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Best Chemical Exfoliant For Acne (2024 Updated)

If you're looking for effective ways to treat acne, you might want to consider using a chemical exfoliant. Unlike physical exfoliants that contain abrasive ingredients, chemical exfoliants gently remove dead skin cells and unclog pores to improve the overall appearance and health of your skin.

However, before adding a chemical exfoliant to your skincare routine, there are a few factors you need to consider. Firstly, you need to identify your skin type and choose an exfoliant that is suitable for your skin. Additionally, you need to pay attention to the active ingredients and their concentrations to ensure that they are safe and effective for your skin.

Do you struggle with acne-prone skin? Are you tired of using products that promise to clear your skin but end up making it worse? Do you want to improve the texture and clarity of your skin without causing irritation? If so, a chemical exfoliant for acne may be the answer to your skincare woes. In this article, we will explore the benefits of using a chemical exfoliant for acne and give you tips on how to choose the right product for your skin.

10 Best Chemical Exfoliant For Acne

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for skin resurfacing, exfoliation, and reducing the appearance of dark spots and acne scars.
2
The product is ideal for exfoliating and improving the appearance of acne scars, dark spots, wrinkles, and fine lines.
3
This product is ideal for professional-grade chemical peels that improve skin texture, reduce wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and prevent acne.
4
These face pads are ideal for skin resurfacing, exfoliating, and treating acne.
5
The product is ideal for improving the appearance of acne scars, wrinkles, fine lines, and boosting collagen.
6
This product is ideal for improving acne, oiliness, wrinkles, blackheads, large pores, and dull skin through a chemical peel.
7
This product is ideal for exfoliating and improving skin texture, reducing acne and blemishes, and reducing wrinkles.
8
This product is ideal for people with acne-prone skin looking for a face wash and exfoliant that soothes and heals.
9
This skincare product is ideal for exfoliating, unclogging pores, and removing blackheads with a combination of salicylic and glycolic acids.
10
The product is ideal for treating acne, dark spots, wrinkles, and exfoliating the face with a gentle chemical peel at home.
This product is ideal for skin resurfacing, exfoliation, and reducing the appearance of dark spots and acne scars.
The product is ideal for exfoliating and improving the appearance of acne scars, dark spots, wrinkles, and fine lines.
This product is ideal for professional-grade chemical peels that improve skin texture, reduce wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and prevent acne.
These face pads are ideal for skin resurfacing, exfoliating, and treating acne.
The product is ideal for improving the appearance of acne scars, wrinkles, fine lines, and boosting collagen.
This product is ideal for improving acne, oiliness, wrinkles, blackheads, large pores, and dull skin through a chemical peel.
This product is ideal for exfoliating and improving skin texture, reducing acne and blemishes, and reducing wrinkles.
This product is ideal for people with acne-prone skin looking for a face wash and exfoliant that soothes and heals.
This skincare product is ideal for exfoliating, unclogging pores, and removing blackheads with a combination of salicylic and glycolic acids.
The product is ideal for treating acne, dark spots, wrinkles, and exfoliating the face with a gentle chemical peel at home.

1. Skin Renewal Peel Kit

Voibella's 3-in-1 chemical peel is a natural and pure formula that contains the three best Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA): Glycolic, Lactic Acid, and Peruvic Acid. These acids work together to exfoliate and resurface the skin, revealing a smoother and younger-looking complexion without any large layers of skin peeling off. The small dead skin particles are rinsed away when you wash your face, providing long-term benefits.

This natural AHA exfoliant works wonders for reducing the appearance of fine lines, acne, scars, and pores. Regular use can also help with dark spots, blemishes, and blackheads. This chemical facial exfoliator mask is more effective than scrubs and microdermabrasion, as the AHAs gently exfoliate and remove dead skin cells, exposing a younger and cleaner looking skin surface. You can see significant results from the first use itself.

Unlike other harsh glycolic acid peels with high percentages, Voibella's pure and filler-free 7.5% AHA Fruit Acid Chemical Peel is safe and easy to use at home. The pH of the peel is 1.5, which is much more effective and potent than peels with higher percentages of glycolic acid. For first-time users, try applying a small amount on a small skin area, wait for 30 seconds, and wash it off. Increase the leave-on time slowly as you see fit. You can contact Voibella for assistance if you need help.

What makes Voibella uniquely better is that it is an ethical family-owned business that believes in and uses its own products. This Chemical Peel Treatment Kit formula is made in small batches in GMP certified facilities in the USA. Voibella's product is made with natural ingredients, is paraben and sulfate-free, vegan-friendly, and cruelty-free. The customers are their main priority, and Voibella backs their products with a 365-Day Manufacturer's Guarantee!

Pros

  • Contains three best natural Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) for quick results and long-term benefits
  • Helps reduce the appearance of acne, fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, blemishes, blackheads, scars, and pores for smoother skin
  • Safe and easy to use at home
  • Pure and filler-free with a pH of 1.5, making it more effective than other brands with high % of Glycolic Acid
  • Made in small batches in GMP certified facilities in the USA with natural ingredients, paraben and sulfate-free, vegan-friendly, and cruelty-free
  • 365-Day Manufacturer's Guarantee

Cons

  • – May cause irritation or sensitivity for some users

2. Glow Peel: Ebanel's Ultimate Exfoliant Gel

Achieving healthy and radiant skin has never been easier with this exfoliating peel gel. Formulated with a combination of 30% AHA, 2% Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, and Mandelic Acid, it offers a powerful chemical peel treatment that helps eliminate acne scars, dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles. The peeling gel also contains brightening Vitamin C, anti-inflammatory Green Tea and Chamomile, and hydrating Hyaluronic Acid that work together to brighten, soften, and smooth out the skin.

This AHA BHA exfoliant peeling gel penetrates deeper to remove excess sebum and impurities, unclog pores, and minimize blackheads, cystic acne, and prevent future breakouts. It helps promote collagen production and accelerate natural skin cell turnover, tightening and firming the skin. This peel gel comes in a convenient gel format, and no neutralizer is needed to apply it.

However, users may experience a slight burning sensation and redness, so it is highly recommended to do a patch test. This product is cruelty-free and vegan-friendly, formulated and bottled in the USA, cGMP certified, oil-free, and fragrance-free.

Pros

  • Contains a powerful combination of AHA, Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid and Mandelic Acid to remove acne scars, dark spots, fine lines and wrinkles
  • Infused with brightening Vitamin C, anti-inflammatory Green Tea and Chamomile, and hydrating Hyaluronic Acid to brighten, soften and smooth out the skin
  • Penetrates deeper to remove excess sebum and impurities, unclogging pores and minimizing blackheads, cystic acne and prevents future breakouts
  • Promotes collagen production and accelerates natural skin cell turnover to tighten and firm the skin
  • Convenient gel format with no neutralizer needed to apply

Cons

  • – May cause a slight burning sensation and redness, so patch test is highly recommended

3. Retinol-Infused Glycolic Peel For Flawless Skin

Looking for a powerful yet gentle exfoliant to rid your skin of excess oils and dirt, making your pores look firm and toned? Look no further than the YEOUTH Glycolic Acid 30% Professional Gel Peel with Retinol & Green Tea. Made in the USA and owned by a cosmetic chemist, this natural and paraben-free peel is dermatology tested and all your skin needs from our fountain of YEOUTH!

This AHA BHA exfoliant is perfect for both men and women, and should be applied after using a face wash cleanser and toner. Simply apply the Glycolic Acid peeling gel, being sure to not leave it on your face for more than 8 minutes. Then, wash your face thoroughly and apply your favorite moisturizer. Use this chemical peel once a month for best results.

Not only is this Glycolic Acid peel an extraordinary facial peel for dark spots, black heads, and acne, but it also works great when used regularly with other YEOUTH anti-aging skin care products for skin clarity. Say goodbye to blemishes, hyperpigmentation, and dark spots in no time!

And don't worry, if for any reason you decide this product isn't the right fit for you, YEOUTH offers an extended 90-day money-back guarantee. The expiration date is printed on the barcode sticker attached to the packaging.

Pros

  • Powerful yet gentle exfoliant
  • Natural and paraben-free
  • Dermatology tested
  • Works great when used regularly with other YEOUTH anti-aging skin care products
  • Extended 90-day money-back guarantee

Cons

  • – Should not be left on face for more than 8 minutes
  • – Should only be used once a month

4. Windsor Botanicals Face Resurfacing Pads

Rejuvenate your complexion with these glycolic acid peel pads. These pads gently exfoliate dead skin cells, clear makeup, and unblock pores, leaving your face looking bright, youthful, and refreshed. These toner pads are the beauty industry's inside secret for reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles with just a few quick swipes. They are pre-soaked with chemical exfoliant, making them your go-to acne cleansing pad wipes. These wipes contain toning and calming herbs and naturals, making them the ideal chemical peel for face at home. They are hypoallergenic, US-made, vegan and cruelty-free.

However, it is important to patch test before use and avoid eye contact. These pads are unsuitable for hypersensitive skin as facial peels may cause irritation. If concerned, discontinue use and seek medical advice.

Pros

  • Gently exfoliates dead skin cells and clears makeup and unblocks pores
  • Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
  • Pre-soaked with chemical exfoliant for acne cleansing
  • Contains toning and calming herbs and naturals
  • Hypoallergenic, US-made, vegan and cruelty-free

Cons

  • – Patch test before use and avoid eye contact
  • – Unsuitable for hypersensitive skin
  • – Facial peels may cause irritation

5. Pro-Peel: Acne Scars & Wrinkle Remover.

Achieve a professional-grade facial peel at home with this exceptional Glycolic Acid Face Peel. This alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) peel works by stimulating collagen production, leading to a reduction in the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation. It promotes cell regeneration, replacing older and damaged cells with a younger and smoother skin surface. With up to 20 complete facial applications per bottle, it offers an affordable alternative to expensive spa treatments.

Unlike many other chemical face peels on the market, this product comes in a light gel form, preventing it from trickling down your face or dripping into your eyes or mouth. The gel-based formula is infused with green tea and chamomile extracts, known for their antioxidant, anti-bacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties that promote clear, healthy, and younger-looking skin. The extracts also help control the potentially irritating effects of glycolic acid on your skin.

However, it is essential to note that this product contains glycolic acid, and sensitivity to this ingredient varies from person to person. Therefore, it is highly recommended to perform a patch test before using the product. To test, apply a small quantity of the product on a very limited, dime-sized area behind the ear or under the chin and wait for 2 to 3 minutes.

Pros

  • Stimulates collagen production, reducing the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation.
  • Promotes cell regeneration, leading to a younger and smoother skin surface.
  • Offers up to 20 complete facial applications per bottle, providing an affordable alternative to expensive spa treatments.
  • Comes in a light gel form, preventing it from trickling down your face or dripping into your eyes or mouth.
  • Infused with green tea and chamomile extracts, which have antioxidant, anti-bacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties that promote clear, healthy, and younger-looking skin.

Cons

  • – May cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals due to the presence of glycolic acid.

6. Aha Skin Renewal Peel For Clearer Skin

The Glycolic Peel is an effective way to rejuvenate the skin's appearance. It works by penetrating the deeper layers of the skin, stimulating the production of collagen and elastin. By removing the damaged and unattractive skin cells, the peel reveals a brighter, smoother and more youthful complexion. The peel contains Glycolic acid, an Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) that acts as an exfoliating agent due to its high acidity and easy solubility. It is important to note that this particular peel has a low pH and is unbuffered, making it stronger than regular buffered Glycolic Acid. It is designed for body use only, and customers are advised to read the full disclosure on the product's website before use.

Pros

  • Accelerates the skin's natural production of collagen and elastin
  • Removes damaged and unattractive skin cells for a brighter and smoother complexion
  • Contains Glycolic acid, an effective Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) exfoliating agent
  • Effective in rejuvenating the skin's appearance

Cons

  • – Designed for body use only

7. Aha Bha Exfoliating Serum – Anti-Acne Solution.

Experience a brighter and smoother complexion with this Chemical Peel for Face. Specifically formulated for sensitive skin, this exfoliating peeling solution deeply penetrates the skin to remove dead skin cells and impurities, revealing a fresh and youthful layer of skin underneath. Unlike other brands, this product is milder, making it perfect for people with sensitive skin. It contains natural ingredients such as AHA, BHA, Lactic Acid, Glycolic Acid, and Aloe Vera that work synergistically to nourish and rejuvenate the skin from within. This peel also helps to banish dark spots, acne, and shrink pores, making it an effective treatment for those with oily skin. As a powerful exfoliator and deep cleanser, it eliminates impurities without drying out the skin, making it a perfect addition to your daily skincare routine. To use, simply wash your face and dry it before applying 3-4 drops of the solution. If you are using it for the first time, leave it on for one minute before washing it off. Once your skin adapts to the solution, you can leave it on for 3-10 minutes. However, it is important to do a small patch test on your neck or arm before using it on your face. If you experience any problems, discontinue use immediately and contact the manufacturer. This product comes with a 100% warranty, and the manufacturer is always ready to help. Order now and experience a brighter and smoother complexion that will make you look and feel younger.

Pros

  • Formulated for sensitive skin
  • Removes dead skin cells and impurities, revealing fresh and youthful skin
  • Contains natural ingredients such as AHA, BHA, Lactic Acid, Glycolic Acid, and Aloe Vera
  • Helps to banish dark spots, acne, and shrink pores
  • Powerful exfoliator and deep cleanser
  • Eliminates impurities without drying out the skin
  • Comes with a 100% warranty

Cons

  • – May cause irritation if not used as directed
  • – Not suitable for people with extremely sensitive skin

8. Blithe Green Tea Face Care Set

Experience the benefits of traditional Korean skincare practices with the Patting Splash Mask. This innovative facial wash is a combination of a face exfoliant and a hydrating facial mask that helps unclog pores, smooth skin bumps, and illuminate and vitalize the skin.

The 5-AHA multi-fruit acids with a concentration of 20% contain 15% lactic acid that works as a natural face wash exfoliator. These acids help remove flaky skin, smoothen rough skin texture, and unclog enlarged pores.

The Patting Splash Mask also contains skin-protecting green tea that helps soothe and hydrate irritated and acne-prone skin. Additionally, the tea tree oil in the mask helps control sebum production while clearing the pores.

This natural peel formula also has a balanced pH, making it ideal for sensitive skin types as it gently exfoliates without scrubbing and irritating the skin. Furthermore, this product contains NO Paraben, Sulfates, Formaldehyde, Mineral Oil, Urea, BHT, TEA, or Phthalates and has NOT been tested on animals.

Revitalize your skin with the Patting Splash Mask and achieve healthier, glowing skin that you deserve.

Pros

  • Combination of a face exfoliant and a hydrating facial mask
  • Contains 5-AHA multi-fruit acids with 20% concentration and 15% lactic acid
  • Helps remove flaky skin, smoothen rough skin texture, and unclog enlarged pores
  • Contains skin-protecting green tea and tea tree oil
  • Ideal for sensitive skin types
  • Natural peel formula with a balanced pH
  • Free from harmful chemicals and cruelty-free

9. Nurina Liquid Exfoliant: Bha, Aha, Pore Cleanser

Achieve a radiant, youthful-looking skin with the Salicylic Acid Leave-On Exfoliating Serum. This serum is composed of 30% Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) and 2% Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA) which work together to unclog pores, brighten and even out skin tone, and leave a youthful glow on your skin. It is an ideal facial exfoliator for targeting clogged pores, hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, breakouts, blackheads, and giving your skin a radiant and youthful glow with regular use.

The 2% BHA acts as a natural exfoliator and helps remove dead skin cells while improving overall skin texture and acne condition. On the other hand, the 30% AHA is an amazing and potent liquid exfoliant that not only brightens skin but also improves acne condition, wrinkles, and discoloration. It boosts the product absorption level, peels dead skin cells, helps reduce hyperpigmentation, and eliminates the issue of excess sebum, dirt, and oil build-up in pores.

This must-have skincare product is perfect for daily use, and it is gentle on all skin types. Its cruelty-free formula targets acne, redness, sunburn, blemishes, redness, bumpy texture, blackheads, and dull skin. The facial peel salicylic acid and glycolic acid are free of artificial fragrance, parabens, dyes, additives, preservatives, and harsh chemicals, making it safe and effective for all skin types.

Pros

  • Contains 30% AHA and 2% BHA for deep exfoliation and radiant skin
  • Ideal for targeting clogged pores, hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, breakouts, and blackheads
  • Gentle and non-abrasive formula suitable for daily use
  • Free of artificial fragrance, parabens, dyes, additives, preservatives, and harsh chemicals
  • Safe and effective for all skin types

10. Skin Renewal Gel: Yeouth's Salicylic Peel

Experience the ultimate acne and blackhead fighter with YEOUTH Salicylic Acid 20% Gel Peel with Tea Tree Oil and Green Tea. This hydrating chemical peel gently exfoliates the pores of excess oils and dirt that cause acne, blackheads, and skin blemishes, leaving your skin clean and clear with a glow-worthy to admire. Made in the USA, owned by a cosmetic chemist, and dermatology tested, this peel is a natural and paraben-free formula that is suitable for all skin types.

To use, apply the peel after cleansing your face with a wash and toner. Leave it on your face for 1-5 minutes, then wash thoroughly with cool water and apply moisturizer. Use it once a month and wear sunscreen during the day for extra defense. Incorporate this peel into your skincare routine today to see the difference. You can also use it regularly with YEOUTH anti-aging facial skincare products to treat skin imperfections and achieve a truly wonderful beauty glow.

YEOUTH offers an extended manufacturer guarantee – love it or get your money back! The expiration date is printed on the barcode sticker attached to the packaging.

Pros

  • Made in the USA, owned by a cosmetic chemist, and dermatology tested
  • Natural and paraben-free formula suitable for all skin types
  • Hydrating chemical peel gently exfoliates the pores of excess oils and dirt that cause acne, blackheads, and skin blemishes
  • Leaves your skin clean and clear with a glow-worthy to admire
  • Extended manufacturer guarantee – love it or get your money back

Best Chemical Exfoliant For Acne FAQs

Are there any potential side effects or risks associated with using chemical exfoliants for acne?

Chemical exfoliants are popularly used for treating acne as they help in removing dead skin cells, unclogging pores, and reducing the appearance of blemishes. However, like any other skincare product, chemical exfoliants also come with potential side effects and risks.

Some of the common side effects of using chemical exfoliants for acne include redness, dryness, and irritation of the skin. This occurs because the active ingredients in the exfoliant can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and sensitivity. In some cases, chemical exfoliants can also cause peeling, flaking, and burning of the skin.

Apart from these side effects, there are also certain risks associated with using chemical exfoliants for acne. For instance, overusing or misusing the product can lead to skin damage, which can further aggravate acne. Moreover, if you have sensitive skin or are allergic to any of the ingredients in the exfoliant, it is essential to consult a dermatologist before using the product.

In conclusion, while chemical exfoliants can be effective in treating acne, it is essential to use them with caution and under the guidance of a skincare professional. It is also important to start with a low concentration of active ingredients and gradually increase it over time to avoid any adverse reactions.

How do chemical exfoliants work to unclog pores and reduce acne breakouts?

Chemical exfoliants are a type of skincare product that work by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to be easily removed from the surface of the skin. This process helps to unclog pores, which is a common cause of acne breakouts. Chemical exfoliants come in two main types: alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs). AHAs, such as glycolic acid and lactic acid, work by dissolving the glue-like substance that holds dead skin cells together. BHAs, such as salicylic acid, are oil-soluble and can penetrate deep into pores to dissolve excess oil and other impurities that can clog them. Chemical exfoliants are often used in conjunction with other acne-fighting ingredients, such as benzoyl peroxide and retinoids, to further reduce breakouts. It is important to note that chemical exfoliants can be harsh on the skin if not used correctly, so it is important to follow the instructions carefully and start with a low concentration before gradually increasing as tolerated.

How often should chemical exfoliants be used for best results in treating acne?

Chemical exfoliants are a popular treatment option for acne-prone skin. They work by dissolving dead skin cells and unclogging pores, which can help to prevent breakouts. However, it is important to use them correctly in order to achieve the best results without causing irritation or damage to the skin.

The frequency with which you should use a chemical exfoliant will depend on your individual skin type and the strength of the product you are using. Generally speaking, it is best to start with a lower concentration and use it once or twice a week, gradually increasing the frequency as your skin becomes accustomed to the treatment.

If you have sensitive skin or are using a stronger product, it may be best to limit use to once a week or every other week. On the other hand, if you have oily or acne-prone skin, you may be able to use a chemical exfoliant more frequently, up to three times a week.

It is also important to follow the instructions for the specific product you are using and to pay attention to any signs of irritation or redness. If you experience any discomfort, it is best to reduce the frequency of use or switch to a gentler product.

Should individuals with sensitive skin or other skin conditions avoid using chemical exfoliants for acne?

Individuals with sensitive skin or other skin conditions should be cautious when using chemical exfoliants for acne. Chemical exfoliants contain active ingredients like AHAs and BHAs that can penetrate deep into the skin to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. However, these ingredients can also cause irritation, redness, and dryness, especially for those with sensitive skin or conditions like eczema or rosacea.

It is important to consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional before using chemical exfoliants if you have sensitive skin or a preexisting skin condition. They can recommend appropriate products and advise on how often to use them to avoid any adverse reactions. Individuals with sensitive skin may also benefit from using gentler forms of exfoliation like physical exfoliants (e.g. scrubs) or enzyme exfoliants (e.g. papaya or pineapple extracts).

In summary, while chemical exfoliants can be effective for treating acne, individuals with sensitive skin or other skin conditions should approach their use with caution and seek professional advice beforehand.

What are the most effective chemical exfoliants for treating acne-prone skin?

Chemical exfoliants are an excellent way to treat acne-prone skin as they help to unclog pores and prevent the formation of acne. The most effective chemical exfoliants for treating acne-prone skin are salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and lactic acid.

Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid that penetrates deep into the pores and dissolves the excess oil and dead skin cells that clog them. It is also anti-inflammatory, which helps to reduce redness and irritation caused by acne.

Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid that gently exfoliates the skin's surface, removing dead skin cells and promoting cell turnover. It also helps to improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of acne scars.

Lactic acid is another alpha-hydroxy acid that exfoliates the skin and promotes cell turnover. It is also a humectant, meaning it helps to retain moisture in the skin, which is essential for keeping acne-prone skin hydrated and healthy.

When using chemical exfoliants, it's important to start with a low concentration and gradually increase as your skin gets used to them. It's also essential to use sunscreen during the day as chemical exfoliants can increase sun sensitivity.

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