iS Clinical Tri-Active Exfoliating Masque Review

iS Clinical Tri-Active Exfoliating Masque is a 120g weekly treatment scrub that combines three exfoliation mechanisms in one step: botanical enzymes (Papain and Bromelain), a biochemical Salicylic Acid exfoliant, and physical cellulose microbeads. It's aimed at oily, congested, dull or uneven-textured skin wanting a once-weekly resurfacing step, not a daily cleanser. Below: what's in it, who it suits, and how to use it without overdoing it.

What it is

Tri-Active Exfoliating Masque sits in iS Clinical's Treatment category, separate from the brand's daily cleansers and leave-on serums. The full ingredients list confirms Glycerin, Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate, Cellulose and Hydroxypropylcellulose (the microbead and thickening base), Panthenyl Triacetate (a Vitamin B5 derivative), Salicylic Acid, Copper PCA, Papain and Bromelain, and Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, alongside a 1,2-Hexanediol/Caprylyl Glycol preservative system.

The three exfoliation mechanisms

Physical — biodegradable cellulose microbeads. The scrub's gritty texture comes from Cellulose and Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate, which the brand states are eco-friendly and dissolve during massage rather than persisting as plastic microplastics would.
Biochemical — Salicylic Acid (BHA). An oil-soluble exfoliant that works inside the pore lining, relevant for congestion, enlarged pores or blemish-prone skin. Concentration isn't published, so we can't quote a percentage here.
Enzymatic — Papain and Bromelain. Fruit-derived enzymes (from papaya and pineapple) that help loosen dead skin cells on the surface, a gentler mechanism than acids but one that adds to the overall exfoliating load alongside the other two.

Copper PCA helps regulate sebum in oilier skin, and Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil — described on the listing as Brazilian Blood Orange — is included for antioxidant content. The formula is stated as paraben-free.

Quick facts

Format	Rinse-off treatment scrub, activates on contact with water
Size	120g
Exfoliation type	Triple — physical (cellulose microbeads), biochemical (Salicylic Acid), enzymatic (Papain, Bromelain)
Frequency	Once weekly, or bi-weekly for more sensitive skin
Contact time	Up to 5 minutes, then rinse with cool water
Fragrance	Not listed as a named ingredient on the published INCI
Tagged skin types	All skin types, particularly oily, congested, acne-prone, rough-textured and mature skin
Free-from	Paraben-free

Who it's for

Oily, combination or congested skin wanting a once-a-week deeper resurfacing step alongside a regular cleanser
Dull or texturally uneven skin looking for an occasional brightening, smoothing treatment rather than a daily habit
Established iS Clinical or actives users comfortable combining a BHA with physical and enzymatic exfoliation in one sitting

Who should skip it

Anyone new to chemical or physical exfoliation — start with a single-mechanism product and build tolerance first
Very dry, reactive, sensitised or post-procedure skin, where a gentler option such as Cleansing Complex is a better starting point
Anyone already using a leave-on acid exfoliant most nights, such as Active Serum — stacking a weekly BHA-and-enzyme scrub on top of a regular acid routine can be more exfoliation than skin needs; space the two apart in the week rather than using them back to back

How to use

Use it once weekly, or bi-weekly if your skin is more sensitive. Moisten the face (and, if needed, back, décolletage or neck) with water, apply a dime-sized amount in a thin, even layer, and massage in circular motions to activate the microbeads. Leave on for up to five minutes — a gentle warming sensation from increased micro-circulation is expected, not a sign of irritation — then rinse with cool water and pat dry. Some temporary redness for up to 30 minutes afterwards is normal. As with any exfoliating step, daily SPF matters, particularly in the days after use.

Pairs well with

For a gentler everyday exfoliating cleanse rather than a weekly treatment, Cleansing Complex Polish combines similar biodegradable microbeads with Salicylic Acid in a daily rinse-off format. See our iS Clinical brand guide for how the range's cleansers, treatments and serums fit together by step.

Where it sits on price

Tri-Active Exfoliating Masque sits within iS Clinical's standard treatment price band. iS Clinical isn't on Skintique's MAP-restricted brand list, but prices do move, so check the product page for the current figure rather than relying on a number here.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, please contact our team for advice before use.

FAQs

How often should I use iS Clinical Tri-Active Exfoliating Masque?

iS Clinical's own directions say once weekly for most skin, or bi-weekly if your skin is more sensitive or reactive. It's a treatment step, not a daily cleanser, given it combines three exfoliation mechanisms in one product.

What exfoliants does Tri-Active Exfoliating Masque contain?

Three: biodegradable cellulose microbeads for physical exfoliation, Salicylic Acid for biochemical (BHA) exfoliation, and the fruit enzymes Papain and Bromelain for enzymatic exfoliation. The exact Salicylic Acid percentage isn't published on the listing.

Can I use this masque with a leave-on acid serum like Active Serum?

You can, but space them apart in the week rather than using both in the same routine. Combining a weekly BHA-and-enzyme scrub with a regular leave-on acid exfoliant risks over-exfoliating, so ease in gradually and watch how your skin responds.

Is iS Clinical Tri-Active Exfoliating Masque fragranced?

Fragrance isn't listed as a named ingredient on the published INCI for this product, though formulations can change — always check the packaging you receive.

Is iS Clinical Tri-Active Exfoliating Masque safe to use during pregnancy?