If you grew up in the ’90s, you might still remember those harsh scrubs packed with crushed walnut shells or apricot pits — the kind that promised a deep clean but often left your skin red, raw, and irritated. It’s no wonder so many people ended up avoiding exfoliation altogether. What we thought was clearing out the grime was actually causing tiny tears and inflammation we didn’t notice at the time.
Thankfully, exfoliation has come a long way since then. Today, instead of scrubbing skin with gritty particles, most of us rely on gentle chemical exfoliants that softly dissolve dead cells and unclog pores without damage. The heroes here? Hydroxy acids, which break down dull surface cells and excess oil to reveal smoother, brighter skin beneath.
But not all acids are the same. Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), like glycolic and lactic acids, work on the skin’s surface to even texture and tone. Beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), primarily salicylic acid, dive deeper to clear out pores and reduce oiliness. And then there are polyhydroxy acids (PHAs), which are the gentlest players, ideal for sensitive skin that still wants a glow-up.
To help you navigate the crowded world of exfoliants, we tested 22 different formulas, and sent 11 of the best to a diverse group of testers—people of varying skin tones and ages—to see which really stood out. The result? A lineup ranging from budget-friendly classics to luxe serums and gentle night creams, so you can find the perfect match no matter your skin type or budget.
Our Top Picks: What Stands Out?
The Timeless Classic: PanOxyl Clarifying Exfoliant 2% Salicylic Acid
If you’re looking for a no-nonsense, wallet-friendly exfoliant that packs a punch, PanOxyl is your go-to. Many of our testers remembered this one from their teen years and were surprised to find it still works wonders on mature, acne-prone skin.
At 2%, it delivers the maximum salicylic acid allowed in over-the-counter products, which means it’s excellent at penetrating pores and breaking down excess oils. Unlike some runnier exfoliants, PanOxyl absorbs quickly without leaving a sticky residue. Plus, it’s free from alcohol and fragrance, featuring soothing ingredients like glycerin and chamomile to calm your skin while it works.
One tester raved about how well it played under makeup—drying fast and smoothing out the skin’s surface without any shine or redness, unlike other BHAs that left her skin irritated or sticky. The only downside? Its packaging isn’t the fanciest, and because it’s quite liquidy, applying it without overlapping spots can be tricky.
Price: Around $11–$12
Where: Amazon, Ulta
The Versatile Upgrade: Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Paula’s Choice has built a reputation for reliable, science-backed skincare, and their 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant lives up to the hype. What really sets it apart is the simplicity of its formula—only eight ingredients total—and a commitment to fragrance-free, irritation-minimizing skincare.
The salicylic acid concentration matches PanOxyl’s 2%, but Paula’s Choice adds green tea leaf extract for a calming, antioxidant boost. Some testers noticed a slight tingling or flushing at first, but nothing unbearable.
What’s great here is the variety: if the liquid isn’t your vibe, they offer a gel version with a bit more conditioning agents, and even a gentler 1% BHA option for sensitive skin. Our panel especially loved how obvious the exfoliation felt—one oily skin tester enjoyed seeing the cotton pad come away visibly grimy after use, which made the process feel truly effective.
If the price tag feels steep—roughly $35—it’s worth remembering that this is a step up in formulation and versatility, with lots of options to fine-tune your exfoliating routine.
Price: Around $14–$35 depending on retailer
Where: Amazon, Dermstore, Sephora
Creamy & Soothing: CeraVe Skin Renewing Nightly Exfoliating Treatment
For those who prefer a gentle, hydrating approach, this creamy exfoliant from CeraVe is a fantastic choice. Unlike many liquid exfoliants that can feel sharp or drying, this one blends glycolic and lactic acids with a soothing mix of ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin. The result? Skin that feels soft, smooth, and surprisingly plump.
The AHAs work in tandem—glycolic acid acts quickly, while lactic acid offers a slower, moisturizing exfoliation. This formula is lower in acid concentration (5%) compared to some others, which means it’s mild enough for daily use without causing irritation.
Testers liked how the lotion-like texture stayed put during application—no drips, no accidental stinging near the eyes or lips. And although it has a slightly unusual scent—some described it as vaguely like soy sauce—the hydrating benefits outweighed this minor quirk.
Price: Around $24–$32
Where: Amazon, Dermstore, Ulta
What Makes a Great Exfoliant?
Exfoliating is about more than just sloughing off dead skin—it’s about improving skin texture, clearing pores, and prepping your face for the rest of your skincare routine. But how often should you exfoliate? For most, 2-3 times a week is plenty. Overdoing it can backfire, causing sensitivity or dryness.
Also Read : Nighttime Skincare Routine for Glowing Skin: Wake Up Radian
