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With some vital skin-care knowledge in your back pocket, you’ll discover that the best exfoliators for sensitive skin can be as gentle as they are effective. The key is choosing formulas that prioritize barrier support just as much as resurfacing uneven texture. Think: low-irritation acids (hi, polyhydroxy acids, lactic acid, and fruit enzymes) that work gradually and soothing ingredients such as glycerin, aloe, niacinamide, and ceramides to keep skin calm and hydrated. When working in tandem, these ingredients help sensitive skin look brighter, calmer, and more even.
Our Top Exfoliators for Sensitive Skin
- Best Overall: Medik8 Press & Glow Daily Exfoliating PHA Tonic, $35
- Best for Mature Skin: Mara Flower Acid Algae Resurfacing Serum, $74
- Best for Acne-Prone Skin: La Roche-Posay Effaclar 1.5% Salicylic Acid Serum, $45
- Best Cleanser: Maya Chia The Meringue Melt, $49
- Best Mask: The Outset Purifying Blue Clay Mask, $46
- Best for Dry Skin: Good Molecules Mandelic Acid Serum, $10
- Best Peel: Kiehl's Clearly Corrective Daily Retexturizing Triple Acid Peel Serum, $50
- Best Drugstore: Cetaphil Gentle Exfoliating SA Cleanser, $10
- Best for Body: AmLactin Daily Nourish Lotion with 12% Lactic Acid, $16
Whether your skin is dry, oily, or acne-prone, there are plenty of exfoliators that refine texture and boost radiance without any harsh stripping or scrubbing. Below, we’re diving into our favorites for that glass-skin glow.
Frequently Asked QuestionsLargeChevron
- What type of exfoliator is best for sensitive skin?
- What ingredients should you look for in an exfoliator for sensitive skin?
- Meet the experts
- How we test and review products
- Our staff and testers
Best Overall: Medik8 Press & Glow Daily Exfoliating PHA Tonic
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Medik8
Press & Glow Daily Exfoliating PHA Tonic
Amazon
Dermstore
Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Medik8 Press & Glow Daily Exfoliating PHA Tonic
Sarah Han
Why it’s worth it: Often confused with traditional toners, skin tonics (like Medik8’s Press & Glow Exfoliating PHA Tonic) are designed with hydration front and center, without sacrificing the regular exfoliation your skin needs. “Press & Glow is a daily exfoliating PHA tonic that gently removes dead surface cells to reveal more radiant skin,” New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Dendy Engelman, MD, told Allure. The formula centers on 5.5% gluconolactone, a polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that lightly resurfaces skin while helping it hold onto moisture. The formula is rounded out with soothing botanicals like aloe vera, acai, and prickly pear extract, making it our top pick for easily irritated skin.
Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han
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“As someone with combo skin, my T-zone is easily the most problematic area of my face, so I'm trying to take better care of it by incorporating regular exfoliation into my skin-care routine. I'm a fan of polyhydroxy acids (PHA) because they have larger molecules than other acids that don't penetrate as readily and therefore are more gentle on your skin. I don't experience any stinging or redness (thank goodness), my skin feels extra smooth, and my pores look a teensy bit tighter. This toner's great for morning use when I keep my routine quite simple, but I typically go with a stronger serum at night. You can totally use a cotton pad to use Press & Glow, but in the interest of saving waste and product that inevitably is lost to the pad, I dispense the liquid directly into my clean hands. Easy!” —Sarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
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- Type: chemical
- Key ingredients: 5.5% gluconolactone, hyaluronic acid, green tea, aloe, prickly pear extract
- Who it's for: people with uneven texture or dullness
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Mature Skin: Mara Flower Acid Algae Resurfacing Serum
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Mara
Flower Acid Algae Resurfacing Serum
Amazon
Sephora
Revolve
Allure beauty director Sarah Kinonen applying the Mara Flower Acid Algae Resurfacing Serum
Sarah Kinonen
Why it’s worth it: A 2023 Allure Best of Beauty Award winner, Mara’s Flower Acid Algae Serum combines 11% lactic acid from beet sugar to diminish the appearance of pores and tackle blemishes with a mix of flower acids from daisy, hibiscus, and anti-inflammatory everlasting flowers—also known as helichrysum, a medicinal plant harvested in Corisa for its anti-inflammatory properties—to gently exfoliate and refine texture. Plankton protects the skin barrier, while the brand’s mainstays (hydrating algae and mineral-rich French sea water) keep skin balanced and moisturized. The result is visibly plump, firm, and radiant skin without any of the dryness or irritation you get from more intense, highly concentrated formulas.
Tester feedback from beauty director Sarah Kinonen
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“I use this serum every other night in place of my prescription Tretinoin. After cleansing and before moisturizer, I massage a small pump into my skin from my forehead down my neck. As someone who has easily irritated skin, this never causes the usual side effects I experience from potent serums, like inflammation and/or flaking. Instead, it leaves my skin feeling smooth and looking glowy. I'll admit that $74 for an exfoliating serum is a bit pricey, but I promise it's worth the investment! I've recommended it to so many friends and family members, and they've all agreed with how great the results are. Plus, it won a Best of Beauty award a few years back, so we all agree it's good!” —Sarah Kinonen, beauty director
More to know
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- Type: chemical
- Key ingredients: 11% lactic acid, PHA, plankton, flower acids
- Who it’s for: those with large pores and rough texture
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Acne-Prone Skin: La Roche Posay Effaclar 1.5% Salicylic Acid Serum
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La Roche-Posay
Effaclar 1.5% Salicylic Acid Serum
Amazon
Dermstore
Ulta Beauty
Allure commerce writer Lily Wohlner applying the La Roche Posay Effaclar 1.5% Salicylic Acid Serum
Why it’s worth it: La Roche-Posay has long been known for delivering effective formulas at an accessible price point, and this serum is no exception. The Effaclar 1.5% Salicylic Acid Serum features 1.5% salicylic acid alongside glycolic acid, lipohydroxy acid, and niacinamide to clear congestion and even out tone without feeling heavy or greasy on the skin. The silky texture sinks in quickly, while the brand’s mineral-rich thermal spring water calms and comforts upon application.
According to Mamina Turegano, MD, a triple board-certified dermatologist based in New Orleans, Effaclar is a smart option for those with combination or mature skin as the glycolic acid stimulates cellular turnover to tackle fine lines. Alexandra Bowles, DO, a board-certified dermatologist in Cincinnati, also says it’s great for sensitive and acne-prone skin, crediting soothing niacinamide for its gentle feel. The result is a versatile serum that addresses breakouts and uneven texture while still being gentle enough for just about anyone to use.
Wohlner before applying the La Roche Posay Effaclar 1.5% Salicylic Acid Serum
Wohlner after applying the La Roche Posay Effaclar 1.5% Salicylic Acid Serum
Tester feedback from commerce writer Lily Wohlner
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“I usually rely on exfoliating pads or at-home peels to get my acne-prone skin looking like glass, but ever since I added this serum to my nightly routine, I barely touch those steps anymore. It keeps the oily top layer in check, so my skin always looks clean and clear, while still staying soft and supple—perfect for makeup that goes on flawlessly smooth.” —Lily Wohlner, commerce writer
More to know
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- Type: chemical
- Key ingredients: salicylic acid (1.5%), glycolic acid, lipohydroxy acid, niacinamide, La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water
- Who it's for: combination skin, mature skin, sensitive skin, acne-prone skin
- Fragrance-free: no
Best Cleanser: Maya Chia The Merengue Melt
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Maya Chia
The Merengue Melt
The Detox Market
Maya Chia
Allure senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin applying the Maya Chia The Merengue Melt
Sarah Felbin
Why it’s worth it: “Melt” is the perfect word for Maya Chia’s cleanser—it’s made with chia seed oil that literally glides onto skin, brightening, smoothing, and resurfacing as it goes. Sugarcane-derived squalane locks in moisture and supports the skin barrier, leaving a lasting glow. Unique to this cleanser is the brand’s Triple Exfoliation Complex, which combines physical (ultra-fine rice powder), chemical (mandelic acid), and enzymatic exfoliators (a five-fruit AHA blend) to polish skin without stripping it. It’s part oil cleanser, part gentle resurfacer—and, if we were at a spa, this is exactly the kind of indulgent treatment we’d expect.
Felbin before applying the Maya Chia The Merengue Melt
Sarah Felbin
Felbin after applying the Maya Chia The Merengue Melt
Sarah Felbin
Tester feedback from senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin
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“I use this two to three times a week instead of my regular cleanser as the second step in my double-cleansing routine. I have really sensitive skin that breaks out and turns red easily. I've had problems in the past with strong exfoliators that sting, burn, or leave my skin feeling raw. But this Maya Chia cleanser is super-gentle—it has teeny tiny rice powder granules that remove oil and dead skin without causing any irritation. I love how nicely it lathers up, and my skin always feels baby-soft after I use it. It actually makes me look forward to washing my face!” —Sarah Felbin, senior commerce editor
More to know
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- Type: physical, chemical, enzymatic
- Key ingredients: chia seed oil, squalane, mandelic acid, AHA blend, fermented sake, rice powder
- Who it’s for: all skin types
- Fragrance-free: no
Best Mask: The Outset Purifying Blue Clay Mask
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The Outset
Purifying Blue Clay Mask
Amazon
Nordstrom
Credo Beauty
Why it’s worth it: Yet another Best of Beauty Award winner, the Outset’s Purifying Blue Clay Mask is gentle enough for sensitive and dry skin, but serious about clearing pores. Oil-absorbing kaolin pulls out impurities, while salicylic acid and niacinamide work together to smooth texture. To avoid potential irritation, the formula also includes pansy extract, which immediately fights redness for relaxed skin. Just 10 minutes, once or twice a week, and this bright blue mask leaves skin feeling balanced, refreshed, and noticeably glowy.
Tester feedback from former senior beauty editor Paige Stables
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"When my skin needs a detox and I don't have a facial on the calendar, I reach for The Outset's Purifying Blue Clay Mask. I smear the kaolin clay on my face (I don't recommend wearing a white robe with this vibrant blue treatment), and in ten minutes flat, my pores are unclogged, and my skin is significantly more glowy—without going through any havoc to get there." —Paige Stables, former senior beauty editor
More to know
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- Type: chemical
- Key ingredients: blue clay (kaolin), salicylic acid, pansy extract
- Who it’s for: all skin types, especially those with large pores
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Dry Skin: Good Molecules Mandelic Acid
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Good Molecules
Mandelic Acid
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Why it’s worth it: Yes, you can (and should) exfoliate if you have dry skin to slough off that rough outer layer and leave a glowing, soft complexion behind—and Good Molecules’ Mandelic Acid Serum proves it. The formula centers on mandelic acid, one of the gentlest AHAs, which New York City–based dermatologist Carmen Castilla, MD, says is known for resurfacing skin without the sting. It stays on the surface of the skin longer before penetrating the dermis, adds Ellen Marmur, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, so it’s less likely to irritate those with sensitive skin.
PHAs like phytic acid and gluconolactone round out the exfoliating lineup, while delivering extra brightening and hydration benefits. “These acids work synergistically to exfoliate the skin without stripping or compromising the skin barrier,” says Dr. Castilla. To round it out, the serum contains hyaluronic acid, which floods skin with moisture, smoothing dry patches and softening the look of fine lines. The result is exfoliation that feels more nourishing than harsh.
More to know
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- Type: chemical
- Key ingredients: 10% mandelic acid, 1% phytic acid, 1% glutathione, hyaluronic acid
- Who it’s for: dry, sensitive skin
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Peel: Kiehls Clearly Corrective Daily Retexturizing Triple Acid Peel Serum
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Kiehl's Since 1851
Clearly Corrective Daily Retexturizing Triple Acid Peel Serum
Amazon
Nordstrom
Ulta Beauty
Why it’s worth it: Don’t let the word “peel” scare you—the acids present in Kiehl’s Clearly Corrective Daily Retexturizing Triple Acid Peel Serum “all come in low concentrations that work synergistically to exfoliate,” says Dr. Castilla. A powerhouse blend of AHAs (hi, glycolic and lactic), BHAs (salicylic), and PHAs (gluconolactone) helps pores appear tighter and smaller and refine uneven texture. The BHAs can help clear out pores, and the additional acids work well to improve skin texture,” Dr. Castilla adds. Another key addition: copper gluconate, an antioxidant that helps defend against free-radical damage while supporting cell regeneration to improve firmness and soften the look of fine lines. Make some room in your routine—it’s designed to be layered under your moisturizer, morning (with SPF!) or night.
More to know
LargeChevron
- Type: chemical
- Key ingredients: 5.5% AHAs (glycolic and lactic acid), 0.18% BHA (salicylic acid), and 3% PHA (gluconolactone)
- Who it’s for: those with dullness, rough texture, fine lines, or large pores
- Fragrance-free: no
Best Drugstore: Cetaphil Gentle Exfoliating SA Cleanser
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Cetaphil
Gentle Exfoliating SA Cleanser
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Why it’s worth it: Look no further than your nearest drugstore for a derm-beloved face wash and exfoliator in one. “Cetaphil’s Gentle Exfoliating SA Cleanser features a low but effective concentration of salicylic acid, plus other ingredients that help support the skin barrier,” says Dr. Castilla. That includes two other acids, mandelic and gluconolactone, which remove excess oil, improve skin tone, and retain skin’s moisture as they exfoliate. There’s also a blend of brightening niacinamide, soothing panthenol, and hydrating glycerin that strengthens your skin barrier.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: salicylic acid, mandelic acid, gluconolactone, niacinamide, panthenol, glycerin
- Who it’s for: all skin types, especially sensitive and acne-prone
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Body: AmLactin Daily Nourish Lotion with 12% Lactic Acid
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AmLactin
Daily Nourish Lotion with 12% Lactic Acid
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Walmart
Why it’s worth it: Exfoliation doesn’t stop at the face. For smoother, bump-free, and ashiness-free skin, Rochester, NY-based dermatologist Mara C. Weinstein Velez, MD, is a fan of AmLactin’s Daily Nourish Lotion with 12% Lactic Acid because it's extremely hydrating while still providing gentle exfoliation for dry, rough skin. (we’re looking at you, keratosis pilaris, scaly skin, ashiness, and the list goes on). It’s deeply hydrating but still exfoliates gently, and the best part? The lightweight, non-greasy texture disappears on contact, so you don’t have to wait for it to sink in before slipping into your pajamas. The heftier dose of lactic acid (12%) smoothes skin without resorting to scrubbing or buffing, and it’s balanced with glycerin to pull moisture into the skin and reduce dehydration caused by exfoliation. If you want smooth, refreshed, clean-looking skin sans any bumps in sight, this should be your non-negotiable daily post-shower step. Bye, keratosis pilaris and ashy, scaly patches.
More to know
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- Type: chemical
- Key ingredients: 12% lactic acid, glycerin
- Who it’s for: those with rough, bumpy, scaly skin or ashiness
- Fragrance-free: no
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of exfoliator is best for sensitive skin?
According to Dr. Velez, everyone’s sensitivity level is different, so it depends. “The most gentle form of exfoliation is an alpha hydroxy acid–based cleanser because a serum or other leave-on treatments will provide the highest concentration, but can be irritating if too much is applied,” she says. Whitney Tolpinrud, MD, a dermatologist based in Pocatello, ID, adds that since cleansers get washed off, they don’t spend as much time in contact with the skin, which can help prevent irritation while still offering exfoliating Leave-on exfoliators, like serums, creams, or pads, can also work for some people with sensitive skin, but they should be used carefully, Dr. Tolpinrud says. “Blends that pair gentler acids, like lactic acid, with polyhydroxy acids (PHAs), such as gluconolactone, may be better tolerated by some individuals, as lactic acid is both hydrating and gentle, while PHAs exfoliate more slowly and evenly.” Since these products stay on the skin longer, Dr. Tolpinrud recommends introducing them gradually and paying close attention to how your skin responds. Another tip: “Look for barrier-supporting ingredients like glycerin, ceramides, and niacinamide in the formula to counteract redness and sensitivity,” she says.
What ingredients should you look for in an exfoliator for sensitive skin?
According to Dr. Velez, the best ingredients to look out for in an exfoliator for sensitive skin are lactic and glycolic acid, as they have the smallest, most powerful particle size. New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Angela Lamb, MD, and Pittsburgh-based board-certified dermatologist Lindsey Zubritsky, MD, explained. Lactic acid especially mimics a "naturally occurring group of molecules found in our skin that helps to hydrate and maintain the skin barrier,” adds Aegean Chan, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Santa Barbara, California, so it’s less likely to irritate sensitive skin.
“These alpha hydroxy acids exfoliate without scrubbing (which is awful for sensitive skin),” says Dr. Velez. “Additionally, avoid physical exfoliants that are gritty or sand- or sugar-like. They can cause small abrasions on the skin’s surface, furthering sensitivity and potentially spreading bacteria.”
Meet the experts
- Carmen Castilla, MD, is a dermatologist based in New York City.
- Mara C. Weinstein Velez, MD, is a dermatologist based in Rochester, NY.
- Whitney Tolpinrud, MD, is a dermatologist based in Pocatello, ID.
- Angela Lamb, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City.
- Aegean Chan, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in Santa Barbara, California.
- Lindsey Zubritsky, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in Pitttsburgh.
How we test and review products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.
For our list of the best exfoliators for sensitive skin, we considered each product’s performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from board-certified dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.
Our staff and testers
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