The Best Face Exfoliators You Need for Baby-Soft Skin

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If you can’t tell why your skin has been looking rather, well, rough lately or why your makeup doesn’t look as seamless as expected, chances are your skin care routine is missing one important step: exfoliation. Not only do the best face exfoliators gently slough away dead skin to keep your skin looking refreshed and smooth, but certain formulas can tackle your most concerning woes, from dark spots to rough texture.

“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. This yields fresher, more glowing skin. It also primes the skin to absorb other topical products and treatments more effectively.” Facial exfoliators can also be fantastic treatments for acne-prone skin since they can unclog pores and send treatment ingredients deeper into the skin.

That said, it’s important to note that there are different types of face exfoliators: chemical and physical. Deanne Mraz Robinson, MD, FAAD, president and co-founder of Modern Dermatology, says that if you’re going with a chemical exfoliator, you’ll want to look for alpha-hydroxy acids like glycolic acid, lactic acid, and fruit enzymes. When it comes to physical exfoliators, she suggests looking for ones “with small, smooth particles such as rice powder or jojoba beads” that can minimize irritation and steer clear of options with microbes “unless they are specifically labeled as biodegradable.”

To find the best face exfoliators, we researched dozens of options and selected them based on customer reviews and expert insights. We even spoke with dermatologists and estheticians about what you’ll want to look for and how to know which type is right for your skin. Here, shop the 22 best facial exfoliators for every skin type.

Brightening Facial Scrub

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: “If you enjoy physical exfoliators on your face, I highly recommend this product. I have sensitive combination skin and I found this scrub to be effective and non-irritating. It’s effective and feels so satisfying on the skin without being too abrasive, which is something I’ve yet to find in other facial scrubs. I use it every other week or so, and the bottle lasts a long time. Highly recommend.”

3% TXA Brightening Toner for Face

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 the addition of 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 cars. My texture is also smoother now and my makeup even sits on my face better.”—Nerisha Penrose, ELLE.com beauty commerce editor

Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant

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.

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

So Polished Exfoliating Sugar Scrub

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.”

Daily Microfoliant

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

Mandelic Clearing Serum

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

Ultra-Fine Scrub

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.”

Gentle Peeling Exfoliant Face Cleanser

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.”

AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

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

Bright Boost Resurfacing Facial Exfoliator

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.”

Botanical Exfoliating Scrub

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

Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel

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

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, ELLE.com beauty commerce editor

Day Maker Microcrystal Exfoliating Cleanser

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.”

Good Genes All-in-One Lactic Acid Exfoliating Face Treatment

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: “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.”

Energy Face Scrub

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.”

Micro-Spa Vitamin C Skin Peel BHA Chemical Exfoliant

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

ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment

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

AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser

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!”

Sugar Face Polish Exfoliator

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.”

Skin Renewing Nightly Exfoliating Treatment

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.”

Creamy Gentle Exfoliating Pore Perfecting Cleanser

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!”

T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night Serum

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!”

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 this will depend based 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 or beta hydroxy acids, or enzymes that loosen the glue-like substance that holds 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.

Meet the Experts

Dr. Sonia Batra is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Batra Dermatology.

Deanne Mraz Robinson, MD, FAAD, is 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 the master esthetician at Shafer Clinic Fifth Avenue.

Dr. Hadley King is a board-certified dermatologist, specializing in medical and cosmetic dermatology.

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. Casey Clark is a freelance writer from New York City who specializes in beauty, fashion, and mental health. She has written for Allure, StyleCaster, The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, and numerous other online publications.

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