The Best Face Exfoliators for Smoother, Brighter Skin

Face exfoliators that smooth skin without asking you to overdo it

Exfoliation can brighten a dull complexion and help clear pore buildup, but the best formula depends on your skin—and a stronger tingle doesn’t automatically mean better results. Chemical exfoliants use acids or enzymes to loosen dead skin; physical exfoliants buff it away with textured surfaces or particles. Either way, regular use can leave skin smoother and more even-toned. Sensitive skin can exfoliate, too, but choosing a gentler formula matters. [Here’s a guide to exfoliators for sensitive skin](https://www.allure.com/story/exfoliators-for-sensitive-skin). Our picks include acid blends, textured pads and a milky exfoliant designed with dry skin in mind. Some ingredients can also help with the look of [fine lines](https://www.allure.com/gallery/face-creams-moisturizers-serums-botox-in-a-bottle), while smoother skin may help other skin-care products spread and absorb more evenly. We’ve included editor feedback and dermatologist advice to put those claims in context. For a closer look at [chemical peels](https://www.allure.com/gallery/best-chemical-peel), start here.

Our top face exfoliators

- **Best Overall:** [Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel](https://cna.st/affiliate-link/Ziz49JQti6yANGkrw9VAk7Qg89GezKp2svyBVLBdSqunN8W8P6zVo5wD6ZNJw7CvCGyTYjQ3BC8eRntuJDb9rhfTi4NVj6KDmZM45541RLJBf1tEdVYmQUrR1NX5RSvmJbDDWFgmKhhQmNFGoQwTGFfhZMydA64N39x2hLkNWYyGzu6gBmFkijDGGxEpVhmqd3erRLqzrhJxoJHkdVDydP5opUtWWYsG8bCxdtmRZk8iq77cExow3FpHLnxPGRmb9vkribcEv25wUyr5rBp83BCBdmZ2BZQcmppcCp8sQSuXzKiRRzAijSfsBrknvMRN7yskPJhoB6b1qYqcqfTu7q1fQdXL3jMhqjFoR9vCYTf), $94 - **Best for Oily Skin:** [Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads](https://cna.st/affiliate-link/s7txNnToSWBysHmohfMoYJxP4ecuaJvpXo8nUmXeuGoPRhbYbFxGKKxrfYi2SjsubgCC5WoAaEdUgRCA6vq2hgdAU2oTgMYtJQYP7TtgCt9m91sjZv4iiCAUdnK8QH4GUSiaKbrDWFS4KWibxe89fnBx4oKE41HXDE3Ln1bUvDHyKALQxLwtvJxmF6rUg643CsXh8F9TgfWm5muUGyNkf9wUq1q3EUDkaZeBfgLA71jpAtxMgUPfuPTVgzCTSWD7h1ZbGTe52oQmgWLVwRcD5jraguTsSEDeii3XcbX1GMeJwAFq7d2cQp5), $69 - **Best for Dry Skin:** [Eadem Cashmere Peel Milky Exfoliant & Hydrating Essence](https://cna.st/affiliate-link/UKMhwqGKSKJYN1tGuL4sqiJzgm931C8vosB86X7GAPkGgJ3XLn7Q3CkGfYbQAEoxPHzQjB3A6drcNBHu74DD4FKvbZhPiyQf7ivpzYeXQQ4HoM3KE7wu2h1Hc65e2q99fqPRbH5Gkjt7EqFdYMUvfsinKDz8KrtiqkHu9N2oJJ1fiPRWuhkb6sTZEsuycGTbXUD8kxo2YyH23cACLnjMfpueRMfKBwsquFZL6didHfYAWcbrNGFSHPobSyJ8qsmBtG1U7wnDBzp6xC2aqeHbVZC26uYfbrk1WStoYUvKYnW2QtKrGzBbwNj3BScbT7g4PvKG8EJ97Zd25), $42 - **Best for Sensitive Skin:** [Medik8 Press & Glow Daily Exfoliating PHA Tonic](https://cna.st/affiliate-link/KRg5MejLKBakfzEnoFV3HCfQJELCwy68jemjzFi56SKkFvtYAnoMnr7GnxtR8Z57kJqriQjVL2qJd6fR7h5YL2f2M3WRHmdopqiqfWkc6VVVZGuXU81ivX6jhkmEbutPjT1gkaj8yMUYWbC59wXcBcSDPhbYA3oqdJ9KxyrRJJUG4qjBR73KHWREuvwkWUKrZ2geymS6dPSLdw8LwxitZuit9CrTzeDefa6BNXjtP5R87QkPd4foPNFPFpdfNWDZYb6DCECt35qTQtrMu4gdAVCtczPfpS6DcJM29RhFCUmW4jYkDmLD6AATZ9JPF8aLZK6M4DpcM), $35 Frequently Asked Questions - [What are chemical exfoliators?](#what-are-chemical-exfoliators) - [What are physical exfoliators?](#what-are-physical-exfoliators) - [Can you over-exfoliate?](#can-you-over-exfoliate) - [Meet the experts](#meet-the-experts) - [How we test and review products](#howwetest) - [Our staff and testers](#ourstaff)

Best Overall: Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel

[](https://cna.st/p/9beNUrUcSUoJcofNXp6hKs13KQFRwoL1cyDkjipzkHn74icCa3Q7U1pz7jEqbJg9tuQebP75KdZwKDRwSiCbSxD5TQ51ZoAMpoVRMd2BQsYY7yMQmxXZHuB63fzcWNJeRcPoHRg48eP2VXkKaKeyLSaLn2FZtXjcntQeRbsb3UJTQRpxyDqDWZyj1tBYrM46D4DUVf41VwZaaHxexJtX7M1FuskrT7JVE5nm3R9rgTjfvztUcNc925ATtBZiW7qtGwsSL3cCHQFHKcs97tHroHim1snUF3JhWufiyedgvK2cjmMKCcz8NTKro59k1bX5dUZWnmbysbEHd4v2WZRG3NSWqFMhAxEfey47rfWYXv2bBxpSo8Bz5vKxVM5xcJoP97y6DkFNpcTFUW8jLPjtS9Ho5sNstciR8QuwPRbtD5tEyC9QJ3ieBJtwGjW8M3im) *Allure* editor in chief Jessica Cruel applying the Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel. Photo: Jessica Cruel. **Why it stands out:** The name “peel” sounds more intense than this two-step pad system is meant to be. Step one uses exfoliating acids—including glycolic, lactic and malic acids—to lift dead skin and buildup. Step two follows with soothing ingredients such as green tea and adenosine. The formula also includes alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), which dermatologist Brendan Camp, MD, says can improve the appearance of pores, radiance, fine lines, texture and tone. Camp is a double board-certified dermatologist based in New York; he spoke to *Allure* about [pore-minimizing products](https://www.allure.com/story/best-pore-minimizers). There’s a caveat for beginners: “gentle” doesn’t mean sensation-free. Cruel describes a slight tingle during the first step and a brief burn—about 30 seconds—with the second. She says the glow is immediate, and likes that each pad is individually wrapped, so it won’t dry out and is easy to pack for travel. [](https://cna.st/p/9beNUrUcSUoJcofNXp6hKs13KQFRwoL1cyDkjipzkHn74icCa3Q7U1pz7jEqbJg9tuQebP75KdZwKDRwSiCbSxD5TQ51ZoAMpoVRMd2BQsYY7yMQmxXZHuB63fzcWNJeRcPoHRg48eP2VXkKaKeyLSaLn2FZtXjcntQeRbsb3UJTQRpxyDqDWZyj1tBYrM46D4DUVf41VwZaaHxexJtX7M1FuskrT7JVE5nm3R9rgTjfvztUcNc925ATtBZiW7qtGwsSL3cCHQFHKcs97tHroHim1snUF3JhWufiyedgvK2cjmMKCcz8NTKro59k1bX5dUZWnmbysbEHd4v2WZRG3NSWqFMhAxEfey47rfWYXv2bBxpSo8Bz5vKxVM5xcJoP97y6DkFNpcTFUW8jLPjtS9Ho5sNstciR8QuwPRbtD5tEyC9QJ3ieBJtwGjW8M3im) Cruel after applying the Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel. Photo: Jessica Cruel. [](https://cna.st/p/9beNUrUcSUoJcofNXp6hKs13KQFRwoL1cyDkjipzkHn74icCa3Q7U1pz7jEqbJg9tuQebP75KdZwKDRwSiCbSxD5TQ51ZoAMpoVRMd2BQsYY7yMQmxXZHuB63fzcWNJeRcPoHRg48eP2VXkKaKeyLSaLn2FZtXjcntQeRbsb3UJTQRpxyDqDWZyj1tBYrM46D4DUVf41VwZaaHxexJtX7M1FuskrT7JVE5nm3R9rgTjfvztUcNc925ATtBZiW7qtGwsSL3cCHQFHKcs97tHroHim1snUF3JhWufiyedgvK2cjmMKCcz8NTKro59k1bX5dUZWnmbysbEHd4v2WZRG3NSWqFMhAxEfey47rfWYXv2bBxpSo8Bz5vKxVM5xcJoP97y6DkFNpcTFUW8jLPjtS9Ho5sNstciR8QuwPRbtD5tEyC9QJ3ieBJtwGjW8M3im) Former *Allure* features director Dianna Singh after applying the Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel. Photo: Dianna Singh. **Tester feedback from editor in chief [Jessica Cruel](https://www.allure.com/jessica-cruel-beauty-edit):** “Whenever someone asks me the best peel for beginners, I always point them to Dr. Dennis Gross. His portfolio of exfoliating pads suits both first-timers and experienced pros, and this Universal Peel sits right in the middle. Step 1 contains the exfoliating AHA and BHA acids. The second step is the neutralizer. The first part gives a slight tingle, and the second step is a true burn that lasts about 30 seconds. The glowy skin results are instant. I love that they come individually wrapped, which means they will never dry out. Plus, they are easy to throw in your toiletry bag for travel.” —Jessica Cruel, editor in chief **Tester feedback from former features director [Dianna Singh](https://www.allure.com/dianna-mazzone-singh-beauty-edit):** “What may look like a makeup remover wipe at first glance is actually a pad packed with chemical exfoliators that help brighten instantly and improve discoloration over time. I first discovered these back when I was a beauty assistant (so, longer ago than I'd like to admit), and yet somehow I'm still pleasantly surprised by the next-day glow I get from using one of these at night.” —Dianna Singh, former features director **Details:** Chemical exfoliant; glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, green tea and adenosine; fragrance-free.

Best for Oily Skin: Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads

[](https://cna.st/p/EAi7madmZTTZ6q3XT3CN3UxAK2akqDV3sz56nfzN9XyTYysh3ymW9dEq32Z6f7dnLiW2keGuYWvnyuRKsaY9bSdVya8pNRMY2HTgyYF8ki8t4ggUzRfDTDM3FMgSJDSCnyeW1jF41uWUfMJJUmfMe7UJT68uBPBFY7BfTzkbpywxzP6BA8yM2pdwqRMkcAkoTnqvaZD8M6DVjzvcP4S7bfpwRV5eepj23zSq8jgFoPbW7GHKwUa5gJT6xTV1UVGV87u5UF5cywau6P8fu7gxNhEzSmruvrQiaXFCrDkyCQM4mY8RyBi7EcSfALDXVwQeasMSsLEibm12ZQAz5ygywKJB87MQZkQgBqHieggHvmwwdjn1LFKA5CLqHnsoz2s5KCzsKcwkv6w7) *Allure* commerce editor Sarah Han using the Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads. Photo: Sarah Han. **Why it stands out:** These pads earned a [2026 Best of Beauty Award](https://www.allure.com/best-of-beauty-2026-winners/skin), and they pair lactic acid with three enzymes. The combination loosens dead skin and buildup; dermatologist Farhaad Riyaz, MD, of Plymouth, Michigan, says using two exfoliation methods may help the formula work without requiring a high concentration of either ingredient. Each pad has two textures: a rougher side for added buffing and a smooth side for a lighter pass. That makes the pads especially handy around an oilier T-zone, though editors with dry and sensitive skin also [reported smoother, brighter skin without the usual tight feeling](https://www.allure.com/story/elemis-dynamic-resurfacing-pads-review). Glycerin, betaine and [shea butter](https://www.allure.com/story/best-shea-butter-products) help add moisture. Lactic acid can contribute, too: dermatologist Dawn Queen, MD, of New York City, explains that it’s also a humectant, so it can support hydration while exfoliating. The product link for [glycerin](https://www.allure.com) points to Allure’s homepage. [](https://cna.st/p/EAi7madmZTTZ6q3XT3CN3UxAK2akqDV3sz56nfzN9XyTYysh3ymW9dEq32Z6f7dnLiW2keGuYWvnyuRKsaY9bSdVya8pNRMY2HTgyYF8ki8t4ggUzRfDTDM3FMgSJDSCnyeW1jF41uWUfMJJUmfMe7UJT68uBPBFY7BfTzkbpywxzP6BA8yM2pdwqRMkcAkoTnqvaZD8M6DVjzvcP4S7bfpwRV5eepj23zSq8jgFoPbW7GHKwUa5gJT6xTV1UVGV87u5UF5cywau6P8fu7gxNhEzSmruvrQiaXFCrDkyCQM4mY8RyBi7EcSfALDXVwQeasMSsLEibm12ZQAz5ygywKJB87MQZkQgBqHieggHvmwwdjn1LFKA5CLqHnsoz2s5KCzsKcwkv6w7) Han before using the Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads. Photo: Sarah Han. [](https://cna.st/p/EAi7madmZTTZ6q3XT3CN3UxAK2akqDV3sz56nfzN9XyTYysh3ymW9dEq32Z6f7dnLiW2keGuYWvnyuRKsaY9bSdVya8pNRMY2HTgyYF8ki8t4ggUzRfDTDM3FMgSJDSCnyeW1jF41uWUfMJJUmfMe7UJT68uBPBFY7BfTzkbpywxzP6BA8yM2pdwqRMkcAkoTnqvaZD8M6DVjzvcP4S7bfpwRV5eepj23zSq8jgFoPbW7GHKwUa5gJT6xTV1UVGV87u5UF5cywau6P8fu7gxNhEzSmruvrQiaXFCrDkyCQM4mY8RyBi7EcSfALDXVwQeasMSsLEibm12ZQAz5ygywKJB87MQZkQgBqHieggHvmwwdjn1LFKA5CLqHnsoz2s5KCzsKcwkv6w7) Han after using the Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads. Photo: Sarah Han. **Tester feedback from commerce editor [Sarah Han](https://www.allure.com/sarah-han-beauty-edit):** “No matter what time of the year it is, my combination skin needs consistent exfoliation to look its best—or, at the very least, brighter and more even-toned. By far, the easiest way to decongest my pores is whipping out one of the Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads and giving my T-zone a very proper run-through. Lactic acid is super effective at buffing away dead skin and uneven texture, and I swear my skin is noticeably softer and brighter with each use.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor **Details:** Chemical and physical exfoliant; lactic acid, enzymes, glycerin, betaine and shea butter; contains fragrance.

Best for Dry Skin: Eadem Cashmere Peel Milky Exfoliant & Hydrating Essence

[](https://cna.st/p/KtzSRSAm7Y9Uhf32AiNSwgNbypuqfjBbm3E4JwfyqGQzcdD6aGP5yi1c1DAWrLH6nkbEr13vBo1nPHZ29WwLVd2QDWqPyAfVu6Bey57KgitnG8Fc9RLJ7rSULUHjzykRxErsrnn3VyCLLZujxN4vVinsUNCf257MYNb9GfFwux8x9GMZx5ByTLs3odqjt6DwsotD7pKj6v2NmMDvNbFRMAYm4fQiDbTwYPyBkmTezqjf4QdR796a2WAHbLJTuSZEDbHzdGq6CHE5sAiHNQpwF6mbTNKQ1Lf4SX63K8Ngppm3Sx1rJLZMQGm7QEyLyCTBg1r64Lxd7i9ptRg7H5f2bfCXC5AAigziwhWNzR56cBoureXzfRGSVM3uNDt5j1TProAXSfTN8kLqD5wNm6MVcCnpjXpbuL4mwWJjVYgpWJccSjWLoK3n4GZ7dMvmFdyYf3SrnPcq) *Allure* contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Eadem Cashmere Peel Milky Exfoliant & Hydrating Essence. Photo: Christa Joanna Lee. **Why it stands out:** A milky, lotion-like texture can make acid exfoliation feel less drying, which is why this [2024 *Allure* Best of Beauty Award](https://www.allure.com/story/best-of-beauty-skin-care-product-winners-2024) winner is a thoughtful option for dry skin. New Orleans dermatologist Mamina Turegano, MD, describes the formula as soothing. Its gentle feel shouldn’t be mistaken for an absence of exfoliating action: Turegano points to a 9% blend of lactic, [azelaic](https://www.allure.com/story/best-azelaic-acid-products) and [tranexamic acids](https://www.allure.com/story/best-tranexamic-acid-products), which can help remove dead skin, smooth rough patches and reduce the appearance of dark spots. The hydrating ingredients matter here. Panthenol helps support the skin barrier, while rice water and colloidal oatmeal help soothe and hydrate. For dry skin, that balance is the point: exfoliation should help smooth the surface without leaving it feeling stripped.

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

“I use prescription tretinoin every two or three days, depending on when I remember, so I reach for Eadem’s Cashmere Peel Milky Exfoliant & Hydrating Essence on the nights in between. Calling it a peel sounds more intense than it feels: it’s gentle on my dry, sensitive skin. I do get some redness for an hour or two, which happens with most exfoliants and is typical for my skin. Once it settles, my complexion looks glowy, and the lightweight, hydrating formula leaves a smooth base for makeup.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

Lee before applying the Eadem Cashmere Peel Milky Exfoliant & Hydrating Essence

Christa Joanna Lee

Lee after applying the Eadem Cashmere Peel Milky Exfoliant & Hydrating Essence

Christa Joanna Lee

More to know: Chemical exfoliant; a 9% blend of lactic, azelaic, and tranexamic acids, with panthenol, rice water, and colloidal oatmeal; fragrance-free.

Best for Hyperpigmentation: Rose Ingleton MD SuperFruit Exfoliating Tonic

Rose Ingleton MD SuperFruit Exfoliating Tonic costs $48 at Amazon, Shop, and Sephora.

Allure social media manager Bianca Richards applying the Rose Ingleton MD SuperFruit Exfoliating Tonic

Bianca Richards

Why it’s worth it: Post-acne marks and sun-related discoloration can remain after the original trigger has passed, as excess melanin may linger for months. This tonic uses 8% glycolic acid to lift dead surface cells over time, helping skin look more even. Dermatologist Cheryl Karcher, MD, of New York City, describes it as lightweight and a good option for dull or uneven skin when you want a polished look without a scrub.

The 2026 Best of Beauty Award winner pairs glycolic acid with Jamaican superfruit extracts, including sugarcane, orange, and lemon, plus licorice root extract to target the appearance of discoloration. Aloe, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid add hydration, a useful counterweight since glycolic acid can dry skin. Still, 8% is a fairly strong concentration for home use. If you already use retinol or other acids, start slowly.

Aloe is also among the tonic’s hydrating ingredients.

Richards before applying the Rose Ingleton MD SuperFruit Exfoliating Tonic

Bianca Richards

Richards after applying the Rose Ingleton MD SuperFruit Exfoliating Tonic

Bianca Richards

Tester feedback from social media manager Bianca Richards

“My breakouts sit deep, and even when I leave them alone, they can leave dark marks behind. I already like Rose Ingleton MD’s gel cleanser, another Best of Beauty winner, and adding the toner and my usual moisturizer has made my routine feel more effective. Glycolic acid is strong, so I’m careful about how often I use it and what else I apply alongside it. Twice a week at night, followed by a hydrating serum and a thick moisturizer, works for me. After about a week and a half, a mark under my chin had visibly faded, with no irritation.” —Bianca Richards, social media manager

More to know: Chemical exfoliant; 8% glycolic acid, Jamaican superfruit extracts, licorice root extract, aloe vera, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid; fragrance-free.

Best for Sensitive Skin: Medik8 Press & Glow Daily Exfoliating PHA Tonic

Medik8 Press & Glow Daily Exfoliating PHA Tonic is $35 at Amazon, Shop, and Dermstore.

Why it’s worth it: When skin reacts easily, exfoliation can become a balancing act. Medik8 takes a lower intensity route with 5.5% gluconolactone, a polyhydroxy acid that dermatologist Dr. Turegano says removes dead cells gently while helping skin retain moisture. Glycerin draws water into the skin; Philadelphia dermatologist Carlos Vieira, MD, calls it one of his favorite humectants for keeping skin looking fresh and bouncy. Aloe vera, acai, and prickly pear extracts round out the soothing formula. For background on the brand, see Allure’s Medik8 guide.

Lee applying the Medik8 Press & Glow Daily Exfoliating PHA Tonic

Christa Joanna Lee

Lee after applying the Medik8 Press & Glow Daily Exfoliating PHA Tonic

Christa Joanna Lee

Tester feedback from Lee

“I only recently started liking toners, and this one changed my mind about the drying, stingy formulas I used to associate with them. On my dry, sensitive skin it feels almost like water, but it’s doing more than that. The mild acids and aloe leave my skin soft, calm, and clean.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know: Chemical exfoliant; 5.5% gluconolactone, hyaluronic acid, green tea, aloe, and prickly pear extract; fragrance-free.

Best Fast-Acting: Shani Darden Triple Acid Signature Peel

Shani Darden Triple Acid Signature Peel is $125 at Amazon, Shop, and Sephora.

Cruel applying the Shani Darden Triple Acid Signature Peel

Jessica Cruel

Why it’s worth it: For a special event or a quick skin refresh, this two-step treatment aims for visible radiance fast. The first application combines lactic, glycolic, and mandelic acids to loosen dead surface cells. Then a clay mask helps lift oil and debris from pores. It includes glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and allantoin, which can help limit that tight, stripped feeling; still, follow with a nourishing moisturizer. The formula is potent, so using it every other week at most—or saving it for when you want an extra polish—makes more sense than frequent use. It’s also an Allure Best of Beauty Award winner. For more on clay masks, see this guide to the best clay face masks.

Cruel before applying the Shani Darden Triple Acid Signature Peel

Jessica Cruel

Cruel after applying the Shani Darden Triple Acid Signature Peel

Jessica Cruel

For acne-prone skin: Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

Paula’s Choice’s 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant has outlasted its viral moment, and that staying power makes sense: it pairs a high over-the-counter concentration of salicylic acid with a simple, leave-on format. The product won an Allure Best of Beauty Award. Salicylic acid is oil-soluble, so it can get into pores and help clear excess oil and debris. New York City dermatologist Claire Chang, MD, told Allure that it exfoliates, helps reduce clogged pores, and can leave skin clearer and brighter. For persistent congestion or uneven texture, regular use may help skin look smoother over time. Green tea is included to help temper irritation, though even a popular exfoliant can be too much if your skin is sensitive or you layer it with other strong actives. Start gradually and pay attention to how your skin responds. Sarah Felbin, former senior commerce editor, says a small amount on a cotton round covers her face and feels gentle on her sensitive skin while helping manage oiliness and breakouts. She says it leaves her complexion glowing. **More to know:** Chemical exfoliant; key ingredients include 2% BHA (salicylic acid), green tea, and butylene glycol; fragrance-free.

Other face exfoliators to consider

For mature skin: SkinBetter Science AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads

SkinBetter Science AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads — $130 at SkinBetter Science. These pads combine a retinoid with lactic, glycolic, and salicylic acids, bringing several exfoliating approaches into one treatment. The mix is intended to address fine lines, uneven tone, roughness, and pore congestion. Dr. Turegano likes the formula for tackling multiple concerns, including dullness and fine lines. That breadth comes with a trade-off: the formula may be too intense for beginners or easily irritated skin. The brand suggests using it up to three evenings weekly; Dr. Turegano advises starting with one or two nights, particularly if you already use other active ingredients. She uses the pads once a week herself. Contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai says the pads left her oily, acne-prone skin smoother and clearer after one use, with only slight tingling. She describes the treatment as intense and says she alternates it with her regular retinoid, taking breaks from both when her skin needs them. Pai also praises the brand’s Clearing Serum for acne-prone skin. **More to know:** Chemical and physical exfoliation; key ingredients include retinol, lactic acid, glycolic acid, and salicylic acid; fragrance-free.

Drugstore pick: RoC Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing 2-Step Peel Pads

RoC Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing 2-Step Peel Pads — $30 at Amazon, $39 at Shop, and $39 at Ulta Beauty. The two-step format targets dullness and wrinkles with a blend of exfoliating acids followed by retinol. The first pad uses lactic, glycolic, and mandelic acid to loosen dead surface cells. Dr. Karcher says this step helps clear the dull layer that can make mature skin look flat. The second step applies retinol, which works more gradually on cell turnover, texture, and fine lines. Ectoin and allantoin help soothe and support skin while the actives do their work. These are potent ingredients in a compact routine, so daily use is a poor starting point, especially for dry or sensitive skin. Increase frequency only as your skin tolerates it. **More to know:** Chemical and physical exfoliation; key ingredients include lactic acid, glycolic acid, mandelic acid, retinol, ectoin, and allantoin; fragrance-free.

Frequently asked questions

What do chemical exfoliators do?

Chemical exfoliants loosen the bonds between dead skin cells so they shed and reveal fresher skin underneath. Rhode Island dermatologist Tiffany J. Libby, MD, says they can also unclog pores, brighten skin, support cell renewal, and—in some cases—help stimulate collagen production. Smoother surface skin may also help other skin-care products absorb more effectively. For an overview, see Allure’s guide to chemical exfoliants. The right acid depends on your skin. New York City dermatologist Michelle Henry, MD, advises people with sensitive skin to avoid mechanical exfoliation at first and consider alpha hydroxy acids, such as AHAs or glycolic acid, which exfoliate the upper layers while helping skin retain moisture. Dr. Libby suggests gentler options such as polyhydroxy acids, lactic acid, or mandelic acid; their larger molecules tend not to penetrate as deeply and are less likely to irritate. For more resilient, acne-prone skin, salicylic acid’s smaller molecular size helps it reach into pores.

What do physical exfoliators do?

Physical exfoliators use particles to buff dead cells from the skin’s surface. Dr. Henry says oily skin can benefit because dead cells and oil may build up and contribute to breakouts. She recommends a scrub with salicylic acid to help speed turnover and reach oily follicles; Dr. Libby also points to salicylic acid for managing oil and clearing pores. If you choose a scrub, keep the pressure light.

Can you exfoliate too much?

Absolutely. Too-frequent or overly harsh exfoliation can cause redness, irritation, breakouts, and damage to the skin barrier. Most people should stay at or below three sessions a week; dry or sensitive skin may do better with one or two. If you’re unsure how often to use a product, start with a lower frequency and follow its instructions. Skin cycling, which alternates active treatments with recovery nights, is another way to build in rest. For physical exfoliation, Dr. Henry recommends gentle circular motions for about 30 seconds or less. Chemical exfoliants vary, so follow the directions on the product.

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