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Best Exfoliating Cleanser For Face (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a way to keep your skin looking fresh and healthy, an exfoliating cleanser for your face may be just what you need. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the right one?

There are a few factors to consider before making a purchase. Firstly, think about your skin type. If you have sensitive skin, look for a gentle exfoliant with small beads or natural ingredients like oatmeal or honey. If you have oily skin or are prone to breakouts, a cleanser with salicylic acid may be more effective. It’s also important to consider your skincare goals – are you looking to brighten your complexion, reduce the appearance of fine lines, or simply remove built-up dirt and oil? Different products will have different benefits.

To help you find the perfect exfoliating cleanser for your needs, ask yourself some questions. What are the main concerns you have with your skin? Do you prefer a foaming or non-foaming cleanser? Are you looking for a product that can be used daily, or just once or twice a week? Do you have any allergies or sensitivities that might influence your choice? By thinking carefully about these factors, you’ll be able to narrow down your options and find the best exfoliating cleanser for your face.

10 Best Exfoliating Cleanser For Face

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This exfoliating face wash is ideal for gently cleansing and removing dead skin cells without irritating sensitive skin.
2
This facial cleanser is ideal for removing oil and dead skin cells, and is safe for all skin types including sensitive skin.
3
The product is ideal for exfoliating and cleansing the skin.
4
Ideal for those seeking an anti-aging daily face cleanser to exfoliate and brighten dull skin with glycolic acid.
5
This product is ideal for deep cleansing, exfoliating, and massaging the face for both men and women.
6
This product is ideal for men who want to exfoliate, deep cleanse their skin, remove blackheads, acne, and ingrown hairs.
7
This face wash is ideal for reducing the look of dark spots and hyperpigmentation on sensitive skin without fragrance.
8
This face cleanser is ideal for exfoliating, removing dark spots, and brightening skin tone.
9
Ideal for gently exfoliating and hydrating the face, promoting clear and even skin with organic essential oils and lactic acid.
10
This product is ideal for men's facial cleansing and exfoliation, reducing pores and evening out skin tone.
This exfoliating face wash is ideal for gently cleansing and removing dead skin cells without irritating sensitive skin.
This facial cleanser is ideal for removing oil and dead skin cells, and is safe for all skin types including sensitive skin.
The product is ideal for exfoliating and cleansing the skin.
Ideal for those seeking an anti-aging daily face cleanser to exfoliate and brighten dull skin with glycolic acid.
This product is ideal for deep cleansing, exfoliating, and massaging the face for both men and women.
This product is ideal for men who want to exfoliate, deep cleanse their skin, remove blackheads, acne, and ingrown hairs.
This face wash is ideal for reducing the look of dark spots and hyperpigmentation on sensitive skin without fragrance.
This face cleanser is ideal for exfoliating, removing dark spots, and brightening skin tone.
Ideal for gently exfoliating and hydrating the face, promoting clear and even skin with organic essential oils and lactic acid.
This product is ideal for men's facial cleansing and exfoliation, reducing pores and evening out skin tone.

1. Gentle Daily Exfoliating Face Scrub – Cetaphil

The CETAPHIL Extra Gentle Daily Scrub is a three-in-one facial scrub that cleanses, nourishes and soothes sensitive skin. This gentle scrub is designed to exfoliate the skin without causing any irritation. The micro-fine granules help to buff away dry, dull skin and support natural surface cell turnover. It removes dirt, oil and other impurities without over-drying the skin, leaving it soft and radiant.

This scrub is infused with skin conditioners and a vitamin complex that help to keep the skin comfortably hydrated. It is specially formulated for sensitive skin, and all CETAPHIL products are effective yet non-irritating. If you're looking for a gentle and nourishing facial scrub that is suitable for sensitive skin, the CETAPHIL Extra Gentle Daily Scrub is a great choice.

Pros

  • Three-in-one facial scrub that cleanses, nourishes and soothes sensitive skin
  • Micro-fine granules gently exfoliate the skin without causing irritation
  • Removes dirt, oil and impurities without over-drying the skin
  • Infused with skin conditioners and a vitamin complex that keep the skin hydrated
  • Specially formulated for sensitive skin

2. Eltamd Exfoliating Foaming Face Wash

The EltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser is a gentle and effective face wash that can be used both morning and night. It is specially designed for oily skin types and works to remove impurities, makeup, and excess oil from the skin for a clean and smooth look and feel.

This exfoliating face wash utilizes a blend of enzymes and amino acids to reduce inflammation and remove harmful skin pollutants, helping to freshen and balance the skin. The micro-massaging bubbles infused within this foaming face cleanser provide a cleaner and more balanced skin feel, while also infusing more oxygen into the surface of your skin.

Safe for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin, this thick foam face wash moisturizes without blocking pores or irritating sensitive skin. It is an oil-free, sensitivity-free, and paraben-free sensitive skin face wash that effectively cleanses the skin without causing any harm.

Pros

  • Gentle and effective face wash for oily skin types
  • Removes impurities, makeup, and excess oil from the skin
  • Utilizes a blend of enzymes and amino acids to reduce inflammation and remove harmful skin pollutants
  • Micro-massaging bubbles provide a cleaner and more balanced skin feel
  • Safe for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin
  • Moisturizes without blocking pores or irritating sensitive skin
  • Oil-free, sensitivity-free, and paraben-free

3. Skinmedica Aha/bha Exfoliating Cleanser, 6 Fl Oz

This product contains both alpha-hydroxy and beta-hydroxy acids which work together to gently exfoliate the skin, removing dead cells and leaving it looking smoother and more radiant. The formula is also enriched with a range of botanical extracts which help to nourish and hydrate the skin, as well as panthenol which helps to condition and protect the skin's natural moisture barrier. With regular use, this product can help to improve the overall tone and texture of your skin, leaving it looking and feeling healthier and more youthful.

If you're looking for a gentle yet effective exfoliating product that can help to improve the appearance of your skin, this is definitely worth considering. With a range of natural ingredients and no harsh chemicals, it's a great choice for anyone with sensitive skin or those looking for a more natural approach to skincare.

Pros

  • Contains alpha-hydroxy and beta-hydroxy acids to gently exfoliate the skin
  • Enriched with botanical extracts and panthenol to hydrate and condition the skin
  • Helps to improve the overall tone and texture of the skin
  • No harsh chemicals or synthetic fragrances

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for those with very sensitive skin
  • – Results may take some time to become noticeable

4. Glow Boosting Daily Face Cleanser Duo

Say goodbye to dull and lackluster skin with the L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Bright Reveal Cleanser. This daily scrub facial cleanser is formulated to gently exfoliate dullness and reveal radiance. It effectively addresses skin concerns beyond wrinkles, such as uneven tone and texture, that can make the skin look older. As the skin's natural ability to shed surface dead skin cells declines with age, it results in a full, uneven tone and loss of radiance. The gentle micro-pearls and Glycolic Acid in this facial cleanser work together to exfoliate dullness and impurities, leaving your skin looking visibly brighter, more radiant, and with an improved texture, tone, and clarity. It helps promote smoother and more refined skin texture, making your skin look and feel revitalized. This facial cleanser is Dermatologist tested for gentleness and can be used every morning and night for best results.

If you're looking for a gentle yet effective facial cleanser that provides an instant boost of radiance and helps promote smoother and more refined skin texture, the L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Bright Reveal Cleanser is the perfect solution for you. Its unique formula is specially designed to cater to the needs of mature skin and helps address a wide range of skin concerns. Regular use of this facial cleanser can help you achieve visibly brighter, more radiant, and youthful-looking skin.

Pros

  • Gently exfoliates dullness and impurities for radiant skin
  • Addresses skin concerns beyond wrinkles, such as uneven tone and texture
  • Promotes smoother and more refined skin texture
  • Helps improve skin tone, texture, and clarity
  • Dermatologist tested for gentleness

5. Revivebrush: Rechargeable Exfoliating Facial Cleanser

Experience a comprehensive 3 in 1 facial cleansing system with the Orauley Facial Cleansing Brush. This device comes with 4 brush heads that include 2 exfoliating brush heads, a soft cleansing brush head, and a silicone brush head. It is suitable for all skin types and meets all your facial cleansing needs. The brush heads are designed to gently clean and get deep into the pores to remove dirt, oil, makeup residues, stubborn blackheads, and whiteheads from the face. With 2 speeds and a powerful rotary spin, the device offers 750r/min on low speed and 900r/min on high speed, giving you the freedom to choose between daily gentle cleansing and deep exfoliation.

The Orauley Facial Cleansing Brush is IPX7 waterproof, which makes it an outstanding device that you can use in wet environments such as the shower, sink, or bathtub without worrying about damage. It's easy to recharge thanks to its 1200mAh lithium battery that can last up to 2 months (2 minutes a day) after a full charge. This means you no longer have to worry about AA batteries and the device breaking down after a few uses.

The Orauley Facial Cleansing Brush comes with a 1-year warranty, giving you no risk to try. However, to better use your product, it is recommended to carefully read the user manual before use. For safety, please tie your long hair up to avoid hair being caught in the device when using it.

Pros

  • Comprehensive 3 in 1 facial cleansing system
  • Suitable for all skin types
  • 4 brush heads for all your facial cleansing needs
  • 2 speeds with a powerful rotary spin
  • IPX7 waterproof construction
  • Rechargeable 1200mAh lithium battery
  • 1-year warranty

Cons

  • – None found

6. Viking Men's Pre-Shave Exfoliating Scrub

Achieve a deep cleanse and eliminate excess oil with this expertly formulated Men's Face Wash. Suitable for oily, dry, and normal skin types, this product is designed to moisturize your skin as it cleanses dirt and impurities. The exfoliating properties help to prevent acne and balance dryness, leaving your skin feeling refreshed and revitalized.

This Squeaky-Clean Exfoliating Face Scrub is perfect for men who want to maintain a healthy, youthful appearance. The formula is designed to exfoliate the skin while helping to condition it against razor irritation, making shaving easier and more comfortable.

The Viking Promise guarantees your satisfaction. If you have any concerns about the product, simply contact them for assistance.

Pros

  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Helps moisturize skin as it cleanses
  • Exfoliating properties help prevent acne
  • Condition skin against razor irritation for a smoother shave
  • Great for maintaining healthy, youthful skin

7. Sensitive Skin Radiance Exfoliating Cleanser

The Cetaphil Healthy Radiance Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser is a powerful skin care product that exfoliates the skin while cleansing it. This cleanser visibly reduces the appearance of dark spots, revealing smoother, clearer, and more radiant skin. The GentleBright Complex of this cleanser is powered by 2% niacinamide (vitamin B3) and nourishing antioxidants that help reduce the appearance of dark spots, brown spots, age spots, hyperpigmentation, and post-acne marks to even skin tone for a brighter, more radiant complexion.

The polyhydroxy acid (PHA) used in this cleanser is gentle and safe for daily use. It removes dead skin cells without causing any irritation or discomfort. This face wash is also hypoallergenic and won't clog pores, making it perfect for sensitive skin. It is fragrance-free and gentle yet effective on the skin.

The Cetaphil Healthy Radiance Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser is designed to defend against five signs of skin sensitivity, which include dryness, irritation, roughness, tightness, and weakened skin barrier. With its gentle formula, this cleanser helps to keep the skin clean, healthy, and radiant, without causing any damage or irritation.

Pros

  • Gently exfoliates while cleansing to visibly reduce the appearance of dark spots revealing smoother, clearer, more radiant skin
  • Powered by 2% niacinamide (vitamin B3) and nourishing antioxidants to reduce the appearance of dark spots, brown spots, age spots, hyperpigmentation, and post acne marks to even skin tone for a brighter, more radiant complexion
  • Sensitive skin-friendly PHA for gentle exfoliation
  • Hypoallergenic and won't clog pores
  • Defends against five signs of skin sensitivity

8. Posay's Pigmentclar Dark Spot Remover

Achieve a brighter, more radiant complexion with this anti-aging cleanser. It effectively removes impurities and revitalizes dull-looking skin, leaving it soft and supple. This cleanser is specially formulated with micro-exfoliating lipo-hydroxy acid, making it perfect for those with uneven skin tone or dark spots. It also contains Lipo-Hydroxy Acid (LHA) which is a derivative of salicylic acid, known for its powerful exfoliating and renewing properties. The rich and easy-to-rinse foaming texture ensures a deep cleanse, leaving skin feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Suitable for sensitive skin, this cleanser is ideal for anyone looking to achieve a brighter and smoother complexion.

Say goodbye to dull and uneven skin tone with this anti-aging cleanser. Its micro-exfoliating lipo-hydroxy acid formula helps remove impurities and promotes a brighter, more radiant complexion. The deep cleansing action effectively targets visible dark spots and leaves skin feeling soft and supple. The foaming texture is easy to rinse off and works overtime to provide smoother and brighter skin. Formulated with Lipo-Hydroxy Acid, this cleanser is perfect for those with dull skin and uneven skin tone. It's also suitable for sensitive skin, making it a great addition to any skincare routine.

Get ready to achieve brighter, smoother skin with this anti-aging cleanser. Formulated with micro-exfoliating lipo-hydroxy acid, it effectively removes impurities and promotes a more radiant complexion. The rich and easy-to-rinse foaming texture ensures a deep cleanse, leaving skin feeling soft and supple. This cleanser targets skin concerns including visible dark spots, dull skin, and uneven skin tone. Its Lipo-Hydroxy Acid (LHA) formula is derived from salicylic acid and has powerful exfoliating and renewing properties. Suitable for sensitive skin, this cleanser is perfect for anyone looking to achieve a brighter and smoother complexion.

Pros

  • Effectively removes impurities and promotes a brighter and more radiant complexion
  • Specially formulated with micro-exfoliating lipo-hydroxy acid, making it perfect for those with uneven skin tone or dark spots
  • Contains Lipo-Hydroxy Acid (LHA) which is known for its powerful exfoliating and renewing properties
  • Rich and easy-to-rinse foaming texture ensures a deep cleanse
  • Suitable for sensitive skin

9. Organic Tea Tree Facial Cleanser For Clear Skin

Purity Clean is a facial cleanser that helps exfoliate congested skin, resulting in a smoother and more refined complexion. This product contains 5% Chirally Correct L-Lactic Acid, which helps unclog congested pores and minimizes the appearance of pores. The combination of ingredients in this cleanser has been clinically tested to improve the look of uneven texture and discoloration, resulting in a healthier, more youthful appearance.

In addition to exfoliating the skin, Purity Clean also restores and hydrates the skin for a more balanced and hydrated complexion. This facial cleanser is infused with Peppermint Essential Oil, which cools and refreshes the skin, leaving it with a radiant and refreshed glow.

Overall, Purity Clean is a great option for those looking to improve the texture and appearance of their skin. Its gentle exfoliating properties, combined with its hydrating and balancing benefits, make it a versatile and effective facial cleanser.

Pros

  • Exfoliates congested skin for a smoother-looking complexion
  • Restores, hydrates, and balances the skin for a healthier, more youthful appearance
  • Infused with Peppermint Essential Oil to refresh and cool the skin
  • Clinically tested to improve the look of uneven texture and discoloration
  • Helps unclog congested pores and minimizes their appearance

Best Exfoliating Cleanser For Face FAQs

Are there any potential risks or side effects of using an exfoliating cleanser on the face?

Yes, there are potential risks and side effects of using an exfoliating cleanser on the face. Exfoliating cleansers are designed to remove dead skin cells and impurities from the skin's surface, but if overused or used incorrectly, they can cause damage to the skin.

One of the most common side effects of using an exfoliating cleanser is skin irritation. This can manifest as redness, dryness, and flakiness. In more severe cases, exfoliating cleansers can cause chemical burns or exacerbate existing skin conditions, such as acne or rosacea.

Another potential risk of using an exfoliating cleanser is sun sensitivity. Exfoliating can make the skin more vulnerable to UV damage, so it's important to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen after exfoliating.

To avoid these risks, it's important to choose an exfoliating cleanser that's appropriate for your skin type and to use it as directed. It's also recommended to limit exfoliation to once or twice a week and to avoid using other exfoliating products, such as scrubs or peels, at the same time.

Can an exfoliating cleanser be used on all skin types?

Exfoliating cleansers are a popular choice for people looking to improve the texture and appearance of their skin. However, not all exfoliating cleansers are suitable for all skin types.

For example, individuals with dry or sensitive skin may find that certain exfoliating cleansers are too harsh and can cause irritation or redness. On the other hand, those with oily or acne-prone skin may benefit from a stronger exfoliating cleanser to help remove excess oil and unclog pores.

It's important to choose an exfoliating cleanser that is specifically formulated for your skin type. Look for products that contain gentle exfoliants, such as alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs), which are less likely to cause irritation.

It's also important to use exfoliating cleansers in moderation. Over-exfoliating can strip away the skin's natural oils and lead to dryness and irritation. Aim to use an exfoliating cleanser no more than once or twice a week, and follow up with a gentle moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.

How often should I use an exfoliating cleanser on my face?

Exfoliating cleansers are an essential part of any skincare routine. They help to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, leaving your skin looking brighter and more refreshed. However, it's important not to overdo it, as too much exfoliation can cause irritation and damage to your skin.

As a general rule, it's recommended to use an exfoliating cleanser 1-2 times per week, depending on your skin type and sensitivity. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, you may benefit from more frequent exfoliation, while those with dry or sensitive skin should take a gentler approach.

When choosing an exfoliating cleanser, look for one that contains gentle, natural exfoliants such as sugar or jojoba beads, rather than harsh chemicals or microbeads that can harm the environment. And always follow up with a moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.

Overall, the key is to listen to your skin and adjust your exfoliation routine as needed. With the right approach, you can enjoy all the benefits of exfoliation without any of the drawbacks.

What are the benefits of using an exfoliating cleanser for the face?

Exfoliating cleansers are a great addition to any skincare routine because they offer multiple benefits for the face. Firstly, they help to remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, which can contribute to dullness and uneven texture. By removing these dead skin cells, exfoliating cleansers help to reveal brighter, smoother, and more radiant skin.

Another benefit of using an exfoliating cleanser is that it can help to unclog pores and prevent breakouts. By removing the buildup of dead skin cells and excess oil, exfoliating cleansers can help to prevent the development of acne and other blemishes.

Exfoliating cleansers can also improve the effectiveness of other skincare products. By removing dead skin cells, these products can penetrate deeper into the skin and deliver their active ingredients more effectively.

In summary, using an exfoliating cleanser can help to improve the overall appearance of the skin, prevent breakouts, and enhance the effectiveness of other skincare products. It is important to choose an exfoliating cleanser that is gentle enough for your skin type and to use it no more than two to three times per week to avoid over-exfoliating.

What ingredients should I look for in an exfoliating cleanser for the face?

When it comes to exfoliating cleansers for your face, it's important to find the right ingredients that will effectively remove dead skin cells and impurities without being too harsh on your delicate facial skin. One of the most popular and effective ingredients for exfoliation is alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), such as glycolic acid or lactic acid. These acids work by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells, revealing smoother and brighter skin underneath.

Another great ingredient to look for in an exfoliating cleanser is beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs), such as salicylic acid. BHAs are oil-soluble, making them especially effective at unclogging pores and removing excess oil and bacteria from the skin.

Other beneficial ingredients to look for in an exfoliating cleanser include enzymes, such as papaya or pineapple, which work to naturally exfoliate the skin, and physical exfoliants like jojoba beads or sugar, which gently slough off dead skin cells.

Overall, it's important to choose an exfoliating cleanser that is gentle enough for your skin type, but still contains effective ingredients to help improve skin texture and tone.

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