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Best Exfoliator For Clogged Pores (2024 Updated)

If you're looking for an effective solution to unclog your pores, exfoliators can do wonders. They work by sloughing off dead skin cells, which can trap dirt and oil in your pores, resulting in breakouts and acne. However, not all exfoliators are the same. Before investing in a product, you must consider several factors.

First, you should determine your skin type. Dry, oily, and sensitive skin require different exfoliators, so it's vital to find the one that best suits your needs. Then, check the ingredients list. Make sure it doesn't contain harsh chemicals or abrasive particles that can damage your skin. You can also read reviews from other users to see if the product worked well for them.

Do you want to achieve clearer and smoother skin? Are you tired of dealing with clogged pores that refuse to go away? Wondering which exfoliator is the right one for you? Keep reading to find out how to find the best exfoliator for clogged pores, and say goodbye to pesky blemishes once and for all.

10 Best Exfoliator For Clogged Pores

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for those with clogged pores, excess oil, breakouts, fine lines, and who want gentle exfoliation.
2
Ideal for exfoliating and moisturizing keratosis pilaris (KP) prone skin, removing clogged pores, and without fragrance or parabens.
3
It is ideal for sensitive, redness-prone skin with large, clogged pores and conditions like rosacea and eczema.
4
The product is ideal for cleansing and refining rough and clogged pores with the use of red algae exfoliation.
5
The product is ideal for treating clogged pores, blemishes, breakouts, and exfoliating the skin using salicylic acid and natural ingredients.
6
This product is ideal for deep cleansing, exfoliation, and treating skin issues such as clogged pores, blackheads, whiteheads, and acne blemishes.
7
This product is ideal for exfoliating and refining pores, particularly those that are clogged. It can be used as a at home face mask.
8
The peel-off mask is ideal for exfoliating, smoothening skin, removing blackheads, cleaning pores, and removing dirt and debris.
9
These exfoliating wipes with glycolic acid and manuka honey are ideal for clearing clogged pores and reducing breakouts for brighter skin.
10
This face scrub is ideal for purifying and de-clogging deep pores, exfoliating excess oils, and leaving skin refreshed.
The product is ideal for those with clogged pores, excess oil, breakouts, fine lines, and who want gentle exfoliation.
Ideal for exfoliating and moisturizing keratosis pilaris (KP) prone skin, removing clogged pores, and without fragrance or parabens.
It is ideal for sensitive, redness-prone skin with large, clogged pores and conditions like rosacea and eczema.
The product is ideal for cleansing and refining rough and clogged pores with the use of red algae exfoliation.
The product is ideal for treating clogged pores, blemishes, breakouts, and exfoliating the skin using salicylic acid and natural ingredients.
This product is ideal for deep cleansing, exfoliation, and treating skin issues such as clogged pores, blackheads, whiteheads, and acne blemishes.
This product is ideal for exfoliating and refining pores, particularly those that are clogged. It can be used as a at home face mask.
The peel-off mask is ideal for exfoliating, smoothening skin, removing blackheads, cleaning pores, and removing dirt and debris.
These exfoliating wipes with glycolic acid and manuka honey are ideal for clearing clogged pores and reducing breakouts for brighter skin.
This face scrub is ideal for purifying and de-clogging deep pores, exfoliating excess oils, and leaving skin refreshed.

1. Glo Purifying Salicylic Gel Cleanser

The Purifying Gel Cleanser by Glo Skin Beauty is a powerful cleansing gel that helps balance and exfoliate the skin. Infused with salicylic acid and niacinamide, this gel effectively targets clogged pores, excess oil, breakouts, and uneven texture, leaving the skin feeling refreshed and revitalized.

This cleanser offers pro-level exfoliation, thanks to the salicylic acid content, which visibly improves the skin's texture, reducing the appearance of fine lines and pores. Suitable for all skin types, except sensitive, the Purifying Gel Cleanser clarifies and refines without stripping away the skin's crucial moisture. It helps restore the skin's balance and strengthen the moisture barrier, resulting in cleaner, clearer, and radiantly refreshed skin.

Unlike other cleansing gels that contain irritating sulfates, this gel formulation offers effective cleansing without any irritation. The acne-fighting dream team of salicylic acid and niacinamide helps combat acne and breakouts, leaving the skin smooth and radiant.

Glo Skin Beauty is committed to delivering healthy and beautiful skin to its customers. Their innovative skincare and nourishing mineral makeup collections work together seamlessly to reveal your authentic best.

Pros

  • Effectively cleanses the skin without any irritation
  • Helps balance and exfoliate the skin
  • Suitable for all skin types, except sensitive
  • Visibly improves the skin's texture, reducing fine lines and pores
  • Helps restore the skin's balance and strengthen the moisture barrier
  • Helps combat acne and breakouts

2. Kp Solution: Paula's Choice Exfoliating Body Moisturizer

If you're looking for a full-body treatment that can soften and smooth your skin, this product from Paula's Choice Skincare is definitely worth considering. With 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA) and nourishing plant extracts, it gently exfoliates dead skin cells to reveal noticeably softer, smoother, and bump-free skin. It's also enriched with soothing antioxidants like green tea and chamomile that nourish your skin and give it a radiant glow. This lightweight lotion is suitable for all skin types, including normal, oily, combination, and dry skin. It's also excellent for hydrating your skin and smoothing stubborn clogged pores and hard bumps on your arms and legs. If you have keratosis pilaris (KP) prone skin, this product is an ideal choice as well.

Paula's Choice Skincare is a brand that focuses on creating effective, science-backed formulas that target any skin concern from wrinkles to breakouts. You won't find any fragrance, parabens, or fluff in their products, so you can trust that what you're putting on your skin is safe and effective.

Overall, this full-body treatment is a great choice for anyone looking to soften and smooth their skin while also nourishing it with antioxidants. It's suitable for all skin types and can even help with keratosis pilaris (KP) prone skin.

Pros

  • Gently exfoliates dead skin cells to reveal noticeably softer, smoother, and bump-free skin
  • Enriched with soothing antioxidants like green tea and chamomile that nourish your skin and give it a radiant glow
  • Suitable for all skin types including normal, oily, combination, and dry skin
  • Excellent for hydrating your skin and smoothing stubborn clogged pores and hard bumps on your arms and legs
  • Effective, science-backed formula from Paula's Choice Skincare

3. Calming Clear Skin Exfoliant

Paula’s Choice CALM 1% Sensitive Skin BHA Exfoliant is an extra-gentle face exfoliant that contains salicylic acid and calming plant extracts. This product is designed to provide proven anti-aging benefits without causing any irritation to the skin. It is perfect for people with sensitive skin.

This face exfoliant is specially formulated to help minimize enlarged pores by gently exfoliating the skin's surface and inside large, clogged pores at the same time. It helps to shed buildup and improve oil flow over time, leaving the skin looking smooth and radiant.

In addition to its exfoliating properties, this product also helps reveal calm, youthful radiance. It has soothing ingredients that target the underlying causes of sensitivity, which helps to reduce redness, even tone, and improve wrinkles.

Paula’s Choice CALM 1% Sensitive Skin BHA Exfoliant is suitable for people with eczema- and rosacea-prone skin. It is gentle and effective, making it perfect for even the most delicate skin types.

Paula's Choice Skincare is a brand that makes science-backed products that work. This extra-gentle face exfoliant is fragrance-free, paraben-free, and cruelty-free. It is an effective, no-fluff formula that targets any concern from wrinkles to breakouts.

Pros

  • Extra-gentle face exfoliant with salicylic acid and calming plant extracts
  • Minimizes enlarged pores by shedding buildup and improving oil flow
  • Reveals calm, youthful radiance with soothing ingredients
  • Suitable for eczema- and rosacea-prone skin
  • Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and cruelty-free formula

4. Red Algae Exfoliating Facial Cleanser By L'oreal Paris.

The Daily Facial Cleanser with 3 Pure Clays and Red Algae is specially designed to exfoliate and refine rough, clogged pores, leaving skin feeling smoother. This luxurious formula is enriched with potent pure clays, red algae, and volcanic rock that work together to effectively remove dirt, dead cells, and oil from the skin's surface, leaving it looking healthy and refreshed. With regular use, skin texture appears refined, pores are visibly minimized, and imperfections are less visible. It also helps to unclog pores and make the skin breathe better, making it look brighter and healthier.

The Pure Clay Mask is a luxurious skincare product that is designed to provide a deep cleansing and exfoliating experience. It is formulated with potent pure clays, red algae, and volcanic rock that work together to exfoliate dead skin cells, remove impurities, and smooth surface imperfections. Upon use, skin texture appears refined, pores are visibly minimized, and dead cells, dirt, and oil are removed from the skin. With regular use, the skin looks smoother, brighter, and healthier. For best results, use the Pure Clay Face Mask three times per week, leaving it on for 10 to 15 minutes per use.

Pros

  • Exfoliates and refines rough, clogged pores
  • Effectively removes dirt, dead cells, and oil from the skin's surface
  • Visibly minimizes pores and reduces imperfections
  • Helps to unclog pores and make the skin breathe better
  • Leaves skin looking smoother, brighter, and healthier

5. Skin Clearing Pads, 30 Algae Infused Wipes

The Gentle Exfoliating Pads are an effective solution for individuals looking for a clearer and more balanced complexion. These pads contain natural exfoliants such as papaya enzymes, salicylic acid, lactic acid, and tartaric acid which work together to eliminate active blemishes and prevent future breakouts. With nourishing algae extract and 6 soothing botanical extracts including Arnica flower to help calm the skin, these pads leave the skin feeling smooth and refreshed.

To use, simply pour the Skin Clarifying Pad Solution into the jar with the pads. After your cleansing routine, take 1 soaked pad and gently perform 2-3 passes on the face and neck area. No rinsing is required after application. Moreover, these pads are free from binders, thickeners, fillers, sulfates, or parabens making them completely safe for use. Additionally, the product is cruelty-free and has never been tested on animals.

Pros

  • Contains natural exfoliants such as papaya enzymes, salicylic acid, lactic acid, and tartaric acid which work together to eliminate active blemishes and prevent future breakouts
  • Nourishing algae extract and 6 soothing botanical extracts including Arnica flower help to calm the skin
  • Leaves the skin feeling smooth and refreshed
  • Easy to use
  • Free from binders, thickeners, fillers, sulfates, or parabens
  • Cruelty-free and has never been tested on animals

6. Clearstart Salicylic Exfoliating Gel Cleanser

The Beauty Facial Extreme Exfoliating Scrub is a powerful skincare product that helps to eliminate pore-clogging oils, blackheads, whiteheads, and acne scars. It works by getting rid of dead skin cells that can cause clogged pores and a dull complexion, leaving the skin cleaner and clearer. This scrub is made of potent ingredients that gently exfoliate the skin, resulting in a dramatic improvement in texture, tone, and tightening of the skin. It also contains rejuvenating and antioxidant components that improve blood circulation, leaving your skin with a healthy and vibrant complexion.

This scrub is ideal for all skin types for both men and women. For best results, it is recommended to combine it with Beauty Facial Extreme’s Acne Treatment Pads & Clay Mint Healing Mask. The Exfoliating Scrub offers extra exfoliation, making it effective in achieving healthy and more vibrant skin. Thousands of satisfied customers have tried and tested the quality and exceptional value of Beauty Facial Extreme’s skin care products. Transform your skin and achieve a healthy and vibrant complexion with Beauty Facial Extreme’s Exfoliating Scrub. Order now and experience our 30-day money-back guarantee.

Pros

  • Eliminates pore-clogging oils, blackheads, whiteheads, and acne scars
  • Contains rejuvenating and antioxidant components that improve blood circulation
  • Ideal for all skin types for both men and women
  • Dramatically improves skin texture, tone, and tightening
  • Eliminates dead skin cells that can cause clogged pores and a dull complexion

7. Refine & Exfoliate: L'oreal Red Algae Clay Mask

The Cleansing Treatment Face Mask with 3 Pure Clays and Red Algae is the perfect solution for those with oily and shiny skin. This luxurious skincare experience is formulated with potent pure clays, red algae, and volcanic rock that work together to exfoliate dead skin cells and smooth surface imperfections. With immediate results, skin texture appears refined and pores are visibly minimized, while dirt, oil, and dead cells are removed from the skin leaving it looking smoother and healthier.

With regular use, this mask helps to diminish the visibility of imperfections and allows skin to breathe better, resulting in a healthy-looking complexion. The Pure Clay face mask is recommended to be used three times a week, allowing it to sit on the skin for 10 to 15 minutes per use for optimal results.

Pros

  • Contains potent pure clays, red algae and volcanic rock that help exfoliate dead skin cells and smooth surface imperfections
  • Immediately skin texture appears refined and pores are visibly minimized, while dirt, oil, and dead cells are removed from the skin leaving it looking smoother and healthier
  • Regular use results in a diminished visibility of imperfections and allows skin to breathe better, resulting in a healthy-looking complexion
  • Easy and convenient to use at home

8. Calendula Peel-Off Mask: Smoother, Cleaner Skin.

The Calendula Peel Off Mask is a skin-loving product that delicately exfoliates the skin, removes dead skin cells, and unclogs pores without causing irritation. Unlike other peel-off masks, this product has a smaller molecular structure that allows it to penetrate deeper into the skin, providing a more thorough cleansing experience. The mask is infused with Calendula Flowers that have soothing properties, which makes it perfect for sensitive skin types.

The mask is a gentle yet effective formula that helps remove impurities and reveal clearer, smoother, and more even-looking skin. It works by exfoliating dead skin cells and unclogging pores, allowing nutrients and moisture to penetrate the skin better. The result is a more vibrant and youthful-looking complexion that feels soft and supple to the touch.

This product is easy to apply and remove, making it a convenient addition to any skincare routine. It is suitable for all skin types, especially those with sensitive skin who are looking for a gentle exfoliating experience. With regular use, the Calendula Peel Off Mask can help improve the overall texture and appearance of the skin, leaving it looking healthier and more radiant than ever before.

Pros

  • Gently exfoliates dead skin cells and unclogs pores without irritation
  • Infused with Calendula Flowers that have skin-calming properties
  • Has a smaller molecular structure that penetrates deeper into the skin for a more thorough cleansing experience
  • Allows nutrients and moisture to absorb better for clearer, smoother, and more even-looking skin
  • Easy to apply and remove
  • Suitable for all skin types, especially sensitive skin

9. Radiant Renewal Exfoliating Pads

The exfoliating pads with AHAs are designed to provide an instant facial-like smooth and resurfaced skin. These wafer-thin pads are fully saturated and compostable, making them suitable for all skin types. The pads contain glycolic acid that clears clogged pores and reduces the appearance of breakouts. Additionally, manuka honey's antioxidant properties soothe the skin, leaving it radiant and glowy. Lemon is also present in the pads to tone blemish-prone skin, while Kinbiome™ Kinship's plant-based probiotic supports clear skin and a strong skin barrier. These exfoliating pads have won the Women's Health Beauty Award 2020 for Best Clean Exfoliator. The product is clean, cruelty-free, Leaping Bunny certified, dermatologist-tested, and sustainably packaged.

Say goodbye to dull and tired-looking skin with these exfoliating pads. These pads are fully saturated with glycolic acid to clear clogged pores and reduce the appearance of breakouts. The pads also contain manuka honey, which has antioxidant properties that soothe and nourish the skin. Additionally, the pads feature Kinbiome™ Kinship's plant-based probiotic that supports clear skin and a strong skin barrier. Lemon is also present in the pads, helping to tone blemish-prone skin. These wafer-thin pads are suitable for all skin types and are fully compostable. The product is clean, cruelty-free, Leaping Bunny certified, dermatologist-tested, and sustainably packaged. With these award-winning exfoliating pads, you can achieve a radiant and glowy complexion with ease.

The exfoliating pads with AHAs are a must-have addition to your skincare routine. These pads are fully saturated with glycolic acid that clears clogged pores and reduces the appearance of breakouts. The pads also feature manuka honey, which has antioxidant properties that soothe and nourish the skin. Lemon is also present in the pads to tone blemish-prone skin. Additionally, Kinbiome™ Kinship's plant-based probiotic supports clear skin and a strong skin barrier. These wafer-thin pads are suitable for all skin types and are fully compostable. The product is clean, cruelty-free, Leaping Bunny certified, dermatologist-tested, and sustainably packaged. With this award-winning exfoliating solution, you can achieve a healthy, radiant, and youthful-looking complexion in no time.

Pros

  • Fully saturated wafer-thin pads for instant facial-like smooth and resurfaced skin.
  • Suitable for all skin types.
  • Contains glycolic acid that clears clogged pores and reduces the appearance of breakouts.
  • Manuka honey's antioxidant properties soothe the skin, leaving it radiant and glowy.
  • Kinbiome™ Kinship's plant-based probiotic supports clear skin and a strong skin barrier.
  • Lemon helps to tone blemish-prone skin.
  • Clean, cruelty-free, Leaping Bunny certified, dermatologist-tested, and sustainably packaged.
  • Award-winning exfoliating pads that have won the Women's Health Beauty Award 2020 for Best Clean Exfoliator.

10. Glowing T-Zone 2-Minute Exfoliating Scrub

The Super-Clarifying Face Exfoliating Scrub is a must-have for those who want deeply cleansed skin feel. It is the ultimate de-clog pore cleanser scrub and purifying exfoliant that can be used alongside your favorite face wash. This product is specially formulated for combination / oily skin and is called T Zone Detox Scrub. It contains AHA, willow bark, and a refreshing chamomile mint fragrance that provides a wonderful experience for the users.

This face scrub exfoliating face wash is an AHA exfoliant that removes excess oil, leaving skin looking shine-free, and helps maintain radiance. It is a pore-refining treatment that lifts away pore-clogging dead skin cells and soaks up excess oils. It acts as a 'detox face wash' that leaves the skin looking and feeling shine-free.

The vegan facial exfoliating scrub is a pore minimizer face wash exfoliator that is fully vegan, dermatologically tested, and designed for oily/combination skin. Its unique formula helps to reduce the appearance of pores and minimize oil production without drying out the skin. Say goodbye to dull and tired-looking skin and get ready for a fresh, glowing complexion with this product.

Pros

  • Ultimate de-clog pore cleanser scrub and purifying exfoliant
  • Contains AHA, willow bark and refreshing chamomile mint fragrance
  • Removes excess oil and helps maintain radiance
  • Lifts away pore-clogging dead skin cells and soaks up excess oils
  • Fully vegan, dermatologically tested, and designed for oily/combination skin
  • Helps to reduce the appearance of pores and minimize oil production

Best Exfoliator For Clogged Pores FAQs

Are physical or chemical exfoliators better for removing clogged pores?

When it comes to removing clogged pores, both physical and chemical exfoliators can be effective. Physical exfoliators work by physically scrubbing away dead skin cells and other debris on the surface of the skin, while chemical exfoliators use acids or enzymes to dissolve and loosen these impurities.

Physical exfoliators, such as scrubs or brushes, can be a good option for those with oily or acne-prone skin, as they can help to dislodge and remove excess oil and buildup. However, it's important to use gentle, non-abrasive products and to avoid over-exfoliating, as this can lead to irritation and inflammation.

Chemical exfoliators, on the other hand, can be a better choice for those with sensitive or dry skin, as they tend to be gentler and less likely to cause irritation. They can also be more effective at penetrating deep into the pores to dissolve and remove impurities.

Ultimately, the best type of exfoliator for removing clogged pores will depend on your individual skin type and concerns. It's important to choose a product that is gentle and effective, and to use it regularly as part of your skincare routine to help keep your pores clear and healthy.

Can exfoliating too much cause more clogged pores?

Exfoliating is a crucial step in any skincare routine as it helps to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. However, exfoliating too much can lead to more clogged pores. Over-exfoliating can cause irritation and inflammation, which can result in the production of more oil and sebum. This excess oil and sebum can then clog pores, leading to breakouts and blackheads.

It's important to find a balance when it comes to exfoliating. Depending on your skin type, it's generally recommended to exfoliate 1-2 times a week. If you have sensitive skin, once a week may be sufficient. It's also important to choose the right exfoliating product for your skin type. Chemical exfoliants, such as AHAs and BHAs, are gentle on the skin and can be used more frequently than physical exfoliants, like scrubs.

Overall, exfoliating is an important step in maintaining healthy skin, but it's important not to overdo it. Finding the right balance and using the right products for your skin type can help ensure that exfoliating remains a beneficial part of your skincare routine.

How often should I use an exfoliator to prevent clogged pores?

Exfoliating is an important part of any skincare routine as it helps to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. However, it is important to use an exfoliator in moderation to prevent over-exfoliation which can lead to irritation and damage to the skin. The frequency of exfoliation depends on your skin type and the type of exfoliator you are using.

For those with oily or acne-prone skin, it is recommended to exfoliate 2-3 times a week to prevent clogged pores and breakouts. If you have dry or sensitive skin, it is best to exfoliate once a week or even less frequently. It is important to choose a gentle exfoliator and to avoid using harsh scrubs that can cause micro-tears in the skin.

In addition to exfoliating, it is important to maintain a consistent skincare routine and to cleanse regularly to prevent clogged pores. It is also important to use non-comedogenic products that won't clog pores. By incorporating exfoliation into your skincare routine in a safe and effective way, you can help to keep your skin healthy and glowing.

What are the best exfoliators for unclogging pores?

Exfoliation is a crucial step in any skincare routine as it helps to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. When it comes to finding the best exfoliators for unclogging pores, there are a few key ingredients to look out for. Salicylic acid is a popular choice as it is oil-soluble and can penetrate deep into the pores to dissolve excess oil and debris. Glycolic acid is another effective exfoliator as it helps to break down the bonds between dead skin cells and promote cell turnover. Physical exfoliants such as scrubs and brushes can also be beneficial, but it's important to use them gently to avoid irritating the skin.

Some of the best exfoliators for unclogging pores include the Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, the Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial, and the Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant. It's important to choose an exfoliator that is suitable for your skin type and to avoid over-exfoliating, as this can lead to skin irritation and damage. Incorporating a gentle exfoliator into your skincare routine 1-2 times per week can help to keep your pores clear and promote a brighter, smoother complexion.

What ingredients should I look for in an exfoliator to effectively clear clogged pores?

When it comes to choosing an exfoliator to effectively clear clogged pores, there are a few key ingredients you should look for. First and foremost, you want an exfoliator that contains salicylic acid. This ingredient is a BHA (beta hydroxy acid) that works to penetrate deep into the pores and dissolve the oil and dead skin cells that can clog them. Another important ingredient to look for is glycolic acid, an AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) that helps to exfoliate the surface of the skin and keep pores clear. Additionally, you may want to look for an exfoliator that contains physical exfoliants such as jojoba beads or rice powder, which can help to physically remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. It's important to note that while exfoliating can be beneficial for clearing clogged pores, it's important to use these products in moderation and not over-exfoliate, as this can cause irritation and even more clogged pores.

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