Top 10 Chemical Exfoliators

WHAT IT DOES
Good Molecules' Overnight Exfoliating Treatment is formulated to resurface and renew your skin while you sleep. It combines glycolic and lactic acids (AHAs) to remove dead skin cells, promoting smoother and more even-textured skin. Plus, many reviewers note that it’s not just for your face—you can use it on your body too.

PROMISING REVIEW
"I dont use this on my face. I mix it with my body moisturizer to prevent ingrown hairs and smooth my legs. It has been a game changer."

WHAT IT DOES
In just one minute, this one-step exfoliating peel resurfaces, clarifies, and firms the skin for an all-around radiant glow. The key ingredients—glycolic and salicylic acid—help to improve the skin's texture, visibly brighten the complexion, and reduce pore size and fine lines, while other ingredients like chamomile and lavender bring calming and soothing benefits to the skin.

MORE TO KNOW
In a clinical trial, 97% of users showed immediate improvement in the appearance of pore size.

WHAT IT DOES
This cleanser thoroughly cleanses and gently exfoliates the skin thanks to a blend of alpha and beta hydroxy acids that work together to mildly exfoliate the skin, which in turn reduces the size of pores and minimizes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The result? A smooth and bright complexion.

MORE TO KNOW
Chemical exfoliators have harsh active ingredients that often leave your skin dry and flaky. This cleanser has lavender extract to help combat and soothe any inflammation that may arise when exfoliating the skin.

WHAT IT DOES
Powered by hyaluronic acid and a high concentration of lactic acid, this lightweight, water-based serum can tackle even the worst dark spots while it fights signs of aging and textural irregularities. According to one reviewer with keratosis pilaris, this serum is the sole reason her skin is smooth and bump-free.

MORE TO KNOW
Since this serum is formulated with high-strength lactic acid, those with sensitive skin should start slowly and build up to more frequent use. 

WHAT IT DOES
Dr. Dennis Gross’s signature peel pads deliver professional-level results at home. Powered by seven acids, they are formulated to combat the common signs of aging and reduce pores, acne scars, and shine. Plus, the pads are conveniently packaged to carry when you’re on the go and are safe to use in the morning or at night (unlike other harsh chemical exfoliators).

MORE TO KNOW
This powerful two-step formula contains glycolic acid, salicylic acid, antioxidants, and retinol—all powerhouse ingredients that support the collagen production in aging skin, help reduce pore blockage, and balance moisture levels.

WHAT IT DOES
Gentle enough to use daily, this powerful exfoliant tackles multiple steps in one. On top of shedding extra layers of dead skin, thanks to salicylic acid, it also unclogs pores and reduces the appearance of enlarged pores and wrinkles. It also visibly brightens the skin, resulting in a youthful, even-toned complexion.

MORE TO KNOW
A BHA leave-on exfoliator, like Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, delivers hydration and can exfoliate directly inside the pore and improve how the pore works, leading to regulated oil production and fewer breakouts.

WHAT IT DOES
These daily treatment pads from First Aid Beauty are infused with glycolic and lactic acids that gently exfoliate, tone, and brighten the skin. Use them daily to minimize the appearance of pores and promote a more radiant complexion.

HELPFUL TIP
The Facial Radiance Pads include AHAs, which increase sun sensitivity. If you plan to make these a part of your regular skincare routine, don't skip the sunscreen. 

WHAT IT DOES
Sunday Riley’s Good Genes is another cult-favorite AHA treatment known for going beneath the surface to deeply exfoliate dull skin and instantly plump the look of fine lines and wrinkles. The result? A brighter, smoother complexion in three minutes.

PROMISING REVIEW
"This product is eye-wateringly expensive, but every time I purchase it, I am blown away by how good it is. I have very sensitive, acne-prone skin with scarring and cannot use normal AHA products. I have tried everything, and nothing has ever worked like this. This product is incredible. Within a few days of use, pimples have disappeared, and scars are already fading. My pores are smaller, and my skin has a dewy glow. I recommend that anyone suffering from hormonal acne and scarring give this product a go.”

WHAT IT DOES
Kate Somerville's ExfoliKate Treatment is a dual-action exfoliator designed to smooth and polish dull, dry skin. It combines physical and chemical exfoliation methods to effectively remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and improve skin texture. 

HELPFUL TIP
To use this exfoliating treatment, cleanse your face, then apply an even layer and massage it into your skin for about 30 seconds. Let it sit for up to two minutes (less time if you have sensitive skin), then rinse and gently pat dry.

WHAT IT DOES
Activated by water, this rice-based powder exfoliator transforms into a foaming, creamy paste, releasing papain and salicylic acid to draw out excess oil, clear clogged pores, brighten dark spots, and smooth uneven texture. It also contains colloidal oatmeal, which helps soothe redness and irritated skin.

HELPFUL TIP
Dispense about a half teaspoon of the powder into wet hands, then add a little water and lather until the powder completely dissolves into a smooth, foamy paste.