The 18 Best Face Exfoliators for Smooth, Radiant Skin This Summer, According to Dermatologists
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, WWD may receive an affiliate commission.
You may think that using a good brightening serum and slathering on facial moisturizer is enough to give you the most dewy, luminous skin. But in reality, you won’t reap the full benefits of those products without the help of the best face exfoliators.
More from WWD
Kelly Clarkson Opens Up About Weight Loss Medication Ozempic in Discussion With Whoopi Goldberg
The 10 Best Press-On Nail Kits For an Instant Summer Manicure, Tested by Editors
With TikTok's Fate in Limbo, Could YouTube Shorts Be Beauty's Next Big Growth Opportunity?
“Exfoliation is important to maintain radiant skin as it helps break up the dead skin cells from the surface to give a healthy glow,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Aya Ahram. By getting rid of these dead surface level cells, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick explains that exfoliation “helps to brighten the skin, reduce dullness, boost radiance, prevent clogged pores, and improve the overall tone and texture of the skin.” As a bonus, it also helps your other skin care products absorb better and results in smoother makeup application — talk about a serious multitasker.
There are two types of exfoliation (chemical and physical, more on the differences later) but facial exfoliants come in many different forms — from exfoliating serums and face masks to scrubs, cleansers, toners, and even tools. None of these are created equal, and what works for dry skin won’t necessarily have the same effect on oily skin, and vice versa. “There are many things to look for in an exfoliant — the first is which type is right for you, physical or chemical,” instructs board-certified dermatologist Dr. Rachel Nazarian. “Generally oily skin types or combination skin tolerate physical exfoliants better. Delicate skin, or people who are suffering with other underlying skin conditions, such as acne or rosacea tend to do better with chemical exfoliants. This being said, you can certainly find versions of either that are good for your skin no matter who you are.”
For proper rejuvenation to take place, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Lian Mack urges not to go overboard on exfoliation. It’s all about finding that sweet spot. “Over-exfoliating can increase the risk of eczema-like reactions and overdrying,” she explains. “My recommendation is [to exfoliate] one time per week during the colder months. In the spring and summer, you can consider increasing it to two to three times per week as tolerated.”
With the help of our experts, we researched and tested some of the best exfoliators for the face to compile the top 18 picks below. Our list includes a mix of exfoliating face serums, skin care tools, and more, including options for every skin type and tone that work to unveil the smoothest, brightest, most even skin.
Top Face Exfoliators of 2024
Best for Clogged Pores: Cerave Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment
Best Peel Pads: Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel Pads
Best Face Mask: Peter Thomas Roth Pumpkin Enzyme Mask Enzymatic Dermal Resurfacer
Best for Glowing Skin: Kora Organics Turmeric Brightening Pore Scrub + Exfoliating Mask
Best for Dry Skin: Shani Darden Skincare Lactic Acid AHA Exfoliating Serum
Best Glycolic Acid Exfoliator: Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Resurfacing Night Serum
Best Drugstore Formula: No7 Radiance and Daily Energizing Exfoliating Cleanser
Best Face Wash: Tatcha The Deep Cleanse Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser
Best Exfoliating Toner: The Inkey List Polyhydroxy Acid Gentle Exfoliating Toner
Best for Mature Skin: Skin Better Alpharet Exfoliating Peel Pads
Sign up for WWD Shop’s newsletter to get the scoop on the best in beauty and style with in-depth reviews of exciting new releases and buyer’s guides to find the products you need to try ASAP.
BEST FACIAL EXFOLIATOR FOR CLOGGED PORES
Cerave Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment
Size: 1.35 oz
Formula: Chemical exfoliating acne treatment serum
Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, AHAs, ceramides
Skin Type: Oily and acne-prone
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
Ulta Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
CVS Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
$12.99 $21.99 41% off
$21.99
$19.99
Exfoliation is a key way to combat acne. In fact, most skin care products for acne contain some form of BHAs to whisk away oil and acne-causing bacteria. Many treatments are so strong that they end up exacerbating dryness, yet this affordable Cerave Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment combines AHAs and BHAs with calming niacinamide and barrier-strengthening ceramides to keep your complexion well-hydrated. Dr Ahram recommends it to plenty of her patients because of its low price and proven acne-fighting ingredients like 2 percent salicylic acid. The mild-yet-effective formula also features glycolic and lactic acids and is “fragrance free for those with sensitive skin” she says. Rather than applying this all over like most acne serums, it’s best used as an acne spot treatment to clear out and exfoliate stubborn lesions.
What testers say: “I have had acne all my life — and I’m now almost 37 years old. I’ve tried so many products and I’ve found stuff that slows down the breakouts but not that eliminates them. To be honest, I’d never tried CeraVe because I figured if it wasn’t expensive it probably didn’t work. Well a couple months ago I broke down and tried it and I am so glad I did! My acne is GONE. I use the Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment in the morning after washing my face and the Retinol Serum for Acne at night.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $12.99
BEST EXFOLIATING PEEL PADS
Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel Pads
Sephora Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
Size: 30 treatments
Formula: Chemical exfoliating pads
Key Ingredients: AHA blend, resveratrol, green tea extract
Skin Type: Normal, dry, sensitive, and combination
$92
$92
$92
Dr. Dennis Gross pioneered the at-home chemical peel with his Alpha Beta Universal Peel Pads. Over 20 years since its introduction, the peel has gained a cult-like following and remains one of the brand’s top sellers (one is sold every two seconds!). The easy-to-follow two-step treatment can be completed daily for gentle exfoliation. Infused with the brand’s signature Alpha Beta acid blend (a mix of glycolic, citric, malic, lactic, and salicylic acids), the first pad disintegrates dead skin cells and whisks away other debris.
The second pad is steeped with resveratrol and green tea and acts as a neutralizer to soothe the skin and prevent chemical burns. With the swipe-and-go format, the convenient pads are ideal for those new to chemical peels and exfoliating in general. Keep in mind that while it works for virtually every skin type, it may not be potent enough for oily, acne-prone skin. If you fall into that category, opt for the Extra Strength Daily Peel Pads instead.
Editor testing and review notes: “These peel pads are a staple in my skin care routine year round: During the summer, I rely on them to remove pesky sunscreen residue and decrease oiliness in my combination skin; and during the winter, they’re amazing for staving off dullness. The two-step system is foolproof and because they’re individually packaged, they’re easy to travel with. I notice brighter, smoother skin when I use these twice weekly — and my makeup goes on like butter to boot.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $92
Kate Somerville Exfolikate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment
Size: 2 oz
Formula: Chemical and physical exfoliating scrub
Key Ingredients: Papaya, pineapple, and pumpkin enzymes, lactic acid and salicylic acids, silica
Skin Type: Normal, dry, combination, and oily
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Ulta Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
$78
$66 $78 15% off
$78
In a perfect world, we’d be able to get weekly facials to de-gunk our skin and combat dullness. (Maybe one day!) Luckily, this intensive exfoliating treatment from Kate Somerville is like a facial in a bottle. It produces results that rival an in-office treatment with an esthetician — and in just two minutes to boot. This powerful formula utilizes a potent mix of exfoliating acids (both AHAs and BHAs) and papaya, pineapple, and pumpkin enzymes to chemically dissolve pore-clogging oils, while gentle silica offers a touch of physical exfoliation to slough off dead surface cells. It packs quite the punch, but skin isn’t left feeling dry or irritated thanks to a revitalizing, skin-soothing mix of aloe vera, honey, and vitamin E. Beyond the professional-level exfoliation, using this treatment twice a week can help smooth out texture and refine the look of pores.
What testers say: “I am on my 3rd bottle & Love this! I even decided to invest in the jumbo size! I use Exfolikate 2x a week. I massage it into damp skin, wait 2-3 mins & then rinse. My skin looks & feels so smooth, firm, and absolutely radiant.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $78
BEST EXFOLIATING FACE MASK
Peter Thomas Roth Pumpkin Enzyme Mask Enzymatic Dermal Resurfacer
Size: 5 oz
Formula: Chemical and physical exfoliating mask
Key Ingredients: Pumpkin enzyme, alpha hydroxy acid, aluminum oxide crystals
Skin Type: Normal, dry, combination, and oily
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
Sephora Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
$51 $60 15% off
$60
Pumpkin spice season may be over, but this three-in-one pumpkin enzyme mask remains a staple in Dr. Mack’s exfoliating arsenal year round. “I love this mask because it works well for all skin types,” she says. “It exfoliates with pumpkin enzyme, peels with alpha hydroxy acid, and polishes with aluminum oxide crystals. The ingredients target multiple areas and concerns making it a real powerhouse.” The fast-acting, pumpkin pie-scented formula helps even out skin tone, minimize fine lines and wrinkles, and completely clarifies skin so it looks radiant and smooth. Peter Thomas Roth’s Pumpkin Enzyme Mask is the best facial exfoliator to use when you’re short on time — it only needs to be left on for three to seven minutes, depending on skin sensitivity.
What testers say: “Bought this kind of expecting to be disappointed as with most skincare products that just don’t do much of anything for your skin — but this actually worked! The smell is pleasant, the microbeads are fine enough to provide good exfoliation and you can feel the tingle working. After just a couple uses my skin was visibly clearer and brighter. Will repurchase over and over again, even though this one jar will probably last a while since a little goes a long way. I love this mask.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $60
BEST FACE SCRUB FOR GLOWING SKIN
Kora Organics Turmeric Brightening Pore Scrub + Exfoliating Mask
Size: 3.38 oz
Formula: Physical and chemical exfoliating face mask & scrub
Key Ingredients: Turmeric, green tea leaf powder, aspen bark
Skin Type: Normal, dry, combination, and oily
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
Sephora Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
$54
$54
This Kora Organics mask creates a full sensorial experience that enlivens skin and produces chemical peel-like results from the comfort of home. Turmeric and rosehip seeds give the exfoliating face mask its gritty texture, while aspen bark acts as a natural BHA to even out texture and clear out pores. This is one of those skin care products you can really feel working. As it hardens, it produces an invigorating cooling sensation. Don’t be alarmed if your skin looks a bit red after rinsing it off — this occurs due to increased skin circulation and subsides after about 20 minutes. Once the redness fades, it leaves an ethereal radiance in its wake.
Editor testing and review notes: “I’ve never been a fan of face masks, but after witnessing how soft, smooth, and glowy my normal/dry skin looked after using this detoxifier, I was hooked. Aside from the results, I also love that this can be used in a few ways. When I need a quick refresh I use it as a wash off scrub in the shower. Or I’ll leave it on for the full 15 minutes before a special event for full skin revitalization.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $54
Mara Plankton + PHA Flower Acid Algae Serum
Size: 1 oz
Formula: Chemical exfoliating serum
Key Ingredients: Lactic acid, flower acids, gluconolactone
Skin Type: Normal, dry, combination, and oily
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
Sephora Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
$74
$74
After struggling with dull, lackluster skin last winter, I decided to incorporate this Flower Acid Algae Serum from Mara into my routine — and it made a world of a difference. The effective formula melds a high concentration of lactic acid with a trifecta of flower acids (derived from daisy, hibiscus, and everlasting blooms) and polyhydroxy acid to dramatically retexturize and brighten skin. It does tingle a bit upon application, but that sensation dwindles as a mix of proprietary plankton and algae flood the skin with moisture. While my skin is pretty normal year round, it tends to get dry during the colder months. Even though this is such a potent formula, it never exacerbated dryness, though I’m sure following up with a rich moisturizer enforced my skin barrier further. For me, twice a week usage was sufficient to unveil luminous, soft results in less than a month.
What testers say: “WOW! Honestly it’s so rare that you can see an immediate change the first time you use a product but this one actually blew my socks off! I’ve been using Skinceuticals Glycolic and Sunday Riley lactic acid to get these results for months, and I see it right away with this! It does burn a little for 10 seconds (I have fair/sensitive skin) but it disappears right away which is nice. My skin looks so dewy and glowy! This is absolutely a keeper and I’m excited to see what it does over the coming weeks.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $74
BEST FACIAL EXFOLIATOR FOR DRY SKIN
Shani Darden Skincare Lactic Acid AHA Exfoliating Serum
Size: 1 oz
Formula: Chemical exfoliating serum
Key Ingredients: Lactic acid, gluconolactone, soothing complex
Skin Type: Acne-prone, sensitive, normal, dry, combination, and oily
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
Sephora Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
$89
$89
Shani Darden is one of Hollywood’s most sought-after estheticians. (Some of her celeb regulars include Jessica Alba, Shay Mitchell, and January Jones.) While it’s near impossible to score an appointment with Darden herself, you can experience her signature results with her namesake Lactic Acid Exfoliating Serum, a favorite of Dr. Mack’s. “I love this product for more sensitive and reactive skin types,” she says. “It contains 9% lactic acid combined with a ‘soothing complex’ composed of hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, and green and white tea extract to provide a calming effect.” The gentle serum seamlessly smooths out texture, refines the look of pores, and improves skin clarity — and noticeable results can be seen in as little as one week.
Editor testing and review notes: “When I need my skin to look amazing overnight, this is the face serum I reach for. Shani Darden’s formulations are always gentle and effective, and this one provides major exfoliation with zero irritation on my sensitive skin. It layers beautifully under other skin care products, and I love that I can use it nightly without worrying about redness or peeling.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $89
BEST DRUGSTORE FACIAL EXFOLIATOR
No7 Radiance and Daily Energizing Exfoliating Cleanser
Size: 3.3 oz
Formula: Physical exfoliating cleanser
Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, apricot seed, glycerin
Skin Type: Oily, acne-prone, combination, and normal
Target Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5
$7.99
Jumpstart your day with an invigorating facial cleanse — and a healthy dose of exfoliation — with this No7 cleanser. Inside the bright orange tube is a citrus-scented powerhouse that quickly energizes skin. Tiny exfoliating beads made from crushed apricot seeds unblock pores and soften rough patches, while vitamin C boosts radiance and glycerin replenishes moisture levels for a beaming complexion. This can be massaged into skin morning and night, but be sure to follow with a face sunscreen if using in the morning, as exfoliation can make you more susceptible to sun damage.
What testers say: “I’ve tried so many different face washes over the last 6 months and nothing has cleared up my skin. I would still get breakouts and after finding this at Ulta, my skin has improved a lot. I still get an occasional pimple, but this has evened my skin tone and improved the texture of my skin as well. Will definitely be buying again.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $7.99
BEST GLYCOLIC ACID EXFOLIATOR
Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Resurfacing Night Serum
Size: 1 oz
Formula: Chemical exfoliating serum
Key Ingredients: AHA blend, salicylic acid, raspberry fruit extract
Skin Type: Oily, acne-prone, combination, and normal
Ulta Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Sephora Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
$90
$90
There’s no denying that everyone’s skin needs a little TLC, and that’s exactly what this serum provides. Although, instead of ‘tender loving care’ the TLC in this Drunk Elephant exfoliator indicates the AHA blend: A mix of tartaric, lactic, and citric acids — along with glycolic acid — lifts away dead skin cells to reveal a smoother, more even surface. “The combinations of AHAs and salicylic acid really resurfaces skin,” says Dr. Ahram, who suggests using it twice a week if you have normal skin. (Those with oily and acne-prone skin can apply it every other day.) In addition to the acids, raspberry fruit extract, cactus extract, and horse chestnut prevent skin from getting irritated and drying out. These ingredients soothe and rehydrate skin while also administering a boost of antioxidant protection.
What testers say: “This was too strong for my 42 year old combination oily skin, but it worked wonders for my teenage son! It cleared up his acne overnight.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $90
BEST EXFOLIATING FACE WASH
Tatcha The Deep Cleanse Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser
Size: 5 oz
Formula: Physical exfoliating cleanser
Key Ingredients: Japanese luffa fruit exfoliant, Japanese wild rose, hadasei-3
Skin Type: Oily, acne-prone, sensitive, combination
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
Sephora Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
$38 $40 5% off
$40
Sephora customers have spoken: Tatcha’s The Deep Cleanse is the retailer’s best exfoliating cleanser. This gentle face wash buffs away the day (pollution, oil, and makeup that accumulates in pores) with Japanese luffa fruit. The micro particles are suspended in a calming, antioxidant-rich gel that lathers into a creamy foam to simultaneously deep clean and replenish the moisture barrier. Rather than feeling dry and stripped, skin feels refreshed and comfortable after every use. In fact, it’s so mellow it can be used daily.
What testers say: “I have used this off and on for about three years and after the most recent off time (2-3 weeks) I’ve decided I want to always have it around. I use it most times when I take a shower, so about 5 times a week. I have sensitive skin and this has never irritated it. I think it’s a nice gentle way to exfoliate while not stripping or drying out my skin.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $38
BEST EXFOLIATING TONER
The Inkey List Polyhydroxy Acid Gentle Exfoliating Toner
Size: 3.4 oz
Formula: Chemical exfoliating toner
Key Ingredients: PHA, niacinamide, aloe leaf juice
Skin Type: Dry, sensitive, and combination
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
Sephora Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
$14
$14
Looking for a way to ease into exfoliation? Try this sensitive skin-friendly exfoliating toner from The Inkey List. Its main exfoliating agent is polyhydroxy acid, a high molecular weight chemical exfoliant that doesn’t sink deep into the epidermis. As you pat it into skin, it sloughs off dead cells on the surface of the skin while binding moisture to your complexion. Niacinamide and aloe leaf juice also ward off potential irritation by tackling redness, curbing oil, and soothing skin. Because it’s so mild, results can take longer to see — patience and consistency is key. After a few weeks, texture and tone begin to even out and blemishes shrink.
What testers say: “I suffer from milia as my main source of texture. I also have sensitive skin so using something harsh or peeling wasn’t going to work for me. I love how this gently exfoliates — it does take longer but it’s worth not damaging my skin barrier.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $
Renée Rouleau Triple Berry Smoothing Peel
Renée Rouleau Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.0/5 stars
Size: 1.7 oz
Formula: Chemical exfoliating peel
Key Ingredients: Glycolic, lactic, malic, mandelic, phytic, and tartaric acids
Skin Type: Oily, dry, normal, combination, and sensitive
$88.50
Beauty professionals and celebrities alike have waxed poetic about Renee Rouleau’s multi-tasking Triple Berry Smoothing Peel for years due to its ability to completely decongest pores, fade dark spots, and brighten skin. It suddenly went off the market a few years ago because of supply chain issues, but it’s now back and better than ever with an enhanced exfoliating formula.
Upon opening the jar, you’ll notice the jam-like texture — and sweet berry scent — that comes from antioxidant-rich blueberry, raspberry, and strawberry extracts. Though the peels’ namesake, these aren’t the hero ingredients. A slew of AHAs, including glycolic, lactic, malic, mandelic, phytic, and tartaric acids create a super strong exfoliator, but calming bisabolol and allantoin counteract any harshness by soothing and balancing the skin.
Editor testing and review notes: “This face mask is a key part of my at-home facial routines when I need my skin to look flawless but don’t have time for a spa appointment. I like to apply it with a makeup brush (it can be messy if you use fingers) then follow up with a hydrating face mask. It sloughs off dead skin and imparts a gorgeous, radiant glow.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $88.50
BEST FACIAL EXFOLIATOR FOR MATURE SKIN
Skin Better AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads
Skin Better Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.0/5 stars
Size: 30 treatments
Formula: Chemical exfoliating pads
Key Ingredients: AlphaRet, AHA blend
Skin Type: Normal, oily, combination, dry, and sensitive
$120
If your main exfoliation goals include brightening your complexion and improving tone and texture, Dr. Garshick recommends these luxe peel pads. “These contain a combination of three key hydroxy acids including lactic acid, salicylic acid, and glycolic acid in combination with AlphaRet, a proprietary retinoid,” she says. “The lactic and glycolic acid help to lighten discoloration while salicylic acid helps to unclog pores and the AlphaRet retinoid helps to boost collagen, making it a great all-in-one option that can be used 1-2 times per week.” Dr. Mack is also a fan, adding that it can minimize fine lines, signs of aging, and even breakouts.
What testers say: “I have a lot of discoloration after having cystic acne for so long and nothing has really helped but I notice a difference with this one! I also have pretty sensitive skin and this didn’t make it react badly. I recommend it!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $120
Chemical vs Physical Exfoliants
Exfoliants fall in one of two categories: Chemical or physical. “Chemical exfoliants contain active ingredients that help break up the dead skin cells on the surface of the skin so that they can be shed more easily. Some of the main ingredients include alpha hydroxy acids like glycolic acid and lactic acid, which can help exfoliate while still hydrating the skin, or beta hydroxy acids like salicylic acid, to help unclog pores,” explains Dr. Ahram. “Physical exfoliants have granules or small particles that scrub away dead skin cells, or there are skin care tools, such as brushes, that help manually exfoliate the skin.” In physical exfoliants, sugar granules, coffee, jojoba beads, or ground seeds are often used to create the scrubby texture.
The word “chemical” may sound harsh, but chemical exfoliants are typically much more gentle than physical exfoliants, making them ideal for all skin types, including sensitive. That said, not all chemical exfoliants are created equal, and it’s important to look at the active ingredients to find the best formula for your skin type, tone, and concerns. “Those with oily or acne-prone skin should use a beta hydroxy acid, like salicylic acid, as this is oil-soluble and helps to unclog the pores,” says Dr. Garshick. “Those with sensitive skin should opt for mandelic acid or lactic acid as the larger molecular size means they don’t penetrate as deeply, making them less irritating.”
Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michael I. Jacobs tacks on to this, saying that eczema-prone skin, as well as dry and normal skin types can safely use gentle AHAs, like lactic and glycolic acids because they simultaneously exfoliate and hydrate. Additionally, Dr. Garshick urges those with darker skin to stick to low concentrations of the above AHAs to prevent discoloration or hyperpigmentation.
On the flip side, our experts agree that oily and acne-prone skin types can better tolerate physical exfoliation. “Physical exfoliators help to facilitate cellular turnover,” Dr. Mack conveys. “This results in improvement in texture and breakouts by reducing the number of dead skin cells and clogging of pores.” For the most part, scrubs and other types of physical exfoliators can feel too abrasive on dry and sensitive skin.
The Different Types of Face Exfoliators
Exfoliating face masks: Out of all of the types of facial exfoliators, face masks are the most powerful. They typically contain a potent mixture of chemical and physical exfoliators to dispel clogged pores, leaving skin feeling softer and smoother and looking more radiant. While exfoliating face masks can be used by all skin types, Dr. Ahram emphasizes the importance of following directions — most formulas are meant to be left on for a short period of time, around five to 15 minutes. “One mistake that people can make is using these for extended periods of time or using them too often which can disrupt the skin barrier,” she explains. “I recommend using these no more than once a week.”
Exfoliating peel pads: Daily peel pads are one of the most convenient ways to chemically exfoliate your skin. The pre-moistened towelettes usually contain a blend of AHAs and BHAs and simply need to be swiped along your face before getting discarded. “While these can be used by all skin types and tones, it’s especially important to make note of the concentration,” cautions Dr. Garshick, as those with higher acid percentages may be too strong for sensitive skin.
Exfoliating face serums: These types of exfoliators utilize blends of AHAs and/or BHAs to dissolve dead skin cells, remove dirt and debris, and reveal a brighter complexion. “Exfoliating face serums can be used by all skin types and skin tones, though the type of face serum may depend on the specific concern,” says Dr. Garshick. Serums with BHAs, like salicylic acid, are best reserved for those with oily and acne-prone skin. Normal, sensitive, and dry skin types should opt for serums made with gentler AHAs, including lactic acid and mandelic acid.
Exfoliating face washes: Although it’s important to cleanse your skin daily, exfoliating facial cleansers should be used less frequently — about two to three times a week. Some formulations combine chemical and physical exfoliation, while others are strictly chemical. The former is the best face wash for oily skin types who need a heavy duty overhaul to slough away dead skin cells and acne-causing bacteria along with evening out texture. All skin types can benefit from gentle chemically exfoliating face washes.
Exfoliating toners: If you’re new to exfoliation, a great way to incorporate it into your routine is with an exfoliating toner. “Leave-on low concentration AHA and BHA liquids work well for individuals with dry or sensitive skin,” says Dr. Mack. “They are gentler on skin, go deeper for more dramatic results, and may also provide a little hydration.”
Exfoliating face tools: There are many different categories of physical exfoliating face tools, including dermaplanes, pore spatulas, and vibrating facial cleansing brushes. Dr. Garshick says that “these can be especially helpful for someone looking to smooth the texture of the skin,” but urges everyone to use caution as they are more likely to cause micro-tears in the skin barrier. With that in mind, these shouldn’t be used as frequently as other exfoliating products. One to two times a month should be sufficient.
How Often Should You Exfoliate Your Face?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question — it all depends on your skin type and skin concerns. If you’re an exfoliating beginner, Dr. Jacobs suggests exfoliating once a week, regardless of skin type. “Facial skin is sensitive so gradually adding exfoliation into your routine is best,” he says. Still, even after your skin has become acclimated to exfoliation, most experts recommend exfoliating twice a week max. The only exception is for those with acne, who Dr. Ahram says can use a salicylic acid exfoliant every night as directed by a professional.
Dr. Ahram mentions that over-exfoliation is a common and major issue because it can disrupt the skin barrier. “This is why barrier repair products have become so popular lately,” she says. “People with eczema, sensitive skin, and rosacea need to be extra careful with exfoliation. They should either avoid exfoliating altogether or focus on gentler exfoliants like mandelic acid and polyhydroxy acid.”
If you think you’ve over-exfoliated, you probably have. “Your skin will tell you if you’re exfoliating too much!” says Dr. Nazarian. “Too much exfoliation will leave your skin red, tender, and sensitive. Too little, your skin will lack the glow, and look rough and dull.” Her advice is to take it slow and “remember to use sunscreen often — removal of the top layers of cells leaves you more sensitive to sunlight, radiation, and burns.” It’s also a good idea to avoid using any retinoids on your exfoliation days to prevent adverse reactions. “And follow up with a gentle calming moisturizer,” she adds.
How We Chose the Best Face Exfoliators
Since 1910, WWD — often referred to as “the fashion bible” — has been the leading industry voice of authority for senior executives in the global women’s and men’s fashion, retail and beauty communities, while also informing the consumer media that cover the market. Today, WWD’s breaking news and trend coverage continues to be a trustworthy resource for both fashion insiders and consumers alike. Our shopping editors continue to uphold WWD’s editorial standards and values with quality, expert-backed product selections.
Facial exfoliators are a dime a dozen, so narrowing down thousands of products to just 18 was no simple task. It took hours of research and expert insights to select the best facial exfoliators. We scanned the top beauty retailers’ bestseller lists and combed through dozens of reviews to find chemical and physical exfoliators that effectively slough off dead skin, unclog pores, and give skin a glowing radiance. We also asked dermatologists for the products they often recommend to their patients, and tested many options ourselves. Our list includes formulas suitable for all skin types, including, dry, oily, combination, acne-prone, and sensitive skin types. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Experts
Dr. Aya Ahram is a board-certified dermatologist at Hudson Dermatology & Laser Surgery in New York City, specializing in medical, cosmetic, and surgical dermatology.
Dr. Marisa Garshick is a board-certified dermatologist, practicing at MDCS Dermatology locations in both New York City and Englewood, New Jersey. She is also an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Cornell – New York Presbyterian Medical Center.
Dr. Rachel Nazarian is a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group. She practices various aspects of dermatology including lasers, injectables, and skin cancer screenings.
Dr. Michael I. Jacobs is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. Along with heading up his own dermatology and laser surgery practice, he is also an associate professor of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College.
Dr. Lian Mack is a board-certified dermatologist who opened her own practice (Glamderm) in New York City. As a woman of color, she enjoys educating people and finding solutions for dermatological concerns that widely affect melanated skin.
Meet the Author
Mary Honkus is a freelance beauty writer with over five years of experience researching, testing, and writing about skincare, makeup, and hair care. She has held on-staff positions at InStyle, People, and Real Simple, and her bylines can be found in numerous other publications including Cosmopolitan and Us Weekly. Mary has normal to dry skin and has perfected her exfoliating routine over the years. She’s a fan of both chemical and physical exfoliators, and tested multiple products for this story. Some of her favorite exfoliators include the Kora Organics Turmeric Mask and Mara Flower Acid Serum. She currently resides in New York City.
Sign up for WWD's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
