![Close up of a swatch of an exfoliant on the back of a hand](https://www.byrdie.com/thmb/jqByxNUfP100qyyvKb0AM_Ql-c4=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/exfoliators_recirc-75193875046245d1bec1af623c757a12.jpg)
There are general rules of thumb when it comes to skincare. One of those is using an exfoliator to keep our skin radiant, clear, and smooth. However, curating a skincare routine isn’t as easy as reaching for the first product you see on shelves—you need to factor in your skin type, especially when looking for an exfoliant.
So, if you’ve ever asked yourself what exfoliator you should be using to target your specific skincare concerns, look no further. Below, estheticians Shani Darden and Rianna Loving and board-certified dermatologist Vermén Verallo-Rowell, MD, break down what each skin type should be looking for in an exfoliant. Read on for what they said.
What Are Exfoliators?
There are two types of exfoliators: chemical and physical. Chemical exfoliators contain skincare ingredients that gently slough away dead skin cells to reveal a brighter complexion, such as beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) and alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs). Physical exfoliants use granules to buff away dead skin cells—think of them like very, very gentle sandpaper.
Exfoliators By Skin Type
01
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Oily: Chemical
Darden says the best exfoliants for oily skin types are chemical ones. “A gentle chemical exfoliant a couple of times a week, like the Dr. Dennis Gross Peel Pads, is a great option” for oily skin, she says. “These also work for all skin types, but they’re [especially ideal] for oily skin because they combine AHAs with oil-soluble BHAs, which help to dissolve congestion inside pores.”
02
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Combination (Balanced to Dry): Either
If your combination skin is more on the balanced-to-dry side, you’ve got options. “You’re lucky enough to be able to use any exfoliator of your choice,” Verallo-Rowell says. Since your skin type is less sensitive to exfoliation and you likely don’t have acne lesions to worry about, she recommends bumping up the exfoliating power with a medium-grade scrubbing particle.
03
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Combination (Balanced to Oily): Either
Those with combination skin that is balanced to oily can stick with a physical exfoliator or try a light chemical exfoliator. If your primary concern is oiliness, opt for a cleanser with AHAs. “Using cleansers with AHAs will gently exfoliate and prevent pores from getting clogged with oil and dead skin cells,” Loving says. Consider Pixi’s Glow Peel Pads, which are made with 20 percent glycolic acid to resurface the skin and rose water to hydrate and soothe.
04
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Dry: Chemical
“Dry skin types lack oil and moisture in the outer layer—leaving the skin feeling tight—and sometimes flakes,” explains Darden. As such, those with this skin type may be hesitant to exfoliate their skin, but they shouldn’t be. “The dead skin cells need to be removed; otherwise, the rest of your products won’t be able to absorb into the skin,” she explains.
For the best results, she recommends using her brand’s Triple Acid Signature Peel— a two-step peel with a blend of three different acids (lactic, mandelic, and glycolic) to resurface and brighten the skin, along with a neutralizing mask to deep clean pores.
05
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Acne-Prone: Chemical
“Acne lesions are inflamed, so they need extra care to minimize further irritation,” Verallo-Rowell says. Avoid abrasive physical exfoliators with harsh grains, sugar, or salt, as well as facial brushes, as much as possible. “If you have breakouts, use a chemical exfoliator to fight oil and acne from a deeper level in the skin,” says Loving. “AHA and BHAs, which include salicylic, lactic, and glycolic [acids], will be most effective. These will not only fight oil and remove pore-clogging dead skin cells but also improve the skin’s texture and repair acne scars.”
Try Mario Badescu’s Glycolic Foaming Cleanser, which is designed to dissolve dead skin cells with extracts of chamomile, yarrow, sage, and St. John’s wort.
06
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Mature: Both
Mature skin tends to be sensitive and dry, but Verallo-Rowell says it still should be exfoliated to increase cellular renewal and allow active ingredients to penetrate the skin. Try a physical exfoliator with super-fine particles, such as Derma E’s Microdermabrasion Scrub, and aim to work in chemical exfoliation, too. “Chemical exfoliators can penetrate the skin deeper to improve the appearance of fine lines,” Loving says. Products that combine AHA and BHA acids will be your best bet.
07
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Sensitive Skin: None
Sensitive skin types should avoid chemical exfoliation and most physical exfoliators. Loving says light powders, like rice and oatmeal, are the safest option. Verallo-Rowell adds that if you have sensitive skin due to a medical condition, you should skip the scrubbing altogether.