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Best Exfoliators For Oily Skin (2024 Update)

Are you struggling with oily skin and looking for the best exfoliator to help control excess oil? With so many exfoliating products on the market, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. An effective exfoliator is a key step in any skincare routine for oily skin. When used properly, exfoliation removes dead skin cells, dirt, and excess oil to reveal brighter, smoother skin.

Before purchasing an exfoliator, consider your skin’s sensitivity. Over exfoliation can cause irritation, so choose a gentle formula if you have sensitive skin. Look for exfoliators with round beads rather than sharp particles that could scratch delicate skin. Also, pay attention to the ingredient list and avoid harsh ingredients like alcohol that could dry out your skin.

Exfoliation is an important step, but be sure not to overdo it. Using a scrub with gentle, circular motions 2-3 times a week is sufficient for oily skin. Listen to what your skin needs and adjust your exfoliation routine accordingly. With the right exfoliator, you can reveal fresh, balanced skin.

10 Best Exfoliators For Oily Skin

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for oily and congested skin, this facial exfoliator effectively cleanses and removes dead skin cells for a smoother complexion.
2
The product is ideal for exfoliating and cleansing the skin, leaving it smooth and refreshed.
3
Ideal for daily deep cleansing, regular exfoliating, removing dead skin, dirt and makeup for normal to oily skin types. Made in USA.
4
The product is ideal for those with oily to combination skin, looking to deeply exfoliate, mattify, and visibly tighten pores.
5
Ideal for improving skin tone and texture, oil and soap-free, hypoallergenic, and contains moisture-rich soy extract.
6
The product is ideal for gentle exfoliation, reducing dry skin, acne, blackheads, pore size, and wrinkles.
7
This facial scrub is ideal for all skin types and helps to soften, detoxify, and cleanse the skin using sea kelp and French green clay.
8
This product is ideal for gently exfoliating while providing hydration to the skin.
9
This product is ideal for gentle exfoliation of the skin, reducing fine lines and improving overall skin texture.
10
Ideal for oily skin, targeting blackheads and large pores with a 2% BHA exfoliant and hydrating hyaluronic acid.
Ideal for oily and congested skin, this facial exfoliator effectively cleanses and removes dead skin cells for a smoother complexion.
The product is ideal for exfoliating and cleansing the skin, leaving it smooth and refreshed.
Ideal for daily deep cleansing, regular exfoliating, removing dead skin, dirt and makeup for normal to oily skin types. Made in USA.
The product is ideal for those with oily to combination skin, looking to deeply exfoliate, mattify, and visibly tighten pores.
Ideal for improving skin tone and texture, oil and soap-free, hypoallergenic, and contains moisture-rich soy extract.
The product is ideal for gentle exfoliation, reducing dry skin, acne, blackheads, pore size, and wrinkles.
This facial scrub is ideal for all skin types and helps to soften, detoxify, and cleanse the skin using sea kelp and French green clay.
This product is ideal for gently exfoliating while providing hydration to the skin.
This product is ideal for gentle exfoliation of the skin, reducing fine lines and improving overall skin texture.
Ideal for oily skin, targeting blackheads and large pores with a 2% BHA exfoliant and hydrating hyaluronic acid.

1. Lancer Skincare Oily Skin Exfoliating Duo

The Method: Polish Facial Exfoliator is an excellent way to rejuvenate your skin and experience a radiant complexion. As the first step in The Lancer Method, this daily exfoliating wash gently removes surface debris and dull, dry cells to give you smooth, bright, and renewed skin.

The Lancer Method is a three-step system that promotes cell turnover and natural collagen regeneration for visibly younger skin. The Polish is a gentle exfoliating scrub that supports your skin’s natural regenerative cycle. When combined with the Cleanse face cleanser and the Nourish skin moisturizer, it provides optimal results.

To use, simply massage a small amount of the Polish exfoliant onto your damp face and neck once a day, then rinse thoroughly. For best results, follow with the Cleanse face cleanser and finish with the Nourish skin moisturizer.

Each exfoliating face scrub has varying ingredients for different skin types. The Polish contains quartz crystals, pumpkin enzyme, pomegranate enzyme, chamomile oil and bisabolol, and salicylic acid. Select the appropriate skin type for optimal results.

Dr. Harold Lancer, the founder of Lancer Skincare, has developed a variety of serums, creams, masks, and oils that address various skin concerns. Use The Method: Polish exfoliant for face skincare to help you achieve real results. With its gentle formula and soothing ingredients, this facial exfoliator will leave your skin feeling smooth, refreshed, and renewed.

2. Zo Skin Health Exfoliating Cleanser 2 Oz. Travel Size

The Health Exfoliating Cleanser in its 2 Oz. travel size is the ultimate solution for those who are always on the go. It is an effective and efficient way to get rid of all the impurities and dead skin cells that accumulate on your face and neck.

To use this cleanser, simply massage a small amount on damp skin in the morning and before bed. Its gentle exfoliating action helps to remove dirt, oil, and makeup, leaving your skin feeling clean, smooth, and refreshed.

For optimal results, it is recommended to follow up with the rest of your Getting Skin Ready Regimen. This will ensure that your skin is properly nourished, hydrated, and protected throughout the day.

With its compact size, this Exfoliating Cleanser is perfect for travel, making it easy to maintain your skincare routine while on the go. Its convenient size also makes it a great option for those with limited storage space.

In addition to its travel-friendly size, this cleanser is also formulated with high-quality ingredients that are both gentle and effective. It is free from harsh chemicals, fragrances, and parabens, making it suitable for even the most sensitive skin types.

3. Exfoliating Buff Puffs: Deep Clean Daily

Introducing the Facial Sponge That Really Works! The Buff Puff Regular Style Exfoliating Pads are a beauty secret that offers daily cleansing and deep exfoliation. When paired with your favorite cleanser, these puf pads can truly make a difference in your skin condition by removing built-up dirt, makeup, and excess oil.

The Buff Puff exfoliating pads are specifically designed to offer a deep cleanse, leaving your skin feeling refreshed, smooth, and clean. They are ideal for those with normal to oily skin. However, users with all skin types, including dry, combination, and oily, can benefit from the gentle exfoliation provided by these pads.

Daily exfoliation is essential for a more youthful and radiant-looking complexion. These exfoliating pads help remove dead skin cells and aid in collagen reproduction. The Buff Puff style pads are one of the most effective and gentle ways to assist in your daily cleansing routine.

Each pack of these exfoliating pads comes with 10 white single-sided (.75’’ x 4’’ x 2.75’’) pads, providing excellent value for your money.

What's more, these exfoliating pads are proudly made in the USA in accordance with applicable medical-grade foam production standards, including ISO 13485:2003 and ISO 9001:2008. You can feel confident in using this product knowing that it is made with the highest quality materials.

4. Pure Lava Foam Scrub – Clarins

This top-quality exfoliating product is a must-have for anyone looking to achieve a clear, refined complexion. Thanks to its powerful formula, it deeply exfoliates the skin, leaving it feeling instantly rejuvenated. Say goodbye to clogged pores and dull, tired-looking skin!

Not only does this product exfoliate, but it also mattifies and visibly tightens pores for a flawless, smooth finish. Perfect for those with oily skin, this product is formulated without parabens, SLS, and mineral oils, making it a safe and effective choice for your skincare routine.

After using this product, your skin will feel clear and refined, with a noticeable improvement in texture and appearance. Don't settle for less when it comes to your skincare routine – choose this top-quality, highly effective exfoliating product today!

5. Radiant Skin Brightening Exfoliating Scrub – Aveeno

The Aveeno Positively Radiant Skin Brightening & Exfoliating Daily Face Scrub is a must-have in any skincare routine. This 5-ounce tube is specifically formulated to cleanse, buff away dead skin cells, surface impurities, and excess oil. The result? Softer, brighter, and more radiant-looking skin.

The brightening facial exfoliant scrub contains a unique formula with moisture-rich soy extract and naturally derived granules designed to gently exfoliate and cleanse while removing dirt, oil, and bacteria. The scrub is gentle enough for everyday use and is suitable for sensitive skin. It reveals your skin's youthful texture and glow while helping to even out tone.

This facial scrub is from a dermatologist recommended brand, and it is soap-free, oil-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free, sulfate-free, dye-free, and hypoallergenic. It is perfect for everyday use in your beauty or skincare routine. Plus, it is non-comedogenic, so it won't clog pores.

The Aveeno Positively Radiant collection is all about enhancing your natural radiance and giving you a lit-from-within glow. With soy extract, this product targets skin tone and texture to reveal radiant-looking, smooth, youthful, and healthy-looking skin.

6. Radiant Skin Scrub & Mask Duo

The Gentle Exfoliation Mask is a 2-in-1 facial treatment that helps to balance and rejuvenate the skin. With its microcrystalline particles and glycolic acid, this facial scrub provides gentle exfoliation that effectively removes stubborn blackheads, pimples, and dead skin cells. This results in clean and minimized pores without tearing or damaging the skin.

Moreover, this facial scrub also functions as a mask that can reduce fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, and blackheads. Its vitamin and mineral nourishment complex helps to restore and protect the skin, giving it a healthy and youthful glow. This feature makes it an excellent choice for those who want to improve their complexion while also receiving a nourishing treatment.

The Gentle Exfoliation Mask is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It contains multivitamins and natural plant extracts that promote skin cell renewal, brighten the skin tone, and prevent acne and clogged pores. It also has amide acids that can reduce and prevent early aging skin dullness and repair damaged stratum corneum lipid barriers, improving skin resistance.

This facial scrub is made from the highest quality botanical skin care products, featuring rich ingredients such as Retinol, Niacinamide, Manuka Honey, and potent Vitamins C and E. Chamomile extract and grape seed oil are also included in the formulation. Chamomile is rich in flavonoid active ingredients that help improve sensitive, fragile, and dry skin. Grape seed oil, on the other hand, is rich in oligomeric proanthocyanidins, which is a highly effective natural antioxidant substance that protects structural tissues from free radical damage and slows down the aging process.

To use the Gentle Exfoliation Mask, apply a tablespoon of the product to clean, dry skin and allow it to set for 10-15 minutes. Afterward, add water to the skin and massage in circular motions to activate the physical exfoliation. Once done, remove the exfoliating particles with a warm, damp cloth. It is recommended to use this facial scrub 2-3 times a week to achieve the best results.

7. Sea Clay Cleansing Scrub For Radiant Skin

This product boasts a unique blend of refreshing ingredients that work together to provide a multitude of skin benefits. Sea kelp super-nutrients are included to help soften and detoxify the skin, while lemon peel and French green clay are added to exfoliate and purify. Additionally, Madonna lily is utilized to bring out the natural brightness of the skin.

Suitable for all skin types, this formula effectively softens and draws out impurities, as well as removes dead skin cells. This results in a smoother, more radiant complexion that looks and feels healthier overall.

This product is 100% vegan, and has been formulated without the use of Parabens, Sulfates, Mineral Oil, Petrolatum, or Formaldehyde. It has also been certified cruelty-free, making it an excellent choice for those who are conscious of animal welfare.

To use, simply apply the product to a wet face and gently scrub with your fingertips. Rinse thoroughly and repeat up to three times per week for best results. This product is packaged in a 4 Fl Oz container, though packaging may vary.

8. Hydrating Exfoliating Cleanser With Peptides & Glycolic Acid

Introducing a highly effective and gentle exfoliating cleanser that is formulated to provide smooth and clean skin. This product is great for individuals who have sensitive, oily, or acne-prone skin. It is formulated with 10% glycolic and salicylic acid that work together to reduce acne and dark spots.

This face wash is gentle yet effective, as the glycolic peel removes makeup and oil without drying out the skin. It works as both a cleanser and toner to resurface and nourish aging skin. The result is skin that feels smooth and clean, with a noticeable difference in texture.

This face scrub lathers well, smells great, and leaves no sticky residue. A little goes a long way, making it a great value for the price. With regular use, this product keeps the skin clear, revealing a glowing complexion.

This exfoliating face wash is formulated with both glycolic and salicylic acid, making it the perfect acne treatment for individuals who suffer from hormonal or cystic acne. It is best for adults and teenagers who want soft and smooth skin without burning or drying out their skin.

This product contains 10% glycolic and salicylic acid that penetrate deep to exfoliate and brighten sensitive skin. It is sulfate-free, cruelty-free, and made in the USA. Use it 2-5 times a week with your skincare routine and notice results in only 1 week.

In addition to reducing acne and dark spots, this nourishing formula contains bamboo, shea butter, and tea tree extract that deeply exfoliates to help fade dark spots, scarring, and any redness or discoloration.

Give this glycolic wash and full collection of facial skincare products a try, and experience the benefits of nourished, smooth, and glowing skin.

9. Perfecting Aha Exfoliating Gel – Green Tea & Chamomile

The Paula's Choice SKIN PERFECTING 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant with Glycolic Acid, Chamomile, and Green Tea is a non-abrasive leave-on exfoliator that gently removes dull skin to reveal the radiance hidden underneath. This unique lightweight gel revitalizes the skin's surface and helps keep it hydrated by removing dead cells and preparing the skin's surface to receive moisture.

This exfoliant is specially formulated with glycolic acid, chamomile, and green tea to help minimize the look of discolorations and age spots. With consistent use, it can also increase the skin's firmness. To use, simply apply the gel after cleansing and toning the skin, twice daily.

The Paula's Choice SKIN PERFECTING 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant is packed with antioxidants from green tea and other natural ingredients. The soothing power of chamomile also helps to calm and soothe the skin. The exfoliating benefits of glycolic acid work to gently remove dead skin cells, leaving your skin soft, smooth, and radiant.

As part of their pledge to the planet, Paula's Choice is committed to removing extra plastic from their shipping boxes, like shrink wrap, to promote sustainable packaging.

Using a chemical exfoliator like this AHA face exfoliator is gentler on the delicate skin of the face and neck than an abrasive face scrub, which can cause micro-tears. This exfoliator delivers hydration and can reach the deeper, built-up layers of dead skin that scrubs don't.

Paula's Choice Skincare is a brand that makes products that work. Their effective, science-backed formulas target any concern from wrinkles to breakouts. They do not include fragrance, parabens, or fluff, making them a great choice for those with sensitive skin or who prefer simple, straightforward skincare.

10. Resist Pore-Refining Exfoliant With Bha & Hyaluronic Acid

The Daily Leave-On Exfoliator from Paula's Choice is a highly effective solution that cleanses, exfoliates, and refines the skin. The water-light formula is packed with nourishing antioxidants and anti-aging peptides that deliver visible results from the first use. By visibly reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and pore size, this leave-on exfoliant hydrates, brightens, and smooths the skin for a more even tone.

This unique, non-abrasive exfoliant is gentle enough for daily use on all skin types. It works by exfoliating dead skin cells and clearing pores, revealing smoother, brighter, and more youthful-looking skin. As part of your morning and evening skincare routines, use Paula's Choice RESIST Daily Pore-Refining Treatment twice daily, along with your favorite Paula's Choice cleanser, toner, serums, spot treatments, and moisturizer with SPF for daytime wear.

At 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, and the search for amazing skincare ends here. Paula's Choice Skincare products are designed to work without any fluff or hype. They feature science-backed formulas that are free from fragrance, parabens, and other harmful chemicals.

Best Exfoliators For Oily Skin FAQs

Are there any exfoliators specifically designed for oily and acne-prone skin?

Yes, there are several exfoliators that are specifically designed for oily and acne-prone skin. Exfoliating is an important step in any skincare routine, as it helps to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, which can contribute to the development of acne. However, for those with oily and acne-prone skin, it's important to choose an exfoliator that is gentle enough not to aggravate the skin, but effective enough to provide a deep clean.

Some of the best exfoliators for oily and acne-prone skin include those that contain salicylic acid, which is a beta-hydroxy acid that helps to exfoliate the skin and unclog pores. Other effective ingredients include glycolic acid and lactic acid, which are alpha-hydroxy acids that gently exfoliate the skin and improve its texture. It's also important to look for exfoliators that are non-comedogenic, meaning they won't clog pores, and that are free of fragrances, which can irritate the skin. Overall, choosing an exfoliator that is specifically designed for oily and acne-prone skin can help to improve the appearance and health of your skin.

Are there any natural exfoliators for oily skin?

Yes, there are several natural exfoliators that are perfect for oily skin. The first one is baking soda. Baking soda is a great natural exfoliator because it is gentle on the skin and helps to remove excess oil and dead skin cells. Another natural exfoliator for oily skin is lemon juice. Lemon juice is known for its ability to help reduce oiliness of the skin and its natural acidity helps to exfoliate the skin. You can mix lemon juice with sugar to create a paste that can be used to exfoliate your skin. Another natural exfoliator for oily skin is oatmeal. Oatmeal is a gentle exfoliator that can help to remove excess oil and dirt from the skin. You can mix oatmeal with honey to create a paste that can be applied to your skin. Finally, sea salt is a natural exfoliator that is perfect for oily skin. Sea salt is rich in minerals that can help to remove excess oil and impurities from the skin. You can mix sea salt with olive oil to create a paste that can be used to exfoliate your skin.

Can exfoliating too much cause oily skin?

Exfoliating is a great way to remove dead skin cells and keep your skin looking fresh and radiant. However, too much of a good thing can be harmful, and that includes exfoliating. Over-exfoliating can damage the skin's natural barrier and cause it to produce more oil, leading to oily skin.

When you exfoliate too often, you strip away the skin's natural oils, which can cause the skin to produce more oil to compensate. This can lead to clogged pores, breakouts, and even acne. Additionally, over-exfoliating can cause irritation and inflammation, making the skin more susceptible to environmental damage and premature aging.

To avoid over-exfoliating, it is recommended to exfoliate no more than two to three times per week and to use gentle exfoliants that are suited to your skin type. If you have oily skin, look for exfoliants that contain salicylic acid or alpha-hydroxy acids, which can help to unclog pores and regulate oil production. Remember, maintaining a healthy balance of exfoliation is key to keeping your skin looking its best.

Can oily skin benefit from exfoliating masks?

Yes, oily skin can benefit from exfoliating masks. Exfoliating masks help remove dead skin cells, excess oil, and impurities from the skin's surface, leaving the skin feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Oily skin tends to produce more sebum, which can clog pores and lead to acne breakouts. Exfoliating masks can help unclog pores and prevent acne by removing the build-up of oil and dirt.

However, it is important to choose an exfoliating mask that is suitable for oily skin. Look for masks that contain ingredients such as salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or clay, as these ingredients are known to help regulate oil production and absorb excess oil.

It is also important not to over-exfoliate, as this can strip the skin of its natural oils and cause irritation. It is recommended to use an exfoliating mask once or twice a week, depending on your skin's sensitivity.

Overall, oily skin can benefit from exfoliating masks, as long as you choose a mask that suits your skin type and use it in moderation.

How can you prevent oily skin after exfoliating?

Exfoliating is an important step in any skincare routine as it helps to remove dead skin cells and reveal smoother, brighter skin. However, for those with oily skin, exfoliating can sometimes lead to an increase in oil production. To prevent oily skin after exfoliating, there are a few things you can do.

First, choose an exfoliator that is suitable for oily skin. Look for products that contain salicylic acid or alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) as these can help to regulate oil production and prevent breakouts.

Second, avoid over-exfoliating. Exfoliating too frequently can strip the skin of its natural oils, which can lead to an increase in oil production. Stick to exfoliating once or twice a week, depending on your skin's needs.

Third, follow up with a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer. Moisturizing is important for all skin types, including oily skin. Look for a moisturizer that is specifically formulated for oily skin and won't clog pores.

Lastly, avoid touching your face throughout the day, as this can transfer oil and bacteria to the skin. Use blotting papers or a mattifying powder to absorb any excess oil throughout the day.

How often should you exfoliate oily skin?

If you have oily skin, you may be wondering how often you should exfoliate. Exfoliating is an important step in any skincare routine as it helps to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and improve the overall texture and appearance of the skin. However, over-exfoliating can cause irritation, redness, and even breakouts, especially if you have oily skin.

As a general rule of thumb, it's recommended to exfoliate oily skin once or twice a week. This frequency allows your skin to properly shed dead skin cells and remove excess oil without stripping the skin of its natural oils. However, if you have sensitive skin or are using a more aggressive exfoliant like a chemical peel, you may want to exfoliate less frequently.

It's also important to pay attention to how your skin reacts to exfoliation. If you notice any signs of irritation or excessive dryness, cut back on how often you exfoliate or switch to a gentler exfoliant. Always follow up with a moisturizer to help soothe and hydrate the skin after exfoliation.

Should you use physical or chemical exfoliators for oily skin?

Both physical and chemical exfoliators can be effective for oily skin, but it ultimately depends on the individual's skin type and preferences. Physical exfoliators use abrasive particles or tools to manually scrub away dead skin cells and impurities on the skin's surface. This can be a good option for those with oily skin as it helps to unclog pores and prevent breakouts. However, physical exfoliators can be harsh on the skin if overused or if the particles are too coarse, leading to irritation and damage.

Chemical exfoliators, on the other hand, use acids or enzymes to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells and gently slough them away. This method can be beneficial for oily skin as it can penetrate deeper into the pores and dissolve excess oil and debris that physical exfoliation may miss. However, it's essential to choose the right type and strength of chemical exfoliator for your skin type to avoid irritation and sensitivity.

Ultimately, it's best to consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional to determine which method and products are best suited for your individual skin concerns and needs.

What are the benefits of exfoliating oily skin?

Exfoliating oily skin has a number of benefits. Firstly, it helps to remove excess oil, dirt, and dead skin cells that can clog pores and lead to breakouts. By removing these impurities, exfoliating can help to reduce the appearance of acne and blackheads. It can also help to control oil production, which can be particularly beneficial for those with excessively oily skin.

In addition to these benefits, exfoliating can also help to improve the overall texture and tone of the skin. By removing dead skin cells and stimulating cell turnover, exfoliating can leave the skin looking brighter, smoother, and more even in tone. This can be particularly beneficial for those with oily skin, as it can help to reduce the appearance of large pores and acne scars.

Overall, exfoliating oily skin can be an effective way to improve the health and appearance of the skin. However, it is important to choose the right type of exfoliant for your skin type, as some products may be too harsh and can cause irritation or damage.

What are the best exfoliators for oily skin?

Exfoliating is an essential part of any skincare routine, especially for those with oily skin. Exfoliation helps to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and reduce the appearance of oiliness. When it comes to choosing the best exfoliator for oily skin, there are a few key things to consider. Look for products that contain salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or alpha-hydroxy acids, as these ingredients are particularly effective at breaking down oil and reducing inflammation. Some of the best exfoliators for oily skin include the Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, the Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash Pink Grapefruit Foaming Scrub, and the Mario Badescu Glycolic Foaming Cleanser. It's important to note that while exfoliation is beneficial for oily skin, it's also important not to overdo it. Stick to exfoliating no more than once or twice a week to avoid irritating your skin.

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

If you have oily skin, exfoliating is an essential part of your skincare routine. It helps to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and reduce excess oil production. When choosing an exfoliator for oily skin, you should look for ingredients that can effectively remove impurities without causing irritation or dryness.

One of the most effective exfoliating ingredients for oily skin is salicylic acid. It penetrates the pores and dissolves the excess oil and impurities that cause breakouts. Another ingredient to look for is glycolic acid, which helps to reduce oil production and improve skin texture.

Kaolin clay is another ingredient to consider, as it absorbs excess oil and unclogs pores. You can also look for exfoliators that contain natural ingredients like jojoba beads or rice powder, which gently slough away dead skin cells without causing irritation.

Overall, the key is to choose an exfoliator that contains effective ingredients to remove impurities and excess oil, while also being gentle enough for regular use on oily skin.

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