Best Exfoliant For Dry Skin (2024 Update)
Looking for the best exfoliant for dry skin? With so many options on the market, it can be tricky to know where to start. Exfoliating is an important step in any skincare routine, but it’s especially beneficial for those with dry or flaky skin. Removing dead skin cells allows moisturizers to better penetrate the skin. But you have to be careful not to strip the skin or cause irritation.
When shopping for an exfoliant, consider your skin type and sensitivity. Those with very dry or sensitive skin may want to avoid scrubs with harsh physical exfoliants like shells or seeds. Instead, look for chemical exfoliants with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic, lactic or mandelic acid. These provide gentle exfoliation without irritation. You’ll also want to avoid fragrances, alcohols and parabens that can be drying or irritating.
Ready to upgrade your exfoliation game for dry skin? Here are some questions to ask yourself: Have you noticed flaky patches, uneven texture or dullness? Do you deal with dryness, redness or sensitivity? Are you looking for an exfoliant that also hydrates? Keeping these factors in mind will help you find the perfect product. With the right exfoliant, dry, lackluster skin can be transformed into a smooth, glowing complexion. Let the search begin!
10 Best Exfoliant For Dry Skin
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The product is ideal for skincare and beauty, offering effective solutions for various skin concerns using science-based formulas.
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It is an anti-aging lotion exfoliant for dry skin that contains glycolic acid and ceramides.
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This product is ideal for those with dry skin seeking an anti-aging exfoliant that contains lactic, glycolic, and malic acids.
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The product is ideal for exfoliating, moisturizing, hydrating, nourishing, and achieving smooth and fresh skin with a glow.
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This product is ideal for exfoliating and resurfacing the skin with ingredients like glycolic acid, papain, apple, and pumpkin.
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This skincare set is ideal for people looking for everyday moisturizing, exfoliating, and cleansing solutions for their skin.
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The product is ideal for reducing red bumps and treating dry skin, providing exfoliation and moisture for both men and women.
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Ideal for gentle exfoliation, boosting and masking to smooth and brighten dry and sensitive skin.
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This product is ideal for removing rough skin from feet and hands.
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This product is ideal for achieving a deep exfoliation of the facial skin while providing essential vitamins for nourishment.
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1. Paula's Choice
The SKIN PERFECTING Exfoliant is a beloved product that comes in two sizes – a full-size bottle and a travel-size bottle. Both bottles contain a 2% BHA formula that can unclog and diminish enlarged pores, exfoliate dead skin cells, smooth out wrinkles, and brighten and even out skin tone. The product is clinically proven to hydrate, brighten, and smooth fine lines.
The formula contains beta hydroxy acid (BHA), also known as salicylic acid, which mimics the natural exfoliation process of younger skin. By helping it shed extra layers and unclogging and clearing pores, it dramatically improves the skin's texture for a radiant, youthful, even-toned finish.
This unique leave-on formula is gentle enough for daily use on all skin types. It exfoliates dead skin cells while clearing pores for a more even tone, visibly reducing fine lines and wrinkles. The gentle, non-abrasive formula can be applied up to twice daily to the entire face after cleansing and toning skin.
The SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant is recommended for oily, combination, normal, and dry skin. It is a #1 product worldwide and a cult favorite. This gentle leave-on exfoliant quickly unclogs pores, smooths wrinkles, and brightens and evens out skin tone. It is especially beneficial for those with signs of aging, clogged pores, and bumpy skin.
2. Radiant Renewal: Glycolic Lotion For Dry Skin
Introducing the RESIST Anti-Aging Daily Smoothing Treatment from Paula's Choice, an innovative daily-use exfoliator that revitalizes the skin's texture, evens skin tone, and promotes visibly firmer-looking, smoother skin while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Formulated with glycolic acid, this unique, non-abrasive, leave-on exfoliant is gentle enough for daily use on all skin types. It exfoliates dead skin cells while clearing pores for a more even skin tone, and visibly reduces fine lines and wrinkles, leaving your skin hydrated, brightened, and smooth.
For best results, use Paula's Choice RESIST Anti-Aging Daily Smoothing Treatment twice daily as part of your morning and evening skincare routines, alongside your favorite Paula's Choice cleanser, toner, serums, spot treatments, and moisturizer with SPF for daytime wear.
The product's airless pump technology utilizes a vacuum system to dispense, keeping air and contaminants out and enhancing the formula's stability and effectiveness. To prime the dispenser, gently tap the bottom of the bottle 3-4 times on a hard surface before pumping the dispenser slowly about 15-20 times upside down until the product dispenses.
Paula's Choice products are made with your skin in mind. Whatever your skincare concern, whether it's dryness, acne, fine lines, or sensitive skin, they have a treatment line for you. Say goodbye to your search for amazing skin care, as Paula's Choice Skincare makes products that work. They don't include any fragrance, parabens, or fluff, just effective, science-backed formulas that target any concern from wrinkles to breakouts.
3. Resist 10% Aha Serum: Youthful Glow Solution
The Paula's Choice RESIST Advanced Smoothing Treatment 10% AHA Serum Exfoliant is your go-to for combatting texture and dullness in your skin. This super-concentrated exfoliating cocktail is designed to smooth away visible sun damage as well as other advanced signs of aging, revealing more radiant and visibly younger-looking skin with just one use.
This unique, non-abrasive, leave-on exfoliant is gentle enough for daily use on all skin types. It exfoliates dead skin cells while clearing pores for a more even tone, plus it visibly reduces fine lines and wrinkles. By hydrating, brightening, and smoothing fine lines, this product is a must-have in your evening care routine.
To use, simply apply the serum exfoliant weekly or as needed in your evening care routine along with your favorite Paula's Choice cleanser, toner, serums, essence, spot treatments, and moisturizer.
At Paula's Choice, they take pride in creating products that are made with YOUR SKIN in mind. Whatever your skincare concern, whether it be dryness, acne, fine lines, or sensitive skin, they have a treatment line for you. The search for amazing skin care ends here with Paula's Choice Skincare.
Their products are formulated with science-backed formulas that target any concern from wrinkles to breakouts. They do not include any fragrance, parabens, or fluff in their products, only effective ingredients that work to improve your skin.
Invest in the Paula's Choice RESIST Advanced Smoothing Treatment 10% AHA Serum Exfoliant to achieve your best skin yet.
4. Minty Sugar Scrub: Polish & Hydrate Your Skin
The Spa Redi Sugar Scrub is an essential for those who suffer from rough, textured, and dry skin. This exfoliating sugar scrub contains Glycolic Acid which occurs naturally in sugar. The Glycolic Acid helps in cleansing the skin and dissolving dead skin cells. The application of the sugar scrub helps smooth and eliminate the build-up of dead skin, leaving the skin feeling soft and renewed.
The Sugar Scrub is infused with natural oils such as Almond Oil, Cottonseed Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil, and Avocado Oil, as well as Vitamin E. This combination of natural oils and Vitamin E helps to moisturize, nourish and regenerate the skin back to a healthy state.
The Sugar Scrub also contains Mint and Eucalyptus which give off a fresh and airy aroma, creating a light, soothing, and refreshing atmosphere. The Mint leaves contain menthol which helps prevent inflammation and improve blood circulation. On the other hand, Eucalyptus has several cooling properties that help sore muscles and stiff joints relax, relieving aches and stiffness.
Spa Redi – Sugar Scrub is made without Parabens, Sulfates, Drying Alcohols, Silicones, and is Cruelty-Free, so you can be sure that this product is safe and ethical. Spa Redi takes pride in not testing on animals.
All Spa Redi products, including the Sugar Scrub, are proudly made in the USA. The brand has been a part of the personal care industry since 1987, and they use only the highest quality of ingredients to ensure customer satisfaction.
5. Suki Skincare Resurfacing Enzyme Peel – With Glycolic Acid, Papain, Apple, & Pumpkin – Chemical
The Suki Enzyme Peel is a remarkable product that resurfaces your skin, preventing premature aging and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It also clears pores and lifts away layers of dead skin build-up for a more radiant and youthful appearance. With its ability to even and rejuvenate skin tone, it eliminates the appearance of dullness and leaves your complexion smoother and brighter.
This peel is specially formulated to target the underlying causes of chronically problematic skin, purifying and exfoliating your skin to reduce the appearance of blemishing. You'll love the way your skin looks and feels after using the Suki Enzyme Peel.
All Suki products are 100% natural and made without synthetic ingredients, parabens, and preservatives. They're also cruelty-free, ensuring that you can enjoy safe and effective skin care solutions you can trust. You can feel confident using the Suki Enzyme Peel, knowing that it's made in the USA and is both safe and strong.
If you're not completely satisfied with your purchase, Suki offers a 60-day money-back refund. So, if you decide that this product isn't a good fit for your skin, you can return it for a full refund.
6. Spa Skin Therapy Kit – Moisturize & Revive!
Indulge in a luxurious spa experience right at home with the Spa Skin Therapy Essentials Soap Plus Moisturizer Bath and Body Care Kit. This daily go-to kit includes three must-have products that will leave your skin feeling soft, smooth, and radiant. The kit features a moisture-rich cream, a cloud foaming gelee, and a mesh puff, making it the perfect trio for revitalized skin.
The invigoratingly light ocean-fresh fragrance of this kit is enriched with sea kelp, oils, vitamin A, E, and Biotin, which blends floral notes with bright citrus and soft sandalwood undertones for a refreshing scent that will leave your skin conditioned, baby soft, and healthy.
The non-greasy cream moisturizer is perfect for those who crave hydration. Infused with skin-enhancing vitamins and collagen amino acids, it absorbs into the skin, offering nourishment that leaves your skin hydrated and baby soft. The kit also features hydrating blends infused with skin-loving botanicals that are free of gluten, parabens, and phthalates. It is PETA certified, and never tested on animals, so you can feel good about what you're putting on your skin.
This Bath and Body Care kit is from a brand that has been pampering skin for over 60 years. Since 1957, they have developed amazing bath and body care essentials that are committed to product safety, quality, and innovation. They thrive to exceed your expectations, and this kit is no exception.
7. Smooth Skin Duo: Kp Treatment 2-Pack
Achieve a healthier and smoother skin with the daily use of KP Elements Body Scrub and Exfoliating Skin Cream. These products are specifically designed to help reduce the appearance of red bumps caused by keratosis pilaris while also providing a moisturizing effect for dry skin.
The keratosis pilaris treatment provided by these products is made possible through the gentle scrubbing beads that wash away excess keratin. This encourages cell turnover and promotes the growth of healthy new cells, resulting in a smoother and more even skin texture.
The effectiveness of these products is enhanced by the natural glycolic acid they contain. This helps to fade excess keratin and target those stubborn red bumps commonly known as "strawberry skin".
To further nourish and revitalize the skin, these body skin care products also contain natural oils and extracts such as Avocado Oil, Rosehip Oil, Horsetail Extract, Chamomile, Aloe Leaf, Green Tea, and more.
For best results, incorporate KP Elements Body Scrub and Exfoliating Skin Cream into your daily skincare regimen. Simply lather the exfoliating scrub onto affected areas during your daily shower, and after drying, massage the skin cream into the skin until fully absorbed. Consistent use of these products is highly recommended to achieve the best possible results.
8. Gentle Baby Step Exfoliating Mask – Chemist Confessions
This skincare product is specially formulated for individuals with sensitive skin, thanks to its unique blend of 30% gluconolactone and 15% lactic acid. With this product, one can achieve smoother and brighter skin without experiencing any irritation. The formula is also free of essential oils, making it suitable for those with fragrance sensitivities.
For best results, it is recommended to use this product as a nightly booster in your skincare routine. Simply add a drop to your serum and apply as usual. Additionally, this product can also be used once a week as a rinse-off facial mask.
9. Pretty Feet & Hands Exfoliant Rough Skin Remover 3 Oz (Pack Of 10)
Introducing a special cream that will help to improve the condition of dry, rough hands and feet. This cream is formulated to renew dry skin and reveal a remarkably soft, silky smooth texture. With its natural formulation, it contains no harsh chemicals or abrasive, gritty feel.
This cream is a manual exfoliant, gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin types. It promotes cell turnover for smoother skin, leaving you with a rejuvenated and refreshed feeling. The convenience of this cream cannot be understated, as it comes in a cream form for easy application. The molded bottle is easy to hold and features extra air space to facilitate thorough mixing every time you shake it up.
With its natural formulation, this cream is perfect for those who want to avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive exfoliants. Its gentle formula will not cause any irritation or discomfort, making it ideal for daily use. The manual exfoliant helps to remove dead skin cells, revealing a softer, smoother texture.
This cream is perfect for those who want to achieve a youthful, glowing complexion on their hands and feet. Its natural formulation is gentle enough for regular use, making it an excellent addition to any skincare routine. With its convenient packaging and effective formula, this cream is a must-have for anyone looking to improve the texture and appearance of their skin.
10. 24k Multi-Vitamin Facial Exfoliator
Experience a more youthful, radiant complexion with Orogold's Multi-Vitamin Deep Peeling Exfoliator. This gentle, yet effective facial peel is specially formulated to target the signs of aging and revive dull, aging skin.
Containing natural exfoliants such as walnut shell powder and bamboo powder, this deep peeling exfoliator gently removes dead skin cells, oil, and makeup, leaving your skin feeling refreshed and revitalized. The peel is suitable for all skin types and can be used by both men and women.
This cruelty-free peel has not been tested on animals and is infused with gold particles and green tea extracts. These powerful ingredients work together to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, improve skin firmness, and reduce discoloration.
Say goodbye to dry, lackluster skin and hello to a more radiant, healthy complexion with Orogold's Multi-Vitamin Deep Peeling Exfoliator. This multi-pronged product offers a range of benefits that cater to your skin's needs. It gently exfoliates, reduces the look of wrinkles, and improves skin for a firmer, more youthful look.
Try this effective cleanser today and experience the difference it can make for your skin.
Best Exfoliant For Dry Skin FAQs
Are there any exfoliants specifically formulated for very dry or sensitive skin?
Yes, there are exfoliants that are specifically formulated for very dry or sensitive skin. These types of exfoliants use gentle ingredients that won't strip the skin of its natural oils or cause irritation. Some common ingredients in these types of exfoliants include oatmeal, rice powder, and fruit enzymes.
Oatmeal is a natural exfoliant that is also very soothing for dry and sensitive skin. It helps to remove dead skin cells while also moisturizing and calming the skin. Rice powder is another gentle exfoliant that is often used in Asian skincare products. It helps to brighten the skin and improve its texture without causing irritation.
Fruit enzymes, such as papaya and pineapple, are also great options for those with dry or sensitive skin. They work by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to be easily removed without the need for harsh scrubbing.
When choosing an exfoliant for dry or sensitive skin, it's important to look for products that are labeled as gentle or formulated for sensitive skin. It's also a good idea to patch test the product on a small area of skin before using it all over your face to ensure that it won't cause any adverse reactions.
Are there any natural or DIY exfoliants that work well for dry skin?
Yes, there are several natural and DIY exfoliants that work well for dry skin. One effective option is oatmeal. Oatmeal contains anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe dry and irritated skin, and it also acts as a gentle exfoliant. To use oatmeal as an exfoliant, mix it with water to form a paste and apply it to your skin, gently massaging in circular motions before rinsing off.
Another option is sugar. Sugar crystals are gentle enough to use on dry skin and can help remove dead skin cells and improve skin texture. To use sugar as an exfoliant, mix it with a carrier oil such as coconut oil or almond oil and massage onto your skin before rinsing off.
You can also try using a mixture of honey and baking soda as an exfoliant. Honey is a natural humectant that can help moisturize dry skin, while baking soda acts as a gentle exfoliant. Mix equal parts honey and baking soda, apply to your skin, and gently massage in circular motions before rinsing off.
Overall, natural and DIY exfoliants can be effective for dry skin, but it's important to choose gentle options and to patch test first to avoid any potential irritation.
Can exfoliating too much worsen dry skin?
Yes, exfoliating too much can worsen dry skin. Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, which can help to reveal smoother, brighter, and more youthful-looking skin. However, if you exfoliate too often or too aggressively, it can strip away the natural oils and moisture that keep your skin hydrated and healthy, leading to dryness, flakiness, and irritation.
If you have dry skin, it's important to exfoliate gently and infrequently, using a mild exfoliating scrub or a chemical exfoliant that's specifically designed for dry or sensitive skin. You should also follow up with a rich, hydrating moisturizer to help replenish your skin's moisture barrier and prevent further dryness.
In general, it's best to exfoliate no more than once or twice a week, and to pay attention to your skin's reaction to make sure you're not overdoing it. If you experience any redness, itching, or flaking after exfoliating, you should scale back or switch to a gentler method.
Can physical exfoliants be used on dry skin or should one opt for chemical exfoliants?
Physical exfoliants are a type of exfoliation that involves manually scrubbing the skin to remove dead skin cells. While this method can be effective in removing dead skin cells and revealing brighter, smoother skin, it may not be suitable for those with dry skin. Physical exfoliants can be abrasive and may cause further irritation to already dry skin.
In contrast, chemical exfoliants use acids or enzymes to dissolve dead skin cells, making them a better option for those with dry skin. Chemical exfoliants are gentle and work to exfoliate the skin without causing physical damage or irritation.
However, it's important to note that not all chemical exfoliants are suitable for dry skin. It's best to opt for gentle chemical exfoliants such as lactic acid or PHA (polyhydroxy acid), which are hydrating and can help to improve skin texture without aggravating dryness.
Ultimately, the choice between physical and chemical exfoliants depends on your skin type and individual needs. It's best to consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional to determine the best exfoliation method for your skin type.
How often should one exfoliate dry skin?
Exfoliating dry skin is essential to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and promote cell regeneration. However, over-exfoliating can cause irritation and damage to the skin. Therefore, it is crucial to find the right balance and exfoliate dry skin once or twice a week.
If you have extremely dry or sensitive skin, it is best to stick to once a week to avoid irritation. On the other hand, if you have oily or combination skin, you can exfoliate twice a week to control excess oil and prevent breakouts.
It is also essential to choose the right exfoliating product that is gentle on your skin. Look for products with natural exfoliants such as sugar, salt, or oatmeal, as they are less abrasive than synthetic exfoliants. Always follow up with a moisturizer to hydrate and protect your skin after exfoliating.
Overall, exfoliating dry skin once or twice a week with a gentle exfoliator can help improve the texture and appearance of your skin without causing damage or irritation.
Should one avoid exfoliants altogether if they have dry skin?
It is not necessary to avoid exfoliants altogether if you have dry skin, but it is important to choose the right type of exfoliant and use it cautiously. Exfoliants can help remove dead skin cells and promote cell turnover, which can improve the texture and appearance of dry skin. However, some exfoliants can be too harsh and strip the skin of its natural oils, exacerbating dryness and causing irritation.
If you have dry skin, opt for a gentle exfoliant that is specifically formulated for dry or sensitive skin. Look for ingredients like salicylic acid or lactic acid, which can gently dissolve dead skin cells without causing excessive dryness or irritation. It is also important to use exfoliants sparingly, no more than once or twice a week, and to follow up with a hydrating moisturizer to help restore the skin's natural moisture barrier.
In summary, if you have dry skin, it is not necessary to avoid exfoliants altogether, but it is important to choose the right type of exfoliant and use it cautiously to avoid exacerbating dryness and irritation.
What are some tips for using an exfoliant on dry skin to maximize its benefits?
Exfoliating dry skin can be a tricky task, but with the right approach, you can reap the maximum benefits of using an exfoliant. Here are some tips:
1. Choose the right exfoliant: Opt for a gentle exfoliant that suits your skin type. Avoid harsh scrubs or products with large particles that can damage the skin.
2. Moisturize before exfoliating: Apply a moisturizer to your skin before using an exfoliant. This will help hydrate your skin and provide a barrier to prevent over-exfoliation.
3. Use gentle circular motions: Apply the exfoliant in circular motions, using gentle pressure. Avoid rubbing too hard or using back and forth movements.
4. Rinse thoroughly: After exfoliating, ensure that you rinse your skin thoroughly with warm water. This will remove any residue and prevent irritation.
5. Moisturize after exfoliating: Follow up with a moisturizer to hydrate your skin. This will help keep your skin soft and supple after exfoliation.
By following these tips, you can exfoliate your dry skin safely and effectively, leaving your skin looking and feeling its best.
What are the benefits of using an exfoliant on dry skin?
Exfoliation is an important step in any skincare routine, but when it comes to dry skin, it can be especially beneficial. By removing dead skin cells, an exfoliant helps to reveal fresh, new skin that is better able to absorb moisturizers and other skincare products. This can help to improve the overall appearance and texture of dry skin, leaving it looking smoother and more radiant.
In addition to improving the appearance of dry skin, exfoliating can also help to prevent clogged pores and breakouts. When dead skin cells build up on the surface of the skin, they can mix with oil and other impurities, leading to congestion and blemishes. By removing these dead skin cells, an exfoliant helps to keep pores clear and reduce the risk of breakouts.
However, it's important to choose the right type of exfoliant for dry skin. Harsh scrubs or chemical exfoliants can be too abrasive and strip away too much of the skin's natural oils, leading to further dryness and irritation. Instead, look for gentle exfoliants that are formulated specifically for dry or sensitive skin, and be sure to follow up with a rich moisturizer to keep skin hydrated and healthy.
What are the best exfoliants for dry skin?
Exfoliation is an essential part of any skincare routine, but it can be a tricky step for those with dry skin. The key is to choose gentle exfoliants that won't strip away the skin's natural oils. Some of the best exfoliants for dry skin include:
1. Chemical exfoliants: Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid and lactic acid are great for dry skin because they exfoliate without scrubbing. They work by dissolving the glue that holds dead skin cells together, revealing brighter, smoother skin.
2. Enzyme exfoliants: These exfoliants use natural enzymes like papaya and pineapple to break down dead skin cells. They're gentle on the skin and won't cause irritation.
3. Physical exfoliants: If you prefer a physical exfoliant, look for one with fine particles that won't scratch the skin. Sugar, oatmeal, and jojoba beads are all good options.
Remember, no matter what type of exfoliant you use, be sure to follow up with a rich moisturizer to hydrate and protect the skin. And always start slowly with any new product to avoid irritation.
What are the key ingredients to look for in an exfoliant for dry skin?
When it comes to choosing an exfoliant for dry skin, it's important to look for ingredients that will slough off dead skin cells without causing further dryness or irritation. One key ingredient to look for is lactic acid, which is a gentle alpha-hydroxy acid that helps to exfoliate the skin without stripping it of its natural oils. Another ingredient to consider is jojoba beads, which are gentle enough for dry skin and provide physical exfoliation without being too abrasive.
Additionally, it's important to look for an exfoliant that contains hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid or glycerin, which help to lock in moisture and prevent the skin from becoming even drier. Other beneficial ingredients for dry skin include chamomile, aloe vera, and oatmeal, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe and calm the skin.
Overall, the key is to choose an exfoliant that is gentle yet effective and contains ingredients that will not only exfoliate but also nourish and hydrate the skin.
