The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Face Exfoliators for Every Skin Type

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Face Exfoliators for Every Skin Type
Image Source @DODO

Our skin naturally sheds dead cells every day, but when too much builds up, it can make your complexion look dull, clog your pores, and mess with your skin texture.

Regular exfoliation helps sweep away those dead cells, smooth out your skin, and makes your serums and creams work even better.

But here’s the catch — overdoing it or using the wrong product can irritate your skin or damage its barrier.

That’s why knowing your skin type and choosing the right exfoliation method is super important!


Recommended Routines by Skin Type

Oily & Enlarged Pores

If you often deal with shine or clogged pores, focus on deep-cleansing exfoliants that remove sebum without over-drying.

Salicylic acid (BHA) and clay masks are your best friends—they clean pores deeply while balancing excess oil.

Gentle scrubs made with oat or rice powder can also help if your skin tolerates physical exfoliation well.

 

Recommended products

COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid 

 A cult favorite for unclogging pores and controlling oil.

 

 

 

SOME BY MI AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner 150ml 

 A balanced toner that smooths flaky skin while keeping it hydrated.

 

 

 

Dry Skin

For dry skin, avoid harsh scrubs or strong acids that can strip away natural oils.

Instead, reach for mild acids like mandelic acid or PHA, which exfoliate slowly while hydrating the skin.

Always follow up with a rich moisturizer or a hydrating mask.

 

Recommended products

Tonymoly Floria Brightening Peeling Gel 

A soft gel that gently rolls off dead cells without irritation.

 

 

By Wishtrend Mandelic Acid Gentle Exfoliating Toner 150ml 

A mild exfoliating toner formulated with mandelic acid to gently remove dead skin cells, smooth texture, and brighten dull skin for a clearer complexion.


Combination Skin

If your T-zone is oily but your cheeks feel dry, it’s time to customize.

Use stronger exfoliants like BHA on the T-zone, and gentler formulas such as lactic acid or peeling gels on drier areas.

Toner pads are also great for targeted exfoliation without drying out the rest of your face.

 

Recommended products

Fully Green Tomato Acid 20 Wash-Off Peeling Serum 50ml 

A wash-off serum with green tomato acid that gently exfoliates to reveal smoother, brighter skin.

 

 

 

Convenient pads for focusing on oily zones like the forehead or nose.

 

 

 

Acne-Prone Skin

For breakout-prone skin, avoid gritty scrubs that may worsen inflammation.

Instead, go for exfoliants containing salicylic acid or LHA (Lipohydroxy Acid), both of which clean deep inside pores and calm redness.

Use only when skin isn’t actively inflamed, and balance with soothing treatments.

 

Recommended products

MEDICUBE Kojic Acid Turmeric Pad 70ea

Brightening toner pads infused with kojic acid and turmeric to help fade dark spots and even out skin tone.

 

 

Dr.Melaxin Lipino Anti-Fatty Acid Gel Cleanser 150ml

A refreshing gel cleanser that removes excess sebum and impurities while helping balance oily, acne-prone skin.

 


Sensitive Skin

If your skin gets red or stings easily, stay away from harsh acids and scrubs.

Choose ultra-gentle options like PHA, azelaic acid, or fruit enzymes (papaya, pineapple).

Always do a patch test before applying new products and start once a week.

 

Recommended products

A soothing, low-acid toner known for its calming effect on sensitive skin.

 

 

Mary&May Sensitive Soothing Gel Cream 70g

A soothing gel cream that hydrates and relieves sensitive skin with a fresh, non-greasy finish.

 


Mature Skin

Mature skin benefits from exfoliants that promote both smoothness and elasticity.

Lactic acid and glycolic acid help renew skin texture and encourage collagen production.

Pair them with nourishing, anti-aging ingredients for best results.

 

Recommended products

Torriden Dive In Low Molecule Hyaluronic Acid Serum 50ml

A deeply hydrating serum with low-molecule hyaluronic acid that delivers moisture deep into the skin for a plump, dewy finish.

 

 

Innisfree Green Tea Seed Hyaluronic Serum 50ml/80ml

A hydrating serum enriched with green tea and hyaluronic acid to deeply moisturize and strengthen the skin’s barrier for a healthy, radiant glow.

 

The best exfoliator isn’t the strongest one—it’s the one your skin actually loves.

Whether it’s a gentle peeling gel or a clarifying BHA toner, listen to your skin and go at your own pace.

Healthy, glowing skin is all about balance, consistency, and care.