Best Exfoliating Products For The Face
Exfoliation can be a game changing step in your skincare routine, helping improve skin texture, radiance and the appearance of fine lines. But with so many exfoliators available, how do you know which one is right for your skin?
As a qualified facialist and skin expert with over 30 years of experience, I've worked with and tested countless exfoliating formulations. These are my personal standouts, but before we get to the products, let's understand how exfoliation actually works!
How Exfoliating Acids and Enzymes Work to Exfoliate the Skin
Our skin naturally sheds dead skin cells through a process called desquamation. As we age, this process can become less efficient, allowing dead skin cells to accumulate, contributing to dullness, uneven texture and more noticeable fine lines.
Think of corneodesmosomes as tiny poppers holding dead skin cells together.
Exfoliating acids, particularly AHAs, help weaken these connections, allowing dead skin cells to shed more easily.
Exfoliating enzymes work differently, breaking down proteins within these connections to help release dead skin cells.
Physical exfoliators, such as Jojoba Beads or Rice Powder, use particles to physically loosen and remove dead skin cells as you massage them over your skin.
All three methods can improve smoothness and radiance. The key is choosing the right one for your skin!
Why is exfoliation important as we age?
As our skin's natural shedding process can become less efficient with age, exfoliation can help:
Remove accumulated dead skin cells, creating a smoother surface for skincare and potentially improving ingredient penetration.
Improve skin texture, smoothness and radiance.
Soften the appearance of fine lines, making them less noticeable.
Reduce surface build-up that can contribute to congestion and clogged pores.
Create a smoother surface for makeup, helping foundation apply more evenly and sit beautifully on the skin.
Encourage the shedding of older surface cells, revealing the newer skin cells beneath.
My Expert Exfoliation Tips: What You Need to Know
After more than 30 years working with skin, one thing I always tell people is more exfoliation doesn't necessarily mean better results!
1. Choose an exfoliator for your skin
AHAs, including Glycolic, Lactic and Mandelic Acid, are particularly useful for dullness and uneven texture. BHAs, such as Salicylic Acid, are excellent for congestion, blackheads and breakout-prone skin. PHAs and some enzyme exfoliators can offer gentler alternatives, depending on the formulation.
2. You don't need to exfoliate daily!
Regardless of what the packaging recommends, your skin may not need daily exfoliation. Start once or twice a week and adjust according to your skin's response, the formulation and any other active ingredients you're using.
3. My professional recommendation is exfoliate at night
My preference is evening exfoliation, followed by a barrier-supporting moisturiser. Look for Ceramides, Cholesterol and Fatty Acids to help replenish the skin's natural lipids.
4. Watch out for hidden exfoliation!
This is something I think people often overlook. Exfoliating ingredients aren't just found in dedicated treatments. They can also be present in cleansers, toners, serums, facial oils and masks.
If you're already using Retinoids or other active treatments, consider your entire routine. You might be exfoliating more than you realise!
5. Your skin doesn't need to tingle to get results
Tingling, redness and tightness aren't proof that an exfoliator is working. If your skin becomes sore, unusually sensitive or starts stinging when applying your usual products, reduce or stop exfoliation and focus on supporting your skin barrier.
6. Never forget your SPF!
Exfoliation, particularly with AHAs, can increase sensitivity to UV radiation. Daily broad-spectrum SPF is essential, with reapplication when needed.
My Biggest Piece of Advice?
Exfoliation should leave your skin looking smoother and brighter, not feeling stripped, tight or irritated.
It's not about exfoliating more. It's about choosing the right exfoliator, using it at the right frequency and understanding what your skin actually needs!
Best 1-minute Exfoliating Peels
Dermalogica Liquid Peelfoliant
I loved this peel so much! Dermalogica Liquid Peelfoliant is one of the most effective exfoliating treatments I've used, delivering visible results in as little as one minute!
Don't be fooled by its speed! This is a powerful formulation combining 30% exfoliating acids and enzymes, including AHAs, BHAs and PHAs. By combining these exfoliating acid families, it takes a multi-targeted approach to dullness, uneven texture and clogged pores, leaving skin smoother and more radiant. Dermalogica has also included Hyaluronic Acid and Glycerin to support hydration and skin comfort during exfoliation.
A brilliant option for more intensive exfoliation, but not where I'd start if you're new to acids or have sensitive skin.
My recommendation: Start once a week in the evening, leaving it on for just one minute. Gradually increase to a maximum of three minutes, up to three times a week, only if your skin tolerates it well.
BUY HERE Dermalogica
BUY HERE Space NK
Best Gentle Enzyme Exfoliator
Elemis Papaya Enzyme Peel
When it comes to exfoliation, gentle does not mean ineffective and the Elemis Papaya Enzyme Peel is the perfect example of that. This is hands down one of my favourite gentle exfoliators for anyone who wants smoother, brighter skin without irritation, redness, or that tight, stripped post-exfoliation feeling.
Instead of abrasive grains or strong acids, it uses natural papaya enzymes to dissolve the bonds that hold dead skin cells together gently. The result is skin that feels instantly softer and looks noticeably fresher. It’s an ideal choice for sensitive, reactive, or barrier-compromised skin, but honestly, it suits almost everyone.
This is the exfoliator I reach for when skin needs a gentle boost rather than a shock. It’s soothing and incredibly reliable, an exfoliator for achieving a healthy, natural glow with minimal effort.
BUY HERE Look Fantastic, use discount code LFTFFIONAB
Best Gentle Exfoliating Toners
Medik8 Press & Glow
No surprises, I don't use this daily as recommended, but I love using it every couple of days for gentle exfoliation.
The formula contains 5.5% Gluconolactone (PHA), which has a larger molecular structure than many AHAs, so generally penetrates more slowly. It helps loosen dead skin cells to reduce dullness and uneven texture while attracting water, so you get exfoliation alongside hydration.
Press & Glow also contains Prickly Pear Flower Extract, described by Medik8 as an enzyme activator supporting natural exfoliation, rather than an exfoliating enzyme like Papain or Bromelain. And packed with Glycerin, Aloe Vera and antioxidant-rich Acai Extract to support hydration and skin comfort.
A great option for normal, dry or dehydrated skin experiencing dullness or uneven texture. It may also suit sensitive skin looking for gentler exfoliation, but always patch test and introduce slowly, starting once a week.
BUY HERE Medik8
BUY HERE Look Fantastic, use discount code LFTFFIONAB
Skin Rocks The Gentle Acid
If you've been using a gentle PHA exfoliant such as Medik8 Press & Glow and feel your skin needs a little more help with uneven texture, Skin Rocks The Gentle Acid is the perfect next step.
What makes this formulation interesting is the combination of 9% AHAs, including Mandelic Acid and Lactic Acid, alongside 1% Gluconolactone (PHA), offering a more targeted approach to exfoliation while still considering hydration and skin comfort.
Mandelic Acid is both water-soluble and some lipid-soluble characteristics, making it great for tackling uneven texture alongside monthly congestion or the odd breakout. Lactic Acid helps improve dullness and uneven texture, while Gluconolactone (PHA) provides additional exfoliation alongside its humectant properties. Skin Rocks also added Glycerin and Panthenol to support hydration and skin comfort.
For me, this is a lovely option for normal and combination skin experiencing uneven skin texture and dullness.
BUY HERE Skin Rocks
BUY HERE Space NK
Best PHA Exfoliator
Trinny London Tiptoe In
I absolutely love this exfoliator! If you're looking for smoother, brighter skin without stronger exfoliating acids, this is a lovely option.
The formula combines two Polyhydroxy Acids (PHAs), Gluconolactone and Lactobionic Acid, which gently loosen dead skin cells while attracting water to support hydration. That's what I particularly love about PHAs. You're exfoliating without necessarily compromising skin comfort.
It also includes Trehalose, a sugar-derived humectant that helps retain moisture, alongside a Glycine-bonded Azelaic Acid derivative for its skin-soothing redness reducing properties.
I'd particularly recommend this for normal, dry, dehydrated or dull-looking skin, especially if you're new to exfoliating acids or find stronger AHAs too much. It may also suit some sensitive skin types, although I'd always introduce it gradually.
BUY HERE Trinny London
Best Exfoliator for Texture, Radiance and Congestion
Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 6% Mandelic Acid + 2% Lactic Acid Liquid Exfoliant
This is one of those exfoliators that delivers gorgeous results after just one use! Skin feels softer, smoother and looks noticeably brighter the following morning.
The formula combines two of my favourite AHAs, 6% Mandelic Acid and 2% Lactic Acid. Mandelic Acid has both water-soluble and some lipid-soluble characteristics, making it useful for uneven texture, dullness and mild congestion. Lactic Acid provides additional exfoliation while supporting hydration. I also like the Amino Acids in the acid delivery system, alongside hydrating Saccharide Isomerate and antioxidant-rich Yarrow Extract.
A lovely option for normal, combination, oily or dull-looking skin, although I'd introduce it gradually, particularly if you're sensitive. I prefer using this at night, followed by a barrier-supporting moisturiser, and always recommend SPF during the day.
BUY HERE Paula’s Choice
BUY HERE Space NK
Best Lactic Acid Exfoliator
Sunday Riley Good Genes Lactic Acid Treatment
Once a US-exclusive cult favourite, Sunday Riley Good Genes is now available in the UK, and I couldn't be happier!
At the heart of the formula is Lactic Acid (an AHA), which loosens dead skin cells to reveal smoother, brighter skin. What I particularly love about Lactic Acid is its humectant properties, making it one of my favourites for dull, dehydrated skin.
There's also Liquorice Extract to support a more even-looking skin tone, alongside soothing Aloe Vera and Prickly Pear Extract.
A lovely option for normal, dry and combination skin experiencing dullness, uneven texture or fine lines. I'd be more cautious with sensitive or barrier-compromised skin.
BUY HERE Space NK
Best Facial Scrub
Elemis Pro-Collagen Glow Boost Exfoliator
Think of this as a luxurious, oil-enriched scrub that combines nourishing oils with Microcrystalline Cellulose, a finely milled, plant-derived polishing particle that gently buffs away dead skin cells for smoother, softer skin.
With Elemis, you can count on their products being packed with skin-conditioning ingredients. Glycerin to hydration, while Sweet Almond, Oat Kernel, Jojoba, Borage Seed and Sea Buckthorn Oils provide fatty acids that help replenish skin lipids and leave skin feeling supple. As well as Elemis' signature Padina Pavonica Extract to support hydration, alongside Tocopherol (Vitamin E), an antioxidant.
A lovely option for normal to dry skin that enjoys a physical exfoliator without that stripped feeling. However, because this relies on physical exfoliation and contains essential oils, I'd be cautious recommending it for sensitive, rosacea-prone or inflamed, breakout-prone skin.
BUY HERE Look Fantastic, use discount code LFTFFIONAB
Best Exfoliating Mask
Naturium AHA Exfoliating Mask 10%
I'm a huge fan of Naturium, and this AHA Exfoliating Mask is exceptional! It combines chemical and physical exfoliation to leave skin beautifully smooth and radiant.
Think of dead skin cells like tiny pieces of Velcro. Glycolic Acid and Lactic Acid help loosen the bonds holding them together, while Rice Powder gently buffs away loosened cells.
I actually use this differently from the brand's directions. I apply an even layer without massaging, allowing the AHAs to work for 10 minutes. Then I add a little water, gently massage, and rinse. This is definitely a gentler way to use it rather than massaging instantly, let the exfoliating acids do their thing.
I love the results! Skin feels silky-smooth, looks brighter, pores appear less noticeable, and makeup applies beautifully.
I love it, but it's punchier than you might realise, and I wouldn't recommend it for sensitive or rosacea-prone skin.
BUY HERE Space NK
Best Exfoliating Facial Oil
de Mamiel Exfoliating Facial Oil
This facial oil is so unique and an absolute joy to use! It's a beautiful way to exfoliate while replenishing the skin. Taking away with one hand and giving back with the other!
Rather than relying on stronger acids or scrubs, De Mamiel combines Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, a lipid-soluble salicylic acid derivative, with Papaya and Pineapple-derived ingredients to support skin renewal.
The base of this facial oil is delicious with Jojoba, Rice Bran, Avocado and Rosehip Oils, which help replenish skin lipids and leave skin feeling beautifully conditioned and the skin barrier supported and also Bakuchiol adds a gentle retinoid-like renewal benefit, complementing exfoliation with improved cell turnover and firmness.
A lovely option for normal to dry skin experiencing dullness or uneven texture, particularly if you prefer an oil-based treatment.
It's gentle in approach, but still contains exfoliating actives, so introduce gradually!
BUY HERE Cult Beauty
Best For Hyperpigmentation
Dr Idriss Major Fade Flash Mask
When you want to make every moment count while tackling hyperpigmentation, Dr Idriss Major Fade Flash Mask doesn't rely on exfoliation alone! The formula combines 15% Glycolic Acid and 3% Lactic Acid to loosen dead surface cells, improving dullness, uneven texture and radiance. Plus Tranexamic Acid which isn't an exfoliating acid. It helps regulate signalling pathways involved in excess melanin production, making it particularly relevant when tackling uneven pigmentation. There's also Glycerin and Panthenol to support hydration and skin comfort.
I'd particularly recommend considering this for uneven skin tone, post-blemish marks and dullness. But don't underestimate its strength! With 18% combined AHAs, this is a powerful exfoliating mask, not one I'd recommend for sensitive or barrier-compromised skin.
BUY HERE Dr Idriss
Best For Breakout-Prone Skin
Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant remains one of my absolute favourites for tackling breakouts and congestion. There's a reason this has become such a cult classic!
The formula contains 2% Salicylic Acid, an oil-soluble Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) that works inside pores, helping loosen the build-up of dead skin cells and excess sebum responsible for congestion.
One of my favourite ways to use this is as a targeted compress over those angry, throbbing spots! I find it helps calm inflammation and encourages blemishes to settle, taking away the temptation to pick and probe!
It's lightweight and particularly suited to oily, combination and breakout-prone skin.
But don't assume you need to use it daily! Introduce gradually, especially if you're already using retinoids or other exfoliating acids.
BUY HERE Space NK
BUY HERE Paula’s Choice
Prefer a quick and easy way to exfoliate?
If you love the idea of exfoliating but don't want another lengthy step in your skincare routine, exfoliating toners, pads and mists could be just what you're looking for!
I've put together a separate guide to exfoliating toners, pads, mists and peels, explaining how they work, what to look for and how to choose the right one for your skin.
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