The 18 Best Chemical Exfoliants of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
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Our top pick is the Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant
People / Allison Widmer
When it comes to skincare routines, regular exfoliation can help slough off the dead skin cell buildup that gets in the way of our radiance while also balancing oil production and even clarifying skin tone through cleansing the pores and fading hyperpigmentation. While a physical face scrub or exfoliating cleanser can help get the job done, chemical exfoliants can totally up the ante.
Chemical vs. Physical Exfoliants
As the name suggests, physical exfoliants have ingredients that physically target dead skin cell buildup, excess oil, and congested pores. A chemical exfoliant, on the other hand, is usually acid- or enzyme-based and lifts away debris on a cellular level.
Chemical exfoliants are often the preferred option for those with acne-prone or sensitive complexions that tend to get irritated from being physically scrubbed with a skincare formula — though dry and normal skin types can certainly benefit from these types of exfoliators, too.
“By breaking down the bonds between skin cells, the chemical compounds help with the regeneration of new, healthier cells,” Dr. Dendy Engelman, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Shafer Clinic, tells PEOPLE. “The most common ingredients in chemical exfoliators are alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), such as glycolic acid or lactic acid, and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), such as salicylic acid."
In addition to their gentler application process, Dr. Engelman says some of the benefits of chemical exfoliants include smoother skin, fewer wrinkles and fine lines, brighter complexion, and removal of dirt and impurities. These types of exfoliants can also stimulate cellular turnover to reduce hyperpigmentation, acne scars, and other blemishes while revealing more radiant-looking skin.
To see which ones are worth adding to your cart, we spent a total of 396 hours testing 33 different chemical exfoliating products, considering each formula's consistency, distribution, and exfoliation properties as well evaluating the skin's look and feel at the end of the testing period.
Keep reading to learn more about the best chemical exfoliants, tested by PEOPLE.
Best Overall: Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Pros
It’s formulated with salicylic acid, which can effectively balance the complexion and help reduce excess oil production.
With regular use, we noticed a significant reduction in pore size on our nose.
It’s easy to use and fast absorbing, so you can layer it with other skincare products without any downtime.
Cons
We wouldn’t change a thing — it is honestly that great.
After testing 33 different chemical exfoliants, our PEOPLE Tested team deemed the Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant a “miracle product,” giving it a perfect score on our testing sheet. The exfoliating toner is enriched with 2 percent salicylic acid, which can effectively balance the complexion and help reduce excess oil production.
The formula is also easy to apply — you just dab a little on a cotton ball and apply to the skin — and fast absorbing, so it’s easy to layer other skincare formulas on top. While you don’t see results right away, we noticed a significant reduction in pore size on our nose after regular use. Over time, our complexion in general appeared much softer, smoother, and more calm.
This chemical exfoliant might be highly effective but it’s also gentle enough to use daily, as well as on sensitive skin types. On top of its clarifying benefits, the formula also helps fade hyperpigmentation and can improve the overall brightness of the skin, revealing a fresh layer of radiance.
Size: 4 oz. | Type: Toner | Key Ingredients: 2% BHA
Best Budget: Elf Cosmetics Holy Hydration! Gentle Peeling Exfoliant
Pros
It’s formulated with enzymes, so it’s a gentler formula (compared to other types of chemical exfoliants) and safe for sensitive skin.
The product might be gentle but it’s highly effective at removing dry skin cells — you can literally see the skin pilling away.
With regular use, our skin texture improved and our complexion appeared more radiant than before.
Cons
Since it’s a gentle exfoliating formula, it’s not ideal for those who need something a little more powerful.
If you want a budget-friendly chemical exfoliant, we were blown away by the Elf Gentle Peeling Exfoliant. This budget-friendly weekly exfoliator is designed to use between two and three times a week, after cleansing and before moisturizing. It’s enriched with papaya extract — which has lots of exfoliating enzymes — licorice root, and tangerine extract to gently and effectively peel away dull skin while also providing a burst of antioxidants.
To get this product to work its magic, you apply it to the complexion and then gently massage it into the skin. This will gently lift away dead skin cells and create a pilling effect that you can then rinse away and reveal a brighter, smoother, and more radiant complexion.
Size: 3.04 oz. | Type: Exfoliator | Key Ingredients: Papaya extract, licorice root, tangerine extract
Best Night Cream: Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Glycolic Night Cream
Pros
The Caudalie night cream is oil-free and non comedogenic, making it a great choice for acne-prone skin.
A little bit of formula goes a long way (after six weeks of testing, we still have half the jar left).
It’s an overnight treatment that conveniently works while you sleep to dissolve dry skin.
With regular use, our fine lines looked a lot less defined.
Cons
The formula leaves a sticky residue that is still noticeable in the morning, but it washes off easily with cleanser and warm water.
The Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Glycolic Night Cream is our top pick for the best night cream. This formula is enriched with the brand’s coveted Viniferine ingredient, which is derived from grapevine sap extract and is four times as effective as kojic acid and 62 times more effective than vitamin C.
The formula itself features a thick and creamy consistency that is easy to apply across the complexion without needing a ton of product. In fact, we were able to stretch this 1.6-oz. formula and still have half a jar left after six weeks of testing. Since it’s a night cream, the overnight treatment works while you sleep to dissolve dry skin buildup, target hyperpigmentation, and blur fine lines and wrinkles.
Following the testing period, we not only experienced softer, smoother, and brighter skin, but we also noticed a that our fine lines and wrinkles looked much less defined as well.
Size: 1.6 oz. | Type: Night cream | Key Ingredients: Viniferine
Best Multipurpose: Cosrx AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner
Pros
The ingredient list is powerful and potent to provide effective exfoliation but it’s still gentle enough for beginners.
The spray bottle makes the application process a lot easier and more convenient.
It costs $20 for over 5 oz. of product, making it one of our top picks with the best value.
It’s a multipurpose formula that exfoliates, clarifies, and hydrates at once.
Cons
Since the formula is so gentle, it can take longer to see results compared to other products we tested.
Those new to chemical exfoliants can benefit from adding the Cosrx AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner to their skincare regimen. This exfoliating toner comes in a spray bottle so it’s convenient and easy to use. It also costs $20 for over 5 oz. of product, making it one of the best values on our list. On top of that, it’s a multipurpose formula that doesn’t just exfoliate but also clarifies and hydrates at the same time.
During the testing period, we were impressed by how well this formula absorbed into the skin, allowing very little downtime between skincare steps. With regular use, our skin appeared brighter and more radiant. The formula also helped clarify our pores which, over time, can help them shrink in size. And we experienced a slight blurring of fine lines and wrinkles, too.
Size: 5.07 oz. | Type: Toner | Key Ingredients: Willow bark water, apple fruit water, glycolic acid, betaine salicylate
Best Anti-Aging: Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel
Pros
We experienced results immediately after the first use.
The two-part peel pad treatment is formulated targets dull skin, large pores, and signs of aging.
At the end of the testing period, we noticed an increased radiance and more revitalized-looking skin.
Cons
The product stings and results in a little redness at first, but that subsides after a few minutes.
It may be too strong to use every day. Instead, we recommend using this treatment 2-3 times per week.
If you want immediate anti-aging results, consider trying the Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel. This peel pad system comes with 30 two-part packs and is designed to target dull skin, large pores, and signs of aging — and it totally delivers.
The first step features peel pads with 5 Alpha Beta acids and chamomile to dissolve dry skin, brighten, and neutralize the skin, and the second step delivers a dose of retinol and green tea extract to improve elasticity, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and protect skin from environmental aggressors.
While testing this formula, we were impressed by how well the pads worked, and the immediate results we experienced. While it does sting and leave skin a little red at first, that subsides after a few minutes, and skin appears brighter, softer, and smoother.
The peel pads are definitely on the stronger side, and we found our skin was too sensitive to use it every day. We instead opted to use this between two and three times per week and, with regular use, experienced an increased radiance and more revitalized-looking skin.
Size: 30 packs | Type: Peel pads | Key Ingredients: 5 Alpha Beta acids, chamomile, retinol, green tea extract
Best for Sensitive Skin: First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads
Pros
The formula provides a gentle exfoliation that effectively sloughs off dull skin without causing irritation.
The skin absorbs the formula quickly, so it’s an easy product to layer with other skincare elixirs.
The pad features a smooth side and a textured side for a more custom exfoliation.
It’s gentle enough to use daily, even on sensitive skin.
Cons
We wouldn’t change a thing!
The First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads are an excellent option if you’re looking for daily peel pads that are gentle enough for sensitive skin types. These pads come in either a pack of 60 or 28 and are infused with a blend of glycolic acid, lactic acid, lemon peel, cucumber water, and Indian gooseberry to improve brightness, reduce dry skin buildup, and reveal a softer and smoother skin texture.
While testing these peel pads, we found they work well as a daily option. The formula is also super absorbent — the skin drinks it up — so it layers nicely with other formulas, too. The pads feature a smooth side and more textured side, allowing you to customize your exfoliation. With regular use, we experienced a brighter, more radiant complexion without irritating our sensitive skin.
Size: 28 pack, 60 pack | Type: Peel pads | Key Ingredients: Glycolic acid, lactic acid, lemon peel, cucumber water, Indian gooseberry
Best Hydrating: Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow BHA + PHA Pore-Tight Toner
Pros
The toner absorbs quickly into the complexion, making it easier to layer with other formulas.
Since it includes hydrating ingredients like cactus water, hyaluronic acid, and cucumber, it doesn’t leave the skin feeling tight or parched.
A little bit of formula goes a long way.
Cons
After initial application, the skin appears warm and flushed, but that subsides after a few minutes.
If you have concerns about using a chemical exfoliant because you don’t want to subject your skin to that parched, tight feeling, we found the most hydrating option for your arsenal.
The Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Face Toner is formulated with a blend of polyhydroxy acids, BHAs, watermelon, cactus water, hyaluronic acid, tea tree extract, and cucumber, so it targets dull skin and balances the complexion without stripping the complexion and kicking oil production into overdrive.
When using this formula, we immediately noticed how well it absorbs into the skin and how easy it is to layer other formulas on top. The skin does appear warm and flushed after the initial application, but that quickly subsides after just a few minutes.
Since it has so many moisturizing ingredients, the toner doesn’t leave the skin feeling tight and uncomfortable and instead removes dry skin buildup while also restoring a level of radiance only achievable with proper hydration.
Size: 5.07 oz. | Type: Toner | Key Ingredients: Watermelon, polyhydroxy acids, cactus water, BHA, hyaluronic acid, tea tree extract, cucumber
People / Emily Teel
Best Firming: Good Molecules Overnight Exfoliating Treatment
Pros
It’s enriched with three potent acids to slough off dry skin and eliminate dullness while also balancing oil production.
The overnight treatment also works to clarify the pores, reducing their overall size and promoting a clearer-looking complexion.
With regular use, our skin looked a little tighter, with more blurred fine lines and wrinkles.
Cons
There is a slight tingling sensation upon application.
In addition to promoting more radiant-looking skin, chemical exfoliants can also support a more youthful-looking complexion by toning, tightening, and blurring fine lines and wrinkles. If you want the best chemical exfoliant for tightening, consider the Good Molecules Exfoliating Treatment.
This overnight treatment goes on like a serum and works while you sleep to clarify the pores, reducing their overall size and promoting a clearer-looking complexion. Its formula is also enriched with three potent acids — glycolic, lactic, and salicylic — to target dull skin and balance oil production for a more harmonious complexion.
With regular use, our skin looked and felt tighter than before. Our complexion also had a more noticeable glow to it.
Size: 1 oz. | Type: Overnight treatment | Key Ingredients: Glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid
People / Chloe Caldwell
Best for Dry Skin: Holifrog Shasta Exfoliating AHA Daily Cleanser
Pros
The exfoliating cleanser sloughs off dry, dead skin while also keeping skin comfortably moisturized.
The formula is incredibly gentle on the complexion.
We found our skin to look more radiant after regular use.
Cons
It has a slight chemical scent which may not be pleasant for everyone (however, it doesn't last long).
When cleansing dry skin with an exfoliating formula, you’ll want something with effective ingredients that slough off dry skin as well as some added nourishment for moisturizing the complexion. We found these requirements in the Holifrog Shasta Exfoliating AHA Daily Cleanser, which features a blend of glycolic, lactic, mandelic, tartaric, and citric acid, along with rosehip seed oil and aloe vera leaf juice.
With all of these nourishing ingredients, the formula provides a potent cleanse that, with regular use, reveals a more radiant complexion. It also delivers a dose of nourishment, helping to prep and prime the skin for serums and moisturizers.
Despite its blend of acidic ingredients, the cleanser is incredibly gentle and we never experienced irritation while using it regularly. Our only complaint is the scent, which has a slight chemical aroma. Luckily, it’s a cleanser formula, so once you rinse it off, it doesn’t linger.
Size: 5.07 oz. | Type: Cleanser | Key Ingredients: Glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid, tartaric acid, citric acid, Australian caviar lime extract, aloe vera leaf juice, rosehip seed oil
Best for Uneven Skin Tone: Hyper Skin Hyper Even Fade and Glow AHA Mask
Pros
The formula features niacinamide to help target dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
It also features salicylic acid and sea buckthorn to help keep acne at bay.
With regular use, the mask can even out the skin’s tone.
Cons
The skin experiences a tingling sensation upon application, so it’s not ideal for sensitive complexions.
If you have skin tone concerns and are looking for a chemical exfoliant that can even things out, we recommend the Hyper Skin Fade and Glow AHA Mask. This exfoliating face mask is enriched with glycolic acid and mandelic acid to slough off dry, dead skin cells and target the complexion’s overall appearance. It also features niacinamide to help fast dark spots and hyperpigmentation with regular use as well as salicylic acid to balance oil and keep acne at bay.
During the testing period, we were impressed by how effective this mask is at brightening and toning the complexion. At the start of the test, we were hoping to target some uneven skin tone on our cheeks and were pleasantly surprised that, by the end of it, our hyperpigmentation faded quite a bit.
While this formula is highly effective at targeting dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and dull skin, it’s worth noting that it can make skin feel a bit tingly upon application. So, if you have sensitive skin, you might want to opt for a gentler treatment, like the First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads.
Size: 1.69 oz. | Type: Mask | Key Ingredients: Glycolic acid, mandelic acid, niacinamide, bearberry, salicylic acid, sea buckthorn
Best for Dark Spots: Kate Somerville Liquid ExfoliKate Triple Acid Resurfacing Treatment
Pros
The pump bottle makes it so easy to dispense product.
In addition to potent acids, the treatment also has pumpkin, papaya, and pineapple enzymes for additional exfoliating power.
Over time, it helped reduce dark spots and revealed a more even-toned complexion.
Cons
The formula is slightly sticky, but that goes away when layering other skincare products on top.
The Kate Somerville Liquid ExfoliKate Triple Acid Resurfacing Treatment is another strong formula that can even out the skin tone and address hyperpigmentation, especially dark spots. This chemical exfoliant features a blend of glycolic acid, malic acid, and lactic acid, along with pumpkin, papaya, and pineapple enzymes for added potency. It also has a dose of honey — which is a natural humectant — for its hydrating benefits.
While testing this formula, we first noticed the bottle’s convenience and love that it has a pump design to dispense product. With regular use, the formula also helped target dark spots and our complexion looked more even in tone. It also effectively dissolved dry skin and, after the testing period, it transformed our skin texture by softening and smoothing the surface.
Size: 4 oz. | Type: Treatment | Key Ingredients: Glycolic acid, malic acid, lactic acid, tetra-peptide, honey, tea extract, physic acid, pumpkin, papaya, pineapple enzymes
Best for Acne Scars: No7 Laboratories Resurfacing Peel 15% Glycolic Acid
Pros
The formula features glycerin for a dose of lightweight hydration.
It features 15 percent glycolic acid, an AHA that improves the skin’s appearance by targeting hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, and texture.
Despite its potency, it’s actually quite gentle.
Cons
We only wish it came in a bigger bottle!
If you have acne-prone skin, using an AHA can help target some of the dark spots and hyperpigmentation caused by acne scars. With this in mind, we tested the No. 7 Laboratories Resurfacing Peel 15% Glycolic Acid and absolutely loved it.
The formula is enriched with a whopping 15 percent glycolic acid, an AHA that improves the skin’s appearance with regular use. It also features glycerin for an added dose of hydration. After testing this serum, our skin texture appeared much softer and smoother with a more radiant finish. We also saw an improvement in our skin tone, especially in the areas where we had some acne scarring.
Size: 1 oz. | Type: Serum | Key Ingredients: Glycolic acid, glycerin
People / Rachel Thalhuber
Best for Enlarged Pores: Paula’s Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster
Pros
It’s a targeted treatment that, over time, can reduce the look of enlarged pores while also clarifying the complexion.
Skin felt smoother after the first application.
This formula is gentle enough for sensitive skin types.
Cons
Results can take a lot longer than expected (but they’re worth the wait).
The Paula’s Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster didn’t get the same perfect score as the Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant. However, it’s still worth trying — especially considering its clarifying benefits.
While testing this formula, our skin felt smoother after the initial application but it wasn’t enough to wow us. In time (and by the end of the testing period), we saw a lot more results, especially when reviewing our before and after photos for noticeable changes. Of all of the results, our pores improved the most. Since this exfoliating formula can slough away dry skin and clarify the complexion, our pores looked a lot smaller than they did at the start of the testing period.
The formula is also another noteworthy option for sensitive skin types, as its gentle enough to brighten, tone, and clarify without causing irritation.
Size: 1 oz. | Type: Treatment | Key Ingredients: Azelaic acid, salicylic acid, licorice root
Best Smoothing: SkinCeuticals Glycolic Renewal Cleanser Gel
Pros
The cleanser is formulated with glycolic acid, which can reduce dull skin by exfoliating dry skin buildup and improving texture.
This resurfacing cleanser has an impressive lather and leaves our skin feeling squeaky clean (without stripping).
With regular use, the skin feels a lot smoother.
Cons
It’s super gentle, so if you want something a bit more powerful, consider trying the SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser.
If your goal is smoother skin, you can achieve it within the first step in your skincare routine. The SkinCeuticals Glycolic Renewal Gel Cleanser is enriched with glycolic acid to gently and effectively resurface skin texture while also removing dirt, debris, and other impurities from the complexion. In addition to its exfoliating properties, the cleanser also features glycerin and aloe to promote hydration and prevent a stripping feeling.
During the testing period, we were impressed by how well this formula cleansed the skin. It has an impressive lather that makes the application process a lot easier and leaves the skin feeling ultra-clean without creating a stripping feeling. On top of that, the formula was also efficient in targeting uneven skin textures and, ultimately, creating a smoother surface.
Size: 5.07 oz. | Type: Cleanser | Key Ingredients: Glycolic acid, glycerin, aloe
Best Brightening: Tata Harper Clarifying Mask
Pros
After just one use, our skin looked a lot brighter and more radiant.
In addition to chemical exfoliants, the mask also features physical exfoliants for additional polishing perks.
The formula is enriched with salicylic acid to target excess oil production and balance the skin.
Cons
At $75 a pop, it is certainly an investment (but we think it's worth the splurge for those who can swing it).
For the best brightening mask, we recommend the Tata Harper Clarifying AHA + BHA Mask. This formula is enriched with salicylic acid to target excess oil production and balance the skin, making it a fantastic option for oily and acne-prone skin.
It features rosehip oil and botanical extracts to nourish the skin and support hydration levels, which can ultimately improve the skin’s radiance. In addition to its chemical exfoliants, the mask also features physical exfoliants that gently polish the skin’s surface that helps dissolve dullness and improves overall texture.
Throughout the testing period, we were impressed by this luxe skincare product and particularly loved how the physical exfoliants help make the complexion more absorbent so that our skincare formulas penetrate more deeply. With the removal of dry, dull skin and the benefits of chemical and physical exfoliation working together, our skin had a glowy sheen to it by the end of the testing period.
Size: 1 oz. | Type: Mask | Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, rosehip oil, botanical extracts
Best for Acne-Prone Skin: The Inkey List Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Toner
Pros
The toner features witch hazel, which soothes irritation and reduces redness, helping to diminish the look of breakouts.
Since the formula is super lightweight, it absorbs quickly into the complexion and is easy to layer with other formulas.
Throughout the testing period, it helped keep acne and blackheads at bay.
Cons
Nothing! We love this gentle exfoliating toner for acne.
The Inkey List Glycolic Acid Toner is our top pick for the best chemical exfoliant for acne maintenance. This formula features glycolic acid for sloughing off dead skin cells and improving hyperpigmentation. It also includes witch hazel for its impressive acne benefits, like reducing redness and soothing irritation.
Since the formula is super lightweight, this formula is easy to use and absorbs quickly into the complexion, making it easy to layer with other formulas, too. Throughout the testing period, we experienced redness reduction, much less irritation, and fewer breakouts and blackheads overall.
Size: 3.38 oz. | Type: Toner | Key Ingredients: Glycolic acid, witch hazel
Best for Quick Results: The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution
Pros
It features potent levels of AHA and BHA chemical exfoliants for an effective at-home peel.
It’s a budget-friendly formula that is just as effective as some of its more luxurious counterparts.
This treatment shows instant results, which include softer, smoother, and more radiant skin.
Cons
Since it’s so potent, the skin might appear red and a little irritated after initial use.
The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is our top pick for the best at-home peel. This formula features a blend of potent chemical exfoliants, including glycolic acid, lactic acid, tartaric acid, citric acid, and salicylic acid, to target excess oil production, dull skin, and hyperpigmentation. The at-home treatment is one of the most budget-friendly and highly effective peels. After just one use, we noticed instant results in our skin texture and radiance.
Because it’s so potent, the intense exfoliating treatment can cause some irritation, so we definitely don’t recommend applying it on sensitive skin. However, if you have more combination, oily, or dry skin, it’s an excellent weekly treatment for softer, smoother, and more glowy skin.
Size: 1.01 oz., 0.5 oz. | Type: Treatment | Key Ingredients: Glycolic acid, lactic acid, tartaric acid, citric acid, salicylic acid
Best for Oily Skin: The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner
Pros
The toner features 7 percent glycolic acid, which can effectively even skin tone, soften texture, and promote more glowing skin.
It’s one of the most budget-friendly treatments on our list.
It helps keep breakouts at bay.
Cons
It’s too potent for sensitive skin types.
If you have oily skin — or even combination skin that leans a little more oily — consider adding The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toning Solution to your skincare routine.
This budget-friendly formula comes in two sizes (including an 8.11 oz. bottle that costs less than $15) and is enriched with potent levels of glycolic acid to even the skin tone, soften texture, and promote glowing skin. Since the formula targets the skin’s surface, it can help keep dirt and debris out of pores. It’s also easy to use, and provides an effective exfoliation that, with regular use, can reduce breakouts and even shrink pores.
Size: 3.38 oz., 8.11 oz. | Type: Toner | Key Ingredients: Glycolic acid
Others We Tried
L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 3.5% Glycolic Acid Cleansing Gel: In addition to these top picks, we also tried the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 3.5% Glycolic Acid Cleansing Gel. This drugstore chemical exfoliant is formulated with 3.5 percent glycolic acid and comes in a 6.7 oz. bottle for under $15. We love this formula because it has a lightweight consistency that is easy to spread all over, so you can achieve even coverage. While it was a little too gentle for our liking, it’s still an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin who want to add a dual-action cleanser to their skincare shelf.
SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser: We also tried the SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser, which is formulated with an AHA and BHA blend, helping to reduce excess oil and balance the complexion while also targeting dry, dull surfaces. If you have dry or sensitive skin, this option might be a little too harsh (we so wish its formula included nourishing ingredients to help combat this), but if you’re prone to excess oil and want a cleanser that can balance everything out, it may be worth trying.
Tula Breakout Breakthrough Acne Maximum Strength Biodegradable Toner Pads: In addition to the peel pads on our list, we also tried the Tula Breakout Breakthrough Acne Maximum Strength Biodegradable Toner Pads. These are formulated with salicylic acid and formulated without alcohol so you don’t strip your skin of natural oils. These peel pads are convenient and easy to use and provide an effective exfoliation. The maximum strength formula was a little too powerful for us, but if that is something you are looking for in a peel pad, we highly recommend them.
Versed The Purist Antioxidant Cleanser: The Purist Antioxidant Cleanser from Versed is another exfoliating cleanser worth considering. When testing this formula, we were impressed by how well it cleanses the complexion and leaves the skin feeling fresher and more radiant-looking. The exfoliation level is a little low, though, so it’s a better choice for sensitive skin types who want something that can gently slough away dry skin without wreaking havoc.
People / Cara Milhaven
Things to Consider Before Buying Chemical Exfoliants
Skin Type Compatibility
When shopping for chemical exfoliants, Dr. Engelman says to look for formulas that are compatible with your skin type, as some skin types respond to certain chemical exfoliants and others don’t. “Oily skin usually benefits from pore-clearing BHAs like salicylic acid, while more sensitive skin may only be able to tolerate gentle hydroxy acids and enzymes,” she explains.
AHAs vs. BHAs
Both AHAs and BHAs are considered chemical exfoliants, but they serve different purposes. “Salicylic acid is the most widely found BHA and is an oil-soluble acid, which means it can penetrate pores and break down oil and dirt buildup within,” says Dr. Jeannette Graf, a board-certified dermatologist and assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mt Sinai School of Medicine. “AHAs like lactic acid and glycolic acid are water-soluble, so they’re unable to penetrate the pores but rather help to exfoliate the entire top layer of skin."
If you have acne-prone skin or imbalance oil production and want to address these concerns with, Dr. Graf recommends reaching for a formula that features salicylic acid, such as the Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant. For concerns around skin texture or appearance, formulas with an AHA like lactic acid or glycolic acid are a great option.
Hydrating Ingredients
In addition to AHAs vs. BHAs, Dr. Graf says to consider the entire ingredient list of the chemical exfoliant product. “Because chemical exfoliants can sometimes dry the skin, I recommend finding a product that combines the power of exfoliating acids with hydrating ingredients to help balance the skin,” she explains. Some of the best hydrating ingredients to replenish moisture while keeping things balanced include hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and peptides.
The SkinCeuticals Glycolic Renewal Gel Cleanser is our top pick for the best smoothing chemical exfoliant. In addition to its glycolic acid, it also features glycerin and aloe for added hydration. We also love the Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Face Toner, which features cactus water, hyaluronic acid, and cucumber in its ingredient lineup.
How We Tested
To find the best chemical exfoliants, our PEOPLE Tested team researched dozens of formulas before narrowing it down to 33 products for real-world testing. From there, 33 team members conducted almost 400 hours of testing over the course of six weeks, carefully considering the consistency, distribution, exfoliation, application, and overall look and feel of the skin at the end of the testing period.
Consistency: Formula consistency is important for several factors. For one, it can impact the overall ease of use. Additionally, consistency plays a part in how well a formula absorbs into the skin, which is especially important in serums, toners, and other layering formulas.
Distribution: We also considered the product distribution to determine how it impacts application, how much product you need to get the job done, and how easy it is to target specific areas of concern.
Exfoliation: When considering the best chemical exfoliants, we, of course, considered the exfoliation. We looked at the different types of chemical exfoliants in the formula ingredients, potency, and how effective they work at dissolving dry skin, reducing excess oil, and brightening the complexion.
Application: In addition to distribution, we also made note of the application process and overall ease of use. From masks to toners to serums, we considered all of the different consistencies, frequency of use, and convenience (especially when looking at peel pads).
Skin Look and Feel: At the end of our testing period, we took extensive notes on our skin look and feel to get an idea of the overall results. In addition to appearance, we also made note of skin texture and considered the formulas that worked the best at smoothing and softening our complexions.
After six weeks, we compiled all of our notes together and compared our experiences with each formula to determine which formulas are worth trying. As a result, we curated this list of the best chemical exfoliants, ranging from cleansers and toners to serums and face masks.
People / Sheila Tong
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do dermatologists recommend chemical exfoliants over physical?
While there are benefits of physical exfoliants, Dr. Graf says you have to be cautious when using these because some have harsh ingredients that can cause microtears on the skin, leading to irritation and inflammation.
What is the best chemical exfoliator to start with?
If you’re new to chemical exfoliants, we recommend the Cosrx AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner as our top pick for beginners. This formula features a blend of AHA and BHA ingredients and comes in a spray bottle for easy application — all you do is spray it onto a cotton pad, swipe across your complexion, and you’re good to go. It’s also safe enough for all skin types, including those with more sensitive complexions.
What is the best chemical exfoliant for acne-prone skin?
There are a few chemical exfoliants for acne-prone skin worth considering. First, if you have oily skin that is prone to breakouts, we loved The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toning Solution, which is an AHA-based formula that helped us balance out oil production without stripping our skin (though, if you want something with a BHA, we also loved the Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant).
If you have acne scars, the No. 7 Laboratories Resurfacing Peel 15% Glycolic Acid is also a great choice as it targets the surface of the skin and helps reduce marks over time. The Inkey List Glycolic Acid Toner is another excellent choice, especially if you want something for acne maintenance. This formula also features glycolic acid and can help keep your complexion balanced while also addressing dullness and clarifying pores.
What is the most gentle chemical exfoliant?
If you have sensitive skin, we recommend trying the First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads, which feature AHAs and are formulated for daily use. We also love the Elf Gentle Peeling Exfoliant, which features papaya extract, aka an enzyme-rich ingredient that gently sloughs away dead skin cells.
Why Trust PEOPLE?
Jessie Quinn is a contributing commerce writer for PEOPLE and has written for publications such as Byrdie, InStyle, The Spruce, NYLON, and more. When covering the best chemical exfoliants, Jessie thoroughly reviewed the PEOPLE Tested team’s insights to gain an understanding of their experiences with each formula. She carefully considered the type of chemical exfoliants in each formula, plus their formulation, efficacy, and ease of use, before narrowing down top picks. Jessie also connected with top skincare experts to learn more about the difference between physical and chemical exfoliants, the benefits of chemical exfoliants, and of course, what to look for in high-quality formulas.
Meet Our Experts
Dr. Jeannette Graf is a board-certified dermatologist and assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mt Sinai School of Medicine.
Dr. Dendy Engelman is a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Shafer Clinic in NYC.
What Is PEOPLE Tested?
We created the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval to help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.
But we don’t stop there: We also regularly re-review the categories in which we’ve awarded the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval — because the best product of today might not be the best of tomorrow. And by the way, companies can never buy our recommendation: Their products must earn it, fair and square.
In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.
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Read the original article on People.
