Are you looking for the perfect exfoliator for your dry skin? Below, we’ve created a guide to the best exfoliants for dry skin.
Our Recommendations
1. Good Genes All-In-One AHA Lactic Acid Treatment
Sunday Riley Exfoliant for Exfoliating, Hyperpigmentation, and Anti-Aging
Sunday Riley Good Genes All-In-One AHA Lactic Acid Treatment
Sunday Riley’s lactic acid exfoliant tackles fine lines, wrinkles, uneven tone, large pores, and texture for a brighter, smoother, and more youthful complexion.
This cult-favorite anti-aging exfoliant is an effective multi-tasking product that targets a variety of skin concerns. The chemical exfoliant lactic acid (an alpha hydroxy acid) works on the surface of the skin, helping to smooth texture and reduce signs of aging. This fragrance-free exfoliant also contains licorice extract, which brightens overall skin tone and minimizes the appearance of dark spots and discoloration.
Pros
- Anti-aging
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- May cause irritation
In addition to the ingredients mentioned above, this vegan exfoliant contains prickly pear extract, which soothes the skin and minimizes redness.
Botanical Blend [ Aqua, Opuntia Tuna Fruit Extract, Cypripedium Pubescens Extract, Opuntia Vulgaris Leaf Extract, Agave Tequilana Leaf Extract, Arnica Montana Flower Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Saccharomyces Cerevisiae (Yeast) Extract, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate], Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Squalane, Lactic Acid, PPG-12 / SMDI Copolymer, Propanediol, Butylene Glycol, Stearic Acid, Dimethicone, Cetearyl Alcohol, Phenyl Trimethicone, Disiloxane, Ceteareth-20, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Stearyl Glycyrrhetinate, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract, Cymbopogon Schoenanthus (Lemongrass) Oil, Potassium Hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol, Xanthan gum, Caprylyl Glycol, Chlorphenesin, Sodium Phytate
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Dual Effects of Alpha-Hydroxy Acids on the Skin"
Accessed Jan. 27, 2022. -
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Cosmeceuticals for Hyperpigmentation: What is Available?"
Accessed Jan. 27, 2022.
2. Overnight Peel
Derma E Exfoliant for Anti-aging and brightening
Derma E Overnight Peel
This anti-aging peel contains a potent blend of alpha hydroxy acids and nutrient-rich natural ingredients, which work to retexturize the skin and improve uneven skin tone for a smoother and more youthful appearance.
This non-toxic peel from vegan and cruelty-free skincare brand Derma E is formulated to tackle multiple signs of aging while also brightening the skin. Lactic and glycolic acids exfoliate the surface of the skin, helping to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, smooth texture, and promote a more even skin tone. The formula also features vitamin C, which brightens and improves firmness and elasticity.
Pros
- Non-toxic
- Natural ingredients
- Anti-aging
- Hydrating
- Fragrance-free
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Cons
- May cause irritation or dryness
In addition to the ingredients mentioned above, this affordable peel contains jojoba seed oil, which calms and hydrates the skin, as well as antioxidant-rich green tea extract.
Purified Water, Glycolic Acid, Glycerin (Vegetable Derived), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (Plant Derived), Stearic Acid (Vegetable Derived), Cetyl Alcohol (Plant Derived), Organic Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil*, Glyceryl Stearate (Vegetable Derived), Glyceryl Stearate Citrate (Vegetable Derived), Polysorbate 60, Stearyl Alcohol (Plant Derived), Lactic Acid, Organic Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract*, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (Vitamin C, Stay-C 50), Cetearyl Glucoside (Plant Derived), Xanthan Gum, Dimethicone, Potassium Sorbate, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Dual Effects of Alpha-Hydroxy Acids on the Skin"
Accessed Jan. 26, 2022. -
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Repair Effects of Topical Application of Some Plant Oils"
Accessed Jan. 26, 2022.
3. Lactic Acid Serum
The Inkey List Exfoliant for
The Inkey List Lactic Acid Serum
This super affordable exfoliant from The Inkey List lightly hydrates and gently exfoliates the skin to improve skin tone, smooth texture, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Lactic acid (a chemical exfoliant) is a great alpha hydroxy acid that is a bit gentler on the skin than glycolic acid, since it has a larger molecular size. This lightweight exfoliant from The Inkey List contains a 10% concentration of lactic acid, which works to improve overall skin tone and texture while minimizing fine lines and wrinkles.
Pros
- Anti-aging
- Affordable
- Fragrance-free
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Cons
- May cause dryness or irritation
In addition to the lactic acid, this exfoliating serum contains a 1% concentration of low molecular hyaluronic acid, which hydrates the skin.
Water, Lactic Acid, Propanediol, Glycerin, Sodium Hydroxide, PPG-26-Buteth-26, Sodium Hyaluronate, Phenoxyethanol, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Ethylhexylglycerin, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Agastache Mexicana Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Dual Effects of Alpha-Hydroxy Acids on the Skin"
Accessed Jan. 26, 2022. -
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin aging"
Accessed Jan. 26, 2022.
4. Intensive Renewal Serum
Alpha Skin Care Exfoliant for Exfoliating, Hyperpigmentation, and Anti-Aging
Alpha Skin Care Intensive Renewal Serum
This affordable exfoliant from Alpha Skin Care has a potent concentration of glycolic acid, which works to smooth texture, improve tone, and fight signs of aging.
This fragrance-free exfoliant is a great choice for anyone looking for a budget-friendly exfoliating serum. It contains a 14% concentration of glycolic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that works on the surface of the skin, improving skin tone and texture. It’s particularly effective for smoothing fine lines and wrinkles and fading hyperpigmentation.
Pros
- Anti-aging
- Fragrance-free
- Oil-free
- Affordable
Cons
- May cause irritation or dryness
This exfoliating serum contains green tea extract, matricaria extract, aloe juice, and sodium hyaluronate, which work to soothe and hydrate the skin.
Water, Glycolic Acid, Ammonium Hydroxide, Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Matricaria Extract, Green Tea Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Aloe Baradensis Juice, Wheatgermamidopropyldimonium -Hydroxypropyl Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Cellulose Gum, Diazolidinyl Urea, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Dual Effects of Alpha-Hydroxy Acids on the Skin"
Accessed Jan. 26, 2022.
5. Mandelic Acid 5% Skin Prep Water
By Wishtrend Exfoliant for Gentle Exfoliation
By Wishtrend Mandelic Acid 5% Skin Prep Water
The gentle exfoliant uses the power of mandelic acid (a less irritating AHA) and other ingredients to smooth skin texture, improve uneven skin tone, soothe, and moisturize.
This affordable exfoliant contains a 5% concentration of mandelic acid, which has a larger molecular size compared to other AHAs. This makes it gentler on the skin, and less likely to cause irritation. The gentle exfoliating power of mandelic acid helps to target dullness, uneven texture, and pigmentation. Mandelic acid also has antibacterial properties, which can help fight inflammatory acne.
Pros
- Gentle
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Fragrance-free
- Affordable
Cons
- May irritate sensitive skin
In addition to the mandelic acid, this vegan and cruelty-free exfoliant contains panthenol, centella asiatica extract, and beta-glucan. These ingredients soothe, calm redness, moisturize, and improve the skin’s ability to maintain its hydration levels.
Water, Mandelic Acid, Butylene Glycol, Beta-Glucan, Panthenol, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Fruit Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, Centella Asiatica Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Sorbitol, Dimethyl Sulfone, Chlorphenesin, Sodium Citrate, Arginine, PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Ethylhexylglycerin, Natto Gum, Carbomer
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Effects of Topical Mandelic Acid Treatment on Facial Skin Viscoelasticity"
Accessed Jan. 25, 2022. -
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Centella asiatica in cosmetology"
Accessed Jan. 25, 2022. -
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Skin moisturizing effects of panthenol-based formulations"
Accessed Jan. 25, 2022.
6. Skin Perfecting 8% AHA Lotion Exfoliant
Paula's Choice Exfoliant for Exfoliating, Lightly Hydrating, and Reducing the Signs of Aging
Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 8% AHA Lotion Exfoliant
This 8% AHA product exfoliates the skin while also lightly hydrating to keep the skin smooth, calm, and moisturized.
The star ingredient in this exfoliating lotion is glycolic acid. Glycolic acid – an alpha hydroxy acid – is an exfoliant that reduces the signs of aging, including fine lines and wrinkles. It also helps smooth the skin for a more even tone and texture.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Lightweight
- Hydrating
Cons
- May irritate more sensitive skin
In addition to the glycolic acid, this lotion contains a variety of ingredients that help soothe and moisturize the skin, including glycerin, vitamin E, matricaria flower extract, and sunflower seed oil.
Water (Aqua), Glycolic Acid (exfoliant), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (skin-replenishing emollient), Glycerin (skin-replenishing/hydration), Sodium Hydroxide (pH adjuster), Beheneth-5 (emulsifier), Behenyl Alcohol (fatty alcohol/emollient thickener), Dimethicone (silicone slip agent), Neopentyl Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate (emollient thickener), Polyglyceryl-3 Stearate (emollient emulsifier), Undecane (emollient), Phospholipids (skin-replenishing fatty acids), Allantoin (skin soothing), Tocopheryl Acetate (vitamin E/antioxidant),Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract (soothing plant extract), Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil (non-fragrant skin-replenishing emollient), Bisabolol (soothing plant component), Arctium Lappa Root Extract (burdock root; antioxidant and soothing plant), Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate (licorice-derived soothing agent), Panthenol (hydrating B vitamin), Sodium Acrylates Copolymer (film-forming agent), Tridecane (emollient), Hydrogenated Polyisobutene (emollient), Sclerotium Gum (emulsion stabilizer), Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate (emulsifier), Disodium EDTA (chelating agent), Ethylhexylglycerin (preservative), Phenoxyethanol (preservative)
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "An antiaging skin care system containing alpha hydroxy acids and vitamins improves the biomechanical parameters of facial skin"
Accessed Aug. 26, 2021. -
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Repair Effects of Topical Application of Some Plant Oils"
Accessed Aug. 26, 2021.
7. Mandelic Acid 10% + HA
The Ordinary Exfoliant for Exfoliating and Smoothing Tone and Texture
The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10% + HA
This product offers gentle exfoliation to smooth skin tone and texture, and includes hydrating and soothing ingredients to fight irritation.
This exfoliating product contains a 10% concentration of mandelic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid that has a larger molecular size than other commonly used AHAs (like glycolic acid). This means it is gentler on the skin, but still helps to exfoliate and smooth tone and texture while minimizing signs of aging.
Pros
- Oil-free
- Fragrance-free
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Cons
- May not be strong enough for those experienced with stronger acids
In addition to the mandelic acid, this product contains glycerin, sodium hyaluronate (the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid), and tasmannia lanceolata fruit extract, which hydrate and soothe the skin.
Propanediol, Aqua (Water), Mandelic Acid, Glycerin, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Tasmannia Lanceolata Fruit/Leaf Extract, Pentylene Glycol, Polysorbate 20, Sodium Hydroxide, Ethylhexylglycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol.
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Effects of Topical Mandelic Acid Treatment on Facial Skin Viscoelasticity"
Accessed Aug. 26, 2021.
8. Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution
The Ordinary Exfoliant for Exfoliating
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution
This chemical exfoliator is one of the most-loved The Ordinary products, with an effective 7% concentration of glycolic acid (an alpha-hydroxy acid, or AHA).
Regular exfoliation is necessary in order to maintain clear, smooth skin. This product contains an effective 7% concentration of glycolic acid, which has been shown to reduce the signs of aging (including wrinkles and sun spots) and minimize texture.
Pros
- Oil-free
- Alcohol-free
- Fragrance-free
- Lightweight and non-greasy
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Cons
- May irritate sensitive skin
This chemical exfoliator also contains Tasmanian pepperberry, which helps reduce irritation, as well as aloe vera and ginseng, which soothe the skin.
Aqua (Water), Glycolic Acid, Rosa damascena flower water, Centaurea cyanus flower water, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Water, Propanediol, Glycerin, Triethanolamine, Aminomethyl Propanol, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Tasmannia Lanceolata Fruit/Leaf Extract, Aspartic Acid, Alanine, Glycine, Serine, Valine, Isoleucine, Proline, Threonine, Histidine, Phenylalanine, Glutamic Acid, Arginine, PCA, Sodium PCA, Sodium Lactate, Fructose, Glucose, Sucrose, Urea, Hexyl Nicotinate, Dextrin, Citric Acid, Polysorbate 20, Gellan Gum, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Sodium Chloride, Hexylene Glycol, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol.
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "An antiaging skin care system containing alpha hydroxy acids and vitamins improves the biomechanical parameters of facial skin"
Accessed Aug. 11, 2021.
9. Lactic Acid 5% + HA
The Ordinary Exfoliant for Gentle Exfoliation
The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + HA
This chemical exfoliator gently exfoliates while soothing and hydrating the skin to reduce irritation.
All skin types need regular exfoliation in order to maintain smooth and clear skin. However, some may need a gentler exfoliation to minimize irritation. This option contains lactic acid, a mild alpha-hydroxy acid that gently exfoliates the skin to minimize hyperpigmentation, improve texture, and promote a clear complexion.
Pros
- Alcohol-free
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Oil-free
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- May irritate sensitive skin (although milder than many other AHAs)
In addition to lactic acid, this product contains sodium hyaluronate (the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid), which increases moisture levels in the skin. It also contains Tasmanian pepperberry, which soothes the skin.
Aqua (Water), Lactic Acid, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Propanediol, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Tasmannia Lanceolata Fruit/Leaf Extract, Acacia Senegal Gum, Xanthan Gum, Isoceteth-20, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Sodium Hydroxide, Ethylhexylglycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol.
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Dual Effects of Alpha-Hydroxy Acids on the Skin"
Accessed Aug. 9, 2021.
10. B5 10% Pure Glycolic Acid Serum
La Roche-Posay Exfoliant for Hyperpigmentation and Wrinkles
La Roche-Posay Glycolic B5 10% Pure Glycolic Acid Serum
This serum combines glycolic acid with other exfoliating and soothing ingredients that minimize fine lines and wrinkles, brighten hyperpigmentation, and improve overall skin tone and texture.
This serum contains a 10% concentration of exfoliating glycolic acid (an alpha hydroxy acid), which promotes the production of collagen and speeds up skin cell renewal. This is excellent for fighting fine lines and wrinkles and evening skin tone and texture. It also contains kojic acid, lipo-hydroxy acid, and tranexamic acid to further exfoliate and brighten the skin.
Pros
- Oil-free
- Fragrance-free
- Dermatologist tested
Cons
- May irritate sensitive skin
In addition to the acids mentioned above, this serum contains vitamin B5, which helps soothe the skin.
10% Pure Glycolic Acid, Aqua / Water, Alcohol Denat., Glycolic Acid, Propylene Glycol, Potassium Hydroxide, Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Tranexamic Acid, Kojic Acid, C12-13 Alkyl Lactate, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Panthenol, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, Disodium Edta.
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "An antiaging skin care system containing alpha hydroxy acids and vitamins improves the biomechanical parameters of facial skin"
Accessed Aug. 16, 2021.
11. 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant
Paula's Choice Exfoliant for Exfoliating and Reducing the Signs of Aging
Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant
This gel exfoliant contains glycolic acid (an alpha-hydroxy acid, or AHA), a chemical exfoliator that sheds dead skin cells to reveal smooth, younger looking skin.
AHAs like glycolic acid are commonly used to reduce the signs of aging, including wrinkles. This gel exfoliant contains an effective 8% concentration of glycolic acid, along with other soothing ingredients.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Lightweight
Cons
- May irritate more sensitive skin
In addition to the glycolic acid, this exfoliator contains soothing and hydrating ingredients, including chamomile, aloe, and green tea.
Water (Aqua), Glycolic Acid (alpha hydroxy acid/exfoliant), Sodium Hydroxide (pH adjuster), Chamomilla Recutita Matricaria Flower Extract (chamomile/skin-soothing), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (hydration), Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract (green tea/antioxidant/skin-soothing), Sodium Hyaluronate (skin replenishing), Panthenol (hydration), Sodium PCA (skin replenishing), Propylene Glycol (hydration), Butylene Glycol (hydration), Hydroxyethylcellulose (texture-enhancing), Polyquaternium-10 (texture-enhancing), Phenoxyethanol (preservative), Sodium Benzoate (preservative)
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "An antiaging skin care system containing alpha hydroxy acids and vitamins improves the biomechanical parameters of facial skin"
Accessed Jul. 30, 2021.
Is it good to exfoliate if you have dry skin?
Yes, people with dry skin can greatly benefit from using an exfoliant in their skincare routine. Alpha hydroxy acids (like glycolic acid, mandelic acid, and lactic acid) are particularly beneficial for dry skin, because they work on the surface of the skin, removing dead skin cells and promoting a smoother complexion.
What is the best exfoliant for dry sensitive skin?
People with sensitive skin can still benefit from using a gentle exfoliating product in their routine. If you have dry sensitive skin, a great product to check out is The Ordinary’s Mandelic Acid 10% + HA. Mandelic acid is gentler than the other commonly used AHAs (like glycolic acid), because it has a larger molecular size. In addition to it providing a mild exfoliation, this serum contains soothing and hydrating ingredients that are excellent for dry, sensitive skin.
How often should someone with dry skin exfoliate?
If you have dry skin, you should exfoliate one to two times per week. Exfoliating more than that can be problematic, because over-exfoliating can cause irritation and damage the skin barrier. It’s always a good idea to start slowly with once a week application, and build from there if necessary. Keep in mind that this depends on your skin’s tolerance for exfoliation, as well as the strength of the specific product you are using. Some products have super low concentrations of chemical exfoliators and can be used more frequently, while others are super strong and shouldn’t be used more than once per week. Always refer to the instructions of the exfoliant you choose.
The Bottom Line
Exfoliants offer a wide variety of benefits, and an effective exfoliant is a great addition to a dry skin skincare routine. If you have dry skin, consider trying out one of our recommended products to maintain an even, smooth complexion.