Collage: Jemeria Davison / Images: Courtesy of brands and GettySave this storySave this story
Using one of the best face exfoliators is a key step in any skin-care routine (yes, even if you have sensitive skin). These formulas work hard to slough away dead skin cells and unclog pores to minimize the look of fine lines and boost radiance—plus, they help the rest of your skin-care products absorb better. Whether you prefer physical or chemical exfoliants, using one regularly can help reveal a smoother, more even-toned complexion. From serums with alpha and beta hydroxy acids that gently dissolve buildup, to gritty yet delicate scrubs that polish your skin, these are the exfoliators our editors actually use, and we’ve got the receipts (a.k.a. selfies) to prove it. Scroll on for our tried-and-loved picks, plus pro tips from board-certified derms to keep your skin smooth and clear for the long haul.
Our Top Face Exfoliators
- Best Overall: Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel, $94
- Best for Oily Skin: SkinMedica AHA + BHA Exfoliating Cleanser, $48
- Best for Sensitive Skin: Medik8 Press & Glow Daily Exfoliating PHA Tonic, $35
- Best Fast-Acting: Shani Darden Triple Acid Signature Peel, $125
- Best for Dry Skin: Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment, $85
- Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, $37
- Best for Mature Skin: Sunday Riley Good Genes Lactic Acid Treatment, $85
- Best Budget: The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% Plus Hyaluronic Acid, $9
- Best for Hyperpigmentation: First Aid Beauty Brighten + Glow Facial Radiance Pads, $39
Frequently Asked QuestionsLargeChevron
- What are chemical exfoliators?
- What are physical exfoliators?
- Can you over-exfoliate?
- Meet the experts
- How we test and review products
- Our staff and testers
Best Overall: Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel
Save to wishlist
Dr. Dennis Gross
Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel
Amazon
Nordstrom
Dermstore
Allure editor in chief Jessica Cruel applying the Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel
Jessica Cruel
Why it’s worth it: If the word “peel” makes you nervous, don’t worry—Dr. Dennis Gross’s Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peels are of the gentle variety. The two-step system is designed to exfoliate and nourish without irritation, so even sensitive skin types can get in on the glow. “These peel pads contain both alpha hydroxy and beta hydroxy acids to improve the appearance of pores, radiance, fine lines, texture, and tone,” Brendan Camp, MD, a New York-based double board-certified dermatologist, told Allure. Step one clears away dead skin and gunk with exfoliating acids like lactic, malic, and glycolic; step two adds in soothing, anti-aging ingredients like green tea and adenosine. You know what they say: Just a few swipes a day keeps dullness at bay.
Cruel after applying the Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel
Jessica Cruel
Allure features director Dianna Singh after applying the Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel
Dianna Singh
Tester feedback from editor in chief Jessica Cruel
LargeChevron
“Whenever someone asks me the best peel for beginners, I always point them to Dr. Dennis Gross. His portfolio of exfoliating pads suits both first-timers and experienced pros, and this Universal Peel sits right in the middle. Step 1 contains the exfoliating AHA and BHA acids. The second step is the neutralizer. The first part gives a slight tingle, and the second step is a true burn that lasts about 30 seconds. The glowy skin results are instant. I love that they come individually wrapped, which means they will never dry out. Plus, they are easy to throw in your toiletry bag for travel.” —Jessica Cruel, editor in chief
Tester feedback from features director Dianna Singh
LargeChevron
"What may look like a makeup remover wipe at first glance is actually a pad packed with chemical exfoliators that help brighten instantly and improve discoloration over time. I first discovered these back when I was a beauty assistant (so, longer ago than I'd like to admit), and yet somehow I'm still pleasantly surprised by the next-day glow I get from using one of these at night." —Dianna Singh, features director
More to know
LargeChevron
- Type: chemical
- Key ingredients: glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, green tea, adenosine
- Who it's for: people with dark spots, uneven skin tone, or dullness
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Oily Skin: SkinMedica AHA + BHA Exfoliating Cleanser
Save to wishlist
SkinMedica
AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser
Amazon
Dermstore
Bluemercury
Why it's worth it: Large pores, meet your match. Joyce Park, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Mountain View, Washington, is a fan of SkinMedica's AHA + BHA Exfoliating Cleanser because it contains "a blend of AHAs (lactic, glycolic, citric, and malic), BHA (salicylic), and jojoba spheres to gently exfoliate and polish, while lavender helps to soothe the skin." Dr. Park adds that BHA is lipid-soluble, meaning it’s able to easily pass through the skin’s natural oil barrier, so it can get deep into pores for a thorough cleanse. This makes it an ideal choice for oily and combination skin types. Dealing with bumps and flakes? Even in the minutes you scrub using this cleanser, the blend of acids offers a quick (albeit mild) exfoliation that improves texture and leaves skin looking oh-so fresh.
Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai applying SkinMedica’s AHA + BHA Exfoliating Cleanser
Deanna Pai
Pai after applying SkinMedica’s AHA + BHA Exfoliating Cleanser
Deanna Pai
Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai
LargeChevron
"This exfoliating cleanser does the impossible: It leaves my skin super-soft and smooth, even when I'm dealing with hormonal breakouts, but never feeling squeaky-clean or overly tight. That's a big deal, considering the potent ingredients in its lineup. Plus, the combo of AHAs and BHA targets my two primary concerns, hyperpigmentation and acne, respectively." —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor
More to know
LargeChevron
- Type: chemical and physical
- Key ingredients: lactic acid, glycolic acid, jojoba beads
- Who it's for: oily skin types
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Sensitive Skin: Medik8 Press & Glow Daily Exfoliating PHA Tonic
Save to wishlist
Medik8
Press & Glow Daily Exfoliating PHA Tonic
Amazon
Dermstore
Medik8
Why it’s worth it: Sometimes used interchangeably with toners, tonics like Medik8’s Press & Glow prioritize hydration and moisture—while still resurfacing skin. “Press & Glow is a daily exfoliating PHA tonic that gently removes dead surface cells to reveal more radiant skin,” Dendy Engelman, MD, a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist, told Allure. The key player here is gluconolactone, a polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that locks moisture in as it sweeps away dead skin. With added calming ingredients like aloe vera, acai, and prickly pear extract, this tonic is safe for sensitive skin (no irritation here, as confirmed by our commerce editor).
Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Medik8 Press & Glow Daily Exfoliating PHA Tonic
Sarah Han
Han after applying the Medik8 Press & Glow Daily Exfoliating PHA Tonic
Sarah Han
Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han
LargeChevron
“As someone with combo skin, my T-zone is easily the most problematic area of my face, so I'm trying to take better care of it by incorporating regular exfoliation into my skin-care routine. I'm a fan of polyhydroxy acids (PHA) because they have larger molecules than other acids that don't penetrate as readily and therefore are more gentle on your skin. I don't experience any stinging or redness (thank goodness), my skin feels extra smooth, and my pores look a teensy bit tighter. This toner's great for morning use when I keep my routine quite simple, but I typically go with a stronger serum at night. You can totally use a cotton pad to use Press & Glow, but in the interest of saving waste and product that inevitably is lost to the pad, I dispense the liquid directly into my clean hands. Easy!” —Sarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
LargeChevron
- Type: chemical
- Key ingredients: 5.5% gluconolactone, hyaluronic acid, green tea, aloe, prickly pear extract
- Who it's for: people with uneven texture or dullness
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Fast-Acting: Shani Darden Triple Acid Signature Peel
Save to wishlist
Shani Darden
Triple Acid Signature Peel
Amazon
Revolve
Sephora
Cruel applying the Shani Darden Triple Acid Signature Peel
Jessica Cruel
Why it’s worth it: Have a wedding in your future or just want to give your skin a reboot? Shani Darden's Allure Best of Beauty Award-winning Triple Acid Signature Peel delivers almost immediate radiance, thanks to a two-step process that deeply resurfaces and cleanses skin. The first step uses a blend of lactic, glycolic, and mandelic acids to remove dead skin cells, which makes it all the easier for the neutralizing clay mask—your second step—to clear oil and gunk from pores. (The mask contains glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and allantoin, so it won't leave skin feeling tight, but you should still follow up with a nourishing moisturizer after.) It's potent, so you only need to use it every other week at most, or as needed for special occasions.
Cruel before applying the Shani Darden Triple Acid Signature Peel
Jessica Cruel
Cruel after applying the Shani Darden Triple Acid Signature Peel
Jessica Cruel
Tester feedback from Cruel
LargeChevron
“When I have to be on TV or walk the red carpet, there is only one product I trust to leave my skin glowing, and that's this peel. I have been lucky enough to get the full celeb facial treatment at Shani Darden's LA studio. This two-step exfoliant bottles a little of that magic up for at-home use. I love that it comes with a brush to apply the acid step. Then, you slather on the clay mask, which gives the whole thing a whipped consistency. It tingles a bit, but after I rinse, my skin is visibly glowier.” —Jessica Cruel, editor in chief
More to know
LargeChevron
- Type: chemical
- Key ingredients: mandelic acid, lactic acid, kaolin clay
- Who it's for: anyone who wants dramatic brightening
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Dry Skin: Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment
Save to wishlist
Kate Somerville
ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment
Amazon
Nordstrom
Dermstore
Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Kate Somerville Exfolikate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment
Christa Joanna Lee
Why it's worth it: Allure editors and Michelle Henry, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, only have good things to say about the Best of Beauty Award-winning Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment. Dr. Henry shouts out papaya and pumpkin enzymes (natural AHAs), as well as salicylic acid, which stop dullness in its tracks. The intensive treatment also features superfine silica particles to physically buff dead skin cells away. While some initial tingling is normal, rest assured that aloe vera, honey, and vitamin E soothe and add moisture back into the skin—great news for those whose skin errs on the drier side. Remember, this pick isn't meant for daily use; instead, stick to once or twice a week.
Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee
LargeChevron
“I’ll caveat this by saying: Kate Somerville makes it very clear that the ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment is not for the super-sensitive crowd, but as someone with sensitive skin who’s forever chasing the glowiest glow, I couldn’t resist. I followed their advice and left it on for only one minute (instead of two), and then mixed it with a creamy cleanser to tone it down. It’s definitely on the intense side, as the product name suggests, with a tingly feeling upon application. Once I rinsed it off, my skin felt cloud-level soft—maybe the smoothest it’s ever been.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer
More to know
LargeChevron
- Type: chemical and physical
- Key ingredients: lactic acid, fruit enzymes, aloe vera
- Who it's for: dry skin types
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Save to wishlist
Paula's Choice
Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Amazon
Dermstore
Sephora
Allure senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin before using the Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Sarah Felbin
Why it's worth it: There are skin-care products that live up to the hype, and then there's the Best of Beauty Award-winning Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, which lives well beyond a viral moment. This is partly due to the 2% concentration of salicylic acid, which is the highest amount allowed in over-the-counter products. "Salicylic acid is an oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid (or BHA) that goes deep into the pores to clear out dirt, oil, and other impurities," Claire Chang, MD, a New York City-based dermatologist, told Allure. "It exfoliates and reduces clogged pores, leading to clearer and brighter skin." So, if you struggle with texture or acne, consistent use will help with cellular turnover to promote clearer, smoother skin. Antioxidant-rich green tea counters irritation typically experienced with harsh exfoliators, for softer skin without the sensitivity.
Felbin before using the Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Sarah Felbin
Felbin after using the Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Sarah Felbin
Tester feedback from senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin
LargeChevron
“Paula's Choice has never let me down, and this toner is no different. It's gentle enough on my sensitive skin, yet tough enough on my oily T-zone and acne to prevent future breakouts. A splash on a cotton round is enough to treat my entire face, and I'm always left glowing.” —Sarah Felbin, senior commerce editor
More to know
LargeChevron
- Type: chemical
- Key ingredients: 2% BHA (salicylic acid), green tea, butylene glycol
- Who it's for: those looking to reduce the look of large pores
- Fragrance-free: yes
Other face exfoliators we like
Best for Mature Skin: Sunday Riley Good Genes Lactic Acid Treatment
Save to wishlist
Sunday Riley
Good Genes Lactic Acid Treatment
Amazon
Nordstrom
Dermstore
Why it’s worth it: Aging shows itself in many ways: hyperpigmentation, fine lines, wrinkles, dullness—the list goes on. Luckily, a comprehensive treatment for it comes in one bottle: Sunday Riley’s Good Genes Lactic Acid Treatment. “The lactic acid in the formula improves clarity, skin damage texture, and fine lines while remaining hydrating,” says Cheryl Karcher, MD, a dermatologist based in New York City, adding that licorice extract offers a brightening boost. “It results in far less irritation than stronger formulas with glycolic acid,” she explains. Lemongrass and aloe are also in the mix to tone and soothe the skin. Use it regularly under moisturizer day or night to keep those exfoliating effects going. If you have super-sensitive skin, you can leave the serum on for 15 minutes (like you would a mask) before rinsing and applying the rest of your routine.
More to know
LargeChevron
- Type: chemical
- Key ingredients: lactic acid, licorice root, lemongrass, aloe
- Who it's for: those with mature skin looking to soften fine lines
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Budget: The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% Plus Hyaluronic Acid
Save to wishlist
The Ordinary
Lactic Acid 10% Plus Hyaluronic Acid
Amazon
Nordstrom
Ulta Beauty
Why it’s worth it: The Ordinary’s Lactic Acid 10% Plus Hyaluronic Acid is Dr. Karcher’s favorite affordable pick. An exfoliating serum that smooths the skin while also hydrating, its 10% concentration of lactic acid gently removes the dull outer layer of skin. Meanwhile, 2% hyaluronic acid fills in for any lost hydration, so you’re left with a brighter, glowing complexion. If you have super sensitive skin, the high concentration of lactic acid may be a little harsh, so start slowly and build up use over time (or opt for something with a lower percentage, closer to 5%). The serum is also boosted with free-radical-fighting and anti-inflammatory Tasmanian pepperberry extract to relieve skin of outside stressors and immediately calm any exfoliation-induced redness or irritation.
More to know
LargeChevron
- Type: chemical
- Key ingredients: 10% lactic acid, 2% hyaluronic acid, Tasmanian pepperberry extract
- Who it's for: those with dull, dry skin
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Hyperpigmentation: First Aid Beauty Brighten + Glow Facial Radiance Pads
Save to wishlist
First Aid Beauty
Brighten + Glow Facial Radiance Pads
Amazon
Dermstore
Ulta Beauty
Why it’s worth it: The combination of lactic and glycolic acid in First Aid Beauty’s Brighten + Glow Facial Radiance Pads is a winner for Rosanne Paul, DO, a board-certified dermatologist based in Westlake, Ohio. These acids target dark spots, large pores, and uneven texture, while lemon peel extract and Indian gooseberry step in to brighten and tone skin. Also included: hyaluronic acid and aloe, for a soothed, hydrated finish. Use these pads after cleansing and before moisturizing to unleash that just-got-a-facial glow. Unlike the Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel Pads, these don’t contain salicylic acid, making them a gentler option that may feel less drying.
More to know
LargeChevron
- Type: chemical
- Key ingredients: glycolic acid, lactic acid, lemon peel extract, Indian gooseberry, hyaluronic acid, aloe leaf extract
- Who it's for: those with dull, textured skin
Fragrance-free: yes
Frequently Asked Questions
What are chemical exfoliators?
Chemical exfoliators are active ingredients that help loosen the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to shed and reveal newer and healthier cells beneath, according to Dr. Libby. "They also help unclog pores and exfoliate surface skin cells, brighten skin, improve skin cell turnover and renewal, and some may even help stimulate collagen production within the skin," she explains.
Choosing a chemical exfoliant that contains the best ingredients for your skin type is critical. For oily, acne-prone skin, Dr. Henry suggests choosing alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid. "They exfoliate the upper layers of the skin while also hydrating and helping your skin retain moisture," she says. Glycolic acid is great for people with more resilient skin who need an intensive acne-fighting treatment. If you want something a bit gentler, opt for salicylic acid, and if you have sensitive skin, Dr. Libby recommends starting withpolyhydroxy acids, lactic acid, or mandelic acid. These are alpha hydroxy acids with larger molecules that don’t penetrate as deeply into the skin, making them least likely to cause irritation, she says.
What are physical exfoliators?
Physical exfoliators have granules that manually buff away dead skin cells from the surface of your skin. Dr. Henry says physical exfoliation is key for oily skin, since it helps remove layers of oil buildup. "When you have oily skin, your dead skin cells are more adherent and don't flake off as quickly, which can contribute to breakouts," she explains. She recommends using an exfoliating face scrub with salicylic acid, which "gently speeds up skin turnover and better penetrates oil and oily follicles" to keep skin clean and clear of blemishes. Dr. Libby agrees, adding that salicylic acid “is excellent at targeting oil and unclogging pores.”
Can you over-exfoliate?
Yes, definitely. Despite the benefits of using an exfoliator, overdoing it can cause redness, irritation, breakouts, and damage to your skin barrier. Additionally, using an exfoliator that's either too harsh or too gentle for your skin type can rob you of that luminous finish you're seeking. To strike the right balance, make sure you're not exfoliating too often—no more than three times a week (one or two times should be enough for dry or sensitive skin). Or, look into the dermatologist-approved skin-cycling trend, a regimen that alternates between using active ingredients and letting the skin rest.
Dr. Henry recommends exfoliating with a physical exfoliator for about 30 seconds (or less) using small, gentle, circular motions. She adds that it’s important to follow the instructions printed on the packaging for chemical exfoliators, as they can vary by product.
Meet the experts
- Joyce Park, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of virtual dermatology clinic Skin Refinery.
- Tiffany J. Libby, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Brown Dermatology.
- Michelle Henry, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City and founder of Skin & Aesthetic Surgery of Manhattan.
- Claire Chang, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City.
- Elizabeth Geddes-Bruce, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology in Austin.
- Brendan Camp, MD, is a double board-certified dermatologist in dermatology and dermatopathology at MDCS Dermatology in New York City.
- Dendy Engelman, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Shafer Clinic based in New York City.
- Cheryl Karcher, MD, is a dermatologist based in New York City.
How we test and review products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.
For our list of the best face exfoliators, we considered each product's performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from board-certified dermatologists and cosmetic chemists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.
Our staff and testers
A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.
After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we've solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it’s never been tested on curls? We're proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.