A 2026 guide to face exfoliators features nine products selected for concerns including oily, dry, sensitive and acne-prone skin, as well as uneven tone and signs of aging. The options include chemical formulas, textured pads and two-step peels, with ingredients such as alpha hydroxy acids, salicylic acid and polyhydroxy acids.
The Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel is named best overall. Its two-step pads combine exfoliating acids, including glycolic, lactic and salicylic acids, with ingredients such as green tea and adenosine. The guide describes it as an option for improving the appearance of pores, texture, tone and radiance, while noting that users may experience a brief tingling or burning sensation.
For oily skin, the guide recommends Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads, which pair lactic acid with enzymes. The pads have a textured side for extra buffing and a smooth side for gentler use; glycerin, betaine and shea butter are also included. Eadem Cashmere Peel Milky Exfoliant & Hydrating Essence is highlighted for dry skin. Its 9% blend of lactic, azelaic and tranexamic acids is paired with panthenol, rice water and colloidal oatmeal to exfoliate while supporting hydration.
The Rose Ingleton MD SuperFruit Exfoliating Tonic is selected for hyperpigmentation. It contains 8% glycolic acid, along with licorice root extract and hydrating ingredients. The guide cautions that this concentration is relatively strong for at-home exfoliation and advises easing into use, particularly alongside retinol or other exfoliating acids. For sensitive skin, Medik8 Press & Glow Daily Exfoliating PHA Tonic uses 5.5% gluconolactone, a polyhydroxy acid, alongside glycerin and soothing botanical extracts.
Other picks include Shani Darden Triple Acid Signature Peel, described as a fast-acting option with lactic, glycolic and mandelic acids, followed by a clay mask. Because the formula is potent, the guide says it should be used no more than every other week, or as needed. Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant is recommended for acne-prone skin; its salicylic acid is intended to help clear pore buildup.
The remaining selections are SkinBetter Science AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads for mature skin and RoC Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing 2-Step Peel Pads as a drugstore option. SkinBetter’s pads combine a retinoid with several exfoliating acids, and the guide recommends starting with one or two uses a week, especially when using other active ingredients. The available product description for the RoC pads notes an acid-based first step designed to remove dead surface cells, followed by a retinol treatment.
Sources: Allure.