The 15 Best Face Exfoliators For Soft And Supple Skin

Look fresher, brighter, and smoother by removing all dead cells and unclogging pores.

Reviewed by Diane Howard, Certified Cosmetic Nurse
Written by Krati Darak, MBA, Certified Skin Care Coach
Edited by Medha Deb, Integrated MA
Fact-checked by Shiboli Chakraborti, MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach  • 

Keeping your skin young costs a fortune. Using the best face exfoliator for mature skin is as effective as expensive salon treatments! You read that right. You can achieve youthful, soft, and supple skin with just a scrub! It’s true; exfoliation will rejuvenate mature skin. Scrubbing away dead skin cells opens up a fresh, healthy layer of skin. It is simple to get rid of wrinkles, dark patches, fine lines, and blocked pores by exfoliating. If you have mature skin, there is no reason not to use a facial exfoliator in your skincare routine!

Diane Howard, a certified cosmetic nurse, says, Exfoliators play a pivotal role in achieving healthy and radiant skin. By effectively removing dead skin cells from the surface, exfoliators help to prevent clogged pores, which in turn reduces the likelihood of acne and blemishes that could potentially lead to scarring. Regular exfoliation also aids in improving skin texture and promoting a more even complexion. Whether it’s through physical exfoliants or chemical exfoliants like glycolic acid, incorporating exfoliation into your skincare routine can truly make a noticeable difference in maintaining clear, glowing skin.”

A face exfoliator that is the best for mature skin is essential to keep irritation and redness away in the future. For your convenience, we’ve rounded up all the best choices available! You can now flaunt your flawless skin without makeup!

Bring out your timeless radiance by beating the signs of aging! We’ve compiled a list of 15 of the best face exfoliators for mature skin.

Find out more by reading on!

Top PicksCheck Price
Best For Irritated Skin:Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting Liquid ExfoliantPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best For Aging Signs:M3 Naturals Himalayan Salt ScrubPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best For Skin Brightening:Acure Brightening Facial ScrubPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best For Traveling:Neutrogena Microdermabrasion System Puff Refills ExfoliatorPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best Hydrating:Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid Exfoliating CleanserPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best For Acne-Prone Skin:Era Organics Revive+ Microdermabrasion Scrub And MaskPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best For Textured Skin:QRxLabs Glycolic Acid Resurfacing PadsPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best For Sensitive Skin:DRMTLGY Microdermabrasion ScrubPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best For All Skin Types:NeedCrystals Microdermabrasion CrystalsPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best For Blackheads:Ives Acne Control Apricot Face ScrubPrice on Amazon

Top 15 Face Exfoliators In 2023 For Skin That Glows From Within

1. Best For Irritated Skin:Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting Liquid Exfoliant

4.4

Improve the texture for your skin with the Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting Liquid Exfoliant. It is formulated with beta hydroxy acid, commonly known as salicylic acid, which is known to be a super cleanser. This clinically proven formula penetrates deep into the skin to get rid of dirt and sebum and it also unclogs pores. This non-abrasive leave-on exfoliant also has green tea extracts, which help soothe irritated skin. Using this gentle salicylic acid exfoliating cleanser helps minimize wrinkles, fine lines, redness, pores, blackheads, and other skin problems and leaves you with soft and clean skin.

Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Dry, Normal | Product Dimensions: 2.52 x 0.75 x 0.75 inches | Weight: 1.06 Ounces

Pros

  • Paraben-free
  • Silicone-free
  • Alcohol-free
  • Oil-free
  • Fragrance-free
  • Cruelty-free

Cons

  • Some may find the smell pungent

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

A whopping 67,063 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.

2. Best For Aging Signs:M3 Naturals Himalayan Salt Scrub

Hydrate, rejuvenate, and exfoliate your skin with the M3 Naturals Himalayan Salt Scrub. This himalayan salt scrub is infused with collagen and stem cells, which aid in new cell growth and offer anti-aging properties. It includes a list of natural ingredients like aloe vera, grapeseed, sunflower, and jojoba. Apart from these, the extracts of fruits like grapefruit, apple, almond, etc. make it one of the best exfoliating face scrubs. Cleanse the impurities of your skin and restore its natural glow with this natural face exfoliator. If you are an absolute beginner, this video review might be useful to learn more about the reviewer’s experience of the product.
.

Skin Type: All, Oily, Sensitive, Dry, Normal | Product Dimensions: 3.5 x 3.5 x 2.71 inches | Weight: 12 Ounces

Pros

  • Paraben-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Alcohol-free
  • Fragrance-free
  • Cruelty-free

Cons

  • Slightly expensive

protip_icon Caution
Do not use an exfoliator if you have a sunburn or a wound on your face, as it can damage the healing process.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The product has more than 31,358 reviews and is a top choice all around the world.

3. Best For Skin Brightening:Acure Brightening Facial Scrub

The Acure Brightening Facial Scrub is a skincare product that is suitable for all skin types. Its all-natural formulation with sea kelp, kaolin clay, aloe vera, walnut, lemon, and olive, etc. makes it one the best exfoliating products for the face. Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, these exfoliators for dull skin help to improve the appearance of tired skin and remove skin imperfections. It also has argan, chlorella, cica, kale, niacinamide, pomegranate, which help remove dead cells and keep skin healthy and glowing from within. Check out this review for a detailed understanding of the reviewer’s experience of using the product.

Skin Type: All | Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎1.4 x 1.9 x 6.6 inches | Weight : 4 Ounces

Pros

  • Paraben-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Silicone-free
  • Phthalate-free
  • Cruelty-free
  • Vegan

Cons

  • Some might find it slightly watery

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

With 20,854 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.

Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting Liquid Exfoliant
Best For Irritated Skin
M3 Naturals Himalayan Salt Scrub
Best For Aging Signs
Acure Brightening Facial Scrub
Best For Skin Brightening
Skin Type Oily, Combination, Dry, Normal All, Oily, Sensitive, Dry, Normal All
Dimensions 2.52 x 0.75 x 0.75 inches 3.5 x 3.5 x 2.71 inches-
Weight 1.06 Ounces 12 Ounces 4 Ounces
Dimensions ‏-- ‎1.4 x 1.9 x 6.6 inches
Rating
Reviews67,06331,35820,854
Price$30.99$26.61$7.99

4. Best For Traveling:Neutrogena Microdermabrasion System Puff Refills Exfoliator

Get salon-like skin treatment at the comfort of your home with the Neutrogena Microdermabrasion System Puff Refills Exfoliator. These pre-dozed puffs are meant for single use and are among the good chemical exfoliators for face available in the market. It uses micro-vibrations to help in boosting new skin cell production, with visible results noticed by multiple reviewers. Each puff features ultra-fine crystals and mild purifiers that work on the skin to immediately make it luminous and bright. With time, the skin becomes firmer and healthier-looking too. The brand also claims to offer visible results with just 1 use.

Skin Type: All | Product Dimensions: 1.99 x 2.05 x 5.49 inches | Weight: 1.38 Ounces

Pros

  • Silicone-free
  • Alcohol-free
  • Dermatologist-recommended
  • Single-use puffs
  • Easy and convenient

Cons

  • Contains parabens and sulfates

protip_icon Quick Tip
Use a cleanser to ensure that no leftover dirt or debris settles in the open pores of your facial skin.

5. Best Hydrating:Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser

4.6

Are you tired of acne-prone, oily skin? Worry no more as Botanic Tree brings you a glycolic acid exfoliating cleanser that will fight all your skin woes. It is enriched with ingredients like tea tree, peppermint, lavender, shea butter, seaweed, willow bark, bamboo, and others. The formulation of this pregnancy-safe face exfoliator helps to cleanse the skin and keep it hydrated and supple. The inclusion of ascorbic acid or vitamin C ensures that the skin gets its dose of antioxidants to boost cell renewal, reduce skin imperfections, and fight the signs of aging. However, remember to conduct a patch test to check for skin sensitivity.

Skin Type: Acne Prone,Oily,Sensitive

Pros

  • Paraben-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Cruelty-free
  • Safe for pregnant women

Cons

  • As it contains menthol, some may feel a sharp tingling sensation on their skin.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

More than 2,626 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are so in awe of this product.

6. Best For Acne-Prone Skin:Era Organics Revive+ Microdermabrasion Scrub And Mask

Bid farewell to dull, dry skin with the microdermabrasion scrub and mask from Era Organics. It is formulated with extracts from aloe vera, walnut, orange peel, manuka honey, cehami, canola, etc. All these ingredients come together to help remove dirt, excess sebum, blackheads, dead skin, and other impurities and promote skin renewal. Exfoliate your dull skin to reveal a radiant complexion with this face exfoliator for acne-prone skin. This video review of the tester’s experience will help you understand more about the exfoliating mask.

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

Pros

  • Paraben-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Phthalate-free
  • Gluten-free
  • Cruelty-free

Cons

  • It may not be non-comedogenic.

protip_icon Remember
Taking steam before exfoliating your face can make the skin vulnerable to irritation and inflammation.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

It has received over 15,790 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.

7. Best For Textured Skin:QRxLabs Glycolic Acid Resurfacing Pads

Everyone wishes to have skin that is free of impurities and imperfections. The QRxLabs Glycolic Acid Resurfacing Pads help make this wish come true. These waffle-shaped cleansing pads are made of soft non-woven materials and have a textured surface that eases skin cleansing with the help of its exfoliating acids. They are formulated with witch hazel, vegetable glycerin, calendula, green tea, menthol, spearmint, eucalyptus oil, etc. that help soothe the skin and offer anti-inflammatory benefits. Enriched with vitamin C, E, and B5, this glycolic acid exfoliating cleanser helps to reduce skin imperfections and minimizes the signs of aging, leaving you with younger, brighter, flawless skin. If you are still unsure, check out this honest review of a tester’s experience of using the product.

Skin Type: All | Package Dimensions: ‎2.68 x 2.6 x 2.32 inches | Weight: 4 Ounces

Pros

  • Deep cleansing
  • Paraben-free
  • Silicone-free
  • Cruelty-free
  • Eco-friendly packaging

Cons

  • Might make the skin feel sticky to the touch

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

This product has received 15,541 reviews from customers on Amazon, indicating its popularity and reliability.

8. Best For Sensitive Skin:DRMTLGY Microdermabrasion Scrub

Say hello to flawless skin and wave goodbye to skin imperfections and impurities with the DRMTLGY Microdermabrasion Scrub. It provides medical grade skincare and helps the skin get rid of dead skin, blackheads, acne scars, blemishes, etc. Made from the extracts of green tea, apple, sugarcane, and lemon among other ingredients, this gentle exfoliator for sensitive skin also helps minimize the appearance of signs of aging.

Skin Type: Acne-Prone | Package Dimensions: 2.17 x 2.13 x 1.93 inches | Weight: 2 Ounces

Pros

  • Paraben-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Gluten-free
  • Oil-free
  • Cruelty-free
  • Dermatologist-recommended

Cons

  • Slightly expensive for the quantity provided

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

It has received 7,513 reviews on Amazon and is a popular choice among shoppers.

9. Best For All Skin Types:NeedCrystals Microdermabrasion Crystals

Give your skin a total makeover with the NeedCrystals Microdermabrasion Crystals. These crystals are made from corundum sourced from Brazil and France. Exfoliate your skin and drive away dirt, sebum, uneven skin tone, and other skin impurities and imperfections. All you have to do is to mix these crystals with your favorite cleanser to make your own exfoliators for uneven skin tone or dead skin and watch your skin transform into its younger, brighter self.

Skin Type: All, Oily, Combination, Dry, Normal | Product Dimensions: 2 x 2 x 3 inches | Weight: 8 Ounces

Pros

  • Non-GMO
  • Cruelty-free
  • Suitable with most cleansers
  • Suits all skin types

Cons

  • May not be best suited for dry skin

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

Almost 6,711 happy users have mentioned the value and quality of this product.

10. Best For Blackheads:Ives Acne Control Apricot Face Scrub

The St. Ives Acne Control Apricot Face Scrub helps promote skin health as it uses natural and gentle exfoliants. One of the best exfoliators for acne, it contains apricot extract and walnut shell powder in its formulation. It helps to remove dead skin, blackheads, scars, and other skin imperfections. It is enriched with salicylic acid and is effective in controlling acne breakouts and leaves you with softer skin that is free of acne and blemishes.

Skin Type: Acne prone | Product Dimensions: 8.56 x 6.13 x 3.44 inches | Weight: 1.17 Pounds

Pros

  • Paraben-free
  • Cruelty-free
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Dermatologically-tested

Cons

  • Contains sulfate

11. Best Formula With Natural Ingredients:InstaNatural Exfoliating Glycolic Mask And Face Scrub

Refine the look of your pores and get a clean face with this exfoliating mask and scrub from InstaNatural. The gentle yet effective formulation of this organic face exfoliator includes safflower, turmeric, aloe vera, pumpkin, meadowfoam, sunflower, rosemary, jasmine, etc. It exudes the aroma of spices like ginger, cassia, cloves, bay leaves, nutmeg, cardamom, cinnamon, and others. Use it to keep dirt and sebum away and remove skin imperfections and signs of aging, while locking in moisture and keeping the soft glow of the skin intact. Additionally, conduct a test on a patch of your skin to keep allergic reactions at bay.

Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, Normal | Product Dimensions: 2 x 2.2 x 2.2 inches | Weight: 2 Ounces.

Pros

  • Paraben-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Cruelty-free
  • Natural ingredients

Cons

  • Some may find the scent intense

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The product has more than 3,516 reviews claiming its efficacy.

12. Best For Dark Spots:Ebanel Ultimate Brightening Peeling Gel

The Ebanel Ultimate Brightening Peeling Gel is a skincare product that can be used on all skin types. It gently exfoliates the skin and helps remove the impurities and imperfections of the skin. It has extracts from ingredients like mushroom, tomato, persimmon, birch, willow bark, aloe vera, etc. It is also enriched with vitamin C and E, cellulose, castor oil, and other potent ingredients. Many reviewers highly recommend this product after noticing visible results. Get rid of dark spots, uneven skin tone, blackheads, dead skin, and signs of aging with this exfoliating gel for your face.

Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, Normal | Product Dimensions: 6.3 x 1.8 x 1.2 inches | Weight: 3.21 Ounces

Pros

  • Paraben-free
  • Soap-free
  • Alcohol-free
  • Cruelty-free
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Non-comedogenic

Cons

  • Some may find it slightly greasy

13. Best Hypoallergenic:Palmer’s Coconut Oil Coconut Sugar Facial Scrub

Bid adieu to dull and dry skin with the Palmer’s Coconut Oil Coconut Sugar Facial Scrub. This one is supremely effective for achieving hydrated, glowing skin with its main component, coconut sugar, which acts as a natural exfoliator to remove dead skin and polish the skin texture. The powerful and natural ingredients remove dirt and impurities, leaving your face feeling smoother. The formula offers a soft and dewy glow while helping revitalize the skin.

Skin Type: Sensitive | Product Dimensions: 2.87 x 6 x 1.87 inches | Weight: 3.2 Ounces.

Pros

  • Plant-based ingredients
  • Oil-free formula
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Dermatologist-tested
  • Cruelty-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Paraben-free

Cons

None

14. Best For Enlarged Pores:Vasanti BrightenUp! Face Exfoliator

The Vasanti Brighten Up! Face Exfoliator suits all skin types and stays true to its name to a great extent. It is enriched with the extracts from papaya, aloe vera, castor seed, coconut, and other potent ingredients. One of the best exfoliators for combination skin types, it helps clear out pores of dirt and sebum and removes skin impurities. It also works as an anti-aging skincare product and helps minimize the appearance of the signs of aging. Considered one of the best enzyme exfoliators, it offers visible results after just one use and it leaves you with skin that looks younger, radiant, and flawless.

Skin Type: All | Product Dimensions: 1.85 x 2.33 x 5.99 inches | Weight: 4.97 Ounces

Pros

  • Paraben-free
  • Gluten-free
  • Cruelty-free
  • Vegan

Cons

  • Some users may not like the emulsion-like waxy texture

15. Best Unscented Formula:Toyo Cure Natural Aqua Gel Skin Exfoliator

Want to know what the Japanese do to keep their skin looking forever young? The answer lies in the Toyo Cure Natural Aqua Gel Skin Exfoliator. Considered one of the best exfoliating gels for face, it is made with extracts from aloe vera, rosemary, gingko, and others. It also has elements like activated hydrogen water, which is known to have anti-aging and anti-oxidation properties. Exfoliate with one of the best chemical exfoliants for your face to get rid of skin impurities and imperfections, and flaunt flawless, glowy, and youthful skin.

Skin Type: Dry | Product Dimensions: 2 x 2 x 7.5 inches | Weight: 7.84 Ounces

Pros

  • Paraben-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Silicone-free
  • Cruelty-free

Cons

  • Slightly expensive

Exfoliating the skin keeps the skin healthy as the impurities are gotten rid of. But what is the right type of exfoliator for your skin? Let us make your task easy by helping you choose the right exfoliator for your skin type.

How To Choose The Best Exfoliant For Your Skin Type

  • Dry skin

Dry skin demands an exfoliant that isn’t gritty or grainy as it may cause micro tears on the skin. Exfoliants like honey and other gentle acids, combined with moisturizing agents work well for dry skin without being too harsh.

  • Oily skin

Pooling up of excess sebum in the pores is one of the problems of oily skin. Scrubbing the skin with exfoliants that have a grainy texture might be very helpful as these oily skin exfoliators help to remove the excess sebum and oil from the pores and unclog them.

  • Combination skin

Combination skin is neither too dry, nor too oily. In such cases, combination skin exfoliators that aren’t very gritty can be combined with moisturizing agents to unclog the pores as well as to keep the skin from becoming too dry.

  • Acne-prone skin

Acne-prone skin can be further irritated if the wrong kind of skin products are used. Grainy scrubs can worsen inflamed skin with acne, hence chemical exfoliants are the best choice for acne-prone skin.

  • Mature skin

Skin becomes sensitive and dry with age. Mature skin needs an exfoliant that helps reduce the wrinkles and fine lines while keeping it hydrated. When looking for an exfoliator for aging skin, keep in mind that chemical exfoliators and microdermabrasions work well.

Benefits Of Face Exfoliator

Exfoliating the skin a few times a week can leave one with youthful, radiant skin. Here are some face exfoliation benefits:

  • Removes dead skin cells
  • Unclogs pores and prevents acne
  • Keeps dirt and sebum at bay
  • Evens out skin tone
  • Helps remove blackheads
  • Minimizes visible signs of aging
  • Boosts blood and lymph circulation
  • Helps the skin absorb other skin products well

The Bottom Line

Your skin attracts impurities and dirt from pollution, turning itself dull and lifeless. To remedy that, you need specially crafted exfoliators that can scrub off accumulated dead skin cells, dirt, product buildup, and other impurities. Besides clearing the skin, some exfoliators can also minimize dark circles and fine lines, and unclog pores. The Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting Liquid Exfoliant is a great option for those looking to smooth out irritated skin, while the Acure Brightening Facial Scrub is an ideal pick for those who want to rejuvenate dull skin. However, if you are someone who is looking for a formula that minimizes breakouts and caters to oily and acne-prone skin, try the Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser. Therefore, an exfoliator is a staple in your skincare routine. Use exfoliators that are chemical-free, non-comedogenic, and are made of skin-benefiting ingredients. Stay away from the exfoliators that turn your skin greasy or dry or are too harsh on your skin. Instead, opt for an exfoliator that has received positive reviews and conduct a patch test to check for allergies. Exfoliate your skin weekly to keep it smooth and healthy.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

The author Krati Darak is a skin care expert. Her recommendations are backed by scientific fact checks to help people find the best skin care products. She created this list of top face exfoliators by considering user’s review on trusted online platforms. These cleansers are made of safe ingredients that help remove dirt and dead skin layer and bring out the soft, plump, and rejuvenated skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are face exfoliators good for your skin?

Yes. Exfoliators help the skin get rid of impurities like dead skin cells, dirt, sebum, etc, and help in unclogging the pores.

How many times a week should you exfoliate your face?

Ideally, it is best to exfoliate the skin 2-3 times a week to keep the skin soft and smooth and free of impurities. Exfoliating too frequently might leave the skin dry and damaged.

How long does it take to see results from exfoliating?

One can see the change in complexion almost immediately after exfoliating. But the long-term results can be seen after exfoliating 6-7 times.

Should you put moisturizer on after exfoliating?

Yes, your skin requires moisture, especially after exfoliating. A super-hydrating face moisturizer helps replace any water lost during the exfoliation process.

Is it better to exfoliate in the morning or at night?

It is better to exfoliate in the morning because your skin produces oils at night. When you exfoliate in the morning instead of the evening, you can effectively eliminate pollutants, dead skin, and dirt.

What not to do after exfoliating?

Do not immediately wash off a chemical exfoliant because the active ingredients need time to seep into your skin. Instead, leave your exfoliator on for roughly 15 to 30 minutes to ensure that the chemicals dissolve dead skin cells.

How do I know if I’m over-exfoliating?

You are over-exfoliating if your skin becomes rough, dry, spotty, flaky, irritated, and loses its capacity to retain moisture.

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