Dermatologists Say These Exfoliators Are the Secret to Smooth, Radiant Skin (2024)

TL;DR

Our Top Picks

Highlighted Ingredients: Lactic acid, salicylic acid, fruit enzymes | Formulation: Scrub | Skin Type: All | Size: 0.5, 2, 5 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Celebrity aesthetician Kate Somerville is responsible for the flawless complexions of some of Hollywood's biggest A-listers. But if you (like most of us) can't get in for one of her signature facials, you can still reap the benefits of her eponymous skincare line. This bestselling, fan-favorite product packs a one-two punch by blending chemical and physical exfoliants. A mix of lactic acid (an alpha-hydroxy acid or AHA), salicylic acid (beta-hydroxy acid or BHA), and pineapple, papaya, and pumpkin enzymes work to dissolve dead skin while the slightly grainy formulation physically buffs away cells.

When we tested this product, we loved how it instantly improved our complexions by fading hyperpigmentation and giving us an all-around glow.

Danielle, tester (not pictured): "My skin used to look and feel dry/parched when I would wake up in the morning, but now it has more of a healthy, natural glow to it. Another change is how consistently soft and supple my skin feels now."

Highlighted Ingredients: Lactic acid, glycolic acid, salicylic acid | Formulation: Nighttime serum | Skin Type: Oily, combination, balanced, dry | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This budget-friendly exfoliating treatment works while you sleep. Powered by a blend of acids—think lactic, glycolic, and salicylic—it improves skin texture, leading to smoother, more radiant-looking skin. The potent formula is a great choice for those with oily, combination, balanced, or dry skin who want to smooth skin texture without investing in a pricey product.

During testing, we loved the lightweight consistency and how quickly it absorbed, though it can leave a minor sticky residue on the skin immediately after application. One tester also noticed a bit of stinging when she first applied it, but this quickly went away. When she woke up the next morning, her complexion looked and felt noticeably smoother.

Chloe, tester: "This was a lightweight exfoliator, as there was no excess skin or peeling. It wasn't too harsh on the skin—I think this is the perfect overnight exfoliant for regular use in your weekly skincare routine."

Highlighted Ingredients: Salicylic acid, glycolic acid | Formulation: Toner | Skin Type: Oily, dry, acne-prone, sensitive | Size: 5.1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This convenient spray-on toner leans on both BHA and AHA (in the form of glycolic acid) to dissolve dead skin and reveal a healthier-looking complexion. We also appreciate the generously sized bottle and wallet-friendly price tag.

During testing, we found that it was easy to apply, absorbed quickly, and left skin feeling balanced. Although some people did experience very minor irritation at first, it didn't last long, and the impressive results made up for it. It reduced the appearance of pores, smooth skin texture, balance oil production, and reduce breakouts.

Kimberly, tester: "I like that it's easy to use with the spray bottle and that the ingredient list is powerful and potent without being too intense. This product definitely feels gentler and milder than some of the more astringent toners and exfoliators I've tried in the past, but not so gentle that it's not doing anything for my skin."

Highlighted Ingredients: Glycolic acid | Formulation: Gel treatment mask | Skin Type: All | Size: 2 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This dermatologist-recommended chemical exfoliator can help improve uneven skin tone, rough texture, fine lines, and breakouts. It is a great option for those seeking a potent, all-rounder treatment. It's also ideal for mature skin since it works to address fine lines and hyperpigmentation. Dr. Arch is a fan of this glycolic acid-based gel treatment mask. "I use it once a week for a deeper at-home chemical exfoliation to help with fine lines and pigmentation," she tells Byrdie, though you can apply it up to three times a week if your skin tolerates the formula.

"Chemical exfoliation with alpha-hydroxy acids offers additional benefits beyond helping to slough off dead skin cells," says Dr. Arch. She notes that glycolic acid and other AHAs can address dark spots, smooth uneven texture, help with acne, and minimize the look of pores. That said, some reviewers with sensitive skin said they experienced redness and irritation with this one.

Shannon Stubbs, Byrdie writer: "While it should be used similar to a mask, this gel peel from Glytone has a light, thin consistency that doesn’t become hard or stiff as it dries. I loved that it didn’t cause irritation even though it has a high concentration of AHAs, and it made my skin feel soft and smooth immediately after I washed it off.

Highlighted Ingredients: Sugar, lactic acid, papaya enzymes | Formulation: Scrub | Skin Type: All | Size: 2.9 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Can't decide between physical or chemical exfoliants? This scrub contains both, yielding noticeable results with just a few uses per week. There are so many facial scrubs out there today, but this heavenly concoction stands out because it packs on the power you'd expect from a physical scrub with the gentleness of natural ingredients. Since sugar is water-soluble, the granules dissolve as you go to help prevent the harsh results of over-exfoliating. We like that the formula also contains chemical exfoliants like lactic acid and papaya enzymes for additional resurfacing benefits.

It's worth noting that some online reviewers have said it caused them to break out. If you're reactive to skincare, we recommend patch-testing this one first.

Caitlyn Martyn, Byrdie associate editor: "The scrub has a rougher texture that easily sluffs off any dead skin. Despite how exfoliating and textured it is, my skin feels soft and hydrated after rinsing. My complexion feels softer and is left with a lovely coconut scent that isn't overpowering."

Highlighted Ingredients: Apricot seed powder, pomegranate enzymes, willow bark extract | Formulation: Gel scrub cleanser | Skin Type: Dry, combination, acne-prone | Size: 1.7, 4.1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This exfoliating cleanser is ideal for most skin types who want to incorporate gentle exfoliation into their everyday skincare routines. A little bit of this guy goes a long way. The cleanser pulls out all the stops to dissolve dead cells and polish skin gently. Apricot seed powder and pomegranate enzymes physically exfoliate, while BHA in the form of willow bark extract offers chemical exfoliation.

After cleansing, our tester's skin was smooth to the touch with a nearly unnoticeable texture. The grittiness was significant enough to be effective yet gentle enough not to cause irritation. Some have noted that it can be a bit drying, though it contains an olive oil complex for a boost of moisture.

Michelle, tester (not pictured): "My skin texture changed during the testing period—my skin looked brighter, more radiant, and clearer after use. I also noticed that my serums and moisturizers seemed to apply better after using the mask. I had no issues with dryness or irritation/redness from the mask. I am very happy with the product and how my aging skin looked after use."

Highlighted Ingredients: Lactic acid, glycolic acid, papaya extract, hyaluronic acid | Formulation: Gel-cream cleanser | Skin Type: Oily, combination, acne-prone | Size: 5 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

Exfoliating can leave your skin a little dry, which can be especially problematic if your complexion is already dehydrated. But that doesn't mean you should skip this skincare step. To avoid overdrying, Dr. Arch suggests a combo of gentle chemical exfoliants and hydrating ingredients—this drugstore pick checks both boxes.

The gel-to-cream formula uses two AHAs (glycolic and lactic acid) and papaya extract to gently smooth skin. Thanks to the addition of hyaluronic acid (a humectant), it attracts water from the air to the skin to moisturize and plump it. We don't love that it contains fragrance, but it's not overpowering to the point where it's a dealbreaker for us (but might be if you have reactive skin).

Lauren Pardee, Byrdie senior editor: "I love how this product isn't overly complicated. The water gel texture leaves my skin feeling fresh and clean. This product has been really great for removing excess makeup, too."

Highlighted Ingredients: Silica beads, glycerin, aloe vera powder | Formulation: Scrub | Skin Type: All | Size: 5 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

Those with dry skin need an exfoliator powerful enough to remove dry patches without stripping their skin of necessary moisture. Unlike other physical exfoliators made with jagged, scratchy particles that can wreak havoc on your skin, this one leans on earth-derived silica micro-beads and powdered aloe vera to resurface the skin and help mitigate redness. These ingredients remove dead skin cells without irritation, while aloe and glycerin hydrate and soothe. We just wish it didn't contain sulfates, which can be drying if used too often.

Shannon Stubbs, Byrdie writer: "This scrub has a gooey, jelly-like texture that’s easy to spread around the skin, with super tiny beads that exfoliate while still feeling gentle. It makes my skin smoother immediately after applying and has a soothing aloe smell that isn’t overpowering."

Highlighted Ingredients: Poly-hydroxy acid, niacinamide, aloe vera | Formulation: Toner | Skin Type: Dry, combination, sensitive | Size: 3.4 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

You've heard of AHA and BHA, but what about PHA? Poly-hydroxy acids are another type of chemical exfoliant that removes dead, dry cells from the skin's surface. Since the molecules are slightly larger, they don't penetrate as deeply, making them notably gentler and a prime option for those with easily irritating skin.

This leave-on toner combines PHA with soothing aloe vera and redness-reducingniacinamide(vitamin B3), making it even more sensitive skin-friendly. According to Dr. Arch, it's the best product for easing into exfoliation, especially if your skin is particularly reactive—once or twice a week is a good place to start.

Amanda Rosenthal, Byrdie writer: "This hydrating serum is almost like a toner. It's extremely lightweight and watery but quickly soaks into the skin."

Highlighted Ingredients: Salicylic acid | Formulation: Toner | Skin Type: Oily, acne-prone | Size: 1, 4 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This beloved toner from Paula's Choice (the brand's number one product worldwide, NBD) touts the chemical exfoliant salicylic acid to treat blemish-prone skin in addition to other exfoliating acids that remove dead skin cells. BHA gently exfoliates and unclogs pores by dissolving oil, sebum, and other gunk that can get lodged in there. Also nice: It's a leave-on formula, so all you have to do is swipe it on with a cotton pad or pat it onto cleansed skin.

After a week of using this product, we could see (and feel) a difference in our skin texture. We also loved how lightweight and non-greasy it felt; it was easy to layer into our skincare routines. However, it can occasionally be drying, especially if you have sensitive skin, so we recommend applying a good moisturizer after use.

Elena, tester: "I love what it does to my pores. If you have large pores, this is the stuff. It's perfect in every way for me. My skincare soulmate."

Highlighted Ingredients: Glycolic acid, lactic acid, malic acid, salicylic acid, retinol, vitamin C | Formulation: Pre-soaked single-use cloths | Skin Type: All | Size: 5–60 treatments | Cruelty-Free: Yes

A favorite among the Byrdie team, these pre-soaked pads from Dr. Dennis Gross make exfoliation a cinch. All you have to do is swipe and go; no water required. The formula includes a blend of five exfoliating acids plus retinol, vitamin C, and other antioxidants.

We love how exceptionally smooth, even, refreshed, and healthy looking these AHA and BHA pads left our skin. The individual packs are also perfect for travel. We do wish the packaging was more sustainable. And the exfoliants in the formula may be too harsh for everyday use.

Allison, tester: "This is the strongest exfoliant formula I have tried—I saw immediate results after the first use. I have noticed a significant increase in the glowiness of my skin."

Highlighted Ingredients: Lactic acid, licorice extract | Formulation: Leave-on or rinse-off serum | Skin Type: All | Size: 0.5, 1, 1.7, 3.4 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

It often takes time to see significant results from skincare products, but devoted fans of this leave-on exfoliant know the effects are visible after just one night. Lactic acid handles the exfoliating duties and tackles uneven texture and fine lines, while licorice extract and other antioxidants address dark spots.

After testing this formula, we liked how it instantly plumps, hydrates, and improves skin clarity. However, the product can increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun, so we recommend using it as part of your nightly skincare routine.

Jenna, tester: "Immediately after applying Good Genes the first time, my skin felt firmer, softer, and more hydrated once the product had fully absorbed. While I could feel these results more than see them, I did have a more dewy, radiant glow overall."

Type: Dermaplaning tool | Skin Type: All

The tech-savvy set will appreciate this multi-tasking, battery-powered dermaplaning tool, which offers instant gratification in the form of an immediately soft, radiant complexion. How? By removing peach fuzz and surface-level dead skin cells. This not only gives the skin a smooth appearance, but it helps to ensure that your skincare products properly absorb, and it also creates an even canvas for makeup.

When we tested this dermaplaning tool, we noticed it was much easier to use than it looked. After gliding it over our skin, we could actually see the tiny hairs on the blade edge, which was pretty satisfying. It left our faces smooth, soft, and radiant. The only downside is the price, which is a bit steep, plus the fact that replacement blades aren't the cheapest.

Samantha, tester: "I felt comfortable using the tool on my skin and was very pleased with how gentle it was. Because the tool is electric, it sounds a bit daunting, but the delicacy is there in spite of the noise of the blade."

Highlighted Ingredients: Rice bran, green tea, algae | Formulation: Powder scrub | Skin Type: Dry, combination, oily, sensitive | Size: 2.1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Enzymes can be just as effective as AHAs at exfoliating skin—often without any irritation. That's why we love Tatcha's powder-to-foam option. The water-activated formula calls on rice bran enzymes to gently remove dead skin, leaving you with a freshly polished, ultrasmooth complexion. Once it foams, it has a creamy consistency that nourishes the skin. After using it, we noticed that it gave our complexions a natural radiance.

Mixing the powder with water can get a little messy, but otherwise, we absolutely love this product.

Dominique Hobdy, Byrdie senior editor:“I loved this product for my ultra-oily skin. It effectively gets rid of dirt and grime from the day. I have a few exfoliating products that work well, but they aren't quite as satisfying, it's really great to feel exfoliating beads on my skin.”

FAQ

• How frequently should you exfoliate?

  Plastic surgeon Dr. Melissa Doft, M.D., says exfoliating two to three times a week is ideal for getting rid of dead skin cells without stripping the skin. Sensitive skin types may want to stick to once or twice per week. Exfoliating in the evening is ideal, as it helps open up your pores to the rest of your nighttime skincare routine. Depending on the product, some skin types can tolerate more frequent exfoliation, as often as five days a week or even daily.

• Is it better to exfoliate with scrubs or acids?

  Physical and chemical exfoliators each have benefits and drawbacks, so which one to use is a matter of personal preference. Scrubs can often be abrasive, but you may notice more immediate results with them. Chemical exfoliators are generally slightly gentler but can take longer to produce noticeable results. If you have sensitive skin, you’ll want to look at the ingredients to see whether a product may cause a reaction for you. But in general, both types can be safe and effective.

• What are the benefits of exfoliating?

  Exfoliating helps increase cell turnover, removing dead skin cells and debris that accumulate on the top layers of the skin to reveal a fresh complexion underneath. This can also increase skin radiance and help prevent sebum buildup, which can lead to breakouts.

• When should you not exfoliate?

  If you're suffering from any sort of skin concern such as acne, a rash, eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea, it's best to hold off on exfoliating until the condition is resolved or not active as it could make the condition worse.

• What happens when you over-exfoliate?

  Over-exfoliating (by either scrubbing too aggressively or using an exfoliant too often) can be damaging, potentially leading to redness, irritation, or micro-tears in the skin. It may also make your skin more sensitive to other products.