Best Exfoliator For Oily Acne Prone Skin (2024 Update)
Having oily, acne-prone skin can make finding the right exfoliator seem daunting. With so many products on the market promising miracles, how do you know which one is right for your skin’s needs? Before purchasing an exfoliant, consider what you want it to achieve. Is your priority unclogging pores, removing dead skin cells, or reducing inflammation? Look for key ingredients like salicylic acid or lactic acid that gently slough off dead skin without over-drying. The texture of the exfoliant matters too – rough, abrasive beads can further irritate sensitive skin. Aim for a cream or gel-based scrub with soft, rounded exfoliants.
When scanning product reviews, pay attention to those with a similar skin type to yours. Does the exfoliant leave their skin feeling clean and refreshed, not tight or flaky? Also look for how frequently the product can be used. Acne-prone skin benefits from regular exfoliation to clear away pore-clogging buildup, but that doesn’t mean abrasively scrubbing every day. Look for an exfoliant that can be used 2-3 times per week.
Have you found an exfoliator that makes your oily, acneic skin look clearer and feel healthier? Or are you wary of exacerbating problems with the wrong product? By carefully evaluating your skin’s needs and the ingredients and texture of the exfoliant, you can find the perfect fit. Make sure to patch test before applying all over your face. With consistent use, the right exfoliator can get your glow back.
10 Best Exfoliator For Oily Acne Prone Skin
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Ideal for individuals with acne-prone skin, seeking a face wash that contains glycolic acid for effective exfoliation and blemish prevention.
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The product is ideal for treating facial acne and reducing redness with a combination of salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide.
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The product is ideal for people with sensitive skin who need a daily facial toner that can manage acne, sebum, and oiliness.
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The product is ideal for moisturizing and treating acne-prone skin using medical-grade mandelic acid and salicylic acid.
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Ideal for oily skin types with visible pores, helps exfoliate and smoothen the skin texture.
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The product is ideal for exfoliating the face to improve anti-aging, dullness, wrinkles, and pores.
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This product is ideal for individuals with acne-prone skin who need an exfoliating daily acne face scrub.
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Ideal for oily and acne-prone skin, this exfoliating face mask removes blackheads and helps with anti-acne and de-tan. Vegan and cruelty-free.
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This product is ideal for oily and acne-prone skin, as it helps to unclog pores and remove dead skin cells.
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This product is ideal for soothing, exfoliating and improving the appearance of acne-prone, oily and sensitive skin.
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1. Lavo Glycolic Acid Face Wash For Acne Prone
Looking for a cleansing oil that won't leave your skin feeling greasy or heavy? Look no further than this non-greasy and lightweight cleansing oil, a customer favorite that effectively removes impurities, excess oil, and dirt without clogging pores.
Not only is this cleanser great for keeping skin clean and clear, it also functions as an effective makeup remover. With its gentle formula, it dissolves makeup without stripping skin of its natural oils, leaving your face feeling nourished and hydrated.
This cleansing oil is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making it an ideal option for daily use. It won't dry out your skin or leave it feeling oily – instead, it's perfectly balanced to keep your complexion looking and feeling healthy.
One of the best things about this cleansing oil is that it's suitable for all skin types, including normal, dry, combination, and sensitive skin. It's cruelty-free and free from harmful chemicals, so you can feel good about using it on your skin.
And if you're not completely satisfied with this product, don't worry – the company offers a money-back guarantee. Try this gentle cleansing oil risk-free and see the difference it can make for your skin!
2. Clear Skin Kit: 2% Salicylic + 2.5% Benzoyl.
The Paula's Choice CLEAR Regular Strength Acne Kit is an easy-to-use 3-step skin care system that effectively combats stubborn acne, breakouts, blemishes, and blackheads without causing dryness or redness. This system is suitable for normal, dry, oily & combination skin types, including skin prone to cystic acne.
The kit contains three products: CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser, CLEAR Regular Strength Anti-Redness Exfoliating Solution with 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA), and CLEAR Regular Strength Daily Skin Clearing Treatment with 2.5% Benzoyl Peroxide. These lightweight formulas work together to provide skin-perfecting, pore-clearing & hydrating benefits.
The CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser gently cleanses the skin without stripping it of its natural oils, while the CLEAR Regular Strength Anti-Redness Exfoliating Solution with 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA) exfoliates dead skin cells and unclogs pores. The CLEAR Regular Strength Daily Skin Clearing Treatment with 2.5% Benzoyl Peroxide targets acne-causing bacteria and reduces inflammation.
The Paula's Choice CLEAR collection also includes other products such as the Ultra-Light Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 30+ for daytime protection, the CLEAR Oil-Free Moisturizer for weightless hydration, and the CLEAR Purifying Clay Mask to control excess shine & clogged pores.
For best results, it is recommended to use this 3-step system as your morning and evening daily skincare routine and always finish with SPF 30+ in the morning. All Paula's Choice Skincare products are fragrance-free, paraben-free, and formulated with science-backed ingredients that target any skin concern, from wrinkles to breakouts. Trust in Paula's Choice Skincare to provide effective solutions to promote healthy, clear skin.
3. Miracle Toner For Clearer Skin
SOME BY MI is a cosmetics brand that prioritizes safe and clean ingredients while delivering effective products that aim to make a positive change in the skin. Their MIRACLE TONER, for instance, is an exfoliating facial toner that contains 10,000 ppm tea tree water extract, which helps to improve troubled skin in a quick and gentle manner. It also features a blend of AHA, BHA, PHA, papaya extract, and witch hazel extract to exfoliate dead skin cells and eliminate body wastes.
The MIRACLE TONER has been dermatologically tested for sensitive skin and contains two patented ingredients: P-PEFINYL, which controls sebum production, and FRUCTAN, which moisturizes the skin. AHA exfoliates the skin's surface to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while improving the texture and tone of the skin. BHA exfoliates the inside of the pores to clear out impurities and excess sebum. PHA is a gentle exfoliator that hydrates the skin, brightens the complexion, reduces the appearance of fine lines, and improves the overall skin texture.
SOME BY MI's MIRACLE Line is ideal for acne-prone skin and contains high concentrations of tea tree leaf extract to improve the skin's condition. This line features an optimal mix of AHA, BHA, PHA to refine dead skin cells, impurities and includes Truecica, an exclusive calming agent that maintains healthy-looking skin and prevents acne breakouts through pH balance care. The MIRACLE Line is free of 20 harmful ingredients and has undergone an irritation test for sensitive skin.
SOME BY US is committed to ensuring proven efficacy in all their products. They undertake strict testing from the planning and development stages to product launch in collaboration with various dermatology experts. The brand prioritizes customer satisfaction and encourages potential customers to reach out with any questions about their products.
4. Acne-Be-Gone: Renewal Complex Moisturizer.
Introducing a multi-tasking face moisturizer cream for acne prone skin, the TIME RELEASED A.H.A. + B.H.A. MOISTURIZER. This maximum strength acne moisturizer is perfect for dry, oily and combination skin types. With a large 3.4 oz/90+ day supply, you can enjoy clear and healthy-looking skin for an extended period of time.
Featuring medical grade 2% salicylic acid and mandelic acid, this scientifically formulated moisturizer cream helps remove acne, increase cellular turnover and gently exfoliate your skin. It also contains patented, advanced oil control technology that quickly absorbs into your skin and deeply penetrates to remove excess oil trapped in pores. This technology improves skin elasticity, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
This fast-absorbing, hydrating face cream is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It goes on clean and instantly hydrates your skin, leaving it beautifully lightweight and ready to layer SPF and/or makeup as needed.
The TIME RELEASED A.H.A. + B.H.A. MOISTURIZER fights acne, hydrates your skin and prevents future breakouts. It is a multi-functional, oil-free acne moisturizer cream that provides an all-in-one solution for several skin concerns. Save time and money by using this combination day moisturizer & acne lotion with anti-aging skincare benefits.
As a family-owned business, your satisfaction is their guarantee. Neutralyze is a dermatologist-recommended treatment for acne vulgaris and related skin issues. Made in the USA in a certified cGMP/SOP compliant facility, the product is 100% cruelty-free and never tested on animals. It contains no parabens or sulfates, making it a reliable choice for consumers who value quality skincare products.
5. Effaclar Astringent Toner: Pore-Minimizing Lha Exfoliation
Introducing an exfoliant astringent toner that is specifically designed to cater to oily skin types. This toner works wonders in removing excess oil and visibly reducing the look of pores.
The formula is enriched with micro-exfoliating lipo-hydroxy acid (LHA) that works to refine skin texture, tighten and clear pores. It has been tested on acne-prone skin and has been proven to be non-comedogenic, making it a safe choice for individuals with sensitive skin.
This toner is highly recommended for those with oily skin, uneven skin tone, enlarged pores, clogged pores, and sensitive skin. The clear, watery texture is refreshing and easy to apply.
One of the highlights of this toner is that it is formulated with Lipo-Hydroxy Acid (LHA), which is a derivative of salicylic acid. This ingredient possesses exfoliating and skin surface renewing properties, making it a highly effective exfoliator.
6. Dermapolish – Exfoliating Facial Scrub
The Glowing and Moisturized product is designed to provide optimal skin nourishment and rejuvenation. This product boasts a unique combination of natural ingredients, including chamomile, green tea, and aloe vera extracts, which work together to protect and hydrate the skin.
Chamomile is known for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties, making it an ideal ingredient for sensitive or irritated skin. Green tea, on the other hand, is a powerful antioxidant that helps to fight free radicals and prevent premature aging. Aloe vera, a well-known moisturizer, is rich in vitamins A, C, and E, which help to hydrate and nourish the skin.
Together, these natural ingredients form a powerful blend that soothes and moisturizes the skin, leaving it feeling soft, supple, and glowing. This product is perfect for those who are looking for a way to keep their skin healthy and youthful-looking.
To use, simply apply a small amount of the product to your face and neck, using gentle, circular motions. The lightweight, non-greasy formula absorbs quickly, leaving no residue behind. For best results, use daily as part of your skincare routine.
7. Stress-Free Acne Scrub With Exfoliating Power
Introducing the Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Stress Control Power-Clear Facial Scrub, a powerful acne-fighting solution that gently cleanses and exfoliates the skin to help prevent breakouts. This 4.2-fluid ounce tube is packed with 2% salicylic acid acne treatment medication, which works effectively to clear acne and treat it even before it emerges.
This facial scrub is formulated with MicroClear Technology, which helps to boost the delivery of acne treatment to the source of breakouts. It also contains gentle exfoliators that sweep away dirt and oil, leaving the skin feeling fresh and clean. The creamy formula includes skin soothers such as cucumber and green tea, which help to calm and soothe the skin, leaving it soft and smooth.
This exfoliating daily face scrub is designed to work hard to treat and help prevent acne every day, no matter what kind of stress you may be experiencing. To use, simply wet your face and apply the face scrub by massaging it gently onto your skin. This facial scrub is formulated by the #1 Dermatologist Recommended Acne Brand and is specifically designed for acne-prone skin.
8. Acne-Fighting Saffron Face Mask – Vegan & Cruelty-Free
This product is specially formulated to help you achieve healthy, glowing skin. Infused with pure saffron strands, a powerful Ayurvedic ingredient, it effectively combats inflammation. The inclusion of salicylic acid helps to purify pores, prevent breakouts and blackheads, and regulate oil production. Additionally, the glycolic acid in this product aids in increasing skin turnover, promoting the growth of new, younger-looking skin.
This product is designed to improve your skin's texture and control sebum production. Unlike other skincare products that contain harsh chemicals, this product is 100% fragrance-free, cruelty-free, and formulated without harmful chemicals that may dry out your skin or cause irritation.
This product's unique blend of ingredients helps to regulate oil production, increase skin turnover, and improve texture. Its gentle formula ensures that it does not cause any irritation or dryness, making it suitable for all skin types.
9. Effaclar Clarifying Solution: Pore-Refining Acne Toner
Introducing an exfoliating acne toner that features a potent combination of salicylic acid and glycolic acid, which helps to remove pore-clogging debris and smooth out skin texture. This toner is designed to work effectively by removing excess dirt and dead skin cells, leaving your skin feeling refreshed and even.
This toner is perfect for treating a wide range of skin concerns, including red and raised pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, clogged pores, enlarged pores, uneven skin texture, and sensitive skin. It is formulated with glycolic acid, which is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that is often considered the gold standard in dermatology for skin exfoliation. Within this formula, glycolic acid is recognized for its ability to increase skin surface cell turnover and visibly improve skin tone and texture.
In addition to glycolic acid, this toner also contains 0.5% salicylic acid, which is known for its effective exfoliating properties that help to clear and refine the appearance of pores. This makes it an ideal choice for those concerned with clogged pores and oily skin.
By using this toner, you can expect to see a significant improvement in the overall appearance and texture of your skin. It works by gently removing dead skin cells and excess dirt, which can clog pores and lead to breakouts. With regular use, you'll notice that your skin looks smoother, more even, and clearer.
Best Exfoliator For Oily Acne Prone Skin FAQs
Are there any exfoliators specifically designed for oily, acne-prone skin?
Yes, there are exfoliators specifically designed for oily, acne-prone skin. These products are formulated with ingredients that can help regulate oil production and unclog pores, which can help prevent acne breakouts. Some common ingredients found in these types of exfoliators include salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and benzoyl peroxide. Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid that can penetrate deep into the pores to unclog them, while glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid that helps exfoliate the surface of the skin. Benzoyl peroxide, on the other hand, can help kill acne-causing bacteria. When looking for an exfoliator for oily, acne-prone skin, it is important to choose a product that is gentle enough not to cause irritation, but effective enough to help improve the appearance of the skin. It is also important to follow the directions carefully and not over-exfoliate, as this can cause irritation and dryness.
Are there any ingredients to look for or avoid in exfoliators for oily, acne-prone skin?
When it comes to choosing exfoliators for oily, acne-prone skin, there are certain ingredients that you should look for and others that you should avoid. Firstly, it's important to look for exfoliators that contain salicylic acid, as it can penetrate deep into the pores and help to unclog them. Another beneficial ingredient is glycolic acid, which can help to brighten the skin and reduce the appearance of acne scars.
On the other hand, you should avoid exfoliators that contain physical exfoliants such as apricot kernels or walnut shells, as these can be too harsh on the skin and cause micro-tears. Additionally, avoid exfoliators that contain alcohol, as this can strip the skin of its natural oils and exacerbate oil production.
It's also a good idea to choose exfoliators that are specifically formulated for oily, acne-prone skin, as they will typically contain a combination of beneficial ingredients that work together to address common concerns. Remember to always patch test new products and introduce them gradually into your skincare routine to avoid irritation or sensitivity.
Are there any natural or DIY exfoliators that work well for oily, acne-prone skin?
Yes, there are several natural and DIY exfoliators that work well for oily, acne-prone skin. One of the most effective natural exfoliators is baking soda. It helps to balance the pH level of the skin and removes excess oil and dead skin cells. To use, mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with a few drops of water to form a paste. Gently massage the paste onto your face in circular motions for about 2 minutes, then rinse off with lukewarm water.
Another natural exfoliator is oatmeal. It is gentle on the skin and helps to absorb excess oil while also soothing inflammation. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground oatmeal with 1 tablespoon of honey and a few drops of water to form a paste. Gently massage the paste onto your face in circular motions for about 2 minutes, then rinse off with lukewarm water.
You can also make a DIY exfoliating scrub using sugar and olive oil. Mix 1 tablespoon of brown sugar with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to form a paste. Gently massage the paste onto your face in circular motions for about 2 minutes, then rinse off with lukewarm water.
It's important to note that exfoliating should only be done 1-2 times per week to avoid over-exfoliating and damaging the skin.
Can exfoliating help with oily skin and acne, or should other acne treatments be used instead?
Exfoliating can be an effective way to help manage oily skin and acne. By removing dead skin cells and unclogging pores, exfoliation can help reduce the buildup of oil and bacteria that can cause breakouts. However, it is important to choose the right type of exfoliation for your skin type and to use it in moderation. Over-exfoliation can damage the skin and actually increase oil production, which can exacerbate acne. In addition to exfoliation, other acne treatments such as topical medications or oral antibiotics may be necessary for more severe cases. It is always best to consult with a dermatologist to determine the best course of treatment for your specific skin type and condition. Overall, incorporating exfoliation into your skincare routine can be a helpful tool in managing oily skin and preventing acne, but it should be used in combination with other treatments as needed.
Can exfoliating too much cause more breakouts for those with oily, acne-prone skin?
Yes, over-exfoliating can cause more breakouts for those with oily, acne-prone skin. Exfoliating helps to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, but it can also strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. This can trigger the skin to produce more oil to compensate for the dryness, which can result in more breakouts.
If you have oily, acne-prone skin, it is recommended to exfoliate no more than 2-3 times per week using a gentle exfoliating product. Avoid using harsh scrubs or exfoliants that contain large particles, as these can cause micro-tears in the skin, leading to inflammation and further breakouts.
It is also important to follow up with a moisturizer to hydrate the skin and help restore its natural barrier. If you are experiencing persistent acne or breakouts, it is best to consult with a dermatologist to determine the underlying cause and develop a personalized skincare routine.
Can physical or chemical exfoliants be more effective for oily, acne-prone skin?
Both physical and chemical exfoliants can be effective for oily, acne-prone skin, but the choice ultimately depends on the individual's skin type and personal preference.
Physical exfoliants use granules, beads, or brushes to physically scrub away dead skin cells and unclog pores. They can be effective in removing surface-level impurities, but they can also be abrasive and cause micro-tears on the skin. This can lead to irritation or inflammation, which can exacerbate acne. Therefore, it's important to choose a gentle physical exfoliant and avoid over-exfoliating.
On the other hand, chemical exfoliants use acids, enzymes, or retinoids to dissolve dead skin cells and unclog pores. They can penetrate deeper into the skin than physical exfoliants, making them more effective for treating acne. They can also help to regulate oil production and improve skin texture. However, they can also be more irritating and require a patch test before use.
Ultimately, the best exfoliant for oily, acne-prone skin will depend on the individual's skin type and sensitivity. It's important to choose a gentle exfoliant and avoid over-exfoliating, regardless of the type chosen.
Does the type of exfoliator used (scrub, peel, brush) matter for oily, acne-prone skin?
Yes, the type of exfoliator used can make a significant difference in the effectiveness of the treatment for oily, acne-prone skin. Scrubs are generally physical exfoliants that work by manually removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. They can be beneficial for oily skin because they help remove excess oil and unclog pores. However, it's important to be gentle when using scrubs on acne-prone skin, as aggressive scrubbing can irritate the skin and make acne worse.
Peels, on the other hand, are chemical exfoliants that use ingredients like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) to dissolve dead skin cells and unclog pores. AHAs are water-soluble and work on the surface of the skin, while BHAs are oil-soluble and can penetrate deeper into the pores. Peels can be a good option for oily, acne-prone skin because they can help reduce oiliness and improve skin texture without the risk of physical irritation.
Brushes, such as facial cleansing brushes, can be another effective tool for exfoliating oily, acne-prone skin. They work by using gentle vibrations or rotations to help loosen dirt and oil from the pores. However, it's important to use a brush with soft bristles and not to apply too much pressure, as this can cause irritation and make acne worse.
Ultimately, the best type of exfoliator for oily, acne-prone skin will depend on your individual skin type and concerns. It's important to choose a gentle exfoliant and to use it no more than once or twice a week to avoid over-exfoliating and causing further irritation.
How often should someone with oily, acne-prone skin exfoliate?
For someone with oily, acne-prone skin, exfoliating once or twice a week is recommended. Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and reduce the appearance of acne. However, too much exfoliation can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to overproduction of oil and further breakouts. It is important to choose a gentle exfoliator that is suitable for your skin type. Chemical exfoliants like salicylic acid and glycolic acid are effective for oily, acne-prone skin as they penetrate deep into the pores to remove excess oil and impurities. Physical exfoliants like scrubs and brushes can also be used, but care should be taken not to scrub too hard and irritate the skin. It is important to listen to your skin and adjust your exfoliation routine accordingly. If you notice any irritation or excessive dryness, reduce the frequency of exfoliation.
Should someone with oily, acne-prone skin use a gentle or more aggressive exfoliator?
If you have oily, acne-prone skin, it may be tempting to use a more aggressive exfoliator to get rid of excess oil and unclog pores. However, this can actually do more harm than good. Aggressive exfoliators can cause micro-tears in the skin, which can lead to inflammation and further breakouts.
Instead, it is better to use a gentle exfoliator that will help to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores without irritating the skin. Look for products that contain salicylic acid or alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), which are effective at exfoliating without being too harsh.
It’s also important to be mindful of how often you exfoliate. Over-exfoliating can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to even more oil production and breakouts. Generally, it is recommended to exfoliate no more than 2-3 times per week.
Overall, a gentle exfoliator is the best choice for someone with oily, acne-prone skin. It will help to keep the skin clear without causing further irritation or breakouts.
What are some of the best exfoliators for oily, acne-prone skin?
Exfoliating is an important step in skincare, especially for those with oily and acne-prone skin. It helps to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and reduce the appearance of acne. Here are some of the best exfoliators for oily, acne-prone skin:
1. Salicylic acid exfoliators: Salicylic acid is an excellent exfoliating ingredient for oily, acne-prone skin. It penetrates deep into the pores and helps to unclog them. Some popular salicylic acid exfoliators include Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant and Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash.
2. Glycolic acid exfoliators: Glycolic acid is another great exfoliating ingredient that helps to reduce the appearance of acne and improve skin texture. Some popular glycolic acid exfoliators include The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution and Alpha-H Liquid Gold.
3. Physical exfoliators: Physical exfoliators like scrubs and brushes can also be effective for oily, acne-prone skin. However, it's important to choose a gentle exfoliator that won't irritate the skin. Some popular physical exfoliators include Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant and Foreo Luna Mini 2.
Overall, it's important to choose an exfoliator that is suitable for your skin type and is gentle enough not to cause irritation. It's also important to follow up with a moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated after exfoliating.
