The 10 Best Face Exfoliators for Smooth & Radiant Skin, According to Dermatologists

We will never get tired of the wonders of exfoliation. Yes, it’s a process that our bodies naturally go through, but as we get older and the turnover of our skin cells gradually slow down, we require even more just to stay afloat. It’s an unfortunate reality that requires the use of topical formulas, specifically face exfoliators, to fix. And if you’re not already exfoliating, dermatologists are here to remind us it’s a vital part of the skincare routine.

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According to board-certified dermatologist Deanne Mraz , exfoliation is extremely critical, especially as we age and begin to lose our precious skin cells. “Exfoliators are a great way to boost [the aging] process, keeping the complexion glowing with healthy skin cells at the skin’s surface,” she says. Not to mention, she claims that exfoliation also helps the other skincare products in your routine absorb and penetrate the skin for maximum effectiveness. So no matter how you slice it, don’t skip the exfoliator.

Physical or Chemical?

If you’re new to this, there are a couple ways to go about helping your body slough away dead skin cells so new, fresh ones can settle in faster. Although there’s no clear choice between physical and chemical exfoliants, we found that some dermatologists actually recommend the latter. Chemical exfoliants, or AHAs and BHAs, often allow for gentle exfoliation—as they work chemically to reduce fine lines. On the other hand, physical exfoliants physically remove dead skin cells with small particles. Although many have found physical exfoliants to be just as effective, Mraz warns that some physical exfoliators contain harsh particles that can cause micro tears in the skin—which often leads to inflammation, infection, and scarring.

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But, Dr. Ahmad Chaudhry finds that there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to exfoliation. “It depends on skin type, concerns, and personal preference. And of course, I always stress the importance of introducing these products gradually and using sun protection,” he says. So, whether you’re hooked on chemical exfoliants or are a physical exfoliant loyalist, we have expert recommendations for the best exfoliators to add to your routine.

Exfoliators Recommended by Dermatologists

CeraVe Skin Renewing Nightly Exfoliating Treatment On Sale 20% off $24 Buy Now On Amazon $12 Buy Now On Walmart $32 Buy Now On Target “The CeraVe Skin Renewing Nightly Exfoliating Treatment is an excellent choice for those looking for a gentle yet effective exfoliant. It contains a combination of glycolic and lactic acids, which help remove dead skin cells and improve skin texture. The inclusion of ceramides helps maintain the skin barrier, making it suitable for sensitive skin.” — Dr. Ahmad Chaudhry, Dual Board-Certified Dermatologist at Scandinavian Biolabs

Cetaphil Face Wash, Healthy Radiance Gentle Exfoliating Cleanse r On Sale 42% off $7 Buy Now On Amazon $7 Buy Now On Target $14 Buy Now On Walmart “The Cetaphil Face Wash, Healthy Radiance Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser is a mild, daily-use exfoliating cleanser that’s suitable for sensitive skin. It contains polyhydroxy acid (PHA), which is gentler than AHAs or BHAs. The inclusion of niacinamide can help with hyperpigmentation. This is a good option for those new to exfoliation or those with very sensitive skin.” — Dr. Ahmad Chaudhry, Dual Board-Certified Dermatologist at Scandinavian Biolabs

Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant $35 Buy Now On Amazon $35 Buy Now On Sephora $35 Buy Now On Dermstore “The Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting Liquid Exfoliant is a highly effective salicylic acid (BHA) exfoliant that’s particularly beneficial for those with oily or acne-prone skin. It can help unclog pores, reduce blackheads, and improve overall skin texture. Start with using it 2-3 times a week, and increase gradually if needed. Always follow with sunscreen during the day.” — Dr. Ahmad Chaudhry, Dual Board-Certified Dermatologist at Scandinavian Biolabs

Clinique 7 Day Daily Gentle Face Exfoliator Scrub Cream $29 Buy Now On Amazon $29 Buy Now On Sephora $29 Buy Now On Ulta $29 Buy Now On Target “This Clinique 7 Day Daily Gentle Face Exfoliator Scrub Cream is a physical exfoliant and can be used daily for most skin types. It’s particularly good for those who prefer a scrub texture. However, be cautious not to over-exfoliate or apply too much pressure when using it, especially if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin.” — Dr. Ahmad Chaudhry, Dual Board-Certified Dermatologist at Scandinavian Biolabs

Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant $66 Buy Now On Amazon $66 Buy Now On Sephora $66 Buy Now On Ulta $66 Buy Now On Dermalogica “This Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant is a rice-based powder exfoliant is unique in that it combines physical and chemical exfoliation. It contains salicylic acid and enzymes for chemical exfoliation, along with the gentle physical exfoliation from the rice powder. It’s suitable for daily use for most skin types and is particularly good for brightening and smoothing skin texture.” — Dr. Ahmad Chaudhry, Dual Board-Certified Dermatologist at Scandinavian Biolabs

ISDIN Glicoisdin 8 Soft $76 Buy Now On Amazon $78 Buy Now On Walmart $85 Buy Now On Dermstore “In the form of a nourishing cream, the ISDIN Glicoisdin 8 Soft delivers both exfoliation and hydration to improve uneven skin tone, fine lines and wrinkles and rough skin texture.” — Deanne Mraz, MD, FAAD, Board-Certified Dermatologist

Alastin Resurface Skin Polish $70 Buy Now On Amazon $68 Buy Now On Alastin $68 Buy Now On Ecosmetics “ Alastin’s Resurface Skin Polish delivers a dual-action exfoliation with volcanic minerals (physical) and AHA (chemical) in a formulation that is also deeply hydrating. This is a great exfoliator for most skin types and is something I recommend for anyone who has a build up of dead skin cells. The particles in this product are gentle and smooth.” — Deanne Mraz, MD, FAAD, Board-Certified Dermatologist

CeraVe Salicylic Acid Cleanser On Sale 17% off $15 Buy Now On Amazon $17 Buy Now On Ulta $18 Buy Now On Walmart “The CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser is a great chemical exfoliator. This cleanser includes salicylic acid (SA), which is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA). Similarly to AHAs, BHAs act as chemical exfoliants, removing dead skin cells, debris, and excess oil that can clog the pores on the face. In addition to SA, this CeraVe cleanser has hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to boost hydration.” — Dr. Michele Green , Board-Certified Cosmetic Dermatologist

Glytone KP Kit $75 Buy Now On Amazon $68 Buy Now On Walmart $75 Buy Now On Dermstore For body exfoliation, Dr. Michele Green has a great recommendation. “ The KP Kit from Glytone is an excellent treatment option for KP (keratosis pilaris) and uneven skin texture. This kit, comprised of an exfoliating body wash and body lotion, is infused with glycolic acid. The two-step treatment provides visible results quickly.” — Dr. Michele Green, Board-Certified Cosmetic Dermatologist

AmLactin Daily Nourish 5% Exfoliator and Moisturizer On Sale 22% off $14 Buy Now On Amazon $18 Buy Now On Target $20 Buy Now On Ulta “For normal to dry skin types, Lac-Hydrin Five Lotion is a good option. It contains 5% ammonium lactate, providing gentle exfoliation while also moisturizing, ideal for maintaining hydration and avoiding irritation.” — Dr. Jeffrey Rapaport , Board-Certified Dermatologist