Top 10 Chemical Exfoliators

WHAT IT DOES: Infused with both glycolic and lactic acids—two alpha hydroxy acids known to exfoliate dead skin, unclog pores, visibly brighten skin, and minimize the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots—this exfoliating serum packs a powerful punch with 16% AHAs. It also contains niacinamide, a multitasking ingredient that minimizes pores, targets acne and hyperpigmentation, and controls oil production.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: This three-in-one exfoliating solution is vegan and cruelty-free and comes in recyclable packaging.

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.

FROM THE EXPERTS: In a clinical trial, 97% of users showed immediate improvement in the appearance of pore size.

WHAT IT DOES: The two AHAs in these daily treatment pads work together to remove dead skin cells while improving texture and minimizing the appearance of dark spots. Both lactic acid and glycolic acid stimulate cell renewal to aid in the process of removing the build up of dead skin, revealing smoother, bouncier, glowier skin.

HELPFUL TIP: Use a radiance pad before applying makeup to ensure your skin is a smooth canvas for flawless makeup application.

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 results? A smooth and bright complexion.

ADDITIONAL THINGS 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.

WHO IT’S FOR: 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 texture irregularities. According to one reviewer with keratosis pilaris, this serum is the sole reason her skin is smooth and bump-free.

ADDITIONAL THINGS 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: 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 to 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.

WHAT IT DOES: This cult-favorite AHA treatment combines 30% AHA and 2% BHA to diminish the look of blemishes and smooth textured skin in 10 minutes. The alpha hydroxy acids exfoliate the skin’s outer layers, while the beta hydroxy acids exfoliate inside the pores to clear out dead skin, dirt, and oil.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: This highly potent exfoliating solution is best for nighttime use, followed by hydrating products and sun protection during the day.

WHY IT MADE THE LIST: Dr. Dennis Gross’s signature peel pads deliver professional-level results at home. Powered by seven acids, they're 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 safe to use in the morning or at night (unlike other harsh chemical exfoliators).

WHO IT’S FOR: 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: 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.

USER 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: 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.

ADDITIONAL THINGS 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.