15 Best Esthetician-Approved Face Exfoliators For Oily Skin (2024)

Gentle exfoliators that eliminate dirt and grime while improving your skin tone.

Reviewed by Brianne Larrabee, Licensed Esthetician Brianne Larrabee Brianne LarrabeeLicensed Esthetician
Written by , MA, Certified Skin Care Coach Oyendrila Kanjilal MA, Certified Skin Care Coach Experience: 2 years
Edited by , MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach Shiboli Chakraborti MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach Experience: 4 years
Fact-checked by , BA, MSc Eshna Das BA, MSc Experience: 3 years
 • 
All products recommended on StyleCraze are independently selected by our editorial team. If you make a purchase through any of these links, we may receive a commission. Learn more about our product selection process here.

Excess of anything is bad! The same works with skin’s natural oils, which may cause dirt buildup, acne, and breakouts if present excessively. In that case, you may need the best exfoliator for your oily and acne-prone skin to eliminate excess oils, dead skin cells, and grime by opening the clogged pores. Exfoliators specifically formulated for oily skin help reduce the frequency of breakouts to a great extent.

In this article, we have come up with our 15 best exfoliators for oily skin. Check them out!

Top PicksCheck Price
St Ives Blackhead Clearing Face ScrubPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best Affordable Exfoliator: Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Facial ScrubPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
AcneFree Blackhead Removing Exfoliating ScrubPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
DRMTLGY Microdermabrasion Facial ScrubPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Unique Leave-On Exfoliant: Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting Facial ExfoliantPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Neutrogena Deep Clean Shine Control Daily ScrubPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
L’Oreal Paris Pure-Sugar ScrubPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Body Merry Glycolic Acid Exfoliating CleanserPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart

15 Best Exfoliators To Brighten Your Complexion – Reviews+ Buying Guide

St. Ives Blackhead Clearing Face Scrub

The St. Ives Blackhead Clearing Face Scrub is dermatologist-tested for safe usage and made with 100% natural exfoliators. These exfoliators offer a deep cleanse by unclogging the pores. This is a multi-award-winning classic acne scrub infused with Chinese green tea leaves, walnut shell powder, and handpicked apricots from California and North Africa. The active ingredient in the scrub is 1% salicylic acid that helps heal acne, relieve redness and pain, and remove blackheads.

The epigallocatechin galette (EGCG) in the scrub is an antioxidant. It protects the skin from environmental aggressors. The anti-inflammatory properties of green tea reduce redness and irritation, and are effective in treating acne scars. The polyphenols in green tea reduce excess sebum formation and help prevent acne. The walnut shell powder and apricot fruit extract decongest and gently exfoliate skin for a clean, glowy appearance.

Pros

  • Dermatologically approved
  • Paraben-free
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Made with 100% natural exfoliators
  • Oil-free formula
  • Absorbs oil and dirt
  • Clears blackheads
  • Relieves acne
  • Smells great
  • Provides instant nourishment

Cons

  • May roughen your skin
  • The smell could be too strong

protip_icon Caution
Exfoliating more than twice a week can cause adverse effects like redness, inflammation, and compromised skin barrier.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

There are more than 12,514 Amazon reviews attesting to the quality of the product and endorsing its value.


Best Affordable Exfoliator: Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Facial Scrub

The Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Face Scrub is a cleanser, and clarifier that rebalances skin tone, smoothes uneven texture, and nourishes the skin. The invigorating unique formula is infused with moisture-rich soy extract and naturally derived granules that remove excess oil and impurities from the skin’s surface for a brighter skin tone. The scrub stimulates the production of natural hyaluronic acid in the skin that fights the signs of aging, seals in moisture, and improves skin elasticity. The fatty acids in hydrogenated castor oil and jojoba oil restore the skin’s natural tone. Click on the video to know the reviewer’s experience and get an overall idea about the Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Facial Scrub.

Pros

  • Oil-free
  • Soap-free
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Gentle skin exfoliator
  • Evens skin tone and texture
  • Brightens dull skin
  • Gentle enough for everyday use
  • Moisturizes skin
  • Improves natural radiance
  • Dermatologist-recommended

Cons

  • Sensitive to eyes
  • May cause skin irritation

protip_icon Did You Know?
A rough washcloth can act as a exfoliator, but make sure to use gentle swipes and movements.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

A whopping 33,268 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.


AcneFree Blackhead Removing Exfoliating Scrub

The AcneFree Blackhead Removing Exfoliating Scrub is a charcoal gel-based formula for acne-prone skin that contains 2% salicylic acid. This acid helps in minimizing breakouts and environmental pollutants removal. The scrub also contains natural jojoba oil that further nourishes skin. Salicylic acid is an oil-soluble exfoliator that penetrates deep into the skin, clears skin debris from the pores and tightens them, and treats acne and blackheads. The activated charcoal penetrates into the inner layers of the skin to absorb excess oil, dirt, and impurities. It also unclogs pores. The jojoba oil seals skin hydration and provides soothing benefits. The fragrance-free scrubber reduces irritation and deep cleanses the pores.

Pros

  • Fragrance-free
  • Tightens pores
  • Absorbs excess sebum
  • Minimizes breakouts
  • Reduces blackheads
  • Non-irritating
  • Heals acne symptoms
  • Reduces inflammation
  • Smoothens skin
  • Gentle for sensitive skin
  • Dermatologist-recommended

Cons

  • Contains sulfates

protip_icon Pro Tip
Exfoliate during your morning skin care routine instead of your nightly routine. This is because the cells turnover at night while sleeping and exfoliation works much better in the morning when you can rub away the dead skin from the night.

St. Ives Blackhead Clearing Face Scrub
Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Facial Scrub
AcneFree Blackhead Removing Exfoliating Scrub
Skin Type acne prone Sensitive Oily, Acne-prone skin, Dead skin
Dimensions 6.73 x 2.91 x 1.97 inches 1.95 x 2.9 x 6.1 inches. 2 x 3 x 6 inches
Weight 6.08 Ounces- 5.01 Ounces
Weight- 5 ounces -
Rating
Reviews12,51433,2681,230
Price$4.69$8.17$9.05

DRMTLGY Microdermabrasion Facial Scrub

The DRMTLGY Microabrasion Facial Scrub is a gentle exfoliating cleanser that buffs away dead cells from the outer surface of the skin. It also reduces fine lines, wrinkles, blemishes, acne scars, and hyperpigmentation to reveal radiant skin. This micro-abrasive formula contains glycolic acid derived from sugar cane, apple fruit, lemon, and green tea extract. It is suitable for all skin types including dry, oily combination, and normal skin. Sugarcane extract is a natural humectant, and the glycolic acid in it removes dead skin cells. It also extracts dirt and impurities by unclogging the pores.

Apple fruit extract is high in antioxidants. It contains natural alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), which is an active chemical exfoliant that gently exfoliates dead skin cells and enhances the regeneration of new skin cells. It is packed with vitamins B5 and B9 to combat acne and inflammation. The green tea leaves are naturally rich in antioxidants and protect the skin from oxidative damage. They also reduce puffy eyes, dark circles, and age spots and delay the signs of aging, giving you radiant skin. The lemon fruit extract enhances skin clarity and imparts a natural glow. Watch this video to know the tester’s experience along with a detailed review of the DRMTLGY Microdermabrasion Facial Scrub.

Pros

  • Paraben-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Cruelty-free
  • Oil-free
  • Hormone-free
  • Formaldehyde-free
  • Gluten-free
  • 100% natural ingredients
  • Dermatologist-tested
  • Improves skin tone and complexion
  • Increases skin elasticity
  • Reduces acne scarring
  • Anti-aging properties
  • Minimizes enlarged pores
  • Lightens melasma
  • Easy to apply
  • Gentle on oily skin
  • Suitable for sensitive skin
  • Non-comedogenic

Cons

  • May dry skin out

protip_icon Quick Tip
Remove all makeup properly and cleanse the face before exfoliating the skin. This is to prevent any dirt particles from getting trapped in the pores.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

More than 7,513 Amazon users have vouched for this amazing product.


Unique Leave-On Exfoliant: Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting Facial Exfoliant

4.4
Paula's Choice—SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant Image: Paula's Choice

The Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting Facial Exfoliant is scientifically formulated and contains 2% BHA (beta hydroxy acid) which is a chemical exfoliant that imparts a natural glow to the skin. The key ingredients infused in this liquid exfoliant are salicylic acid and green tea extract. Salicylic acid is a gentle exfoliant that removes dead skin cells by providing gentle exfoliation. It unclogs pores, removes excess oil, extracts grime and impurities, and reduces enlarged pores to tighten the skin. This leave-on skin-perfecting exfoliant reduces acne scars and inflammation and removes blackheads. The green tea extract is a popular antioxidant that exhibits anti-aging properties. Use this scrub twice daily for brighter, softer, younger-looking skin. Watch out the unfiltered review in this video to get a good idea about the Unique Leave-On Exfoliant: Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting Facial Exfoliant.

Pros

  • Paraben-free
  • Contains 2% BHA
  • No artificial fragrance
  • Helps in achieving radiant complexion
  • Reduces fine lines
  • Reduces wrinkles
  • Unclogs pores
  • Reduces blackheads
  • Anti-inflammatory properties
  • Protects from sun damage

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Not suitable for sensitive skin
Dr. Mariel Bird, FAAD and a Howland based dermatologist says, “Salicylic Acid is a lipid-soluable peeling agent, meaning it is well absorbed in oily skin. It has a number of therapeutic uses, including: acne, melasma, photodamage and sunspots.”

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

This product has made it to our top favorite list with more than 7,118 rave reviews on Amazon.


Neutrogena Deep Clean Shine Control Daily Scrub

The Neutrogena Deep Clean Shine Control Daily Scrub absorbs excess oil, dirt, and impurities for a brighter, healthier skin. This dermatologist-recommended, award-winning, and oil-free formula has garnered tons of positive reviews for deeply cleanses the skin and absorbs over 85% of the built-up oil. The key ingredients used in the scrub are rice protein and salicylic acid. The salicylic acid clears acne scars and reduces skin imperfections. The hydrolyzed rice protein retains skin moisture. It is an effective anti-irritant.

Pros

  • Dermatologically-tested
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Helps in skin renewal
  • Gentle on sensitive skin
  • Controls shine for full 8 hours
  • Deeply cleanses
  • Absorbs over 85% of surface oil
  • Makes skin breathable
  • Controls shine

Cons

  • May contain plastic microbeads


L'Oreal Paris Pure-Sugar Scrub

4.3
L’Oreal Paris Pure-Sugar Scrub Image: L’oreal Paris

The L’Oreal Paris Pure-Sugar Scrub comes with rich, buttery exfoliating formula and controls oil production. It contains a natural blend of three sugars mixed with finely crushed cocoa, emollient coconut oil, and moisture-rich cocoa butter. The blend of brown, blonde, and white sugar is rich in minerals. It easily absorbs into the skin for gentle exfoliation. This sugar scrub buffs away dead cells from the surface of the skin and extracts excess oil by unclogging the pores. The nourishing blend of coconut oil and cocoa butter moisturizes skin.

Pros

  • Paraben-free
  • No harsh microbeads
  • No harmful chemicals
  • Moisturizes skin
  • Perfect for dry or sensitive skin type
  • Smells great

Cons

  • Consistency could be too thick
  • Greasy feel


Body Merry Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser

Cleanse and brighten your complexion with the invigorating formula of the Body Merry Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Scrub. The combined exfoliating powers of 2.5% glycolic acid, willow bark, and jojoba wax beads help unclog pores, slough away dead skin cells, and extract the excess grime and oily build-up. The formula also includes kojic acid and a blend of elixir plant oils (olive oil, jojoba oil, tea tree oil, rosehip oil) that nourish, moisturize, rejuvenate, and revitalize skin. This gentle exfoliator reduces the signs of aging, dark spots, and acne. Its antioxidants protect the skin from oxidative damage.

Brianne Larrabee, a licensed esthetician, says, “This scrub has a great combination of ingredients. The glycolic acid acts as a chemical exfoliant, and the jojoba beads create a gentle mechanical exfoliation for a very effective cleanse. The addition of kojic acid also helps target dark spots like hyperpigmentation and acne scars as well.”

Pros

  • Cleanses skin and brightens complexion
  • Helps fight acne and acne scars
  • Reduces blackheads
  • Non-drying
  • Removes dark spots
  • Helps remove makeup
  • Tightens enlarged pores
  • Cruelty-free
  • Safe for everyday use
  • Suitable for sensitive skin

Cons

  • Not for teenagers

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The product has received 2,241 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.


Garnier Clean Blackhead Eliminating Scrub

The Garnier Clean Blackhead Eliminating Scrub unclogs pores, and removes dirt, oil, and impurities for a brighter complexion. It is formulated with 2% salicylic acid, which is a potent exfoliator that removes dead cells from the surface of the skin, to give smoother skin. It also reduces larger skin pores without drying the skin and minimizes surface wrinkles. It keeps pores clean and unclogs them to prevent acne. It also boosts new skin cell turnover, evens out skin tone, and helps refine skin texture. The scrub also contains charcoal powder, hydrogenated castor oil, jojoba oil, and natural fruit extracts. The charcoal powder draws out impurities, and the castor and jojoba oils and the natural fruit extracts rejuvenate skin.

Pros

  • Deeply cleanses pores
  • Clears complexion
  • Treats acne
  • Tightens pores
  • Helps in new cell generation
  • Oil-free formula
  • Soothing fragrance

Cons

  • Not suitable for dry skin


Clean & Clear Deep Action Exfoliating Scrub

4.5

The Clean & Clear Deep Action Exfoliating Scrub is designed to invigorate skin by cleansing the pores and gently exfoliating the skin surface. It provides a cooling sensation as you gently massage it on the skin in a circular motion. The classic microbead scrubs dissolve dead skin cells, pull out excess oil, and remove gunk by unclogging the pores. This oil-free deep pore-cleansing formula leaves your skin feeling soft, smooth, and refreshed all day long. This exfoliating face scrub is a great buy!

Pros

  • Unclogs pores
  • Gentle exfoliator
  • Contains cooling microbeads
  • Great for treating acne

Cons

  • May make skin very dry


Neocutis Neo-cleanse Exfoliating Skin Cleanser

The Neocutis Neo-Cleanse Exfoliating Skin Cleanser is formulated without harsh sulfates and chemicals to give you clearer skin. Its key ingredient is 9.9% glycolic acid that offers gentle exfoliation and buffs away dead skin cells, thus preventing the clogging of pores. It is infused with glycerin, which is a potent emollient and moisturizer; it pulls water from the inner surface of the skin and seals it on the outer surface. The exfoliator is dermatologist-tested. It gently re-texturizes, polishes, and purifies the skin.

Pros

  • No harsh chemicals
  • Dermatologically-tested
  • Sulfate-free
  • No color additives
  • Fragrance-free
  • Hydrates skin

Cons

  • Unpleasant smell


Best Detoxifier: Acure Incredibly Clear Facial Scrub

The Acure Incredibly Clear Facial Scrub is a deep cleansing formula that revives lifeless skin with charcoal, lemon peel, blueberry, and plant cellulose exfoliating crystals. The activated charcoal effectively removes dead cells by mildly exfoliating, unclogging pores, and removing impurities from the deeper pores to reveal clearer skin. The pomegranate and blueberry extracts are antioxidants that protect skin from oxidative damage. They also delay signs of aging, and reduce pigmentation and blemishes. The emollient aloe vera leaf extract deeply moisturizes to give brighter skin with a luminous, youthful glow.

Pros

  • 100% vegan
  • Paraben-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Mineral oil-free
  • Petrolatum-free
  • Formaldehyde-free
  • Reduces acne
  • Reduces redness
  • Anti-wrinkle formula
  • Protects from sun damage
  • Detoxifies skin

Cons

  • Coarse texture

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The extensive 2,192 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are vouching for this product.


Lancer Skincare The Method: Polish Facial Exfoliator

4.6
Lancer Skincare The Method: Polish Facial Exfoliator Image: Lancer

The Method: Polish Facial Exfoliator can help to give you radiant and glowy skin. It removes dirt, dry cells, and other impurities from your skin, leaving your skin feeling bright and fresh. This dermatologically-approved hydrating exfoliator should be used daily to support your skin’s natural regenerative cycle. For best results, apply a small amount of the exfoliant to a damp face and neck, and then rinse. Depending on your skin type, the formula contains different ingredients, such as quartz crystals, pumpkin and pomegranate enzymes, oil from chamomile flower and bisabolol, and salicylic acid for a smoother skin. For maximum benefits, use the Polish exfoliator with all three Lancer Method procedures to improve cell turnover and natural collagen production, resulting in a more youthful appearance.

Pros

  • Suitable for natural and combination skin
  • Dermatologist-tested
  • Provides enzyme exfoliation
  • Cruelty-free
  • Anti-aging formula
  • Paraben-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Silicone-free

Cons

  • Not suitable for sensitive skin type


MOTHER MADE Exfoliating Vegan Facial Peel Gel

4.2

Say goodbye to dull, dry, and flaky skin with MOTHER MADE Exfoliating Aqua Peel Gel! This vegan face peeling gel contains natural skin conditioners such as Green Tea, Vitamin E, Hyaluronic Acid, and Baobab Seed Extract that work to remove dead skin cells, pollutants, and pore buildups, thus revealing brighter skin. Its moisture-rich cellulose fiber softly balls up with dirt only, without the use of harsh chemicals or stress to the skin. With consistent and effective removal of rough surface skin, this soothing exfoliator improves the absorption of subsequent skin care products and avoids flaky makeup, thus minimizing the appearance of pores. Not only can it be used on the face, but it can also be used on the hands, elbows, strawberry legs, armpits, or feet. Get youthful, beautiful skin that lasts all day with this exfoliating gel that treats dull and pigmented skin and makes the skin supple even after peeling!

Pros

  • Vega
  • Great for sensitive skin
  • Fades scars
  • Dermatologist-tested
  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Ideal for men & women
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Cruelty-free
  • Non-abrasive exfoliator
  • Lavender scent

Cons

  • None

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

More than 179 customers have given the product positive reviews on Amazon.


ClarityRx Down + Dirty Detoxifying Charcoal MicroExfoliant Scrub

4.6
ClarityRx Down + Dirty Detoxifying Charcoal MicroExfoliant Scrub Image: Clarityrx

The ClarityRx Down + Dirty Detoxification Charcoal MicroExfoliant is a detoxifying charcoal micro exfoliant that moisturizes and refines pores. This earthy, invigorating mask removes grime, micropollutants, and impurities, leaving you with healthy, shine-free, and brighter skin. The apricot seed powder kickstarts the process by gently exfoliating to remove impurities while fostering increased cell regeneration. Charcoal helps by drawing out and absorbing pollutants. The antioxidants, derived from a combination of green tea and seaweed extracts, protect the skin from free radical damage, which would otherwise promote premature aging. Seaweed extracts also provide nutrients and moisture protection, which nourishes to give glowy skin. This combination of detoxifying, nourishing, and moisturizing ingredients allows the skin to return to its original, healthy condition.

Pros

  • Provides antioxidants
  • Absorbs toxins and impurities
  • Ideal for oily skin; gentle enough for sensitive skin
  • Vegan
  • Cruelty-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Sulfate-free

Cons

  • None
*The prices provided in this article are based on the latest available information. However, they may vary due to changes in pricing by the seller and/or promotional offers.

These are the 15 best exfoliators for oily skin. But before you make a purchase, it is important to know how to pick the right product. The following guide can help.

How To Choose The Right Exfoliator For Oily Skin

  • Choose an exfoliator with a gentle formula consisting of natural ingredients that provide gentle exfoliation. These can include olive oil, jojoba beeswax beads, soft sugar granules, grapefruit extract, and natural glycerin along with 2% BHA.
  • A clay-based exfoliator can be better. It can slough away dead skin cells, and absorb excess sebum, oil, and grime.
  • The exfoliator should be non-comedogenic and gentle enough to heal acne scars.
  • It must be free from harsh chemicals like parabens, sulfates, and fragrances.

Infographic: Face Exfoliator For Oily Skin: Benefits And Factors To Consider

If you have oily skin, exfoliation should be an integral part of your skin care regimen. You must invest in a good face exfoliator to unclog your pores and achieve a clear and non-greasy look. Check out the infographic below to learn about the primary factors you should consider while choosing a good face exfoliator, along with the benefits of exfoliation for oily skin.

Face Exfoliator For Oily Skin: Benefits And Factors To Consider (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

The Bottom Line

Exfoliation is one of the most crucial skin care steps for oily skin. They eliminate excess oils, grime, and dead skin cells by unclogging congested pores. They have a non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic formula that absorbs excess sebum, removes blackheads, and is gentle enough for everyday use. For targeting blackheads, try the St. Ives Blackhead Clearing Face Scrub, and for gentle exfoliation, the Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Facial Scrub is an affordable option. The Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting Facial Exfoliant offers a unique leave-on formula that also tightens the skin. Ensure that the exfoliator you pick for your oily skin has an effective formula that is free from harmful chemicals and preservatives. Also ensure that the exfoliating granules are not too rough for the skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should you exfoliate your face if you have oily skin?

If you have oily skin, exfoliate 2-3 times a week. This helps regularly expel the excess oil, grime, and dirt.

Can you exfoliate oily skin every day?

Oily skin with breakouts is not advisable to be exfoliated daily. Use a gentle exfoliator 2-3 times a week for best results.

How can you exfoliate your oily skin at home?

There are many natural exfoliators for oily skin. But, the most effective ingredients like lemon and honey are easily available in all kitchens.
• Mix a tablespoon of honey with one squeezed lemon in a bowl and gently massage it into the skin in a circulation motion for a few minutes.
• Rinse off with lukewarm water.
Apply the mixture to the face once a week to get clear, clean, oil-free skin.

What happens when you don’t exfoliate oily skin?

Oily skin requires regular exfoliation to avoid clogging pores, prevent ingrown hairs, control oil production, and accumulation of sebum, resulting in stubborn acne and blackheads. People with oily skin must exfoliate at least twice a week to achieve healthy glowing skin.

Why does my face get oily after I exfoliate?

Over-exfoliation triggers the sebaceous glands to increase sebum production leading to breakouts, acne, and skin flaking. People with oily skin must exfoliate two to three times a week at the most to achieve healthy glowing skin.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

The author, Oyendrila Kanjilal, is a certified skin care coach who knows what’s best for your skin and the products suitable for your skin type. She did several in-depth reviews and customer testimonials before curating this list of the best face exfoliators for oily skin. These products are specially formulated with skin-friendly, mild, and nourishing ingredients to help exfoliate and cleanse your skin without stripping its natural oil and moisture balance.

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