on their promises, offering real value and noticeable results. This article dives deep into my findings, giving you a straightforward guide to choosing the right facial scrub for your needs.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	JVR Face Scrub for Men, Facial Scrub for Deep…	View on Amazon
	NIVEA MEN Maximum Hydration Deep Cleaning Face Scrub With…	View on Amazon
	Jack Black Face Buff Energizing Scrub, 6 fl oz -…	View on Amazon
	Clinique For Men Exfoliating + Cleansing Face Scrub With…	View on Amazon
	Brickell Men’s Renewing Face Scrub for Men, Natural and…	View on Amazon
	Kiehl’s Facial Fuel Exfoliating Face Scrub, Facial Cleanser…	View on Amazon
	L’Oreal Paris Men Expert Face Scrub, Hydra Energetic Deep…	View on Amazon
	MARLOWE. No. 122 Facial Scrub 6 oz, Gentle Face…	View on Amazon
	Viking Revolution Microdermabrasion Face Scrub for Men -…	View on Amazon
	Every Man Jack Gentle Exfoliating Face Scrub For Men-…	View on Amazon

JVR Face Scrub for Men, Facial Scrub for Deep…

This scrub from JVR quickly impressed me with its unique blend of exfoliants. It felt robust enough to tackle rough skin and unclog stubborn pores, yet didn’t leave my face feeling stripped or irritated. The natural coffea scrub particles provide a satisfying physical exfoliation, and the added AHAs and BHAs work to chemically break down dead skin cells. I noticed a definite improvement in skin texture and a reduction in those pesky blackheads after just a few uses. It also made my pre-shave routine much smoother, as it really helped to lift facial hair and soften the skin.

• Natural Coffea Scrub: Utilizes coffee beans for effective physical exfoliation.
• Pre-Shave Soften: Prepares skin for a closer shave by removing dirt and dead skin, reducing irritation.
• Mild and Non-Irritating: Designed not to damage skin, enriched with Vitamin E.
• Exclusive Formulas: Combines Coffea Bean, AHA, and BHA for a balanced exfoliation.
• Highly Effective Men’s Skincare: Developed for quick daily use to achieve clean skin or a superior shave.

Pros:
– Excellent combination of physical and chemical exfoliants.
– Noticeably reduces blackheads and improves skin tone.
– Great for pre-shave prep, minimizing ingrown hairs.
– Suitable for various skin types: oily, dry, and normal.
– Leaves skin feeling soft and refreshed, not dry.

Cons:
– The coffee scent might not appeal to everyone.
– Some might find the scrub particles a bit too coarse if they have very sensitive skin.

Best for: Men battling blackheads, oily skin, or those looking for a thorough pre-shave treatment.

User feedback summary: Many users appreciate its deep cleaning ability and how well it preps skin for shaving, making it a staple in their grooming routine.

NIVEA MEN Maximum Hydration Deep Cleaning Face Scrub With…

NIVEA MEN has always been a go-to for reliable, no-nonsense skincare, and this scrub is no exception. It’s formulated to deeply cleanse without that tight, dry feeling you sometimes get with harsher scrubs. The fine scrub particles felt gentle yet effective, and the enrichment with Aloe Vera and Pro-Vitamin B5 definitely contributed to the hydrating feel. It did a great job of removing excess dirt and oils, leaving my skin feeling clean and smooth. For guys who want a simple, effective, and hydrating scrub, this is a solid choice.

• Deeply Cleanses: Specially formulated to deeply cleanse skin without drying it out.
• Removes Excess Dirt and Oils: Unclogs pores and clears away impurities.
• Refines Complexion: Smooths complexion by removing dead skin cells.
• Aloe Vera and Provitamin B5 Enriched: Hydrating ingredients help maintain skin moisture.

Pros:
– Very hydrating, prevents skin from feeling tight or dry.
– Gentle enough for regular use.
– Effectively removes daily grime and excess oil.
– Affordable and widely available.
– Subtle, pleasant scent.

Cons:
– May not be abrasive enough for those with extremely rough or congested skin.
– Packaging could be more premium, but that’s a minor point.

Best for: Men with normal to dry skin who need gentle daily exfoliation and hydration.

User feedback summary: Users often highlight its hydrating properties and how it leaves skin feeling fresh and not irritated, making it a popular choice for daily cleansing.

Jack Black Face Buff Energizing Scrub, 6 fl oz -…

Jack Black products consistently deliver, and their Face Buff Energizing Scrub is a prime example. The small, uniform particles provided a consistent, effective scrub that really felt like it was getting into every pore. What stood out was the immediate energizing and cooling effect, which is incredibly refreshing, especially in the morning. It felt like it prepped my skin perfectly for shaving, softening beard hairs and allowing the razor to glide smoothly. The formula is also reassuringly free of colorants and parabens, and it’s dermatologist-tested.

• Small Particles: Effectively remove dirt and dead skin cells.
• Hydrating, Softening, Cooling Effect: Prepares skin for a less irritating shave.
• Colorant-Free, Paraben-Free: Formulated without common irritants.
• Dermatologist Tested: Ensures safety and efficacy for various skin types.

Pros:
– Leaves skin feeling incredibly refreshed and energized.
– Excellent pre-shave scrub, noticeably reduces razor drag.
– Consistent and effective exfoliation.
– Gentle enough for frequent use without irritation.
– Pleasant, subtle scent.

Cons:
– Higher price point compared to some other options.
– Might not be readily available in all local stores.

Best for: Men seeking a premium pre-shave scrub that invigorates and smooths the skin.

User feedback summary: Many loyal users rave about its refreshing feel and how effectively it prevents ingrown hairs, making their shave experience much better.

Clinique For Men Exfoliating + Cleansing Face Scrub With…

Clinique For Men combines deep cleaning with gentle exfoliation, a balancing act that’s often hard to achieve. This jelly cleanser and exfoliator uses both salicylic acid and bamboo powder, offering a dual-action approach. The salicylic acid works to penetrate pores and dissolve impurities, while the bamboo powder provides a physical scrub. I found it incredibly effective at removing daily grime and pollution build-up, leaving my skin smooth and with a healthy glow. Crucially, it’s 100% fragrance-free and allergy-tested, making it a fantastic option for those with sensitive skin.

• Deep-Cleans Skin: A powerful jelly cleanser and exfoliator that removes pollution, dirt, and impurities.
• Exfoliates 2 Ways: Uses salicylic acid (BHA) and bamboo powder for both chemical and physical exfoliation.
• Gentle for Daily Use: Leaves skin smooth, refreshed, and glowing without irritation.
• Clinical Expertise: Allergy tested and 100% fragrance-free.

Pros:
– Dual exfoliation (chemical and physical) for comprehensive cleaning.
– Excellent for sensitive skin due to being fragrance-free and allergy-tested.
– Effectively removes pollution and impurities, revealing a radiant complexion.
– Can be used daily without over-drying.

Cons:
– The texture might take some getting used to for those accustomed to creamier scrubs.
– Premium price tag.

Best for: Men with sensitive skin, or those looking for a fragrance-free, dermatologist-backed solution that combines deep cleaning with gentle exfoliation.

User feedback summary: Users with sensitive skin particularly praise its gentle yet effective formula, noting a significant improvement in skin clarity and texture without any irritation.

Brickell Men’s Renewing Face Scrub for Men, Natural and…

Brickell Men’s skincare consistently champions natural and organic ingredients, and their Renewing Face Scrub is no exception. This scrub uses pumice and jojoba beads for its exfoliating power, combined with nourishing ingredients like aloe vera, avocado butter, and vitamin E. I found it highly effective at sloughing away dead skin and preventing ingrown hairs, especially when used pre-shave. It felt incredibly natural on the skin, and the results were clear: smoother, softer skin and a noticeably closer shave. It’s a great choice if you prioritize natural formulations.

• What It Does: Sloughs away oil, dead skin, and impurities, restoring a clear complexion.
• Who It’s For: Men of any age with any skin type, particularly those prone to oily build-up, blemishes, or ingrown hairs.
• How It Works: Uses natural scrubbing particles (pumice, jojoba beads) to exfoliate and unclog pores.
• Key Ingredients: Natural & Organic, including aloe vera, avocado butter, vitamin E, pumice, and jojoba beads.

Pros:
– Made with high-quality natural and organic ingredients.
– Effective physical exfoliation without feeling overly harsh.
– Excellent for pre-shave prep, helping to lift whiskers.
– Leaves skin feeling soft and moisturized, not dry.
– Backed by strong brand reputation in natural grooming.

Cons:
– Higher price point due to natural/organic focus.
– The scent, while natural, might not be universally loved.

Best for: Environmentally conscious men who prefer natural and organic ingredients for effective exfoliation and pre-shave benefits.

User feedback summary: Many men appreciate the natural ingredient list and the superior pre-shave experience, often noting how it helps prevent ingrown hairs and improves skin texture.

Kiehl’s Facial Fuel Exfoliating Face Scrub, Facial Cleanser…

Kiehl’s Facial Fuel line is well-regarded for its energizing properties, and this exfoliating scrub lives up to that reputation. Infused with caffeine and menthol, it provides a truly invigorating experience that wakes up both your skin and your senses. The apricot kernel granules offer effective physical exfoliation, removing dead skin and impurities. I loved how it helped soften my tough facial hair, making my shaves significantly more comfortable and closer. It’s a great scrub to incorporate into your routine a few times a week.

• Invigorating Formula: Sloughs away dead skin, dirt, and oil, leaving skin refreshed.
• Softens Facial Hair: Helps prepare tough facial hair for a more comfortable and closer shave.
• How To Use: Gently massage onto wet face 2-3 times weekly.
• Key Ingredients: Infused with Caffeine, Menthol, and Apricot Kernels (gentle exfoliant).
• Customer Favorite: Paraben-Free and Sulfate-Free, specifically formulated for men’s skin.

Pros:
– Highly invigorating with caffeine and menthol—perfect for morning use.
– Excellent for softening tough beard hair before shaving.
– Effective apricot kernel exfoliation.
– Paraben-free and sulfate-free formula.
– A well-established and trusted brand in men’s skincare.

Cons:
– Apricot kernels can sometimes be considered harsher than other exfoliants for very sensitive skin (though Kiehl’s uses finely crushed granules).
– Premium pricing.

Best for: Men who enjoy an invigorating scrub, especially those with thicker facial hair needing softening for a better shave.

User feedback summary: Users consistently praise its ability to energize the skin and create a smoother canvas for shaving, often calling it a “wake-up call” for their face.

L’Oreal Paris Men Expert Face Scrub, Hydra Energetic Deep…

L’Oreal Paris Men Expert offers an accessible yet effective option with their Hydra Energetic Deep Exfoliating Face Scrub. This scrub really focuses on deep purification, using natural exfoliating particles to clear out impurities and reduce shine. I found it to be a reliable workhorse for managing oily skin and preventing breakouts. It effectively unblocked pores and left my skin feeling incredibly clean and fresh, without any residue. It’s a great everyday scrub for those looking for a no-fuss, affordable solution.

• Removes Impurities and Shine: Deeply purifies and cleanses the skin.
• Helps to Unblock Pores: Targeted action to clear congested pores.
• With Natural Exfoliating Particles: Provides effective physical exfoliation.
• Hydra Energetic Deep Exfoliating Face Scrub: Known for its deep cleansing and purifying properties.

Pros:
– Very effective at deep cleaning and removing excess oil/shine.
– Affordable and easily accessible.
– Pleasant, fresh scent often associated with men’s grooming products.
– Good for preventing breakouts and keeping pores clear.

Cons:
– Might be a bit too drying for men with naturally dry skin if used too frequently.
– The exfoliating particles might feel slightly less refined than those in higher-end products.

Best for: Men with oily or combination skin prone to shine and blocked pores, looking for an effective and affordable deep-cleaning scrub.

User feedback summary: Many users appreciate its straightforward approach to deep cleaning, finding it highly effective for controlling oil and achieving a fresh feel without breaking the bank.

MARLOWE. No. 122 Facial Scrub 6 oz, Gentle Face…

MARLOWE. No. 122 Facial Scrub stands out for its commitment to purposeful, clean products, and a distinctive scent. This gentle scrub effectively cleanses, exfoliates, and revitalizes, using a combination of apricot seed powder and pumice. I found it delivered a smooth, refreshed feel without being overly abrasive. The fresh and woodsy scent, with notes of Pine and Agarwood, was a pleasant surprise—it’s distinctive but not overpowering. It’s also vegan, free from parabens, phthalates, and other harsh chemicals, appealing to those who prefer cleaner formulations.

• Cleans, Exfoliates, Revitalizes: Gently removes dirt, impurities, and flaky skin, refreshing your look.
• Smooths, Refreshes, Hydrates: Crafted with Apricot Seed Powder and Pumice for effective exfoliation.
• Scent You’ll Love: Fresh and woodsy with notes of Pine and Agarwood.
• Purposeful, Clean Products: Vegan, free from parabens, phthalates, gluten, SLS & SLES; never tested on animals. Made in the USA.

Pros:
– Effective yet gentle exfoliation suitable for regular use.
– Unique, appealing woodsy scent.
– Clean formulation (vegan, cruelty-free, no harsh chemicals).
– Leaves skin feeling smooth, refreshed, and hydrated.

Cons:
– The specific scent might not be for everyone.
– Might require pairing with a separate moisturizer for very dry skin.

Best for: Men who value clean, natural formulations and appreciate a distinctive, pleasant scent in their grooming products.

User feedback summary: Users often comment on the pleasant, masculine scent and the gentle yet effective exfoliation, noting that it leaves their skin feeling exceptionally soft and clean.

Viking Revolution Microdermabrasion Face Scrub for Men -…

Viking Revolution is known for its robust grooming products, and their Microdermabrasion Face Scrub fits right in. This scrub promises a squeaky-clean exfoliating experience, and it delivers. It’s designed to deeply cleanse, eliminate oil, and help moisturize the skin, working across oily, dry, and normal skin types. I found its exfoliating action to be quite powerful, really helping to clear out pores and prevent acne. It also did a good job of conditioning my skin against razor irritation, making it a valuable addition to a pre-shave routine. Plus, their “Viking Promise” offers good peace of mind.

• Best Face Wash: Deeply cleanses dirt, eliminates oil, and helps moisturize skin.
• Expertly Formulated Skincare For Men: Works with oily, dry, and normal skin types.
• Squeaky-Clean Exfoliating Face Scrub: Exfoliates to avoid acne and balance dryness.
• Make Your Shave Count: Helps condition skin against razor irritation for an easier shave.

Pros:
– Powerful exfoliating action for deep cleaning and pore unclogging.
– Good for preventing acne and balancing skin.
– Effective pre-shave conditioner, reducing razor irritation.
– Suitable for a wide range of skin types.
– Backed by a satisfaction guarantee.

Cons:
– The “microdermabrasion” claim might set expectations higher than a typical scrub can deliver (it’s still a physical scrub).
– Some might find it a bit too intense for daily use if they have very sensitive skin.

Best for: Men looking for a robust, deep-cleaning scrub that effectively tackles acne, excess oil, and preps skin for shaving.

User feedback summary: Many users praise its deep cleaning capabilities and how well it helps manage breakouts and ingrown hairs, leaving their face feeling incredibly fresh.

Every Man Jack Gentle Exfoliating Face Scrub For Men-…

Every Man Jack is a brand that consistently delivers quality, naturally-derived products, and their Gentle Exfoliating Face Scrub is a testament to that. This scrub is specifically designed for men with normal to dry, tired skin, and it focuses on gentle exfoliation using jojoba beads, along with hyaluronic acid and caffeine for moisturizing and reviving benefits. I particularly appreciated its fragrance-free formula, making it excellent for sensitive skin. It effectively exfoliated away dry, dead skin cells without causing any irritation, leaving my skin feeling moisturized and refreshed.

• Naturally-Derived Ingredients: Jojoba Beads, Hyaluronic Acid, Caffeine, and Jojoba Oil; free of parabens, phthalates, harsh chemicals, and dyes; gluten-free; vegan.
• Treat Your Skin Type: Ideal for normal to dry, tired skin; fragrance-free for sensitive skin.
• Made For Men Like You: Gently exfoliates, moisturizes, and helps maintain a healthy skin barrier.
• Part of a 3-Step Regimen: Step 2 in the Skin Revive collection (wash, scrub, hydrate).
• Responsibly Made in the USA: Cruelty-free and sustainably made.

Pros:
– Gentle exfoliation, ideal for sensitive or normal to dry skin.
– Hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and jojoba oil.
– Fragrance-free, minimizing potential for irritation.
– Clean, naturally-derived, and vegan ingredients.
– Leaves skin feeling soft, moisturized, and revived.

Cons:
– Might not be strong enough for those needing very deep exfoliation for oily or severely congested skin.
– Specific to the “Skin Revive” regimen, which might imply needing other products for full effect (though it works fine on its own).

Best for: Men with normal, dry, or sensitive skin who prefer gentle, naturally-derived, fragrance-free products for mild exfoliation and hydration.

User feedback summary: Users with sensitive skin frequently highlight its gentle nature and the absence of fragrance, appreciating how it leaves their skin soft, hydrated, and calm.

Helpful Comparison Insights

When looking at the best facial scrubs for men, it’s clear that while they all aim to exfoliate, they achieve it in different ways and with different priorities. For instance, if you’re battling stubborn blackheads and oily skin, the JVR Face Scrub for Men stands out with its combination of physical coffee grounds and chemical AHAs/BHAs, offering a powerful one-two punch. Similarly, the Viking Revolution Microdermabrasion Face Scrub delivers a robust cleaning experience for congested skin.

On the other hand, for guys with sensitive skin or those prone to dryness, Every Man Jack Gentle Exfoliating Face Scrub (fragrance-free and loaded with hydrating ingredients) and Clinique For Men Exfoliating + Cleansing Face Scrub (dermatologist-tested and fragrance-free) are excellent, gentler choices that still get the job done without irritation. The NIVEA MEN Maximum Hydration Deep Cleaning Face Scrub also falls into this category, providing hydration alongside its cleansing action.

For the ultimate pre-shave prep, the Jack Black Face Buff Energizing Scrub and Kiehl’s Facial Fuel Exfoliating Face Scrub are consistently praised. Both not only exfoliate but also soften tough beard hairs and invigorate the skin, leading to a much smoother, irritation-free shave. The Brickell Men’s Renewing Face Scrub also excels in this area, utilizing natural pumice and jojoba beads to lift whiskers.

If you prioritize natural or clean ingredients, Brickell Men’s Renewing Face Scrub and MARLOWE. No. 122 Facial Scrub lead the pack, offering formulations free from harsh chemicals while still being effective. The L’Oreal Paris Men Expert Face Scrub is a fantastic budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on deep cleaning, especially for those managing shine and impurities.

Ultimately, the best choice often comes down to your specific skin concerns and how much “oomph” you want from your scrub. Some are designed for intense weekly treatments, while others are gentle enough for daily use.

Final Verdict

After thoroughly testing these best facial scrubs for men, it’s clear there’s a fantastic option out there for every guy and every skin type.

If you’re seeking a powerful, multi-action scrub to tackle blackheads, oil, and ingrown hairs, the JVR Face Scrub for Men truly impressed me with its unique blend of coffee, AHA, and BHA—it’s a heavy hitter that delivers visible results.

For the man who wants an invigorating experience and a superior shave, you can’t go wrong with either the Jack Black Face Buff Energizing Scrub or the Kiehl’s Facial Fuel Exfoliating Face Scrub. Both excel at prepping your skin and beard.

Guys with sensitive or drier skin will find comfort and effectiveness in the Every Man Jack Gentle Exfoliating Face Scrub or the Clinique For Men Exfoliating + Cleansing Face Scrub, both offering gentle yet thorough cleaning without irritation.

And if you’re looking for great value and dependable performance for oily or combination skin, the L’Oreal Paris Men Expert Face Scrub is a solid, accessible choice.

No matter which one you choose, incorporating a good facial scrub into your routine a few times a week will undoubtedly lead to smoother, clearer, and healthier-looking skin. It’s an easy step that makes a big difference!

Comprehensive FAQ Section

Q1: Why should men use a facial scrub?
A: Men’s skin tends to be thicker and can produce more oil, leading to clogged pores, blackheads, and a dull complexion. A facial scrub helps exfoliate dead skin cells, unclog pores, improve skin texture, and reduce issues like ingrown hairs from shaving. It’s an essential step for maintaining healthy, clear skin and achieving a better shave.

Q2: How often should men use a facial scrub?
A: Generally, most men should use a facial scrub 2-3 times per week. If you have very oily skin, you might use it slightly more often, but always be mindful of not over-exfoliating. For those with sensitive or dry skin, once or twice a week might be sufficient. Listen to your skin and adjust accordingly.

Q3: What’s the difference between a physical scrub and a chemical scrub?
A: A physical scrub uses small granules or particles (like jojoba beads, coffee grounds, or pumice) to manually buff away dead skin cells. A chemical scrub uses acids (like AHA or BHA, such as glycolic or salicylic acid) to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to shed more easily. Many of the best facial scrubs for men combine both methods for comprehensive exfoliation.

Q4: Can using a facial scrub help with ingrown hairs?
A: Absolutely! Regular exfoliation with a good facial scrub helps remove dead skin cells that can trap hairs under the skin’s surface, which often causes ingrown hairs. It also helps to lift and soften facial hair, making for a smoother, less irritating shave.

Q5: Should I use a facial scrub before or after shaving?
A: It’s generally recommended to use a facial scrub before shaving. This helps to exfoliate dead skin, lift beard hairs, and prepare your skin for a closer, more comfortable shave, reducing the risk of razor burn and irritation.

Q6: What should I do after using a facial scrub?
A: After rinsing off your facial scrub, it’s crucial to follow up with a good quality moisturizer. Exfoliation can sometimes leave your skin a little vulnerable, so moisturizing helps to replenish hydration, soothe the skin, and maintain its protective barrier.

Q7: Are there specific facial scrubs for men with sensitive skin?
A: Yes! If you have sensitive skin, look for facial scrubs for men that are labeled “gentle,” “fragrance-free,” or “dermatologist-tested.” Products like the Clinique For Men Exfoliating + Cleansing Face Scrub or Every Man Jack Gentle Exfoliating Face Scrub are excellent choices, as they use finer exfoliating particles and avoid common irritants.