Best face exfoliators for every skin type explored 

Different Exfoliators for Smooth Skin (Image via Sportskeeda)
Different exfoliators for smooth skin (Image via Sportskeeda)

Face exfoliators stand as essential skincare products designed to remove dead skin cells, unveiling a smoother and more radiant complexion. There are various exfoliators available in the market tailored to different skin types. These exfoliators come in different forms, such as physical scrubs or chemical peels.

These products play a crucial role in enhancing skin health and texture. Face exfoliators cater to specific needs, like hydration for dry skin, oil control for oily skin, and gentle care for sensitive skin. This article explores the best face exfoliators for each skin type to make an ideal match for a refreshed and revitalized skin appearance.


Face exfoliators for different skin types

Skin types indeed exhibit distinct characteristics and care needs. Dry skin tends to feel tight and may experience flakiness, requiring hydrating products for intense moisturization. On the other hand, oily skin, characterized by excess sebum production, benefits from products that control oil and prevent breakouts.

Combination skin, with both dry and oily areas, calls for a balanced approach to skincare. Sensitive skin reacts easily to irritants and requires gentle and soothing products.

Understanding these skin types helps in selecting suitable skincare products, including face exfoliators, to maintain healthy and vibrant skin. Let's explore different face exfoliators for every skin type.


1) Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial

Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial (Image via Ulta Beauty)
Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial (Image via Ulta Beauty)

Drunk Elephant's Baby Facial is a chemical face exfoliator suitable for combination, oily, acne-prone, and dull skin. It contains a mix of AHAs and BHAs, including glycolic acid, tartaric acid, lactic acid, and salicylic acid, which work to remove dead skin cells, brighten skin tone, and soften lines. This rinse-off mask is recommended for use once a week. Available to purchase on Sephora for $80.

Pros and cons:

  • Pros: It's effective in resurfacing the skin, particularly before starting a new week.
  • Cons: It's not suitable for exfoliation beginners or sensitive skin, and it's important to follow with a gentle moisturizer to prevent dryness or irritation.

2) The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Exfoliating Peeling Solution

The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Exfoliating Peeling Solution (Image via Sephora)
The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Exfoliating Peeling Solution (Image via Sephora)

The Ordinary's Peeling Solution is a budget-friendly, chemical face exfoliator designed for combination, oily, dull, and acne-prone skin. It contains glycolic acid, lactic acid, and salicylic acid, targeting acne, dark spots, and clogged pores. Available to purchase on Sephora for $9.

Pros and cons:

  • Pros: Ideal for congested, acne-prone skin and requires only 10 minutes of use twice a week for visible results.
  • Cons: Skin redness and tingling if overused.

3) Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 6% Mandelic Acid + 2% Lactic Acid Liquid Exfoliant

Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 6% Mandelic Acid + 2% Lactic Acid Liquid Exfoliant (Image via Sephora)
Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 6% Mandelic Acid + 2% Lactic Acid Liquid Exfoliant (Image via Sephora)

Paula's Choice recently introduced a new face exfoliator that's gentle for daily use, aiming to brighten and even out skin tone without causing irritation. Its formula includes mandelic acid and lactic acid, which are effective for smoothing fine lines and fading dark spots.

Suitable for all skin types, this chemical exfoliant is used like a toner, both morning and night, for glowing skin. Available to purchase on Sephora for $37.

Pros and cons:

  • Pros: Suitable for daily use, effective in enhancing skin tone and texture.
  • Cons: Application requires a cotton pad, as using fingers might be messy.

4) Peach & Lily Glass Skin Face Polisher

Peach & Lily Glass Skin Face Polisher (Image via Ulta Beauty)
Peach & Lily Glass Skin Face Polisher (Image via Ulta Beauty)

The Peach & Lily face exfoliator stands out for its scrubbing exfoliants, which provide a gentle cleanse using rice powder and enzymes. This physical exfoliant is suitable for dry, combination, oily, dull, and acne-prone skin.

It's mixed with face wash for use in the shower a few times a week to maintain smooth and clear skin. This is a multipurpose product that can be used as both a face polisher and a cleanser. Available to purchase on Ulta Beauty for $48.

Pros and Cons:

  • Pros: It contains soothing ingredients that are beneficial for skin smoothness and clarity.
  • Cons: Users may initially find it challenging to determine the right amount of product to use.

5) Naturopathica Pumpkin Purifying Enzyme Peel

Naturopathica Pumpkin Purifying Enzyme Peel (Image via Amazon)
Naturopathica Pumpkin Purifying Enzyme Peel (Image via Amazon)

This chemical face exfoliator is suitable for all skin types and is particularly useful during the winter when skin tends to be drier and more sensitive. Available to purchase on Amazon for $64.

Pros and cons:

  • Pros: It has a great scent and uses natural ingredients.
  • Cons: There's a risk of overuse, which might lead to skin irritation.

In conclusion, finding the right face exfoliator is key to maintaining healthy, vibrant skin. Whether you have dry, oily, sensitive, or combination skin, there's an exfoliator out there that's perfect for you. From gentle physical scrubs to potent chemical peels, the range of options caters to various skincare needs and preferences.

These skincare brands are suitable for use by both men and women. Remember to use them as directed and listen to your skin's response for the best results. Regular exfoliation can reveal a brighter, smoother complexion, making it a valuable addition to any skincare routine.

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Edited by Shubham Soni
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