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These Expert-Recommended Exfoliators Are a Fast Track to Soft, Smooth Skin
Clogged pores, be gone.
Sometimes, the clearer, smoother, brighter skin we desire lies just beyond our fears. If the facial cleansers, serums, and moisturizers you’ve invested in haven’t delivered the results you want, it might be time to rely on more powerful, corrective formulas, such as exfoliators, to treat dark spots, blackheads, and fine lines and wrinkles.
“Facial exfoliators remove the dull outer layer of skin cells and help promote cell turnover,” says Dr. Sonia Batra, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Batra Dermatology. The process exposes the fresher skin underneath and allows products to penetrate the skin more quickly and easily. Those with breakout-prone or oily skin might especially appreciate facial exfoliators, as certain types can de-gunk pores and fight acne-causing bacteria.
Our picks for the best face exfoliators in 2024
Best Exfoliating Treatment for Dull Skin
Sunday Riley Good Genes All-in-One Lactic Acid Treatment
Read more
Best Overall Face Exfoliator
Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant
Read more
Exfoliators can be sorted into two categories: chemical and physical. When it comes to chemical exfoliators, Dr. Deanne Mraz, a board-certified dermatologist and the president and co-founder of Modern Dermatology, suggests leaning toward ones that feature alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid, lactic acid, and fruit enzymes, as these are generally more gentle on the skin. On the other hand, beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) like salicylic acid can penetrate the skin deeper and get into your pores, so they can be an effective option for anyone with oily skin or those who deal with blackheads and breakouts regularly. Meanwhile, Dr. Robinson recommends physical exfoliators that contain “small, smooth particles such as rice powder or jojoba beads” to lessen your chances of irritating or damaging the skin. And she also recommends steering clear of formulas with microbeads “unless they are specifically labeled as biodegradable,” she says.
Thanks to a panel of dermatologists and estheticians, we tested countless formulas and read hundreds of customer reviews to find the 12 best face exfoliators for every skin type and concern. Scroll through to find your key to baby-soft skin.
Sunday Riley Good Genes All-in-One Lactic Acid Treatment
Pros
- Multi-use
Cons
- May not be best for sensitive skin
Typically, 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: “I was experiencing dull looking flaky skin. After only a few consistent applications of this product, my skin came alive. The flakiness easily melted away with just minor effort with my washcloth. My skin is brighter and subtle. The texture of the product is smooth and creamy. You will not be disappointed.”
Pros
- Safe for beginners
Cons
- Two-step process
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
Revolve rating: 3.8/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “As someone with stubborn dark marks, all I want to use are products that can get rid of them fast. These peeling pads are gentle enough for me to use a few times a week and have drastically helped my spots lighten to reveal a clearer, more even-toned complexion.”—Nerisha Penrose, beauty commerce editor
Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant
Pros
- Made for all skin types
- Exfoliates, brightens, and tightens
Cons
- May experience initial irritation
This best-selling face exfoliator hydrates and illuminates the skin while also removing dead skin cells, minimizing the appearance of wrinkles, and evening out skin tone. It’s suitable for oily, dry, normal, and combination skin and should be applied every other day. Plus, it’s paraben- and fragrance-free, so you’ll be less likely to get irritated if you have sensitive skin.
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
Pros
- Brightening properties
- Subtle glow
Cons
- Takes a while to see results
The most common ingredients for reducing the appearance of dark spots are typically AHAs (salicylic, glycolic), but this toner from Farmacy introduces a few other potent and effective elements to your routine. Tranexamic acid is great for discoloration and scarring and is made stronger with azelaic acid to create a brightening toner that can fade spots with consistent use.
Key ingredients: Tranexamic and azelaic acid
Skin types: Normal, dry, combination, oily
Size: 4 fl oz
Sephora rating: 4.6/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “My dark marks are more stubborn than a two-year-old, which means I need a whole lot of patience and effective methods to calm the chaos happening on my skin. Incorporating this toner into my routine helped my skin appear brighter and lightened some of my scars. My texture is also smoother now, and my makeup even sits on my face better.”—Nerisha Penrose, beauty commerce editor
Pros
- Designed for daily use
- Helps with acne
Cons
- May not be suitable for super sensitive skin
Add this exfoliating powder to your skin care routine, especially if you have acne-prone skin. Salicylic acid minimizes blemishes and redness, while the powder activates upon contact with water impart smoother and brighter skin.
Key ingredients: Rice, salicylic acid, colloidal oatmeal
Skin types: All skin types
Sizes: 0.45–2.6 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4.86/5 stars
Our expert 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, beauty expert
Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment
Pros
- Suitable for mature skin
- Tiny amount goes a long way
Cons
- Some dislike the scent
This triple-threat exfoliator combines physical, chemical, and enzymatic exfoliation for the ultimate skin treatment. In less than two minutes, it 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, 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
Pros
- Unclogs pores
- Can be used multiple times per week
Cons
- Scent can be overbearing
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. It’s designed to be used two to three times per week, 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 a 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
The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Exfoliating and Brightening Peeling Solution
Pros
- Multi-use treatment
Cons
- Too strong for sensitive skin
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.
Ulta rating: 4.4/5 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, Hearst writer
Pros
- Sinks in quickly
- Pleasant scent
Cons
- May take time to see results
Bioelements’s new skin care line for acne-prone skin is focused on treating and preventing breakouts without stripping or disrupting the skin barrier like traditional acne-fighting products. Even the liquid chemical exfoliator in the collection has barrier-boosting ingredients like aloe vera, willowherb, and hibiscus extracts in addition to its blend of salicylic acid (BHA) and gluconolactone (PHA).
Key ingredients: Salicylic acid, gluconolactone, aloe leaf juice, thyme flower and leaf extract, hibiscus flower extract
Skin types: Acne-prone, oily, combination, sensitive, normal
Size: 1 fl. oz.
Bioelements rating: 4.3/5 stars
A Bioelements reviewer says: “After 30 days of using this Bioelements product, I’m amazed by the results. Its 2 percent BHA + PHA formula has been a game-changer in my skin care routine. Pores have visibly minimized, dead skin has been sloughed off, and acne breakouts have significantly decreased. My skin feels noticeably smoother, and blackheads have improved.”
Pros
- Brightening lemon peel helps to correct
- A little goes a long way
Cons
- Some users note it can feel too gritty
Search “exfoliators” on Amazon, and this bestseller by Acure will appear on the first page. While this is a physical scrub, it’s formulated with micro, non-abrasive beads that leave the skin smooth to the touch. Plus, its skin-loving ingredients—like sea kelp and madonna lily—work to brighten and even out the skin.
Key ingredients: Sea kelp, lemon peel, madonna lily
Skin types: All
Size: 4 fl oz
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer said: “This scrub does exactly what it claims. My face feels smooth after using, allowing my serums and moisturizers to really penetrate and work as they are supposed to. I have tried others, just because I always get this one here, and I forget to order sometimes, but they never compare (and are all currently in my bathroom cabinet nearly full). This is not a gentle scrub, but that’s why I like it. If you don’t like an actual grainy scrub texture, this is not for you. I’ve been buying this for at least five years now and will continue to do so!”
Pros
- Pleasant fragrance
- Not too abrasive
Cons
- Need a decent amount of product
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 always struggled with super dry and flaky skin and tried too many products that did not work. This is the only one so far to make my skin feel fresh and moisturized all day!”
CeraVe Skin Renewing Nightly Exfoliating Treatment
Pros
- Gentle
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Can take time to see results
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 is very light, but helps so much. I put my moisturizer on afterwards and go to bed. The next morning, you can tell it’s helping the scarring and the acne. I have really sensitive skin, but so far, none of CeraVe’s products have given me a bad reaction. Totally recommend this!”
Pros
- Peels away dead skin
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Pump tends not to work
If you’re not interested in spending big bucks on a face exfoliator, you’ll want to try this one from e.l.f. 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: “I have very sensitive skin and a bit of rosacea. I only use this about three times a week, and my skin feels so clean, and it doesn’t bother my rosacea due to the gentle exfoliating. You can’t go wrong with e.l.f. products, whether you’re vegan or not. The prices of the products are a plus as well.”
Meet the Experts
Dr. Sonia Batra is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Batra Dermatology.
Dr. Deanne Mraz is a board-certified dermatologist and the president and co-founder of Modern Dermatology.
Rachel Lee Lozina is a New York State licensed esthetician and founder of Blue Water Spa in Oyster Bay, NY.
Edyta Jarosz is a master esthetician at Shafer Clinic Fifth Avenue.
Dr. Hadley King is a board-certified dermatologist, specializing in medical and cosmetic dermatology.
What are the benefits of face exfoliators?
There are a wide variety of benefits when it comes to face exfoliators. “They help remove dead skin, revealing healthier, more hydrated skin underneath it, stimulate collagen and improve circulation, unclog pores, help with product absorption, and improve skin color and texture,” says Rachel Lee Lozina, New York State licensed esthetician and founder of Blue Water Spa in Oyster Bay, NY.
Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Hadley King adds that using a face exfoliator can help keep skin clean, reduce acne breakouts, and smooth the skin to help decrease the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Which skin types benefit from face exfoliators?
According to Mraz Robinson, all skin types can benefit from exfoliation, but it’s just a matter of choosing the right approach and frequency. “The caveat here is that while acne-prone skin can benefit from exfoliation, I would skip it if you have a large-scale breakout of open lesions—if you just have a few, you can go around them,” says Mraz Robinson. “If you have acne, rosacea, psoriasis, or eczema, I would highly recommend sticking to chemical exfoliation versus physical, which can trigger more inflammation, irritation, and even infection on vulnerable skin.”
How often should you use a face exfoliator?
Most face exfoliators aren’t designed for daily use. However, frequency will depend on the product and an individual’s skin type. “In general, one to two times per week is a good starting point for most skin types,” says Edyta Jarosz, master esthetician at Shafer Clinic Fifth Avenue. “However, sensitive skin may require less frequent exfoliation, while oily skin or more resilient skin may tolerate it more often.” That said, it’s essential to monitor your skin’s response and adjust as needed to avoid over-exfoliation which can lead to irritation.
Which ingredients should you look for in a face exfoliator?
According to Batra, some common chemical exfoliants are alpha hydroxy acids, such as lactic or glycolic acid, or beta hydroxy acids, such as salicylic acid.
Jarosz adds you might find ingredients like microbeads or ground seeds in physical exfoliants. “Be cautious with physical exfoliants, as they can be abrasive and potentially harm the skin,” she notes.
What are the different types of face exfoliators?
There are two main types of face exfoliators: chemical and mechanical. According to King, chemical exfoliants contain alpha hydroxy acids, beta hydroxy acids, or enzymes that loosen the glue-like substance holding the cells together, allowing them to ease away.
On the other hand, mechanical exfoliation involves physically scrubbing the skin with an abrasive. “Mechanical exfoliants include microfiber cloths, adhesive exfoliation sheets, micro-bead facial scrubs, crepe paper, crushed apricot kernels or almond shells, sugar or salt crystals, pumice, and abrasive materials such as sponges, loofahs and brushes,” King says.
Why Trust ELLE Beauty
As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, editors spoke to a panel of trusted skin experts and fellow editors about the best face exfoliators. She also combed through reviews for top-rated options, assessing each one based on their features and customer evaluations.
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