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Best Exfoliators For Oily Skin (2025 Updated)

If you’re looking for a solution to combat the excess oil on your skin, exfoliators for oily skin may be the answer you’ve been searching for. But, with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That’s why it’s important to consider a few factors before making a purchase.

Firstly, consider your skin type. Not all exfoliators are created equal and different formulas are better suited for different skin types. Those with oily skin should look for exfoliators that contain ingredients like salicylic acid or glycolic acid, which help to break down oil and unclog pores. However, those with sensitive skin may want to opt for a more gentle exfoliator.

Another factor to consider is the frequency of use. While exfoliating can be beneficial for oily skin, over-exfoliation can actually strip the skin of its natural oils and cause further oil production. It’s recommended to exfoliate once or twice a week, depending on your skin’s tolerance.

Still not sure which exfoliator is right for you? Ask yourself some questions such as: Is the formula non-comedogenic? Does it contain any irritants? Is the texture suitable for my skin type? By answering these questions, you’ll be able to narrow down your options and find the perfect exfoliator for your oily skin.

10 Best Exfoliators For Oily Skin

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This facial exfoliant is ideal for oily skin, smoothing and clarifying the skin with its glycolic/citric acid blend.
2
The exfoliant is ideal for acne-prone and oily skin types, as it contains 7% AHA blend and pro-vitamin B5.
3
This product is ideal for gently cleansing and exfoliating all skin types, including oily, dry, and sensitive skin.
4
This product is ideal for gentle exfoliation and cleansing of oily, sensitive, and acne-prone facial skin.
5
This product is ideal for individuals with normal to oily skin who want a three-step system for exfoliating, scrubbing, and controlling oil/acne.
6
Ideal for oily skin, this facial masque contains natural AHA aloe vera and sugar cane extract to exfoliate and hydrate.
7
This product is ideal for individuals with oily skin who want to refine their pores through exfoliation.
8
Ideal for normal to oily skin types, this lotion contains 15% glycolic acid for exfoliation and lightweight hydration.
9
Ideal as a daily face scrub for all skin types, providing exfoliation, moisture and nourishment with natural ingredients.
10
Ideal for reducing blackheads and minimizing the appearance of large pores in those with oily skin.
This facial exfoliant is ideal for oily skin, smoothing and clarifying the skin with its glycolic/citric acid blend.
The exfoliant is ideal for acne-prone and oily skin types, as it contains 7% AHA blend and pro-vitamin B5.
This product is ideal for gently cleansing and exfoliating all skin types, including oily, dry, and sensitive skin.
This product is ideal for gentle exfoliation and cleansing of oily, sensitive, and acne-prone facial skin.
This product is ideal for individuals with normal to oily skin who want a three-step system for exfoliating, scrubbing, and controlling oil/acne.
Ideal for oily skin, this facial masque contains natural AHA aloe vera and sugar cane extract to exfoliate and hydrate.
This product is ideal for individuals with oily skin who want to refine their pores through exfoliation.
Ideal for normal to oily skin types, this lotion contains 15% glycolic acid for exfoliation and lightweight hydration.
Ideal as a daily face scrub for all skin types, providing exfoliation, moisture and nourishment with natural ingredients.
Ideal for reducing blackheads and minimizing the appearance of large pores in those with oily skin.

1. Radiant Renewal Exfoliating Facial Serum

Neutrogena Skin Perfecting 7% Glycolic/Citric Acid Blend Daily Liquid Facial Exfoliant is a gentle yet effective solution for oily skin. This exfoliator contains 4-fluid ounces of oil-free liquid that is specially designed to sweep away dead and dull skin cells and excess oil. It reveals fresh and soft skin with a clarified looking complexion. The product features a blend of exfoliating acids that not only work to remove impurities but also leave the skin smooth and purified. It is gentle enough to be used daily and exfoliates to decongest pores for improved clarity, soft skin, and a fresh glow day after day.

The 7% glycolic acid/citric acid blend used in this exfoliant is perfect for exfoliating and revealing a smoother, brighter, and more luminous complexion. Additionally, it is infused with nourishing moisture-binding ingredients to leave the skin feeling soft and hydrated. The gentle exfoliant has a balanced pH that ensures optimal efficacy and is fragrance-free. The product is formulated without alcohol, oil, sulfates parabens, phthalates, and dyes, making it suitable for use on all skin tones.

For best results, this leave-on 7% glycolic/citric acid face exfoliant should be applied after cleansing. Allow it to fully absorb into the skin and do not rinse. Follow it up with a facial moisturizer and broad-spectrum sunscreen for the ultimate skincare experience.

Pros

  • Gently sweeps away dead and dull surface skin & excess oil to reveal fresh, soft skin & a clarified looking complexion
  • Packed with a blend of exfoliating acids for smooth & purified looking skin
  • Gentle enough for daily use and exfoliates to decongest down to pores for improved clarity, soft skin & a fresh glow day after day
  • Formulated with a 7% glycolic acid/citric acid blend to exfoliate & reveal a smoother, brighter looking & more luminous complexion
  • Infused with nourishing moisture-binding ingredients
  • Formulated for oily skin & suitable for use on all skin tones
  • Has a balanced pH that ensures optimal efficacy and is fragrance-free
  • Formulated without alcohol, oil, sulfates parabens, phthalates, and dyes

2. Acne Defense Liquid Exfoliator With Aha Blend

Looking for an exfoliant that will leave your skin feeling refreshed and smooth? Try Neutrogena Stubborn Texture Liquid Exfoliant! This 4.3-fluid ounce bottle is specially designed for acne-prone skin, and it contains a blend of Glycolic and Citric acids that will gently exfoliate your skin without any harsh scrubbing. This fragrance-free liquid exfoliator is also packed with Pro-Vitamin B5, which is known to help nourish the skin for a healthy-looking complexion.

Neutrogena Stubborn Texture Liquid Exfoliant is free of fragrances, parabens, phthalates, alcohols, oils, and it is not tested on animals, making it a great choice for anyone who wants to avoid harsh chemicals or animal cruelty. The liquid exfoliating treatment is also perfectly pH optimized to ensure optimal efficiency.

To use, simply apply the exfoliant once daily using a cotton pad over your dry face and neck, avoiding contact with your eyes. Allow the exfoliant to fully absorb into your skin, and do not rinse. The result? Healthier-looking skin that feels smoother and more refreshed!

This product is from a dermatologist-recommended brand and contains dermatologist-recognized ingredients. In fact, 3 out of 4 consumers saw smoother-looking skin after using Neutrogena Stubborn Texture Liquid Exfoliant for just one week!

Pros

  • Gentle yet effective way to exfoliate without any scrubbing needed
  • Fragrance-free and packed with a blend of Glycolic and Citric acids to exfoliate skin and help remove pore-clogging dirt and oil
  • Contains Pro-Vitamin B5 which is known to help nourish skin for a healthy-looking complexion
  • Free of fragrances, parabens, phthalates, alcohols, oils, and not tested on animals
  • Perfectly pH optimized to ensure optimal efficiency
  • 3 out of 4 consumers saw smoother-looking skin after just one week of use

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for those with very sensitive skin

3. Double-Acting Facewash Kit With Glycolic Acid And Vitamin C

Achieve a cleansed and hydrated complexion with the Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid facewash. This facewash effectively removes impurities, exfoliates dead skin cells, and restores moisture levels for a youthful appearance. It is also effective in preventing fine lines and wrinkles. The antioxidant-rich Botanic Tree Vitamin C Cleanser improves skin texture and tone, making it a reliable hyperpigmentation cleanser for men and women of all ages. Infused with organic ingredients, the glycolic acid face wash exfoliating cleanser set works wonders for your skin by clearing away skin pores, balancing skin oils, and alleviating acne and discolorations. It is ideal for all skin types, including sensitive, oily, dry, or acne-prone skin of adults and teens.

This facial cleaner set is made with the finest ingredients in the USA and is cruelty-free. It does not contain parabens, sulfates, or other harmful chemicals, ensuring a safe and natural skincare routine that you can trust. Order your facial cleaner set with confidence and enjoy a rejuvenated, refreshed, and youthful-looking complexion.

Pros

  • Effectively cleanses and hydrates the skin
  • Improves skin texture and tone
  • Alleviates acne and discolorations
  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Made with natural and organic ingredients
  • Cruelty-free and does not contain harmful chemicals

4. Acv Foam Exfoliating Face Wash With Brush

Achieve a deep yet gentle facial scrub with the built-in face exfoliating brush of this face wash. The silicone bristles are designed to give a thorough scrub while being gentle on the skin. With just 2-3 pumps of the daily foam face wash and 2 minutes of circular strokes, this face wash helps tighten open pores, which in turn increases skin protection.

This face wash is safe for sensitive skin and is a mild face cleaner foam cleanser that leaves the skin feeling nourished and renewed. It is an ACV face cleanser that is suitable for men, women, and teens. Say goodbye to stinging or irritating cleaners with this acne cleanser face wash.

Protect yourself against acne and blackheads with this pore cleanser. Incorporate it into your routine of facial skin care products and be more proactive with your acne treatment. This acne cleanser face wash helps reduce and control acne breakouts without overdrying the skin.

This face wash uses plant-powered natural ingredients to cleanse, hydrate, and help repair damaged skin, cracks, and blemishes. It uses vital nutrients from apple cider vinegar, aloe vera, and vitamins B5 & E with no sulfates, alcohol, or other ingredients that would dry out the skin. Feel good with a brightening face wash that uses only natural ingredients.

WOW Skin Science promises customer satisfaction. If you experience any issues with this product, WOW Skin Science offers a full refund warranty. Simply contact WOW Skin Science directly through the Amazon messaging system for assistance with any questions, issues, or difficulties you encounter. WOW Skin Science strives for 100% customer satisfaction.

Pros

  • Built-in face exfoliating brush for a deep yet gentle facial scrub
  • Safe for sensitive skin
  • Helps tighten open pores to increase skin protection
  • Proactive against acne and blackheads
  • Uses natural plant-powered ingredients to cleanse, hydrate and repair skin
  • No sulfates, alcohol, or other ingredients that would dry out the skin
  • Full refund warranty

5. Milk & Honey Aha Face Masque For Oily Skin

The Exfoliating Enzyme Facial Masque by Milk + Honey Spa is an ideal hydrating face mask for oily skin. It contains aloe vera, honey, and sugar cane extracts, which work together to moisturize and exfoliate the skin. This cruelty-free, paraben-free, toxin-free, and hyperclean facial mask is a perfect at-home facial in a jar that can reveal your skin's radiant glow.

The hydrating face masks by Milk + Honey Spa are perfect for keeping your skin nourished and moisturized. The aloe vera present in this mask is known for its moisturizing properties and replaces lost moisture from the skin.

The natural AHA from sugarcane extract and mandelic acid present in this hydrating face mask helps balance and control excess oil, minimize pores, and control acne without dehydrating the skin. This facial mask is ideal for those who want to minimize their pores and get rid of excess oil.

The Exfoliating Enzyme Facial Masque by Milk + Honey Spa is a perfect solution for those who want to fight signs of aging. The AHA from sugar cane and mandelic acid works synergistically with the bromelain enzyme to remove dead skin, unclog pores, and support healthy skin cell turnover. This results in fresh and bright-looking skin that makes you look youthful and radiant.

Milk + Honey Spa was founded by Alissa Bayer in 2006 to create an exceptional spa experience, commit to hyperclean ingredients, enrich employees’ lives, and give back to the community. Over the years, the brand has grown to include a hyperclean line of bath, body, home, and skincare products, so you can take the spa experience home with you. The brand believes that feeling good on the outside as well as the inside is the foundation of health and happiness.

Pros

  • Ideal hydrating face mask for oily skin
  • Contains aloe vera, honey, and sugar cane extracts
  • Cruelty-free, paraben-free, toxin-free, and hyperclean facial mask
  • Helps balance and control excess oil, minimize pores, and control acne without dehydrating the skin
  • Works synergistically with the bromelain enzyme to fight signs of aging
  • Milk + Honey Spa is committed to hyperclean ingredients and giving back to the community

6. Burt's Bees Acne Scrub For Clear Skin

Achieve clearer and healthier-looking skin with Burts Bees Acne Face Wash, specially formulated for acne-prone and oily skin. This acne cleanser is a pore cleanser made with 99% natural ingredients, including salicylic acid derived from willow bark, which helps to reduce breakouts without irritating or drying out skin.

This natural face cleanser is also an effective acne treatment that calms skin irritation and redness, leaving you with refined, clear, and smooth skin. It uses the power of Jojoba beads and a Fruit Acid Complex to gently exfoliate dead skin, revealing a brighter complexion.

Clinically tested and dermatologist-approved, this noncomedogenic pore refining facial scrub is perfect for those looking for an effective solution to prevent blemishes. Say goodbye to stubborn acne and hello to clearer, healthier, and more radiant skin with Burts Bees Acne Face Wash.

Pros

  • Specially formulated for acne-prone and oily skin
  • Made with 99% natural ingredients
  • Reduces breakouts without irritating or drying out skin
  • Calms skin irritation and redness
  • Effectively exfoliates dead skin
  • Clinically tested and dermatologist-approved
  • Noncomedogenic, perfect for preventing blemishes

7. Fresh Face Glycolic Moisturizer

The Glytone Cosmeceutical is a medical-grade product that has been designed to rejuvenate the skin. This product is made using free unbuffered glycolic acid, which is highly effective in removing dead skin cells and promoting the growth of new skin cells. The product has been formulated to penetrate deep into the skin, providing a powerful exfoliating action that helps to reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of aging.

The Glytone Cosmeceutical is a great choice for those looking to improve the overall appearance of their skin. It is suitable for all skin types, including oily, dry, and sensitive skin. The product is easy to apply and absorbs quickly, leaving the skin feeling soft and smooth.

The Glytone Cosmeceutical is also an excellent choice for those looking to address specific skin concerns, such as acne, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone. It can help to unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and improve skin texture, resulting in clearer, brighter, and more youthful-looking skin.

Overall, the Glytone Cosmeceutical is an excellent choice for those looking for a powerful, medical-grade product that can help to rejuvenate and improve the appearance of their skin.

Pros

  • Contains free unbuffered glycolic acid to promote skin rejuvenation
  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Easy to apply and absorbs quickly
  • Addresses specific skin concerns such as acne, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone
  • Penetrates deep into the skin for a powerful exfoliating action

8. Ultimate Skin Solution For Men: Exfoliating Moisturizer

Wilder's Prime has introduced a brand-new exfoliating face scrub for men that is unique, versatile, and perfect for daily skincare routines. This universal exfoliating face scrub is suitable for all skin types, ages, and provides a perfect combination of natural ingredients to achieve even, smooth skin before and after shaving.

This natural face scrub for men is a blend of high-quality and natural ingredients that includes aloe vera for deep hydration and nourishment, collagen for skin tightening, elasticity, and health, and a vitamin A & E complex for nutrition. This perfect beard scrub is ideal for smooth shaving and daily use.

The men's face scrub is an excellent exfoliator that gently cleanses the skin and beard while removing peeling, reducing sebum, and preventing ingrown hairs. It helps to remove dry skin under the beard without drying the skin, making it perfect for close shaves and daily skin cleansing.

The Wilder's Prime men's face scrub is an essential component of your skincare routine. By combining other products from the line, you can achieve better results. Follow these five consecutive steps to achieve perfect skin: Scrub, Face wash, Lotion, Anti-aging Cream, and Eye Cream. Skincare has never been so easy!

The USA-made men's face scrub by Wilder's Prime undergoes third-party testing for safety standards and quality control. The Wilder's Prime team is always available to answer any questions and ensure 100% satisfaction.

Pros

  • Suitable for all skin types and ages.
  • A perfect combination of natural ingredients.
  • Gently exfoliates and cleanses the skin and beard.
  • Reduces sebum and prevents ingrown hairs.
  • Ideal for smooth shaving and daily use.
  • An essential component of your skincare routine.
  • Third-party tested for safety standards and quality control.
  • The Wilder's Prime team is always available to answer any questions and ensure 100% satisfaction.

9. Pore Miracle Bha Treatment By Paula's Choice.

The Paula's Choice RESIST Daily Pore-Refining Treatment is a water-light formula that cleanses, exfoliates, and refines the skin. It visibly reduces fine lines, wrinkles, and pore size while providing nourishing antioxidants and anti-aging peptides. This unique, non-abrasive, leave-on exfoliant is gentle enough for daily use on all skin types.

With its ability to hydrate, brighten, and smooth fine lines, Paula's Choice RESIST Daily Pore-Refining Treatment is an essential part of any morning and evening skincare routine. Use it along with your favorite Paula's Choice cleanser, toner, serums, spot treatments, and moisturizer with SPF for daytime wear.

Paula's Choice Skincare products are made with the customer's skin in mind. Whether you're dealing with dryness, acne, fine lines, or sensitive skin, they have a treatment line that will work for you. Say goodbye to your skincare concerns and hello to amazing skin with Paula's Choice RESIST Daily Pore-Refining Treatment.

This leave-on exfoliant is free of fragrance, parabens, and fluff. It only contains effective, science-backed formulas that target any concern from wrinkles to breakouts. Trust Paula's Choice Skincare for products that work.

Pros

  • Visibly reduces fine lines, wrinkles, and pore size
  • Provides nourishing antioxidants and anti-aging peptides
  • Hydrates, brightens, and smooths fine lines
  • Gentle enough for daily use on all skin types
  • Effective, science-backed formulas that target any concern from wrinkles to breakouts

Best Exfoliators For Oily Skin FAQs

Are physical or chemical exfoliators better for oily skin?

When it comes to exfoliating oily skin, both physical and chemical exfoliators have their own benefits. Physical exfoliators, such as scrubs or brushes, physically remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. They can also stimulate blood flow and provide a deep clean. However, physical exfoliators can be harsh on the skin if not used correctly and can cause irritation or inflammation.

On the other hand, chemical exfoliants, such as alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs), work by dissolving the glue that holds dead skin cells together. This means they can penetrate deeper into the skin and provide a more thorough exfoliation. Chemical exfoliants are also less likely to cause physical damage to the skin.

Ultimately, the choice between physical and chemical exfoliation depends on personal preference and skin sensitivity. If you have oily skin, it's important to choose a gentle exfoliator that won't strip the skin of its natural oils. It's also important to follow up with a moisturizer to hydrate the skin and prevent overproduction of oil.

Can exfoliators help reduce excess oil production?

Yes, exfoliators can help reduce excess oil production. Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, and this can help to unclog pores and prevent the buildup of oil and dirt that can lead to breakouts. By removing these dead skin cells, exfoliators can help to promote cell turnover and encourage the growth of new, healthy skin cells. This can help to reduce the appearance of oiliness and give the skin a brighter, more radiant look.

However, it is important to use exfoliators carefully and appropriately, as over-exfoliation can actually lead to an increase in oil production. It is recommended to use gentle exfoliators no more than once or twice a week, and to avoid harsh scrubs or abrasive products that can damage the skin. Additionally, it is important to follow up with a moisturizer after exfoliating to help balance the skin's natural oils and prevent dryness.

How often should you exfoliate oily skin?

Exfoliation is an essential step in maintaining healthy and glowing skin. However, when it comes to oily skin, you need to be careful about the frequency of exfoliation. Exfoliating too often can strip away the natural oils and cause more sebum production, leading to more breakouts.

Ideally, people with oily skin should exfoliate twice a week. However, this can vary depending on your skin's sensitivity and the type of exfoliant you are using. If you are using a physical exfoliant like a scrub, it is best to avoid using it more than twice a week as it can be too harsh on your skin. On the other hand, if you are using a chemical exfoliant like AHAs or BHAs, you can use it up to three times a week.

Remember to always listen to your skin and adjust your exfoliation routine accordingly. If you notice any redness, irritation, or excessive dryness, you may need to cut back on your exfoliation frequency. In summary, exfoliating twice a week is the sweet spot for oily skin, but it's always best to pay attention to your skin's needs.

What are the best exfoliators for oily skin?

Exfoliation plays a vital role in maintaining healthy and glowing skin. However, when it comes to oily skin, choosing the right exfoliator can be challenging. The best exfoliators for oily skin are those that help control excess oil production while unclogging pores and removing dead skin cells.

One of the best exfoliators for oily skin is salicylic acid. It is a beta-hydroxy acid that penetrates deep into the pores, dissolving excess sebum and unclogging them. Another great exfoliator is glycolic acid, an alpha-hydroxy acid that works by removing the top layer of dead skin cells, revealing fresh, new skin.

Another excellent option for oily skin is physical exfoliation with gentle scrubs that contain microbeads or natural exfoliants like apricot kernels or coffee grounds. These scrubs help remove dead skin cells and impurities, leaving the skin smooth and soft.

It is essential to choose an exfoliator that matches your skin type and concerns. Always check the label for ingredients and avoid harsh exfoliators that can damage the skin's protective barrier. Lastly, don't over-exfoliate and limit it to once or twice a week to avoid irritating the skin.

What ingredients should you look for in an exfoliator for oily skin?

When it comes to exfoliating oily skin, it's important to look for ingredients that can help regulate sebum production while also gently removing dead skin cells. One key ingredient to look for is salicylic acid, which is a beta-hydroxy acid that can penetrate deep into the pores to help unclog them and prevent breakouts. Another helpful ingredient is glycolic acid, an alpha-hydroxy acid that can help dissolve excess oil and improve skin texture. Other beneficial ingredients for oily skin include kaolin clay, which can help absorb excess oil and impurities, and tea tree oil, which has natural antiseptic properties that can help prevent acne. However, it's important to note that over-exfoliating can also strip the skin of its natural oils and cause irritation, so it's best to use exfoliating products only 1-2 times per week and to choose formulas that are gentle and non-abrasive.

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