I Asked Derms to Name the Best Face Exfoliators in Existence—They Came Back with These 13
Our take
The pursuit of luminous, healthy skin is a perennial one, and the recent surge in expert recommendations for exfoliation as the primary solution to dullness speaks to a subtle but significant shift in skincare philosophy. While hydration and brightening remain vital components of a comprehensive routine, the consensus among dermatologists highlighted in “I Asked Derms to Name the Best Face Exfoliators in Existence—They Came Back with These 13” underscores the importance of cellular turnover. It’s a welcome refocusing; often, we chase the surface-level effects of hydration without addressing the underlying stagnation that contributes to lackluster complexions. This aligns with a broader trend towards more intentional, results-driven skincare—a move away from fleeting trends and towards building a foundation of genuinely healthy skin. It’s also a refreshing counterpoint to the often-overhyped promises of quick fixes, reinforcing the idea that sustainable radiance comes from addressing the root cause. This resonates particularly well with our audience who appreciate considered choices, as demonstrated by their interest in [I'm in My 30s, But I Still Love "Back to School" Shopping—16 Under-$50 Beauty Products I'd Buy for the Ultimate Fall Reset] and the desire for smart, affordable upgrades.
The article’s breadth – ranging from accessible drugstore options to professional-grade peel pads – is particularly noteworthy. It acknowledges that effective exfoliation isn’t solely the domain of expensive treatments, but that tailored approaches are key. A gentle chemical exfoliant, like an AHA or BHA, can be incredibly effective for many skin types, while those seeking more dramatic results might benefit from periodic professional treatments. This nuanced perspective is crucial; the risk of over-exfoliation and subsequent damage is a genuine concern, and the article rightly emphasizes the importance of understanding one’s skin type and sensitivity. It’s a testament to a growing trend of democratizing expert knowledge, making sophisticated skincare practices more accessible to a wider audience. This echoes the sentiment around building a thoughtfully curated wardrobe, as seen in our recent piece about [Fall's Around the Corner—These 7 Highly Specific It Items Will Be on Every Fashion Person Next Season], where discernment and quality are prioritized over fleeting trends. The emphasis on mindful choices extends beyond the products themselves, encompassing the understanding of how and when to incorporate exfoliation into a larger routine.
The rise of exfoliation as a primary recommendation also reflects a deeper cultural shift in how we approach beauty. There’s a growing appreciation for skin texture and a more realistic ideal of “flawless” skin. The pursuit of a perfectly smooth, poreless complexion has given way to a celebration of individuality and a recognition that texture is a natural and even desirable characteristic. Exfoliation, when done correctly, can enhance this natural beauty by revealing brighter, more even-toned skin, rather than erasing it completely. This aligns with the broader movement towards embracing authenticity and self-acceptance, a sentiment we consistently champion through our editorial lens. It’s a subtle but significant departure from the often-unattainable standards promoted by traditional beauty marketing, and one that resonates deeply with a generation seeking genuine connection and self-expression. Even the curated aesthetic of looking expensive—explored in [I Want to Look Expensive This Autumn—These Reformation Cardigans Get My Stamp of Approval]—is often rooted in the confidence and effortless glow that comes from healthy, well-cared-for skin.
Ultimately, the renewed focus on exfoliation signifies a maturation of the skincare industry. We’re moving beyond the constant introduction of novel ingredients and towards a deeper understanding of fundamental skincare principles. The question now isn’t just *what* to use, but *how* to use it effectively and safely, integrating it into a holistic routine that prioritizes long-term skin health. As we move forward, will we see a further refinement of exfoliation techniques, with even more personalized approaches tailored to individual skin needs and concerns? Or will the pendulum swing back towards other trending ingredients, leaving this valuable insight momentarily behind? The evolution of skincare is a continuous cycle, but this current emphasis on exfoliation feels particularly grounded in genuine scientific understanding and a growing desire for authentic, radiant skin.
When your skin looks and feels dull, you may feel the urge to reach for something hydrating (bonus points if it has brightening properties). While hyaluronic acid and vitamin C vials can do some good for your skin, I urge you to put them down in this scenario. Because when dullness, uneven texture, clogged pores, and tired skin come together, it's time to reach for something with a bit more gusto. That, my friend, would be a facial exfoliator.
While your brain may immediately flit to the gritty face scrubs you used in the early aughts, fear not, for these sloughing formulas have grown leaps and bounds in recent years due to the inclusion of chemical actives. New York City-based licensed esthetician Jolie De Feis describes a top-shelf exfoliator as one that cleans out pores and sweeps away dead skin cells while supporting the delicate barrier—aka, not stripping your skin of its moisture and naturally occurring oils at the same time. "That looks a little different for everyone, since some skin [types] can tolerate more intense exfoliation," she explains.
If the term "exfoliation" already makes you worry for your sensitive, mature, or otherwise irritable skin, the esthetician is here to quell your fears. "These days, there’s a lot of ingredient delivery system innovations that allow for slower release of exfoliating ingredients, which is a much more barrier-friendly approach," she explains. "[This] makes it possible for people of all skin types to find exfoliants that work." We did just that by asking dermatologists and medical aestheticians for their tried-and-true facial exfoliant recs. Below, their top suggestions for different budgets, brands, and skin types.
The Best Facial Exfoliators of 2026, At a Glance
- Best Overall: Sofie Pavitt Studio-Smooth Microdermabrasion Exfoliating Scrub Treatment
- Best Drugstore: Cetaphil Extra Gentle Daily Scrub
- Best Peel Pads: Drmtlgy FacialRx Daily Peel Pads
- Best Chemical Exfoliant: SkinCeuticals Glycolic 10 Renew Overnight
- Best Physical Exfoliant: Grown Alchemist Polishing Facial Exfoliant
Best Overall: Sofie Pavitt Studio-Smooth Microdermabrasion Exfoliating Scrub Treatment
Pros: Hybrid exfoliant, hydrates skin barrier, leaves skin glowy
Cons: None we can think of
Type: Physical and chemical | Key ingredients: Magnesium flakes, zinc gluconate, PHAs | Skin type: Normal, dry, oily
Sofie Pavitt's Studio-Smooth Microdermabrasion Scrub was the top recommendation from several of our experts. This multitasking formula combines physical and chemical exfoliants to buff away dead skin cells and gently resurface fresh, glowing skin in one fell swoop. "It uses magnesium flakes alongside zinc and PHAs, so it feels super purifying and gives you that really satisfying physical exfoliation without leaving the skin feeling stripped or overly dry," says medical aesthetician and founder of Sloan Studios, Malika Sloan.
While De Feis says that people with sensitive or dry skin should be wary of physical scrubs, Pavitt's formula is an exception. The exfoliant's PHAs work hard to restore hydration, though the formula effectively controls sebum production. "[It] has the addition of zinc PCA for sebum regulation, which is extra beneficial for oily skin types," she explains. In short, 10s across the board.
Customer review: "I seriously cannot believe how good this is. I bought it on a whim without expecting much, and it completely surprised me. My skin felt so soft after the first use, and the biggest difference I noticed was how much better my makeup looked. It got rid of all the dry, dead skin, so everything applied so much smoother and looked way more natural. My makeup has been looking flawless! This is one of those products where you actually notice a difference right away, which doesn’t happen often. It’s 100% worth the money, and I’m honestly so happy I picked it up."
Best Drugstore: Cetaphil Extra Gentle Daily Scrub
Pros: Budget-friendly, gentle formula, suitable for sensitive skin
Cons: Not the most efficacious if you want deep exfoliation
Type: Physical | Key ingredients: Vitamin B5, vitamin E, glycerin | Skin type: All
We love a luxury product at Who What Wear, but beauty experts know that top-tier products can often be found in the drugstore aisle. In fact, this gentle, low-priced exfoliant from Cetaphil was one of the top recommendations from board-certified dermatologist Marisa Garshick, MD, when we asked. "This is a good option because its microfine particles provide gentle surface exfoliation while glycerin, vitamin B5, and vitamin E help keep the skin feeling soft rather than stripped," she explains.
Customer review: "I have sensitive skin so Cetaphil products are perfect for me. This face wash won't rip off the top lining of your skin, but you'll still feel clean after using it. I never get breakouts from using it. Overall value is great. Two bottles last me a few months (and I use it every day)."
Best Peel Pads: Drmtlgy FacialRx Daily Peel Pads
Pros: Smooths uneven tone and texture, minimizes appearance of pores, reveals a noticeable glow
Cons: Leaves a mild tingling sensation
Type: Pads (60) | Key ingredients: Lactic, mandelic, salicylic, and succinic acids; peptides, saccharide isomerate | Skin type: Normal, combination, dry, oily
My mother and I both fell in love with these Drmtlgy peel pads from the first use. Gentle enough for everyday use (and for our rosacea-stricken skin), these pads instantly penetrated and revived the skin barrier—leaving us with glowing, youthful skin. "These pads use a 4-acid system with 5% mandelic acid, 2% lactic acid, 2% salicylic acid and 2% succinic acid, giving you a combination of surface exfoliation, pore-clearing and brightening benefits," explains Garshick, who also recommends the pads. The derm specifically calls out its mixture of glycerin, allantoin, and saccharide isomerate, which hydrates the skin and prevents the "stripped or overly dry feeling that can occur with exfoliating acids."
Customer review: "Okay… I’m obsessed with these. I didn’t realize how much my skin needed a good exfoliating pad until I tried these. My face feels incredibly soft and smooth afterward, and I swear it gets rid of all that dull, built-up stuff without making my skin feel tight. I also love that they’re dual-sided, and the blend of AHAs and BHAs is exactly what my skin loves. Definitely one of those products I’ll keep buying."
Best Chemical Exfoliant: SkinCeuticals Glycolic 10 Renew Overnight
Pros: Melts away dead skin cells overnight, brightens complexion, hydrates barrier
Cons: Quite expensive
Type: Chemical | Key ingredients: 10% glycolic acid, 2% phytic acid, 1% soothing complex | Skin type: Dry, normal, combination, oily
Sloan highlights this chemical exfoliant as another one of her personal recommendations for its brightening and skin-smoothing properties. "It’s an amazing 10% glycolic treatment that you can use a few nights a week before moisturizer," she explains. Between its purifying combination of plant-derived acids and a soothing botanical oil complex, the product cleanses the skin of impurities and sustains a calm skin barrier. "It works overnight to exfoliate and brighten, and you wake up with an insane glow," she adds.
Customer review: "I am acne-prone and oily. This product is a lifesaver. It will dry up my acne within 24 hours while also creating a glow on my face. I am absolutely obsessed and repurchase any time I am near getting low—I cannot go without this product!"
Best Physical Exfoliant: Grown Alchemist Polishing Facial Exfoliant
Pros: Non-irritating formula, effectively removes buildup, unclogs and minimizes the appearance of pores
Cons: Formula type may be too abrasive for sensitive skin; fragranced
Type: Physical | Key ingredients: Bamboo, aloe, pink grapefruit extract | Skin type: Normal
Though this pick from Grown Alchemist is a physical exfoliant, it's a surprisingly gentle one. Mixed with bamboo particles and botanical extracts like grapefruit and peppermint leaf, this scrub works hard to buff away buildup and impurities while keeping the skin feeling soft and supple. While it may not be gentle enough for very sensitive skin, this is a great physical exfoliant for those with uncompromised barriers.
Customer review: "I got [this] first as a sample in [an] Advent calendar, and I loved it so much I had to buy the full-size version. It helps smooth my skin out without it feeling like I've been scrubbing it raw. It also smells incredible."
Best for Mature Skin: RoC Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing 2-Step Peel Pads
Pros: Minimizes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, boosts hydration, smooths skin tone and texture
Cons: May be too abrasive for someone
Type: Peel pads (20) | Key ingredients: Glycolic, lactic, and mandelic acid; retinol, ectoin | Skin type: All
Mature skin can be easily irritated due to a thinning dermis, but that doesn't mean you can't use exfoliators. In fact, derms actually recommend them for your skin type—especially this one from RoC. "This is particularly appealing for mature skin because it combines exfoliation with retinol, addressing both surface texture and longer-term signs of skin aging," says Garshick. "Step one uses glycolic, lactic, and mandelic acids to resurface the skin, while step two contains RoC's retinol along with ectoin, allantoin, and bisabolol to help smooth and soothe."
Customer review: "I've been really impressed with the RoC Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing 2-Step Peel Pads! The two-step treatment is easy to use and leaves my skin feeling smoother, softer, and refreshed. After using them, my skin looks brighter and more radiant, and with regular use, it helps improve the appearance of fine lines and uneven texture. I also like that they give my skincare routine a little extra boost without being complicated. Overall, these peel pads are a great at-home treatment for anyone looking for smoother, brighter."
Best for Dry Skin: Medik8 Press and Glow Toner
Pros: Smooths skin texture and tone, offers a healthy glow, non-irritating formula
Cons: None we can think of
Type: Toner | Key ingredients: 5.5% PHA, glycerin, aloe vera | Skin type: All
Exfoliants can be tough on dry skin, but this toner from Medik8 strikes the perfect balance between clarifying and hydrating. "This exfoliant is good for those with dry skin as it incorporates polyhydroxy acid (PHA), which provides mild exfoliation while being generally less irritating than stronger AHAs," says Garshick. "It also contains aloe vera and prickly pear extract to help support hydration, making it a good option for those who want smoother, more radiant skin without stripping the skin barrier."
Customer review: "I have granulomatous rosacea, and it’s a nightmare, but consistent use of this (in combo with prescriptions and a PHA serum) has helped keep my skin texture soft and pustules and redness in check. I react to the majority of acids out there, so I was so happy this caused no irritation, allergic reaction, or stinging. It is actually soothing, and I look forward to using it. I saw noticeable improvement in my skin texture within a few days, and it has finally helped rid me of the dreaded flakes I was getting when I applied makeup (no matter how much moisturizer I lathered on). I can’t recommend this enough."
Best for Oily Skin: Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Pros: Effectively unclogs pores, controls sebum, hydrates fresh skin
Cons: May be a bit too dehydrating for dry skin types
Type: Chemical | Key ingredients: 2% BHA, green tea, methylpropanediol | Skin type: Dry, normal, combination, oily
This is one of the best exfoliants I've ever personally tried (and I have very sensitive skin), but this chemical exfoliant really excels for those with oily skin due to its powerful ingredient list. "For oily skin, salicylic acid is a great choice because it is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate into the pore and help dissolve excess sebum and buildup," Garshick explains. "This is a great lightweight option that is easy to use," she adds. The derm also spotlights the formula's green tea extract, which works hard to soothe freshly toned skin, blast clogged pores, and smooth uneven texture.
Customer review: "Noticed immediate improvement in the feel and look of the skin of my forehead once I began using this product. I'd been suffering from acne and have had none since! I will faithfully continue to use this product."
Best for Acne-Prone Skin: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment
Pros: Lightweight texture, prevents breakouts, clears blemishes
Cons: May be too astringent for everyday use
Type: Chemical | Key ingredients: 1.5% salicylic, glycolic, and lipo-hydroxy acid (LHA) | Skin type: Oily and acne-prone
People with acneic skin are likely no strangers to a good exfoliant, but not all are created equal. "This is a nice option for acne-prone skin because it contains a triple acid complex including 1.5% salicylic acid with glycolic acid and lipohydroxy acid (LHA)," says Garshick. These ingredients effectively unclog buildup in pores, minimize breakouts, and smooth texture. "I also like that the formula includes niacinamide and La Roche-Posay Thermal Water, which can help support the skin barrier and soothe potential irritation associated with exfoliating ingredients."
Customer review: "After improving my hormonal acne tremendously over the years with Spiro and retinol, I still had big pimples that hurt, lasted a long time, and left dark marks. This serum has been the final piece of the puzzle in preventing new acne!"
Best for Rosacea: Allies of Skin Azelaic and Kojic Advanced Clarifying Serum
Pros: Evens skin tone, calms redness, diminishes dark spots
Cons: On the expensive side
Type: Chemical | Key ingredients: 10% azelaic acid, 1% kojic acid, 3% hexyrescorcinol complex | Skin type: All, including sensitive and rosacea-prone
People with rosacea often have very sensitive skin, but they, too, need to practice exfoliation every once in a while. This was another pick with several derms' stamps of approval, but it especially shines in the redness department thanks to one of its key ingredients: azelaic acid. "Azelaic acid, in general, is a great option for sensitive or rosacea-prone skin," says De Feis. "The Allies of Skin one is very comprehensive with the addition of skin brighteners," she adds, as ingredients like kojic acid and bakuchiol help diminish dark spots and quell redness.
Customer review: "I don't have a ton of skin issues, but I am 40 and trying to find ways to make my skin look and feel a little bit better. My main concerns are mostly redness, but also a little elasticity. I've tried a reasonable amount of products from various lines, and I've never found that anything made ANY difference. Since adding this in recently, my skin feels even better, and my redness is reduced. This is the closest thing to a miracle that I've found, and the price is certainly worth it. It's pretty lightweight (milky), it does not pill under makeup or sunscreen, and it works nicely with other AM and PM skin products. Will continue to purchase."
Best Gentle: First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads
Pros: Easy to use, gentle on sensitive skin, hydrating ingredients
Cons: Some shoppers say the reformulated pads aren't as effective as the older iteration
Type: Pads (60) | Key ingredients: Glycolic and lactic acids | Skin type: Dry, normal, combination
Exfoliants can be scary territory for those with irritable skin types, but First Aid Beauty's Facial Radiance Pads are a derm-approved pick for someone who needs gentle sloughing. "These are a good option for someone who wants the benefits of an AHA without irritation," says Garshick. "Glycolic and lactic acids help gently improve dullness and uneven texture, while the soothing, hydrating formulation makes it a great option for those with sensitive skin," she adds. Plus, the pre-soaked pads make it easy to apply—just rub in a circular motion on the cheeks, chin, jawline, and forehead, and go.
Customer review: "So gentle yet effective. I was officially convinced once I ran out for a few days and then I immediately felt their absence. I will not let that happen again. I have sensitive skin with fragrance allergies. These pads let me indulge in self-care while respecting my allergies."
Best Powder: Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant
Pros: Works on face and body, sloughs away dead skin cells physically and chemically
Cons: Must use a sizeable amount of product to see a difference
Type: Chemical and physical | Key ingredients: Papain enzymes, salicylic acid, rice bran, colloidal oatmeal | Skin type: Normal, oily, combination
"This is a unique option because it combines physical, enzymatic and chemical exfoliation in a very fine powder," Garshick starts. The active-infused powder-to-foam formula creates a tincture that is both physically and chemically exfoliating. "Papain helps break down dead skin cells, while salicylic acid is particularly helpful for oily or acne-prone skin because it is oil-soluble […] while the rice bran extract is rich in antioxidants," she explains. "It also contains colloidal oatmeal and allantoin to soothe and calm the skin."
Customer review: "I think most of Dermalogica's products are overrated. Not this one. My skin is too thin for the rougher stuff, and it tends to be dehydrated, but the pores are easily clogged, especially from reapplying sunblock. I wanted an effective, fine-grained exfoliant that had just a little acid in it. I bought the mini. This product did exactly what I wanted it to do: sweep away any remaining debris after cleansing. It makes every other product I use work better, and clears up the occasional bump of milia/acne/who-knows-what. If not for the price, I'd use it head to toe. Best skincare product I've found in probably 20 years. "
Best Clarifying: Experiment Continuum Daily Multi-Clarifying Treatment
Pros: Diminishes the appearance of dark spots plus uneven tone and texture, calms redness, gentle formula that soothes sensitive skin
Cons: Some shoppers don't feel that it was strong enough to see serious results
Type: Chemical | Key ingredients: Salicylic acid, azelaic acid, ceramides | Skin type: Combination, oily
"Experiment Continuum is one of the most innovative and versatile exfoliants that I’ve come across in a long time," says De Feis. "It’s effective for literally every skin type, including acne-prone, dry, sensitive, and even rosacea-prone, since it uses encapsulated salicylic acid and a water-soluble azelaic acid derivative for gentle delivery," she explains. The best part, though, is that it does all this while soothing the skin with calming ingredients like allantoin and ceramides to strengthen, soften, and calm the skin barrier. It combines so many of our favorite actives (salicylic, azelaic, PHAs, you name it) and truly does it all—fading hyperpigmentation, calming irritation, blasting blemishes, and controlling oil production. Oh, and it's under $35.
Customer review: "I bought this on a whim because I would give a limb for the moisture mesh and the lip balms from Experiment. I instantly knew I would love this too. Finished my first bottle, and my second bottle is being delivered today. This really helps even out my skin tone. I have some minor rosacea, and this keeps my redness down. I do not get many breakouts, but I have noticed that my skin has been incredibly clear with this."
What to Look For in a Facial Exfoliator
- Formula type: Facial exfoliants are often found in either chemical or physical form. Chemical formulas have actives like azelaic acid, BHAs, or AHAs that clarify from within the dermis, whereas physical formulas include exfoliants like pulverized bamboo, coffee grounds, or sugar granules. Some are even available in hybrid form, like the dermatologist-beloved Sofie Pavitt Studio-Smooth Exfoliating Scrub.
- Ingredients: "Look for formulas that have skin-supporting ingredients, like hydrators and anti-inflammatory ingredients to support the barrier," says De Feis. She also recommends considering products with "brightening ingredients that can help with skin tone and evenness."
How We Chose
We chose the best facial exfoliants on the market by asking three skin experts—one board-certified dermatologist and two medical aestheticians—what their top facial exfoliants are. Marisa Garshick, MD, Jolie De Feis, and Malika Sloan offered their professional opinion on what separates the great exfoliants from the good ones, offering specific examples for different skin tones, textures, and areas of concern.
Why Trust Who What Wear?
At Who What Wear, we know that beauty isn't one-size-fits-all. Over the years, our editors have tested thousands of products—including skincare, makeup, haircare, and nails—while also working closely with trusted experts, like renowned dermatologists, celebrity makeup artists, and other leading industry insiders. Together, this ensures every guide is well-researched, inclusive, and relevant to you.
We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they're affordable favorites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how, and what we'd truly recommend to our closest friends and family members.
Read on the original site
Open the publisher's page for the full experience