Tree Hut Shea Sugar Scrub Review: Is Amazon’s Best-Selling Body Scrub Actually Worth It?

With over 55,000 reviews on Amazon and a near-perfect 4.7-star rating, the Tree Hut Shea Sugar Scrub has become one of the most talked-about body care products in recent years. Walk into any Target, Walmart, or Ulta, and you will likely see an entire shelf dedicated to these colorful jars. But does the hype match reality?

After spending several weeks testing the Tree Hut Shea Sugar Scrub across multiple scents and comparing it directly against its competitors, we are ready to deliver our honest verdict. At $8.94 for a generous 18-ounce jar, this scrub promises effective exfoliation, deep hydration, and skin that feels noticeably softer after just one use. We found that it largely delivers on those promises, though with a few caveats that potential buyers should know about before clicking “Add to Cart.”

This review covers everything from the ingredient breakdown and real-world texture to how it stacks up against Dr. Teal’s and Dove body scrubs. Whether you are a body scrub veteran or a first-time buyer, read on for the complete picture.

Key Specifications

Design and Build Quality

Tree Hut packages its Shea Sugar Scrub in a sturdy, wide-mouth plastic jar with a screw-top lid. The jar itself is functional rather than luxurious, but it gets the job done. The wide opening makes it easy to scoop out product even when the jar is nearly empty, which is a small but genuinely appreciated design choice. Many competing scrubs come in narrow containers that turn into a frustrating excavation project toward the end of their life.

The labeling is clean and informative, with each scent variant featuring a distinct color scheme that makes identification easy on a crowded shelf. At 18 ounces, the jar has a satisfying heft to it without feeling unwieldy in a wet shower. The screw-top lid seals tightly enough to prevent water from getting in between uses, though we would have appreciated a flip-top or pump mechanism for easier one-handed operation in the shower.

One practical note: the plastic jar is shower-safe and will not shatter if it slips from wet hands. Given that glass containers are a real hazard in the bathroom, this is a sensible material choice. The jar is also recyclable, which is a small but welcome consideration for environmentally conscious buyers.

Where Tree Hut really sets itself apart in this category is the sheer breadth of its scent lineup. With over 30 variants available, including retailer-exclusive scents at Ulta, Target, and Walmart, the range is unmatched in the drugstore body scrub market. Each variant also features unique active ingredients beyond the core formula. The Strawberry version includes Beta-Hydroxy Acid (BHA), the Pineapple variant features Polyglutamic Acid and pineapple enzymes, and the Tropic Glow option incorporates guarana and cupuacu butter for firming benefits.

Real-World Performance

Here is where the Tree Hut Shea Sugar Scrub truly earns its reputation. The texture strikes a well-calibrated balance between aggressive exfoliation and gentle application. The sugar granules are coarse enough to physically buff away dead skin cells, yet they dissolve gradually during use, which means the scrub becomes less abrasive as you work it into your skin. This self-regulating texture is one of the smartest aspects of the formulation.

During testing, we noticed visible improvement in skin texture after the very first use. Rough patches on elbows, knees, and heels were noticeably smoother after a single session. After two weeks of using the scrub three times per week, overall skin texture improved significantly, with a more even tone and a subtle healthy glow that persisted between uses.

The shea butter and six-oil blend work overtime on the moisturizing front. Unlike some sugar scrubs that leave skin feeling stripped or tight after rinsing, the Tree Hut formula deposits a thin layer of hydration that absorbs within minutes. Your skin feels soft and conditioned, not greasy or slippery. This is particularly noticeable in colder months when dry skin tends to be at its worst.

Scent longevity is another strong point. The fragrance lingers on the skin for approximately 2 to 4 hours after showering, depending on the variant. The Moroccan Rose and Vanilla scents tend to have the longest staying power, while lighter options like Coconut Lime fade more quickly. It is worth noting that some users find the fragrances too strong, so if you are sensitive to scented products, this is something to consider.

However, the scrub is not without its performance limitations. The formula is not suitable for facial use due to the coarse sugar granules and heavy shea butter content, which can clog facial pores and cause breakouts on oily or combination skin. We also found that texture consistency can vary slightly between scent variants. Some formulations, like the Blue Lagoon, lean more toward a gel-like consistency, while the classic Coconut Lime has a denser, more traditional scrub texture. This inconsistency can be surprising if you switch between scents.

One more practical observation: the scrub can leave a slight residue in the shower or tub, particularly the oil-heavy variants. A quick rinse of the shower floor after use prevents any slipping hazards, but it is an extra step to keep in mind.

Tree Hut Shea Sugar Scrub vs the Competition

The competition in the drugstore body scrub space is fierce, but Tree Hut holds its ground convincingly. Its closest competitor on paper is Dr. Teal’s Shea Sugar Scrub, which shares approximately 65% ingredient similarity and comes in at a marginally lower price per ounce ($0.47 vs $0.50). However, Tree Hut edges ahead with its broader scent selection, slightly more effective exfoliation, and the inclusion of variant-specific active ingredients like BHA and polyglutamic acid that Dr. Teal’s does not offer.

Dove’s Exfoliating Body Polish takes a fundamentally different approach. Its finer sugar granules and cream-based formula prioritize moisture over exfoliation, making it the better choice for anyone with sensitive or easily irritated skin. But if you are specifically looking for noticeable exfoliation that you can feel working, Tree Hut is the clear winner. Dove’s scrub feels more like a thick moisturizer with a hint of grit, whereas Tree Hut delivers a proper scrubbing experience.

Frank Body’s Original Coffee Scrub occupies the premium end of this comparison at $2.42 per ounce, nearly five times the cost of Tree Hut. While the coffee-based exfoliant offers a unique sensory experience and the brand carries undeniable aesthetic appeal, the performance difference does not justify the price gap for most users. Tree Hut delivers comparable exfoliation and superior moisturization at a fraction of the cost.

Where Tree Hut genuinely stands alone is in the variety department. No other brand in this price range comes close to offering 30+ scent options, many with tailored active ingredients. This means you can find a Tree Hut scrub specifically formulated for brightening (Vitamin C variant), firming (Tropic Glow), or deep pore cleansing (Strawberry with BHA) without leaving the brand ecosystem.

Who Should Buy the Tree Hut Shea Sugar Scrub

The Tree Hut Shea Sugar Scrub is an excellent fit for several types of buyers. If you are someone who deals with dry, rough, or flaky skin, particularly during colder months, this scrub delivers real results at a price that allows for regular, guilt-free use. At roughly $0.50 per ounce, you can scrub three times a week without feeling like you are burning through an expensive product.

It is also ideal for anyone who enjoys variety in their shower routine. With over 30 scents to choose from, you can rotate between options or match your scrub to the season. The limited-edition and retailer-exclusive scents add a fun, collectible element that has built an enthusiastic community around the brand.

Body scrub beginners will find this an excellent entry point. The self-dissolving sugar formula is forgiving and hard to misuse, the price is low enough to be a risk-free purchase, and the immediate results after first use provide satisfying instant gratification. If you have never used a body scrub before and want to understand what the fuss is about, start here.

Who Should Skip the Tree Hut Shea Sugar Scrub

Despite its broad appeal, the Tree Hut Shea Sugar Scrub is not for everyone. If you have eczema, psoriasis, or highly sensitive skin, proceed with extreme caution. Multiple users have reported that certain ingredients aggravated existing skin conditions, and the coarse sugar granules can be too abrasive for compromised skin barriers. Always perform a patch test on a small area before committing to full-body use.

If you are looking for a facial scrub, keep shopping. The sugar crystals are too large for delicate facial skin, and the heavy shea butter and oil content can clog pores and trigger breakouts, especially for those with oily or combination skin types. Tree Hut themselves do not market this as a facial product.

Fragrance-sensitive individuals should also be cautious. The scents, while delightful to most users, are synthetic fragrances (listed as “Parfum” in the ingredients) that can cause irritation for those with fragrance allergies. There is currently no unscented or fragrance-free option in the lineup.

Finally, if you prioritize minimal shower cleanup, be aware that the oil-rich formula can leave residue on shower surfaces. It rinses off skin easily enough, but your tub may need a quick wipe-down after use.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should you use the Tree Hut Shea Sugar Scrub?

For most skin types, 2 to 3 times per week is the sweet spot. Using it daily can lead to over-exfoliation, which strips the skin’s natural barrier and can cause redness, irritation, or increased sensitivity. If you have naturally dry skin, twice a week is usually sufficient. Apply the scrub to damp skin, massage in circular motions for 30 to 60 seconds per area, and rinse thoroughly with warm water.

Can you use Tree Hut Shea Sugar Scrub on your face?

No, this product is not recommended for facial use. The sugar granules are too coarse for the delicate skin on your face and can cause micro-tears or irritation. Additionally, the shea butter and heavy oil content can clog facial pores, particularly for those with oily or acne-prone skin. For lip exfoliation, a tiny amount can work well, but avoid the rest of the face entirely. Look for a dedicated facial scrub with finer particles instead.

How long does one jar of Tree Hut Shea Sugar Scrub last?

A single 18-ounce jar typically lasts between 6 and 10 weeks with regular use (2 to 3 times per week). This estimate assumes you are using roughly a golf-ball-sized amount per shower session to cover your full body. If you focus only on problem areas like elbows, knees, and feet, the jar can stretch to 12 weeks or more. At $8.94 per jar, that works out to roughly $0.90 to $1.50 per week, which is exceptional value for a body care product.

Is Tree Hut Shea Sugar Scrub safe for all skin types?

The scrub works well for normal, dry, and combination body skin types. However, it is not suitable for everyone. People with eczema, psoriasis, open wounds, sunburned skin, or fragrance sensitivities should avoid this product or consult a dermatologist before use. The formula is paraben-free, sulfate-free, and vegan, but it does contain synthetic fragrance, which is the most common trigger for adverse reactions. Always do a patch test on a small area of skin 24 hours before full application if you have any concerns.

Our Verdict

Score: 8.6/10

The Tree Hut Shea Sugar Scrub earns its place as amazon's best-selling body scrub for good reason. It delivers genuinely effective exfoliation, leaves skin noticeably softer and more hydrated, and does it all at a price point that undercuts most competitors on a per-ounce basis. The 6-oil blend combined with shea butter provides real post-scrub moisturization that you can feel for hours, and the staggering variety of 30+ scent options means there is something for virtually every preference.

It falls short of a perfect score due to its unsuitability for sensitive skin types, the absence of a fragrance-free option, and some inconsistency in texture between scent variants. The shower residue issue, while minor, is also worth noting. But these are relatively small drawbacks for a product that costs less than a dollar per ounce and performs at a level that rivals scrubs costing three to five times as much.

If you are in the market for a reliable, affordable body scrub that will make a tangible difference in your skin texture, the Tree Hut Shea Sugar Scrub is one of the safest bets you can make. It is not perfect, but at $8.94 for 18 ounces of genuinely effective product, it does not need to be.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Excellent exfoliation with self-dissolving sugar crystals that prevent over-scrubbing
• Deep moisturization from shea butter and a 6-oil blend that keeps skin soft for hours
• Outstanding value at approximately $0.50 per ounce, undercutting most premium competitors
• Over 30 scent varieties with unique active ingredients tailored to specific skin concerns
• Clean formula that is paraben-free, sulfate-free, vegan, and cruelty-free
• Immediate visible results after the first use, with cumulative improvement over weeks
• Long-lasting fragrance that lingers 2 to 4 hours after showering

Cons:

• Not suitable for sensitive, eczema-prone, or easily irritated skin types
• Cannot be used on the face due to coarse granules and pore-clogging oils
• No fragrance-free or unscented option available for those with fragrance sensitivities
• Texture consistency varies between scent variants, from gel-like to dense paste
• Oil-rich formula can leave residue on shower surfaces requiring extra cleanup
• Popular scents frequently sell out and can be difficult to find in stock