The Best Face and Body Exfoliators
Get your glowiest, most radiant skin with our top-rated exfoliators.
Best exfoliating scrubs
Shop allGreat for oily skin, use sugar, salt and microbead scrubs for your smoothest skin.
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Best exfoliating pads
Shop allPerfect for travel or exfoliator newbies, use AHA, BHA and fruit enzyme-infused pads to help even skin tone and texture.
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Best facial peels
Shop allIdeal for addressing hyperpigmentation, fine lines and acne, these peels help promote cell turnover.
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Best exfoliating tools
Shop allUpgrade your skin care routine with facial brushes, sonic exfoliators, dry brushes and loofas.
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Best Facial Exfoliators by Type
Find the perfect exfoliator for your skin type, from enzyme exfoliators to chemical exfoliants and everything in between.
What is an enzyme exfoliator and how to use it?
An enzyme exfoliator uses natural enzymes, often derived from fruits like papaya or pineapple, to gently dissolve dead skin cells. It’s perfect for sensitive skin.
To use, apply a thin layer to clean, damp skin, leave on for the recommended time (usually 10-15 minutes), then rinse thoroughly.
What is a chemical exfoliant and how to use it?
A chemical exfoliant uses acids like AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) or BHAs (beta hydroxy acids) to remove dead skin and boost cell turnover.
To use, apply a small amount to clean, dry skin, avoiding the eye area. Some will instruct you to rinse off after the recommended time, but many work as a leave-on exfoliator. For gentle options, look for a chemical exfoliant with hydrating ingredients to prevent irritation.
What is a BHA exfoliant and how to use it?
BHA exfoliants, like salicylic acid, are oil-soluble, making them effective at penetrating pores and removing excess oil and debris.
To use, apply a small amount to clean, dry skin, avoiding the eye area. Some will instruct you to rinse off after the recommended time, but many work as a leave-on exfoliator.
What is a facial peel and how to use it?
A facial peel is a potent exfoliating treatment that removes dead skin to reveal a brighter complexion. Options range from at-home enzyme-based formulas to chemical peels.
Apply the facial peels as directed, typically once a week, for glowing results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does exfoliating help with acne?
Yes, exfoliating can help with acne by removing dead skin cells and unclogging pores. The best exfoliators for acne-prone skin are BHA-based products or exfoliating pads to target breakouts effectively.
How often should you exfoliate your face?
The frequency of exfoliation depends on your skin type and the type of exfoliant you're using. Generally, oily or acne-prone skin can be exfoliated 2-3 times per week, while sensitive or dry skin should be exfoliated once or twice a week.
How to exfoliate skin naturally?
To exfoliate naturally, opt for natural face exfoliators with gentle ingredients like sugar, oatmeal, or fruit enzymes. These work as a safe, effective natural exfoliant for a glowing complexion.
Ulta Beauty offers a large selection of Clean Ingredient Face Peels & Exfoliators.
What exfoliator is best for clogged pores?
BHA exfoliants, like salicylic acid, are best for clogged pores as they can penetrate deep into pores to remove excess oil and debris.
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