Dull skin, clogged pores, or stubborn blackheads? A good exfoliant can make your complexion smooth, bright, and clear. In 2025, Amazon shoppers love everything from gentle chemical exfoliants like Paula’s Choice BHA to quick scrubs and convenient peel pads.
This guide compares the most popular exfoliants to help you pick the right one for your skin type — whether you’re targeting acne, rough texture, or just want that healthy glow.
| Product | Type | Key Ingredients | Best For | Price Range |
| Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant | Liquid chemical | 2% salicylic acid | Blackheads, clogged pores, acne | $$ |
| Toning Polish Pads with Niacinamide | Peel pads | Niacinamide, glycolic acid | Uneven texture, dullness | $$ |
| Clean & Clear Oil-Free Exfoliating Cleanser | Bead scrub | Micro-scrub beads, salicylic acid | Oily, acne-prone skin | $ |
| Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant | Powder exfoliant | Rice enzymes, papain | Brightening & gentle daily use | $$$ |
| TONYMOLY Tako Blackhead Scrub Stick | Targeted scrub | Charcoal, marine plant extracts | Nose/blackhead removal | $ |
| First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads | Peel pads | Lactic acid, glycolic acid | Dullness, sensitive skin | $$ |
Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Features: A cult-favorite leave-on liquid with 2% salicylic acid that clears pores, smooths texture, and helps with blackheads and breakouts.
Pros: Effective for acne and clogged pores; non-abrasive; gentle enough for regular use.
Cons: Can be drying if overused; strong for very sensitive skin.
Best For: Oily, combination, acne-prone skin.
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Toning Polish Pads with Niacinamide
Features: Pre-soaked exfoliating pads with glycolic acid, niacinamide, and hydrating agents for smoother, brighter skin.
Pros: Convenient; travel-friendly; helps fade uneven tone.
Cons: Can tingle; might be too strong for sensitive skin if used daily.
Best For: Normal to oily skin needing glow and texture refinement.
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Clean & Clear Oil-Free Exfoliating Cleanser
Features: A budget-friendly scrub with gentle micro-beads and salicylic acid to fight acne while polishing away dead skin.
Pros: Affordable; foams nicely; easy to find.
Cons: Not for sensitive skin; beads can feel harsh with frequent use.
Best For: Teen and oily skin prone to breakouts.
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Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant
Features: Rice-based enzyme powder that activates with water to gently buff away dead cells, leaving skin bright and smooth.
Pros: Gentle enough for daily use; brightening; travel-friendly size available.
Cons: Expensive; can be messy if not used carefully.
Best For: All skin types, including sensitive, wanting gentle daily exfoliation.
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TONYMOLY Tako Blackhead Scrub Stick
Features: Charcoal and marine plant extracts in a convenient stick for targeted blackhead removal (nose, chin).
Pros: Fun and easy to use; mess-free; great for pore care.
Cons: Works best as maintenance, not deep extraction.
Best For: Combination/oily skin with clogged nose pores.
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First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads
Features: Lactic and glycolic acid pads that gently exfoliate, brighten, and smooth without irritation.
Pros: Suitable for sensitive skin; travel-friendly; no rinse required.
Cons: Mild – may not be enough for severe acne or congestion.
Best For: Dull, uneven skin needing gentle brightening.
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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Right Exfoliant
- For clogged pores and acne: Paula’s Choice 2% BHA.
- For dullness and uneven tone: Toning Pads or First Aid Beauty Pads.
- For budget-friendly acne scrub: Clean & Clear Oil-Free Cleanser.
- For gentle daily use: Dermalogica Microfoliant.
- For targeted blackhead removal: TONYMOLY Scrub Stick.
See More Exfoliants & Face Treatments on Amazon
