St. Ives BHA Green Tea & Bamboo Face Scrub Dupes & Cheaper Alternatives
From 5 Reddit threads · Updated October 29, 2026
BHA scrub for oily skin and softer texture; community calls it unusually effective. Here's what Redditors reach for instead.
The short answer
Best Overall Alternative2% salicylic acid leave-on for acne and clogged pores · $37.00 · 118.3 ml
Same Active: BHAHigh-strength glycolic and salicylic acid peel for congested texture · $9.50 · 29.6 ml
#1
Best Overall Alternative
- Key actives: BHA 2%, Salicylic Acid 2%
- Size: 118.3 ml
The why
A leave-on 2% salicylic acid exfoliant for blackheads, whiteheads, and rough texture. Redditors call it an HG for clogged pores, and studies found acne results comparable to adapalene; dry, reactive skin often finds it too irritating.
One minus
Overuse wrecks the barrier: redness, tightness, peeling
The original, at a glance
- Why people love it
- BHA plus physical exfoliation in one scrub
#2
Same Active: BHA
AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution
The Ordinary·Exfoliant
See alternativesHigh-strength glycolic and salicylic acid peel for congested texture
- Key actives: AHA 30%, BHA 2%
- Size: 29.6 ml
The why
This high-strength rinse-off peel suits experienced acid users chasing clogged-pore relief and smoother texture. Redditors report quick glow; studies found glycolic and salicylic acid can improve acne, though sensitive or barrier-damaged skin often reacts badly.
One minus
Barrier damage risk climbs alongside tretinoin or other strong actives
Good forOily Skin
Other alternatives worth a look
Leave-on BHA for clogged pores and sebum buildup · 244 mentions
Combination SkinClosed Comedones
Gentler BHA starting point for beginners · 189 mentions
Sensitive SkinCombination Skin
Gentle enough for many tretinoin routines · 134 mentions
Sensitive SkinAcne Scarring
10% lactic acid; gentler AHA step-up · 79 mentions
Dry SkinSensitive Skin
Multi-acid AHA/BHA pad — no ingredient-mixing homework · 8 mentions
Glycolic AcidWitch Hazel
Reddit HG for acne and post-acne marks · 727 mentions
Cream TextureMatte Finish
10% sulfur short-contact treatment for active breakouts · 255 mentions
Fungal AcneCystic Acne
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