How to Find the Best Physical Exfoliator for Your Skin Type

Exfoliators can be weirdly complicated. There are chemical exfoliants (see: AHAs or enzymes) and mechanical exfoliants that physically scrub away dead skin cells from your skin’s surface. If you prefer the latter, chances are you’ve had a difficult time choosing just one formula from the massive amount of options at your local beauty store. There’s no such thing as one-size-fits-all when it comes to skin care, so we did the research to help you find the perfect exfoliator for your skin type. Meet your match, ahead.

For Dull Skin

Kiehl’s Clearly Corrective Brightening & Exfoliating Daily Cleanser

If one of your main skin-care goals is to brighten your skin, we recommend checking out the Clearly Corrective line from Kiehl’s. It’s gentle enough to use twice a day and works best when paired with other products in the Clearly Corrective line.

For Sensitive Skin

La Roche-Posay Ultra Fine Face Scrub

Use this sensitive skin-approved face scrub two or three times per week for gentle exfoliation. Its water-gel texture is refreshing on skin and is meant to be used right after cleansing.

For Dull Skin

L'Oréal Paris Pure-Sugar Resurface & Energize Kona Coffee Scrub

Calling all java lovers: this drugstore formula aims to energize tired, dull-looking skin with the help of 3-pure sugars and Kona coffee grounds. If brighter, smooth skin is high up on your list of priorities, this affordable formula is worth adding to your skin-care collection.

For Combination Skin

SkinCeuticals Micro-Exfoliating Scrub

This exfoliating scrub is great for most skin types, but we particularly love it for combination skin. It works to remove dead cells from the skin’s surface, but it also will help get rid of excess oil and hydrate skin.

For Oily Skin

Garnier SkinActive Clean + Blackhead Eliminating Scrub

For under $10, this oil-free scrub cleanses, tightens pores and smoothes skin. It’s meant to target oily skin, so it contains charcoal to help draw out blackheads.

For Acne-Prone Skin

AcneFree Blackhead Removing Scrub with Charcoal

You need this underrated acne-busting drugstore product on your radar. The gel-based cleanser works to clear your pores and draw out impurities. The brand recommends pairing the scrub with the AcneFree Kaolin Clay Detox Mask twice a week.

For Dry Skin

VMV Hypoallergenics Moisture Rich Cleansing Scrub

This nourishing formula is ideal for those with dehydrated or sensitive skin. The soothing formula is made of finely milled pumice grains for exfoliation and organic extra virgin coconut oil to moisturize and condition.