When it comes to good skin habits, daily cleansing and sunscreen application are crucial. But the unsung hero of any skincare routine might be exfoliation. Your skin naturally sheds dead cells but it can't always get them all off.
According to board-certified dermatologist Emily L. Arch, MD, letting those dead cells sit and accumulate can result in a long list of complexion concerns—dullness, clogged pores, more noticeable fine lines, flaky patches, and hyperpigmentation, to name a few. Exfoliating can help speed up the cell turnover process to address these issues. "Use of exfoliants ideally creates a smoother, brighter complexion and allows skincare product and makeup application to be more effective and even," Dr. Arch tells Byrdie.
But how do you choose the right face exfoliator when there are so many different kinds and thousands of options on the market? With dermatologist guidance and recommendations, we researched and tested 65 of today's highest-rated, best-selling face exfoliators at home in our daily lives. We evaluated each product based on type (chemical versus physical), formulation, application, key ingredients, and intended skin type, then narrowed it down to these all-star products that are sure to make your skin look and feel like new.
Makes skin glow
Gentle formula
Formula includes a combination of heavy-hitting chemical exfoliants
Can sting if left on too long
Highlighted Ingredients: Lactic acid, salicylic acid, fruit enzymes | Formulation: Scrub | Skin Type: All | Size: 0.5–5 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Celebrity esthetician Kate Somerville is responsible for the flawless complexions of some of Hollywood's biggest A-listers. But if you (like most of us) can't get in for one of her signature facials, you can still reap the benefits of her eponymous skincare line. Blending chemical and physical exfoliants, this best-selling, fan-favorite product packs a one-two punch.
A mix of lactic acid (an alpha-hydroxy acid or AHA), salicylic acid (beta-hydroxy acid or BHA), and pineapple, papaya, and pumpkin enzymes work to dissolve dead skin, while the slightly grainy formulation physically buffs away cells. When we tested this product we loved how it instantly improved our complexions by fading hyperpigmentation and giving us an all-around glow.
Who It's For
Safe and effective for every skin type, we recommend ExfoliKate for anyone looking for a physical-chemical exfoliating hybrid that delivers a healthier-looking complexion. You can leave it on for up to two minutes—just don't go over to avoid stinging or burning.
Fast-absorbing
Lightweight
Improves radiance while you sleep
Slightly sticky
Could be sensitizing
Highlighted Ingredients: Lactic acid, glycolic acid, salicylic acid | Formulation: Nighttime serum | Skin Type: Oily, combination, balanced, dry | Size: 1 ounce | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Looking for a budget-friendly exfoliating treatment that works while you sleep? This is the one for you. Powered by a blend of acids—think lactic, glycolic, salicylic—it does a number on skin texture, leading to smoother more radiant-looking skin.
During testing, we loved the lightweight consistency and how quickly it absorbed, though it can leave a minor sticky residue on the skin immediately after application. We also noticed a bit of stinging when we first applied it, but this quickly went away. When we woke up the next morning, our complexions looked and felt noticeably smoother.
Who It's For
This potent serum is a great choice for those with oily, combination, balanced, or dry skin who are looking to smooth skin texture without investing in a pricey product.
Smooths uneven texture
Dissolves dead cells and polishes skin
Prevents breakouts and blackheads
Can be drying for some
Highlighted Ingredients: Apricot seed powder, pomegranate enzymes, willow bark extract | Formulation: Gel scrub cleanser | Skin Type: Dry, combination, acne-prone | Size: 1.7–4.1 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes
A little bit of this guy—which is gentle enough that you can use it daily—goes a long way. The Tata Harper Regenerating Cleanser pulls out all the stops to dissolve dead cells and polish skin gently. Apricot seed powder and pomegranate enzymes work to physically exfoliate, while BHA in the form of willow bark extract offers chemical exfoliation.
After cleansing, our skin was smooth to the touch with a nearly unnoticeable texture. The grittiness was significant enough to be effective, yet gentle enough not to cause irritation. Some have noted that it can be a bit drying, though it contains an olive oil complex for a boost of moisture.
Who It's For
This exfoliating cleanser is ideal for people with most skin types who want to incorporate gentle exfoliation into their everyday skincare routines. If you have super sensitive skin, we recommend opting for an even more gentle exfoliating product.
Reduces dark spots and look of pores
Hydrating and plumping
Can be used up to twice daily
Contains unnecessary dyes
Highlighted Ingredients: Pumpkin enzymes, AHAs, aluminum oxide crystals | Formulation: Mask | Skin Type: Dry, combo, oily | Size: 5 ounces | Cruelty-Free: No
Applying a face mask is the perfect way to indulge in some self-care, but this mask is just as effective as it is enjoyable. Not only does it smell like the most delicious pumpkin pie, but it has a gel-like texture with the perfect amount of grit to it, thanks to the inclusion of aluminum oxide crystals in the formula. Those crystals work to polish the skin, while pumpkin enzymes and alpha hydroxy acids provide chemical exfoliation.
This mask received high marks in our test and it's also an editor favorite. We all agree that it's the mask to reach for when your complexion is looking dull. It does an excellent job of smoothing skin texture to reveal more even, brighter-looking skin.
Who It's For
This beloved mask is ideal for those with oily, balanced, or dry skin types that need a skin refresh. It's worth noting that it could be too intense for people with sensitive skin—we recommend patch testing if you're sensitive to scrubs or skincare acids.
Creamy feel
Contains potent actives
Improves uneven texture and fine lines
A little bit goes a long way
Can sting a bit upon application
Highlighted Ingredients: Salicylic acid, tartaric acid, lactic acid, glycolic acid | Formulation: Mask | Skin Type: All | Size: 0.5–1.7 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes
True to its name, Drunk Elephant's Babyfacial does, indeed, leave you looking like you just got a professional facial. Credit a combination of AHA and BHA that smooths uneven texture while helping minimize the look of fine lines. Since this product is specially formulated with a 3.5 pH (meaning potent but not overly acidic), it's extra effective without causing redness or sensitivity (in most cases).
This mask should be left on for about 20 minutes, then rinsed off. Do this once a week or every few weeks if your skin is feeling dull or textured and it will become—you guessed it—baby-soft. After using it weekly, we noticed a significant improvement in skin texture. It helped dissolve dry patches and smooth bumps significantly. We also appreciate that a little bit of this powerful stuff goes a long way, meaning that while it's an investment, it's sure to last you quite a while.
Who It's For
This top-rated facial treatment is suitable for all skin types, though folks with sensitive skin should know that it can sting a bit after you apply it. If you're sensitive to acids, we recommend patch testing first. It's a great option if you're looking to incorporate a powerful exfoliating treatment into your skincare routine that you don't need to use daily to see results.
Gentle chemical exfoliants
Hydrating with hyaluronic acid
Can be used daily
Nothing
Highlighted Ingredients: Lactic acid, glycolic acid, papaya extract, hyaluronic acid | Formulation: Gel-cream cleanser | Skin Type: Oily, combination, acne-prone | Size: 5 ounces | Cruelty-Free: No
Exfoliating can leave your skin a little dry, which can be especially problematic if your complexion is already dehydrated. But that doesn't mean you should skip this skincare step. To avoid over-drying, Dr. Arch suggests a combo of gentle chemical exfoliants and hydrating ingredients—this drugstore pick checks both boxes.
The gel-to-cream formula uses two AHAs (glycolic and lactic acid) and papaya extract to gently smooth skin. Thanks to the addition of hyaluronic acid (a humectant), it attracts water from the air to the skin to moisturize and plump it. We don't love that it contains fragrance, but it's not overpowering to the point where it's a dealbreaker for us (but might be if you have reactive skin).
Who It's For
This affordable cleanser is gentle enough for daily use, making it a great option for those with all skin types (especially dry) who want to practice daily exfoliation.
Effective yet gentle
Chemical-physical hybrid
Beachy scent
Some online reviewers have said it caused breakouts
Highlighted Ingredients: Sugar, lactic acid, papaya enzymes | Formulation: Scrub | Skin Type: All | Size: 2.9 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes
There are so many facial scrubs on the market to consider but this heavenly concoction stands out from the bunch due to its one-two-punch exfoliating ingredients. It packs on the power you'd expect from a physical scrub with the gentleness of natural ingredients.
Since sugar is water-soluble, the granules dissolve as you go to help prevent the harsh results of over-exfoliating. We like that the formula also contains chemical exfoliants in the form of lactic acid and papaya enzymes for additional resurfacing benefits.
Who It's For
Can't decide between physical or chemical exfoliants? This scrub contains both, yielding noticeable results with just a few uses per week. It's worth noting that some online reviewers have said it caused them to break out. If you're reactive to skincare, we recommend patch-testing this one first.
Buffs away dead skin
Non-irritating with soothing ingredients like aloe vera and glycerin
Great value
Contains sulfates
Highlighted Ingredients: Silica beads, glycerin, aloe vera powder | Formulation: Scrub | Skin Type: All | Size: 5 ounces | Cruelty-Free: No
Those with dry skin need an exfoliator that's powerful enough to remove dry patches, while not stripping their skin of necessary moisture. Unlike other mechanical exfoliators made with jagged, scratchy particles that can wreak havoc on your skin, this one leans on earth-derived silica micro-beads and powdered aloe vera to resurface the skin and help combat redness. These ingredients remove dead skin cells without irritation, while aloe and glycerin hydrate and soothe. We just wish it didn't contain sulfates, which can be drying if used too often.
Who It's For
We recommend this face polish for those with dry skin who prefer physical exfoliants but want to avoid irritation from scratchy particles.
Plant-derived ingredients
Leaves skin hydrated and radiant
Appealing container/packaging
May sting if left on too long
Highlighted Ingredients: Pineapple and papaya enzymes | Formulation: Gel mask | Skin Type: All | Size: 1 ounce | Cruelty-Free: Yes
This exfoliating mask is made from papaya and pineapple—two fruits packed with alpha hydroxy acids. These plant-derived chemical exfoliants naturally dissolve dead skin cells quickly—just be careful not to leave the gel on too long before rinsing, as it may sting after about 10 minutes. The results? Hydrated skin that looks noticeably more radiant. We also love that it smooths and balances the skin over time (goodbye, excess oil, and shine).
Who It's For
Although it's suitable for all skin types, we like it particularly for oily skin because it's not too harsh but it's strong enough to cut through excess oil (and even balance it).
Helps minimize oil and prevent breakouts
Generous size
Noticeable results
Easy to use
Can cause minor irritation
Highlighted Ingredients: Salicylic acid, glycolic acid | Formulation: Toner | Skin Type: Oily, dry, acne-prone, sensitive | Size: 5.1 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes
This convenient spray-on toner leans on both BHA and AHA (in the form of glycolic acid) to dissolve dead skin and reveal a healthier-looking complexion.We also appreciate the generously sized bottle and wallet-friendly price tag.
During testing, we found that it was easy to apply, absorbed quickly, and left our skin feeling balanced. Although some people did experience very minor irritation at first, it didn't last long and the impressive results made up for it. It worked to reduce the appearance of pores, smooth skin texture, balance oil production, and reduce breakouts.
Who It's For
If you're prone to breakouts and you're looking for an easy-to-use exfoliating product to treat blemishes and resurface your skin, this K-beauty product has our stamp of approval.
Gentle and non-irritating thanks to PHAs
Fades dark spots
Smooths skin and reduces redness
May take longer to see results
Highlighted Ingredients: Poly-hydroxy acid, niacinamide, aloe vera | Formulation: Toner | Skin Type: Dry, combination, sensitive | Size: 3.4 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes
You've heard of AHA and BHA, but what about PHA? Poly-hydroxy acids are another type of chemical exfoliant that removes dead, dry cells from the skin's surface. Since the molecules are slightly larger, they don't penetrate as deeply, making them notably gentler and a prime option for those whose skin is easily irritated.
PHA is combined with soothing aloe vera and redness-reducing niacinamide (vitamin B3) in this leave-on toner, making it even more sensitive skin-friendly. According to Dr. Arch, it's best to ease into exfoliation, especially if your skin is particularly reactive—once or twice a week is a good place to start.
Who It's For
Ideal for those with reactive skin, this exfoliating toner dissolves dead skin without irritation.
Helps minimize look of fine lines
Addresses skin texture, dark spots, and acne
Dermatologist-recommended
Some reviewers experienced redness and irritation
Highlighted Ingredients: Glycolic acid | | Formulation: Gel treatment mask | Skin Type: All | Size: 2 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Dr. Arch is a fan of this glycolic acid-based gel treatment mask, which is meant to be left on for up to 10 minutes, and then rinsed off with warm water. "I use it once a week for a deeper at-home chemical exfoliation to help with fine lines and pigmentation," she tells Byrdie, though you can apply it up to three times a week if your skin tolerates the formula.
"Chemical exfoliation with alpha-hydroxy acids offers additional benefits beyond helping to slough off dead skin cells," says Dr. Arch. She notes that glycolic acid and other AHAs can address dark spots, smooth uneven texture, help with acne, and minimize the look of pores.
Who It's For
This dermatologist-recommended chemical exfoliator can help improve uneven skin tone, rough texture, fine lines, and breakouts, making it a great option for those looking for a potent, all-rounder treatment. It's also ideal for mature skin since it works to address fine lines and hyperpigmentation. That said, some reviewers with sensitive skin said they experienced redness and irritation with this one.
Dissolves oil, sebum, and dead skin
Can be used on face and body
Noticeable results
Lightweight and easy to layer in a skincare routine
Can be drying
Highlighted Ingredients: Salicylic acid | Formulation: Toner | Skin Type: Oily, acne-prone | Size: 1–8 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes
This beloved toner from Paula's Choice (the brand's number one product worldwide, NBD) touts the chemical exfoliant salicylic acid to treat blemish-prone skin in addition to other exfoliating acids that work to remove dead skin cells. BHA in the formula gently exfoliates and unclogs pores by dissolving oil, sebum, and other gunk that can get lodged in there. Also nice: It's a leave-on formula, so all you have to do is swipe it on with a cotton pad or pat it onto cleansed skin.
We took this product for a spin, and after a week of use, we could see (and feel) a difference in our skin texture. We also loved how lightweight and non-greasy it felt; it was easy to layer into our skincare routines. Note that it can occasionally be drying, especially if you have sensitive skin, so we recommend applying a good moisturizer after use.
Who It's For
This wildly popular toner is ideal for those with uneven texture, clogged pores, and acne. You can apply it to breakout-prone zones besides the face, too, like the back or chest.
Contains potent actives
Formulated by dermatologist
Individual packs are travel-friendly
Potentially too intense to daily use
Not sustainable packaging
Highlighted Ingredients: Glycolic acid, lactic acid, malic acid, salicylic acid, retinol, vitamin C | Formulation: Pre-soaked single-use cloths | Skin Type: All | Size: 5–60 treatments | Cruelty-Free: Yes
A favorite among the Byrdie team, these pre-soaked pads from Dr. Dennis Gross make exfoliation a cinch. All you have to do is swipe and go, no water required. The formula includes a blend of five exfoliating acids, plus retinol, vitamin C, and other antioxidants.
We love how exceptionally smooth, even, refreshed, and healthy-looking these AHA and BHA pads made our skin. The individual packs are also perfect for travel. We just wish the packaging was more sustainable. The exfoliants in the formula may be too harsh for everyday use.
Who It's For
These pre-soaked, individually wrapped pads are super convenient and travel-friendly. We recommend them to anyone who wants to achieve smoother, refreshed-looking skin in a flash.
Fast-acting, noticeable results
Addresses dark spots and uneven texture
Can be left on or rinsed off
Increases sensitivity to the sun
Highlighted Ingredients: Lactic acid, licorice extract | Formulation: Leave-on or rinse-off serum | Skin Type: All | Size: 0.5–3.4 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes
It often takes time to see significant results from skincare products, but devoted fans of this leave-on exfoliant know the effects are noticeable after just one night. Lactic acid handles the exfoliating duties and tackles uneven texture and fine lines, while licorice extract and other antioxidants address dark spots.
We tested this formula and liked how it instantly plumps, hydrates, and improves skin clarity. However, the product can increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun, so we recommend using it as part of your nightly skincare routine.
Who It's For
You can use this reliable serum as an overnight treatment if your skin takes well to the potent formula or as a rinse-off mask if your skin is more sensitive. It's a nice option for most skin types, though if you have sensitive skin, it could be too strong for you.
Fun to use
Contains multiple antioxidants including vitamin C
Makes skin glow
May not work for oily skin
Highlighted Ingredients: Bamboo stem extract, poppy seeds | Formulation: Scrub | Skin Type: All | Size: 3.4 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Regular exfoliation can help illuminate your complexion and leave you with a lit-from-within glow. But this exfoliating gem takes it one step further. Yes, it checks the requisite exfoliation boxes, thanks to a combo of poppy seeds and bamboo stem powder for physical resurfacing. But, it also delivers a hefty dose of vitamin C and astaxanthin (a hard-to-pronounce, multi-beneficial antioxidant) to ward off free radical damage, dullness, and dark spots.
We love the innovative oil-gel texture which transforms into a milky liquid when mixed with water. It genuinely makes it fun to use and something to look forward to every day.
Who It's For
If you're dealing with dark spots, melasma, or general hyperpigmentation, HoliFrog Como is your guy.
Immediate results
Removes peach fuzz and dead skin
Creates smooth makeup canvas
Replacement blades can be expensive
Type: Dermaplaning tool | Skin Type: All
The tech-savvy set will appreciate this multi-tasking, battery-powered dermaplaning tool, which offers instant gratification in the form of an immediately soft, radiant complexion. How? By removing peach fuzz and surface-level dead skin cells. This not only gives the skin a smooth appearance, but it helps to ensure that your skincare products properly absorb, and it also creates an even canvas for makeup.
We tested this dermaplaning tool firsthand and promise you it's much easier to use than it looks. We could actually see the tiny hairs on the blade edge after gliding it over our skin, which was pretty satisfying. It left our faces smooth, soft, and radiant. The only downside of this tool is the price which is a bit steep, plus the fact that replacement blades aren't the cheapest.
Who It's For
Experienced face shavers and novices will like how this battery-powered dermaplaning device instantly smooths skin by removing dull skin and peach fuzz.
Gentle yet effective
Smooths uneven texture and decongests pores
Suitable for all skin types
Can be messy to use
Highlighted Ingredients: Rice bran, salicylic acid, colloidal oatmeal | Formulation: Powder scrub | Skin Type: All | Size: 0.5–2.6 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes
There are many things we like about this powder formula. For one, it's gentle enough for daily use yet effective enough that it also works well as a once- or twice-weekly add-on to your skincare routine. Two, it delivers a combination of physical and chemical exfoliation, thanks to mildly scrubby rice powder and papaya enzymes.
After consistent use, we can confidently tell you this product lives up to its skin-smoothing, pore-minimizing claims. Though pouring out the powder into your hands and mixing it with water can be a bit messy, we appreciate that it comes in a spill-proof container.
Who It's For
Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant is suitable for all skin types and a great option for those looking to incorporate gentle exfoliation into their everyday skincare routines.
Minimal, plant-derived ingredients
Softens and smooths skin
Delicious fruity scent
Small amount
Highlighted Ingredients: Lucuma powder, papaya enzymes, sea buckthorn juice powder | Formulation: Powder-to-gel mask | Skin Type: All | Size: 1 ounce | Cruelty-Free: Yes
When we say "Get your fruits and veggies," we're talking about the papaya enzymes and lucuma powder found in this exfoliating mask from Golde. Containing minimal ingredients, the natural formula is made entirely of organic, edible superfoods.
The golden powder turns into a gel when activated with water to gently remove dead skin cells. We like how it leaves you with a smoother, glowy-er complexion right away, plus it smells like a beach vacation. We just wish there was more of it in the container.
Who It's For
If you're looking for a rinse-off exfoliating mask to use one to three times a week, this simple, natural formula is great for all skin types.
Gently polishes skin
Non-irritating formula
Leaves skin exceptionally smooth
Can get messy
Highlighted Ingredients: Rice bran, green tea, algae | Formulation: Powder scrub | Skin Type: Dry, combination, oily, sensitive | Size: 2.1 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Enzymes can be just as effective as AHAs at exfoliating skin—often without the potential irritation. That's why we love this powder-to-foam option from Tatcha. The water-activated formula calls on rice bran enzymes to gently remove dead skin, leaving you with a freshly polished, ultra-smooth complexion. Once it foams, it has a creamy consistency that feels nourishing on the skin. After using it, we noticed that it gave our complexions a natural-looking radiance.
The process of mixing the powder with water can get a little messy, but otherwise, we absolutely love this product.
Who It's For
This water-activated powder exfoliator is a stellar choice for folks who may not tolerate AHAs or scrubs with coarse granules. And because the formula is creamy and non-drying, it's an excellent choice for those with dry or combination skin.
What to Consider When Buying a Face Exfoliator
- Chemical vs. Physical Exfoliant: Chemical exfoliants essentially dissolve the "glue" that keeps dead skin cells stuck together on the skin's surface, allowing them to slough off. Alpha-hydroxy acids (or AHAs) like glycolic and lactic acid are most commonly used. Fruit enzymes are also popular. Meanwhile, physical (or mechanical) exfoliants physically buff off dead cells. If the particles are unevenly shaped and with jagged edges—think ground seeds or shells—they could cause damage to the skin. Look for gentle, smooth particles like jojoba beads, rice powder, or bamboo powder.
- Skincare Goals: The general purpose of a face exfoliator is to increase cell turnover by dissolving or buffing away the outermost layer of skin. However, some products also contain acids or other ingredients (like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, etc.) specifically geared toward combating dryness, breakouts, oily skin, or hyperpigmentation. You'll want to consider the product's ingredient list to determine what else the formula you're using can accomplish.
- Skin Type: To reap the benefits of a face exfoliator and avoid any unwanted effects, you'll want to consider your skin type. For those on the dryer side, exfoliating one to two times a week is best. Oilier skin, on the other hand, might require more frequent exfoliation and can likely handle more intense scrubs and acids. Take note of how your skin reacts, too. If you start noticing breakouts, irritation, or redness post-exfoliation, you might be doing it too frequently or using a product that's too harsh.
Why Trust Byrdie
Byrdie contributor Melanie Rud has over a decade of experience in the beauty industry, writing for some of the biggest magazines and websites out there. A skincare junkie, she firmly believes that, after wearing sunscreen daily, regular exfoliation is one of the absolute best things you can do for your skin. Theresa Holland is a freelance beauty writer specializing in buying guides and product reviews. She has personally used many of the products featured here. Alyssa Kaplan is an experienced writer in the beauty industry and product tester specializing in cosmetics. She's been a commerce writer at Byrdie since 2022, where she covers all things beauty.
Contributors consulted with experts to learn more about what to keep in mind when shopping for facial exfoliators. Those experts included:
- Emily L. Arch, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Chicago. She specializes in general, medical, and pediatric dermatology.
- Melissa Doft, MD, FACS, of Doft Plastic Surgery in New York is a double-board-certified plastic surgeon. She specializes in a range of cosmetic and reconstructive treatments.