15 Best Exfoliating Face Washes To Keep Your Skin Youthful & Radiant

For visible differences in your overall skin health in a short time.

Written by Shiboli Chakraborti, MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach Shiboli Chakraborti MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach linkedin_icon Experience: 4 years
Edited by Krati Darak, MBA, Certified Skin Care Coach Krati Darak MBA, Certified Skin Care Coach linkedin_icon Experience: 3 years
Fact-checked by Medha Deb, Integrated MA Medha Deb Integrated MA linkedin_icon Experience: 5 years
Last Updated on

Once you get your hands on the best exfoliating face wash, nothing can keep you from flaunting gorgeous skin. Washing your skin properly is the secret to keeping your skin smooth and acne-free. While a good cleanser can keep the grime and dirt away, it merely brushes through the dead cells on your face. Using an exfoliator on your face removes the dead cells that eventually clog pores and paves the way for rashes and pimples. Here are 14 specialists recommended exfoliators to choose from.

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M3 Naturals Activated Charcoal Scrub
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Era Organics Revive+ Microdermabrasion Mask
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Obagi Medical 360 Exfoliating Cleanser
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Best For Baby-Soft Skin:Hanalei Gentle Face Scrub
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Touch Microdermabrasion Facial Scrub and Face Exfoliator
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St. Botanica 24K Gold Face Scrub
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Plum Chamomile & White Tea Brighten Up Face Scrub
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Philosophy Micro delivery Exfoliating Wash
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Clean & Clear Deep Action Oil-Free Exfoliating Face Scrub
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Teami Matcha Green Tea Face Scrub
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Indie Lee Brightening Cleanser
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15 Best Exfoliators For Your Face

1. Best Overall:M3 Naturals Activated Charcoal Scrub

The M3 Naturals Activated Charcoal Scrub clears clogged pores and reveals a fresh complexion. This results-driven scrub contains Dead Sea salts to cleanse impurities from your skin. The scrub is infused with collagen and stem cells to increase skin cell longevity and provide anti-aging benefits. It removes impurities, toxins, dirt, pollution, and bacteria from the pores and helps balance the pH level of the skin. It helps reduce pore size, acne, blackheads, cellulite, stretch marks, and scars. It is cruelty-free. This exfoliating scrub leaves the skin feeling moisturized and fresh.

The acne-fighting and nourishing scrub contains activated charcoal, Dead Sea salts, collagen, fruit stem cell, coconut oil, aloe vera, jojoba oil, and spinach. Activated charcoal traps chemicals and prevents them from being absorbed into the skin. Dead Sea salts are mineral-rich and can reduce skin issues, like acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Collagen helps rejuvenate the skin and repair damaged skin tissues. It also protects the skin from free radicals. Fruit stem cells are rich in antioxidants, and they increase cell turnover and collagen production. Coconut oil is a great emollient and moisturizes the skin. Aloe vera is also a good emollient and has antioxidant properties and anti-inflammatory properties. Jojoba oil contains vitamins B and E and minerals. Spinach also helps hydrate the skin.

Apply the scrub on damp skin. Massage it in with a circular scrubbing motion. You can also use a body brush to increase the scrubbing effects and increase stimulation. Rinse it off. This exfoliating scrub can be used on the face and body too.

Ingredients

Dead Sea Salt, Aloe Barbadensis (Organic Aloe Vera) Juice, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba Oil), Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Emulsifying Wax NF, Stearic Acid, Aleurites moluccana (Kukui Nut) Oil, Spinacia Oleracea (Spinach) Extract, Activated Charcoal, Xanthan Gum, All Natural Fragrance Blend, Hydrolyzed Collagen, Malus Domestica Fruit Cell Culture Extract.

Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, Normal | Product Dimensions: 3.5 x 3.5 x 0.7 inches | Weight: 12 Ounces

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Pros
  • Makes the skin soft and smooth
  • Creamy lather
  • Minimizes pores
  • Hydrates and moisturizes the skin
  • Contains all-natural ingredients
  • Reduces wrinkles

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Cons
  • May be difficult to wash off.
  • May not suit sensitive skin.

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Activated charcoal can also be used to fight bad oral odor when used in the form of a toothpaste.

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Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The product has received 11,743 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.

2. Best Microdermabrasion For Dry, Dull And Sensitive Skin:Era Organics Revive+ Microdermabrasion Manuka Honey & Walnut Scrub & Mask

The Era Organics Revive+ Microdermabrasion Manuka Honey & Walnut Scrub & Mask is suitable for dull, dry, and sensitive skin types. It removes blackheads and dead skin cells, exfoliates dull skin, minimizes and cleans pores, and moisturizes your skin. This scrub gently loosens dirt, grime, and dull skin. It also nourishes new cells, repairs damaged skin, and fades stretch marks and acne scars. It makes the skin soft and youthful. You can leave the scrub on as a facial mask. It helps balance the skin tone and reduces fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots. The scrub uses minerals and vitamins that heal the skin and restore it. It also has anti-aging ingredients that keep the skin youthful.

The scrub uses natural ingredients like aloe vera, manuka honey, walnut, and vitamin C.  Aloe vera has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that protect and soothe the skin. Manuka honey hydrates the skin and increases cellular recovery. It also prevents aging and boosts collagen production. Canola oil has a high omega-3 content that makes the skin smoother. In the place of microbeads, this scrub uses walnut shell, which exfoliates the skin and removes old and dead skin cells. Orange oil is antifungal, anti-aging, and antibacterial. It is also rich in vitamin C, which protects the skin and treats acne. Cehami has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties and has also been proved to be thrice more effective than aspirin as an analgesic.

The scrub is for all skin types. You don’t require a micro dermabrasion machine to use it. Massage the scrub on your face for a few minutes and then rinse it off. If you want to use it as a mask, leave it on for 5-10 minutes.

Ingredients

Organic Aloe Barbadensis Gel (Aloe Vera), Emulsifying Wax, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Juglans Regia (Walnut) Shell Powder, Panthenol (Vitamin B5), PPG3 Caprylyl Ether, Leptospermum Scoparium Mel (Manuka Honey), Lecithin, Oat Amino Protein, Organic Citrus Sinensis (Orange) Oil, Cehami (Centipeda Cunninghamii), Phenoxyethanol.

Skin Type: Dry, damaged, combination, oily, sensitive, aging | Product Dimensions: 2.5 x 2.5 x 2.5 inches | Weight: 2 Ounces

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Pros
  • Makes the skin soft and smooth
  • Removes blackheads
  • Reduces ingrown hair
  • Reduces hyperpigmentation
  • Hydrates the skin
  • Professional-grade
  • Suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin

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Cons
  • May cause breakouts or an allergic reaction.

protip_icon Did You Know?
Acne and skin wounds can both be successfully treated with manuka honey due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities.

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Why We Think It's Worth Buying

This product has made it to our top favorite list with more than 15,790 rave reviews on Amazon.

3. Best Anti-Aging:Obagi Medical 360 Exfoliating Cleanser

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4.7
Obagi Medical 360 Exfoliating Cleanser Image: Obagi

The  Obagi 360 Exfoliating Cleanser is a daily face cleanser that promotes healthy skin and clear pores. It contains papaya acids and polylactic acid, which assist in eliminating impurities and oil from deep inside the pores. It includes panthenol to decrease inflammation and provide a more even tone. The gentle exfoliation also eliminates dead skin cells, ensuring that your skin remains bright and vibrant. Regular use of this face wash helps reduce the signs of premature aging, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and wrinkles, as exfoliation promotes cell regeneration.

Ingredients

Water (aqua), Polylactic Acid, Decyl Glucoside, Glycerin, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Lauroamphoacetate, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Fragrance, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium PCA, Panthenol, Sodium Hydroxide, Chlorphenesin, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hexylene Glycol, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Hyaluronate, Papain, Carbomer, 1,2-hexanediol, Algin.

Skin Type: acne prone,oily | Product Dimensions: 2.25 x 2.25 x 6.5 inches | Weight: 1.6 Ounces

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Pros
  • Improves skin texture
  • Protects skin from environmental damage
  • Moisturizes dry skin
  • Enhances the skin texture
  • Non-abrasive
  • Makes skin soft
  • Gentle
  • Not tested on animals
  • Suitable for sensitive skin

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Cons

None

M3 Naturals Activated Charcoal Scrub
Best Overall
Era Organics Revive+ Microdermabrasion Manuka Honey & Walnut Scrub & Mask
Best Microdermabrasion For Dry Dull And Sensitive Skin
Obagi Medical 360 Exfoliating Cleanser
Best Anti-Aging
Skin Type Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, Normal Dry, damaged, combination, oily, sensitive, aging acne prone,oily
Dimensions 3.5 x 3.5 x 0.7 inches 2.5 x 2.5 x 2.5 inches 2.25 x 2.25 x 6.5 inches
Weight 12 Ounces 2 Ounces 1.6 Ounces
Rating
Reviews11,74315,790-
Price$26.61$23.99$42

4. Best For Baby-Soft Skin:Hanalei Gentle Face Scrub

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4.6
Hanalei Gentle Face Scrub Image: Hanalei

The Hanalei Gentle Face Scrub cleanses and exfoliates the skin to reveal baby-soft skin that is healthy and supple. The results-driven scrub is formulated with natural ingredients such as papaya enzymes that gently break down dead skin cells and contains jojoba beads that offer gentle physical exfoliation. This scrub is also infused with coconut water that hydrates and nourishes the skin. Regular use of this scrub can improve the appearance of dull, uneven skin and leave the skin feeling smooth and refreshed.

Ingredients

Papaya Enzymes, Jojoba beads, Coconut water, Water, Glycerin, Sodium cocoyl isethionate, Cetearyl alcohol, Stearic acid, Glyceryl stearate, Carica papaya (papaya) fruit extract, Cocos nucifera (coconut) water, Simmondsia Chinensis (jojoba) seed oil, Cocos nucifera (coconut) oil, Macadamia ternifolia seed oil, Argania spinosa kernel oil, Butyrospermum parkii (shea) butter, Cetyl alcohol, Xanthan gum, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Fragrance.

Skin Type: All | Product Dimensions: 1.7 x 1.7 x 5.9 inches | Weight: 3.35 Ounces.

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Pros
  • Offers great hydration
  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Cruelty-free
  • Vegan
  • Free of harsh chemicals (parabens, phthalates, gluten)
  • Gentle enough for daily use

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Cons

None

5. Touch Microdermabrasion Facial Scrub and Face Exfoliator

The Touch Micro dermabrasion facial scrub exfoliates the skin with micro crystals infused in the moisturizing cream. This hydrating exfoliant leaves the skin polished, smooth, and glowing. It reduces wrinkles, dullness, blemishes, acne scars, and blackheads and minimizes the size of pores. The alumina micro crystals are finely ground with even edges to gently exfoliate the skin. The results-driven scrub helps even out the skin tone and tightens pores.

The scrub contains chamomile, green tea, and aloe vera extracts that protect the skin with their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hydrating properties. It also contains allantoin, which has healing properties and can stimulate the growth of healthy tissues. The scrub improves skin elasticity and enhances the absorption of skin care products.

This cruelty-free, non-drying scrub is suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone, dry, oily, and combination skin. It does not contain irritating acids but only moisturizing non-comedogenic agents. It is an anti-aging face exfoliator. It does not contain artificial coloring, parabens, sulfates, or drying alcohols.

Ingredients

Purified Water, Alumina, Capric/Caprylic Triglyceride, Propylene Glycol, Glycerine, Cetyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Jojoba Oil, Allantoin, Chamomile Extract, Green Tea Extract, Menthyl Lactate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Xanthan Gum, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Magnesium Oxide, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Fragrance.

Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, Normal | Product Dimensions: 1.75 x 3 x 5.5 inches | Weight: 4 Ounces

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Pros
  • Makes the skin soft
  • Cleanses and minimizes pores
  • Reduces blemishes, fine lines, and wrinkles
  • Improves skin elasticity
  • Enhances absorption of skin care products
  • Paraben-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Alcohol-free

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Cons
  • May cause breakouts

6. St. Botanica 24K Gold Face Scrub

St. Botanica 24K Gold Face Scrub is the best anti-aging and skin-brightening scrub. It is infused with 24K gold, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, retinol, hydrolyzed collagen, walnut shell granules, and natural oils that have proven efficacy in improving skin health. This skin-firming scrub helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It is formulated with a blend of skin-loving nutrients that act against blemishes, blackheads, in-grown hairs, and blocked pores.

24K gold is the main ingredient in this scrub that imparts an opulent and radiant glow to your skin. It also locks in moisture to give you ultra-hydrated skin. Gold exhibits anti-inflammatory properties that reduce acne breakouts and swelling to leave your skin nourished and hydrated. Retinol repairs and defends your skin from free radicals and promotes skin cell renewal. Hydrolyzed collagen is another important ingredient that helps maintain skin elasticity and improves moisture levels. The pure and cold-pressed oils in it – like argan and jojoba oils – revitalize and hydrate your skin and fight the signs of aging.

Ingredients

Walnut Granules, Glycerin, Vitamin C (Sodium Ascorbyl phosphate), Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide), Retinol (Vitamin A), Hydrolyzed Collagen, Botanical Hyaluronic Acid (Cassia Hyaluronate 1% Soln), Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) Essential Oil, Vitamin E, Golden Virgin Jojoba (Simmondsia chinensis) Cold Pressed Oil, Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis) Leaf Extract, Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) Leaf Extract, Green Tea (Camellia sinensis) Leaf Extract, Bisabolol Extract, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract, 24k Gold Pure, Organic Moroccan Argan (Argania Spinosa) Cold Pressed Oil.

Product Dimensions: 3.94 x 3.94 x 3.94 inches | Weight: 1.76 Ounces

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Pros
  • Anti-aging formula
  • Renews the skin
  • Improves skin elasticity
  • Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
  • Minimizes blackheads and blocked pores
  • Moisturizes the skin
  • Imparts a youthful glow
  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Not tested on animals

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Cons
  • Packaging defects

7. Plum Chamomile & White Tea Brighten Up Face Scrub

Plum Chamomile & White Tea Brighten Up Face Scrub is an antioxidant-rich face scrub. It scrubs away dirt and dullness to reveal a brighter side of your skin. This face scrub is enriched with antioxidant-rich botanical extracts that leave your face looking brighter, fresher, and healthier.

It contains antioxidants and phytonutrients like chamomile extract, white tea, and sunflower oil that soothe irritated skin and redness. It acts against free radicals that cause oxidative damage and helps your skin bounce back. The cellulose beads and walnut powder balance out the scrubbing. It also contains aloe that soothes stressed skin. It removes all dead skin cells without drying out your skin, making it perfect for dry, normal, and combination skin types.

Ingredients

Water or Aqua, Sunflower Seed Oil, Stearic Acid, Walnut Shell Powder, Cellulose Beads, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, Olive Oil PEG-7 Esters, Glycerine, Titanium Dioxide, Polysorbate-80, Triethanolamine, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexyglycerine, Aloe Vera Juice, Chamomile Flower Extract, White Tea Leaf Extract, Gingko Biloba Leaf Extract, Green Tea Leaf Extract, Olive Leaf Extract, and Rooibos Leaf Extract.

Product Dimensions: 3.94 x 3.94 x 3.94 inches | Weight: 1.76 Ounces

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Pros
  • Long-lasting moisturization
  • Scrubs away dead skin cells
  • Revives sun-exposed skin
  • Balanced exfoliation
  • Vegan
  • Cruelty-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Phthalate-free
  • SLS-free
  • No harmful ingredients

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Cons
  • Not suitable for sensitive skin

8. Philosophy Micro delivery Exfoliating Wash

The Philosophy Microdelivery Exfoliating Wash uses a unique sulfate-free formula that is gentle enough for daily use. The mild exfoliating wash can be used as a facial cleanser. It is designed to cleanse and replenish the skin. It also provides resurfacing benefits, like stimulating collagen for firmer skin, improving skin texture, and evening out the skin tone. It also minimizes acne scars and fine lines and prevents sun damage. It may also help treat skin lesions. Apply two to three pumps of the wash on slightly damp skin. Massage it in for 30-60 seconds. Follow it up with moisturizer and needed treatment.

Ingredients

Water (aqua), decyl glucoside, sodium cocoyl apple amino acids, diatomaceous earth, acrylates⁄steareth-20 methacrylate crosspolymer, glycerin, disodium cocoamphodiacetate, borago officinalis seed oil, phytosterols, tocopherol, tocotrienols, squalene, oryza sativa (rice) bran wax, panthenol, sodium magnesium silicate, tetrasodium edta, sodium hydroxide, citric acid, methylchloroisothiazolinone, methylisothiazolinone.

Skin Type: Sensitive | Product Dimensions: 2.9 x 2.9 x 6.1 inches | Weight: 1.6 Ounces

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Pros
  • Makes the skin soft and smooth
  • Sulfate-free
  • Resurfacing benefits
  • Gentle

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Cons
  • The bottle is difficult to squeeze.

9. Clean & Clear Deep Action Oil-Free Exfoliating Face Scrub

The Clean & Clear Deep Action Oil-Free Exfoliating Face Scrub helps clean the pores and exfoliates the skin’s surface to remove oil, dirt, and makeup. It helps invigorate and clear the skin. The scrub is made from a unique oil-free formula and does not contain plastic micro beads. It rinses your skin clean without clogging the pores. It soothes the skin and leaves it feeling soft and fresh. It is suitable for oily, normal, and combination skin types. When you apply it on your face, it provides a tingly, cooling sensation, which revitalizes the skin.

Skin Type: Acne Prone | Product Dimensions: 5.98 x 2.01 x 2.01 inches | Weight: 0.35 Ounces

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Pros
  • Gentle
  • Oil-free
  • Does not clog pores
  • Suitable for everyday use
  • Plastic microbead-free

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Cons
  • May cause breakouts
  • Does not exfoliate much

10. Best Green Tea Ex foliator:Teami Matcha Green Tea Face Scrub

The Teami Matcha Green Tea Face Scrub is gentle and non-abrasive. It exfoliates the skin without stripping it of its natural oils. It contains matcha green tea extract, lemon grass, and sugar. The matcha green tea extracts help fight acne, reduce the size of pores and blemishes, and purify the skin from within. Sugar stimulates new skin generation and improves the complexion. Lemongrass cleanses the skin deeply, removing dirt, dust, and greasy residue. It also unclogs the pores.

This scrub removes makeup residue and dead skin cells, leaving the skin looking cleaner. It also reduces wrinkles and fine lines, brightens the skin, and hydrates it. It is non-greasy and can be used by men and women. The scrub is vegan-friendly, 75% organic, non-GMO, and free of chemicals and artificial fragrances. It results in clearer skin by reducing spots, skin imperfections, large pores, and blemishes, balancing the skin tone and pH level. It can also be used as a body scrub.

Apply the scrub on damp skin and massage it in circular motions. It turns into a creamy lather, and the oils get absorbed into the skin. The skin is left hydrated, smooth, bright, and even-toned. Use it twice or four times a week for best results.

Ingredients

Sucrose (Cane Sugar), Glycerin (Vegetable Based), Aqua (Distilled Water), Organic Camellia Sinensis (Matcha Green Tea), Sorbitol, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Disodium Lauryl Sulfosuccinate, Prunus Dulcis (Sweet Almond Oil), Sodium Chloride, Phenoxyethanol, Green Tea & Lemongrass Botanical Essence, Chromium Oxide.

Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Dry, Normal | Package Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 4.21 x 3.82 x 2.2 inches; 5.6 Ounces

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Pros
  • Non-abrasive
  • Non-greasy
  • Vegan
  • Brightens and rejuvenates your skin
  • Gentle
  • Cruelty-free

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Cons
  • Not suitable for sensitive skin.
  • May cause breakouts

My Personal Experience

"I love its unique consistency that transitions from a scrub to a creamy lather, making it suitable even for my sensitive skin. It's gentle but effective in exfoliating and leaves my skin soft and glowing. It visibly improved my complexion and also has a mild earthy scent that offers a spa-like experience at home."


11. Indie Lee Brightening Cleanser

The Indie Lee Brightening Cleanser removes makeup and impurities from deep within the skin. This cleanser can also be used as an exfoliating mask. It contains strawberry seed oil, hydrolyzed wheat protein, and tomato extracts, which strengthen the skin. These ingredients also firm and protect the skin, leaving it hydrated and glowing. It brightens the skin and smoothes uneven skin tone. It also removes waterproof makeup like eyeliners. It is suitable for all skin types.

Apply the cleanser on damp skin and massage it in. Rinse it off with water. Wipe it off with a cotton ball or pad to remove makeup. Follow it up the CoQ-10 Toner. This cleanser doesn’t contain parabens, aluminium, petrolatum, BHA, BHT, phthalates, coal tar dyes, siloxane, DEA, MEA, & TEA, sulfates, formaldehyde, synthetic fragrance, talc, mineral oil, nanoparticles, and triclosan.

Ingredients

Purified Water (Aqua), Decyl Glucoside (Veg. Oils & Sugar), Disodium Coco-Glucoside Citrate, Coco Glucoside (Coconut and Sunflower Oil), Glyceryl Oleate, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Xanthan Gum, Fragaria Chiloensis (Strawberry) Seed Oil, Lycopene (Tomato), 1,3 propanediol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Potassium Sorbate.

Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Dry, Normal, Acne-prone | Product Dimensions: 1.75 x 1.75 x 7 inches | Weight: 4 Ounces

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Pros
  • Makes the skin soft
  • Gentle
  • Firms and protects the skin
  • Paraben-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Phthalate-free
  • Petrolatum-free
  • Talc-free
  • Mineral oil-free
  • No nanoparticles

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Cons
  • Contains gluten
  • May dry out the skin

12. Neutrogena Bright Boost Resurfacing Micro Polish

Clean away impurities and dirt with the Neutrogena Bright Boost Resurfacing Micro Polish. It is clinically proven to rejuvenate dead skin cells and removes aging dullness with 3x polishing power. In addition, the polish effectively smooths and brightens your skin. This resurfacing face cleanser is infused with Glycolic acid and Mandelic AHA that removes dead skin cells that promote fine lines and wrinkles.

It also refines the appearance of pores without over drying or irritating the skin, brightens the complexion, and improves skin tone. In addition, the rich cream formula blends well on your skin, making it easier for application.

Ingredients:

Water, Cetyl Alcohol, Cellulose, PPG-15 Stearyl Ether, Glycerin, Mandelic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Polysorbate 60, Steareth-21, Sodium Hydroxide, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Fragrance, Xanthan Gum, Tocopheryl Acetate, Disodium EDTA

Skin Type: Sensitive | Product Dimensions: 1.63 x 2 x 5.63 inches | Weight: 3.52 Ounces.

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Pros
  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Lightweight
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Tested by dermatologists

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Cons

None

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Why We Think It's Worth Buying

It has received over 13,858 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.

13.  Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Exfoliating Facial Scrub

The Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Exfoliating Facial Scrub uses natural exfoliants like milk, crushed walnut shells, and cocoa powder to gently exfoliate the skin. It also contains evening primrose that hydrates and soothes the skin. It contains cocoa butter, coconut oil, shea butter, olive oil, and vitamin E. The butters and oils exfoliate skin and make it glowing, soft, and nourished. Vitamin E has antioxidant properties that prevent blemishes and early aging.

The scrub leaves the skin smooth and bright. It also increases the absorption of other skin care products. It hydrates and moisturizes the skin. The micro-fine crushed cocoa beans exfoliate the skin and remove dead cells to leave the skin feeling smooth and younger. Apply the scrub to clean and damp skin in circular motions. Wash it off after a minute or two. Use it 1-2 times a week for refining pores and to get a brightening effect.

Ingredients

Water, Sodium Laurylglucosides Hydropropylsulfonate, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Lauramidopropyl Betaine, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Extract, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, Glycerin, Juglans Regia (Walnut) Shell Powder, Stearyl Alcohol, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Powder, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Fragrance (Parfum), Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Root Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leal Juice, Tocopheryl Acetate, Hydrolyzed Milk Protein, Lactose, PVP, Tetrasodium EDTA, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Acetate, Cellulose, Methylisothiazolinone, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone, Benzyl Salicylate, Benzyl Benzoate, Limonene, Linalool.

Skin Type: Sensitive

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Pros
  • Makes skin smoother and brighter
  • Enhances the absorption of other skin care products
  • Gentle
  • High-quality, plant-based ingredients

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Cons
  • Not suitable for acne-prone skin.
  • May be harsh for sensitive skin

14. Best Exfoliating Gel:Le Mieux Exfoliating Cleansing Gel

The Le Mieux Exfoliating Cleansing Gel is an oil-free deep pore cleanser that contains salicylic acid naturally obtained from willow bark and lactic acids that remove blemishes. They also prevent new breakouts by removing excess oil and dead skin cells. It contains 13 botanical extracts that soothe and restore balance to the skin. It also contains hyaluronic acid and aloe vera, which provide the moisturizing base for this clarifying deep clean gel. It does not contain thickeners, binders, fillers, sulfates, or parabens and is cruelty-free. This product is specifically made for combination, oily, and acne-prone skin.

Apply a small amount of the gel and massage it onto your skin gently, allowing it to lather nicely. Massage it in circular motions. Rinse it off with lukewarm water. Use the gel twice a day for smoother skin.

Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Normal, Acne-prone

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Pros
  • Oil-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Cruelty-free
  • No thickeners, binders, or fillers
  • Contains 13 botanical extracts
  • Prevents new breakouts
  • Lathers well

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Cons
  • Packaging issues

15. Clarins One-Step Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser

The Clarins One-Step Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser is a gentle exfoliator that purifies and smoothes the skin with natural botanicals. It uses orange extract to purify and firm the skin. Orange contains vitamin C, which helps in collagen production that firms and tightens skin. Vitamin C is also an antioxidant that helps keep the skin young and prevents aging and damage due to free radicals. The cleanser enhances the skin’s softness and improves suppleness. It protects skin and preserves its natural pH balance.

Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Normal, Acne-prone

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Pros
  • Gentle
  • Makes skin soft and supple
  • Refreshing smell
  • Suitable for daily use

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Cons
  • Some skin types may develop an allergic reaction

The first step to skin care is cleansing it thoroughly. It is crucial to remove all makeup, dirt, debris, pollutants, dead skin, and oil from the skin to prepare it for the following skin care products. So, exfoliating face washes are essential. With so many cleansers in the market, you may get baffled about which cleansing products to use. Let us guide you with some pointers to keep in mind while choosing the best exfoliating face wash.

Things To Consider While Choosing The Best Exfoliating Face Wash-Buying Guide

1. Ingredients to avoid:

Avoid face washes containing parabens, phthalates, alcohol, and synthetic fragrances. They dry out your skin and cause abrasions. Additionally, they may trigger acne and cause skin allergies.

2. Skin Type:

  • Normal Skin: Choose a gentle exfoliator that maintains the natural moisture balance of the skin. For example, cleansers containing coffee or papaya extracts can remove dirt effectively and provide a healthy glow to the skin. Avoid walnut or other heavy nut oils, as they may cause allergies. You can read reviews and watch videos of tester’s experiences with the products to gain a better understanding of what ingredients in the product best suit normal skin types.
  • Oily Skin: Pick face washes with fruit extracts like apricot or pineapple. These ingredients have fine grains that pull out excess oil and dirt from the pores. They do not cause micro-tears in the skin and are gentle. Additionally, look for ingredients like jojoba beads and aloe vera in your exfoliator. They control sebum production and maintain the pH balance of your skin. Even salicylic acid cleansers unclog pores and are suitable for oily skin.
  • Dry Skin: Choose face washes containing moisturizing oils. Ingredients like honey and coconut oil nourish the skin while gently removing dirt particles to provide a smoothing texture.
  • Combination skin: Opt for face washes containing rose water, activated charcoal, and vitamin C that control the sebum production in the oily parts and hydrate the dry skin patches. These cleansers also balance your skin’s pH level.
  • Sensitive skin: Choose hypoallergenic formula containing AHA and BHA acids. Chemical exfoliation with these removes excess sebum and dead skin while smoothing out your skin. In addition, pick products containing rice powder, green tea, aloe vera, and oat granules that are gentle on the skin and have soothing properties.

3. Formula:

Choose a creamy formula that foams up easily. They gently exfoliate your skin and quickly cleanse the dirt, dead skin cells, and excess sebum without causing much abrasion. You can also check reviews about the formulation and see if it suits your skin type.

Exfoliators can help in maintaining the health of your skin while keeping it acne-free. Exfoliating can remove dead skin cells and keep rashes or pimples at bay. Exfoliators also come with anti-aging benefits that can eliminate the premature signs of aging such as dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles. The M3 Naturals Activated Charcoal Scrub is perfect for oily and acne-prone skin, while the Era Organics Revive+ Microdermabrasion Manuka Honey & Walnut Scrub & Mask nourishes and soothes dry and sensitive skin. But if you are looking to combat dull and uneven skin texture, try the Neutrogena Bright Boost Resurfacing Micro Polish. These products also help in removing impurities and dirt while promoting overall cell turnover. When choosing the best exfoliators for your skin, you should avoid the ones that don’t aim at reducing hyperpigmentation. Go for dermatologist-tested or expert-recommended face washes to steer clear of the risk of infections.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

Shiboli Chakraborti is a certified skincare coach. She thinks that exfoliation is an essential step in one’s skincare journey. Since finding the right exfoliator can be hard, she has tried out multiple exfoliators and combined the list of the top products available in the market. These exfoliators contain the perfect combination of organic ingredients such as aloe vera and honey that cleanse your pores deeply and keep your skin soft and smooth.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between exfoliators and cleansers?

Cleansers are meant to remove dirt, makeup, and grime that clog pores. They also remove any bacteria on the skin. They can be used on an everyday basis.

Exfoliators remove the layer of dead skin cells along with impurities that clog your pores. They reveal a new smoother and younger layer of skin cells. Exfoliators are often used once or twice a week.

What are the benefits of using exfoliating face washes?

Exfoliating face washes unclog your pores, reduce the risk of acne, improve blood circulation and lymphatic drainage, and allow better penetration of skin care products.

How often should you use exfoliating face washes?

Use exfoliating face washes once or twice weekly for the deep cleansing of your pores and to balance the production of natural oils.

Is exfoliating face wash good for daily use?

No. Using exfoliating face washes daily strips your face’s natural oils and turns it dry. Unfortunately, they also can irritate your skin.

What not to do after exfoliating?

Do not wash your face immediately after exfoliating. The active ingredients get washed away and fail to benefit the skin in the long run. So, let the ingredients set in for some time, then rinse your face. Also, avoid stepping out in the sun after using an exfoliating face wash to prevent sun damage.

What should you put on your face after exfoliating?

Apply a moisturizer to your face after exfoliating.


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Shiboli Chakraborti
Shiboli ChakrabortiCommerce Editor
Shiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.

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Krati Darak
Krati DarakAssociate Commerce Editor
Krati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of experience in writing and editing for different niches.

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Medha Deb
Medha DebCommerce Editor
Medha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.

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