This best-selling face exfoliator hydrates and illuminates the skin while removing dead skin cells, minimizing the appearance of wrinkles, unclogging pores, and evening out skin tone. It’s suitable for oily, dry, normal, and combination skin and is made to be applied every other day. Plus, it’s paraben- and fragrance-free, so you’ll be less likely to get irritation if you have sensitive skin. Show
Key ingredients: Salicylic acid, green tea extract Skin types: Oily, combination, dry, normal Sizes: 1–4 fl. oz. Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars An ELLE editor says: “I consider this to be the baby version of P50. If you would like bright, glowing skin and are slightly scared by anything too intense, try this exfoliating toner. At one point, five of my friends were on this at the same time and for a brief, glorious period, we were all pimple-free with tight skin. Do use a cotton pad to put this on.” –Kathleen Hou, ELLE beauty director 2 Best Face Exfoliator for Brightening Skin TULA So Polished Exfoliating Sugar Scrub 2 Best Face Exfoliator for Brightening Skin TULA So Polished Exfoliating Sugar ScrubPros
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This exfoliating face scrub removes excess oil and build-up from the skin without completely stripping it of moisture. The sugar gently exfoliates while simultaneously polishing and softening skin for a smooth, even complexion. Plus, it’s formulated without parabens, sulfates, mineral oil, and other ingredients that aren’t good for the skin. Key ingredients: Probiotic extracts, sugar, papaya, and pineapple enzymes Skin types: All skin types Size: 2.9 fl. oz. Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars An Amazon reviewer says: “I have sensitive skin and rarely use products like these; however, this face sugar scrub is luxurious without destroying my face. It has a hint of vanilla and when used a couple of times a week, my skin is silky smooth. Definitely worth it.” 3 Best Face Exfoliator for Travel Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant3 Best Face Exfoliator for Travel Dermalogica Daily MicrofoliantPros
Add this exfoliating powder to your skin care routine, especially if you have acne-prone skin as its salicylic acid works to minimize blemishes and redness. The powder activates upon contact with water and works to achieve smoother and brighter skin with daily use. Key ingredients: Rice, salicylic acid, colloidal oatmeal Skin types: All skin types Sizes: 0.45–2.6 fl. oz. Amazon rating: 4.8/5 stars An ELLE editor says: “One of my skin care sins is that I don’t exfoliate enough due to my allergies, which make my skin sensitive to many enzyme formulas. I went for a facial at the Dermalogica spa in Los Angeles and their esthetician, Anya, was so knowledgeable. We used this exfoliant on my skin and it revealed a brighter, smoother texture. I was instantly hooked.” –Danielle James, ELLE.com beauty director Advertisement - Continue Reading Below 4 Best Gentle Liquid Exfoliant Sofie Pavitt Face Mandelic Clearing Serum4 Best Gentle Liquid Exfoliant Sofie Pavitt Face Mandelic Clearing SerumNow 35% Off Pros
Esthetician and acne specialist Sofie Pavitt’s gentle exfoliating serum is a must-have for textured, dull skin. Using mandelic acid and hyaluronic acid, this daily treatment is gentle enough to use every day, while keeping breakouts and congested skin at bay. Key ingredients: Mandelic acid, hyaluronic acid Skin types: All skin types Size: 1 fl. oz. Soko Glam rating: 5/5 stars Our expert says: “I’m just finishing up my third bottle of this serum, and I don't think I can ever live without it now. It’s so, so gentle. I didn’t experience any stinging or redness when I first started using it, and now, months later, my skin looks more even and bright. And as for breakouts? We broke up.” —Tatjana Freund, Hearst fashion and luxury commerce editor 5 Best Face Exfoliator for Sensitive Skin La Roche-Posay Ultra-Fine Scrub5 Best Face Exfoliator for Sensitive Skin La Roche-Posay Ultra-Fine ScrubPros
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Individuals with sensitive skin will benefit from this exfoliant made with ultra-fine pumice particles designed to remove excess dead skin cells. The gel-like consistency prevents unwanted irritation while offering gentle exfoliation and additional hydration thanks to infused glycerin and thermal spring water. Key ingredients: Ultra-fine pumice particles, La Roche-Posay thermal spring water Skin types: Combination, sensitive, normal Size: 1.7 fl. oz. Amazon rating: 4.3/5 stars An Amazon reviewer says: “Love it! I’m gushing about this brand. I’m using the cleanser, too. Best stuff I’ve ever used. My ridiculously super sensitive skin actually doesn’t look red and blotchy afterwards. Feels smooth, clean, and moisturized.” 6 Best Cruelty-Free Face Exfoliator e.l.f. Gentle Peeling Exfoliant Face Cleanser6 Best Cruelty-Free Face Exfoliator e.l.f. Gentle Peeling Exfoliant Face CleanserPros
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If you’re not interested in spending big bucks on a face exfoliator, you’ll want to try this one from e.l.f. Cosmetics. This peeling exfoliant gently removes dead skin cells from the surface to reveal radiant, luminous skin. The vegan and cruelty-free formula is suitable for all skin types and is less than $10 per tube. Key ingredients: Papaya, licorice and tangerine extracts Skin types: All Size: 3.04 fl. oz. Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars An Amazon reviewer says: “This leaves my face babies-butt smooth. It’s so satisfying watching the dead skin cells and other impurities roll off my face. This is definitely a great product addition to my skin care routine.” Advertisement - Continue Reading Below 7 Most Powerful Liquid Exfoliant The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution7 Most Powerful Liquid Exfoliant The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling SolutionPros
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This blood-red liquid treatment launched thousands of viral TikToks, for good reason. Of all the exfoliants on the market, this is one of the strongest. When used correctly, a combination of salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and lactic acid can dramatically brighten and resurface the skin. But follow the directions to the letter–this isn't a product to experiment with. Is this too strong for your sensitive skin? You can also use it as a foot treatment to get rid of peeling heels. Key ingredients: Salicylic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, tartaric acid, citric acid, Tasmanian pepperberry Skin types: Dull, acne-prone Size: 1 fl. oz. Nordstrom rating: 4.5/5 stars Our expert says: “When my skin was extremely acne-prone, clogged and dull, this treatment was my savior. When used sparingly–and correctly–this immediately added a glow after my weekly treatment. Now that my skin is more stable, I skip using it on my face and instead use it on rough heels as a mini foot treatment.” –Tatjana Freund 8 Best Face Exfoliator for Textured Skin Neutrogena Bright Boost Resurfacing Facial Exfoliator8 Best Face Exfoliator for Textured Skin Neutrogena Bright Boost Resurfacing Facial ExfoliatorPros
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This dermatologist-tested face exfoliator brightens skin while simultaneously reducing the size of pores and minimizing uneven texture. Made with glycolic and mandelic alpha-hydroxy acids, this exfoliator increases surface cell turnover and leaves skin with a rejuvenated appearance. Key ingredients: Glycolic acid Size: 2.6 fl. oz. Skin types: Sensitive Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars An Amazon reviewer says: “Liked the consistency of this physical exfoliator/scrub. Easy to use. Takes a lot to rinse, skin feels good after. No typical Neutrogena scent! Good addition to skin care collection at a good value/cost per performance of product.” 9 Best Face Exfoliator for All Skin Types Mario Badescu Botanical Exfoliating Scrub9 Best Face Exfoliator for All Skin Types Mario Badescu Botanical Exfoliating ScrubPros
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Whether you have dry, normal, oily, or combination skin, this face exfoliator is suitable for all skin types. Made from active botanicals, the exfoliating scrub refines the skin’s texture while unclogging pores for a fresh and clean feel. The product is designed to be used two to three times per week and followed by SPF 30 to prevent sun damage. Key ingredients: Aloe vera, ivory palm seeds, green tea extract, and coconut extract Skin types: All skin types Size: 3.4 fl. oz. Amazon rating: 4.7/5 stars Our expert says: “I’m a big fan of Mario Badescu’s affordable, time-tested skin care products, so I was eager to test out the brand’s plant-based exfoliating scrub to help combat congestion around my nose and T-zone area. Since I have sensitive skin, I’ve used it modestly as a targeted treatment once per week, and a little goes a long way. It helps unclog my pores and smooth pesky bumps so I can avoid the temptation to act as my own esthetician.” –Sam Peters, Hearst senior commerce editor Advertisement - Continue Reading Below 10 Best Exfoliating Peel Pads Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel10 Best Exfoliating Peel Pads Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Universal Daily PeelPros
The Dr. Dennis Gross peel pads are one of the most beloved exfoliating treatments. Dramatically effective and yet still gentle, this two-step product combats signs of aging, uneven skin texture, and clogged pores. Key ingredients: Glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, malic acid, green tea extract, green tea extract Skin types: All skin types Size: 30 pack Nordstrom rating: 4.7/5 stars A Nordstrom reviewer says: “I often have horrible dry, rough patches and undertones of reds, and needed something gentle enough but effective to smooth my skin out. The results are undeniable. My skin feels like BUTTER! This is going in my vault of favorites for sure! Worth every penny!” 11 Best Face Exfoliator with Microbeads Versed Day Maker Microcrystal Exfoliating Cleanser11 Best Face Exfoliator with Microbeads Versed Day Maker Microcrystal Exfoliating CleanserPros
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Microcrystalline is an environmentally friendly physical exfoliant that removes dead skin cells and unclogs pores, leaving you with a soft and smooth complexion. That said, it isn’t abrasive and is well-suited for sensitive and acne-prone skin. Use this cleanser once or twice a week to see how your skin reacts for best results. Key ingredients: Microcrystalline, raspberry leaf extract, black currant leaf extract, jojoba oil Skin types: Sensitive skin Size: 3 fl. oz. Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars An Amazon reviewer says: “It’s absolutely a game changer for me. The beads are gentle enough that they don’t mess up my skin barrier but powerful enough to exfoliate. I use it one to two times per week to keep my skin looking bright and rid of dead skin peelings.” 12 Best Exfoliating Treatment for Dull Skin Sunday Riley Good Genes All-in-One Lactic Acid Exfoliating Face Treatment12 Best Exfoliating Treatment for Dull Skin Sunday Riley Good Genes All-in-One Lactic Acid Exfoliating Face TreatmentTypically, dull skin can be attributed to either dehydration, clogged pores–or both! This treatment uses the exfoliating properties of lactic acid and brightening licorice to plump fine lines and return a healthy sheen to the skin. You can use this as a nighttime serum or as a wash-off mask if you have sensitive skin. Key ingredients: Lactic acid, licorice Skin types: Dull, mature Sizes: 0.5–1.7 fl. oz. Nordstrom rating: 4.7/5 stars A Nordstrom reviewer says: “Instant gratification. From night one my acne scars were faded, skin was glowing, and plump. If I could only keep one product in my skin care, this would be it.” Advertisement - Continue Reading Below 13 Best Plant-Based Face Exfoliator Thrive Natural Care Energy Face Scrub13 Best Plant-Based Face Exfoliator Thrive Natural Care Energy Face ScrubPros
The key ingredient in this face exfoliator is coffee grounds. Yes, you read that right–Arabica coffee grounds that cleanse, brighten, and purify skin without completely drying it out. Plus, the plant-based ingredients are formulated to fight germs and prevent ingrown hairs, so it does more than simply exfoliate and soften skin. Key ingredients: Coffee, juanilama, fierrillo, joboba Skin types: Oily, combination, dry, normal Size: 3.38 fl. oz. Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars An Amazon reviewer says: “It’s the perfect balance of scrubbiness and softness and it has a great citrus smell. I’ve tried many scrubs in my lifetime and I will be definitely be buying this again.” 14 Best Vitamin C Face Exfoliator NassifMD® Micro-Spa Radiance Resurfacing Peel14 Best Vitamin C Face Exfoliator NassifMD® Micro-Spa Radiance Resurfacing PeelPros
Treat your skin to this two-step resurfacing peel to provide a spa-like quality treatment from the comfort of your home. The vitamin C crystals work to improve cell turnover for a smoother complexion while infusing skin with antioxidants for added benefits. This face exfoliator duo can be used one to two times per week for brighter and smoother skin. Key ingredients: Vitamin C Skin types: All skin types Size: 1.7 fl. oz. Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars An Amazon reviewer says: “I was a little worried at first, as I have extremely sensitive skin, and didn’t want to cause myself further irritation. However, this combo worked excellent on my dry-dull, combination skin. Was easy to use, and instructions were easy to follow. It gently exfoliated my skin without being abrasive or causing irritation.” 15 Best Face Exfoliator to Shrink Pores Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment15 Best Face Exfoliator to Shrink Pores Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating TreatmentNow 14% Off Pros
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This triple-threat exfoliator combines physical, chemical, and enzymatic exfoliation for the ultimate skin treatment. In less than two minutes, this exfoliating treatment sloughs away dead skin cells to reveal a radiant complexion. You’ll even notice a reduction in the size of your pores and skin texture. Key ingredients: Lactic acid, salicylic acid Skin types: Normal, dry, combination, oily Sizes: 0.5–5 fl. oz. Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars An ELLE editor says: “In the early aughts era, I remember seeing celebrities going to Kate Somerville for facials and recommending a version of this exfoliator. When I finally tried it as an adult, I was glad to find that it was a classic for a reason. The grainage on this is very fine, but it doesn’t leave your skin feeling parched or tight. I like the clean feeling that this gives me.” –Kathleen Hou Advertisement - Continue Reading Below 16 Best Face Exfoliator for Dry Skin Murad AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser16 Best Face Exfoliator for Dry Skin Murad AHA/BHA Exfoliating CleanserPros
This exfoliator is designed specifically for individuals with dry skin who can’t afford to have more moisture sucked out from the skin. The use of jojoba beads opens hydration pathways while simultaneously getting rid of dead skin cells for a smooth complexion. For optimal results, use this exfoliating cleanser two to three times per week, depending on how your skin reacts. Key ingredients: Salicylic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid Skin types: Dry Size: 6.75 fl oz Amazon rating: 4.8/5 stars An Amazon reviewer says: “I’ve tried several high-end face washes, and this one is my absolute favorite. The only one that doesn’t dry out my face. It exfoliates and my face no longer breaks out. This is my third bottle and I’m a forever customer!” 17 Best Face Exfoliator for Hydration fresh Sugar Face Polish Exfoliator17 Best Face Exfoliator for Hydration fresh Sugar Face Polish ExfoliatorPros
Pesky, dry skin can be a pain to deal with and even more frustrating when looking for a face exfoliator. That said, this natural exfoliant uses strawberry seeds and brown sugar to buff away dead skin cells while brightening and soothing the skin. Plus, it’ll leave your face with a delightful citrus smell that you can bask in long after each use. Key ingredients: Brown sugar, real wild strawberries, plum seed oil, grapeseed oil Skin types: Normal, dry, oily, combination Sizes: 1–4.4 fl. oz. Sephora rating: 4.5/5 stars A Sephora reviewer says: “This stuff is amazing. I have seriously dry skin, and my skin was SO smooth and hydrated after only one use.” 18 Best Drugstore Exfoliating Treatment CeraVe Skin Renewing Nightly Exfoliating Treatment18 Best Drugstore Exfoliating Treatment CeraVe Skin Renewing Nightly Exfoliating TreatmentNow 20% Off Cons
In true CeraVe fashion, this nighttime exfoliating treatment aims to reduce signs of aging and brighten the skin while still adding moisture and nourishment. With a combination of glycolic acid, lactic acid, and plenty of ceramides, this is a product that is safe to use for sensitive skin. Key ingredients: Glycolic acid, lactic acid, ceramides, licorice root extract Skin types: All skin types Size: 1.7 fl. oz. Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars An Amazon reviewer says: “This stuff has cleared up my skin overnight. I was using a glycolic acid toner for a while and it helped my skin with dark spots, but I really wanted to find something that helped with texture as well. This is the perfect blend and my skin is glowing after two nights of use. It completely smoothed out my forehead and left my face feeling plump and moisturized.” Advertisement - Continue Reading Below 19 Best Face Exfoliator for Oily Skin Peace Out Creamy Gentle Exfoliating Pore Perfecting Cleanser19 Best Face Exfoliator for Oily Skin Peace Out Creamy Gentle Exfoliating Pore Perfecting CleanserPros
It can be difficult to find products well suited for oily skin, but this exfoliating cleanser does just the trick. Made from clean ingredients and skin care essentials like salicylic acid and niacinamide, this face exfoliator minimizes the appearance of pores while providing necessary hydration. Key ingredients: Niacinamide, cellulose, hyaluronic acid Skin types: All skin types Size: 4 fl. oz. Sephora rating: 4.7/5 stars A Sephora reviewer says: “So happy to get the hyaluronic acid, salicylic acid, and niacinamide all in one while cleansing and exfoliating. This doesn’t dry me out and I love how it minimizes my pores!” 20 Best Face Exfoliator for Congested Skin Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night Serum20 Best Face Exfoliator for Congested Skin Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night SerumPros
When your skin begins to feel dull and you notice more blackheads or breakouts, it's a sign that it’s time to add this product to your nightly routine. A blend of acids help exfoliate the face and adds a glow while reducing signs of aging and breakouts. Key ingredients: Glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, tartaric acid Skin types: All skin types Sizes: 1–1.69 fl. oz. Ulta rating: 4.6/5 stars An Ulta reviewer says: “This is the ONLY thing I’ve found in almost 10 years that actually cleared up my acne! I use it a few nights a week with my regular moisturizer and snail mucin and literally almost never have any breakouts!” Which exfoliator is best for dry skin?Paula's Choice AHA Exfoliants suitable for dry skin. Skin Perfecting 8% AHA Lotion Exfoliant. ... . Skin Perfecting 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant. ... . Resist Anti-Aging 5% AHA Exfoliant. ... . Resist Anti-Aging 10% AHA Exfoliant Advanced Treatment. ... . Skin Revealing Body Lotion 10% AHA.. What is the best exfoliator for mature dry skin?Elemis Papaya Enzyme Peel The natural exfoliating fruit enzyme action of Papaya and Pineapple will smooth, brighten and clarify your complexion. The gentle effect of this product makes it perfect for sensitive or mature skins. Which exfoliator do dermatologists recommend?Best Drugstore: CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser “It provides a gentle chemical exfoliation with salicylic acid combined with essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide to repair and protect the skin barrier,” Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm in NYC, tells Glamour. What is the best way to exfoliate dry skin?Those with dry, sensitive or acne-prone skin may prefer just a washcloth and a mild chemical exfoliator, as mechanical exfoliation may be too irritating for this skin type. Those with oily, thicker skin may want to use stronger chemical treatments or mechanical exfoliation. |
