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Exfoliation removes the dead skin cells that make your face look dull and your products sit on top instead of sinking in — but the trick is doing it gently enough that you don’t irritate. Here are 10 worth buying.
My top pick: A liquid AHA exfoliant (glycolic or lactic acid, 5-10%) used 2-3 times a week at night is the one to own — it dissolves dead cells chemically, no scrubbing required, and your skin looks brighter by morning.
1. Glycolic Acid Liquid Exfoliant
5-10% glycolic acid on a cotton pad. The gold-standard chemical exfoliant. Start here. Shop glycolic acid exfoliant face on Amazon →
2. Lactic Acid Exfoliant
Gentler than glycolic — good for sensitive skin and beginners. Shop lactic acid exfoliant face on Amazon →
3. Salicylic Acid Exfoliant (BHA)
Oil-soluble BHA that goes into pores — the one for acne and congestion. Shop salicylic acid exfoliant bha on Amazon →
4. Enzyme Exfoliant (Papaya / Pineapple)
Fruit enzymes dissolve dead skin without acid — the gentlest option. Shop enzyme exfoliant face papaya on Amazon →
5. Physical Scrub (Fine Grain)
Very fine particles for a manual exfoliation — use gently, once a week. Shop gentle face scrub fine grain on Amazon →
6. Exfoliating Toner (Daily Mild)
A low-concentration acid toner for daily use — very gentle, cumulative results. Shop daily exfoliating toner mild on Amazon →
7. PHA Exfoliant (Gluconolactone)
PHAs are the gentlest acids — exfoliate and hydrate, safe for rosacea-prone skin. Shop pha exfoliant face on Amazon →
8. Peel Pads (Pre-Soaked)
Pre-soaked pads with AHA/BHA — swipe and go, no measuring. Good for travel. Shop exfoliating peel pads face on Amazon →
9. At-Home Chemical Peel (Stronger)
A higher-concentration peel for weekly use — more dramatic results, follow the instructions exactly. Shop at home chemical peel face on Amazon →
10. Exfoliating Powder Wash
A powder that activates with water — adjustable strength depending on how much water you add. Shop exfoliating powder cleanser face on Amazon →
The bottom line
A glycolic or lactic acid liquid exfoliant used 2-3 times a week at night is the one to own — it does more for dullness and texture than any scrub. Start with lactic if you’re new to acids, and always follow with SPF the next morning.