- Samanta Stalde
Top 10 Exfoliators for Oily Skin: Revealing a Fresh and Glowing Complexion

Exfoliation is a crucial step in any skincare routine, especially for those with oily skin. It helps to unclog pores, remove dead skin cells, control excess sebum production, and reveal a brighter, healthier complexion. However, with so many exfoliators available in the market, it can be challenging to find the best one for your oily skin. In this blog post, we'll explore the top 10 exfoliators that are specifically formulated to address the needs of oily skin. Let's dive in!
Quick Pick Section
Product Name | Item Form | Skin Type | Check Price On Amazon! |
Paulas Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid | Serum | Oily, Combination, Dry, Normal | |
The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% | Solution | - | |
Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment | Scrub | Normal, Dry, Combination and Oily. | |
COSMEDIX Purity Cleanser Exfoliating | Gel | Oily, Normal | |
Murad Clarifying Cleanser - Acne Control | Gel | Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Normal | |
GinZing Refreshing Scrub Cleanser | Gel | All | |
SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser | Cream | All | |
Peach Slices Acne Exfoliating Toner | Liquid | All | |
Pharmagel Enzyme Ex-Cell | Cream | Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Normal, Dry | |
Shira Organic Pure AHA Treatment Scrub | Cream | All |
A-List Of 10 Best Exfoliators For Oily Skin
1. Paulas Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid

Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid is a highly acclaimed exfoliating toner that specifically targets oily skin concerns. It contains 2% salicylic acid (beta hydroxy acid or BHA), a powerful ingredient known for its ability to penetrate the pores and effectively exfoliate the skin. This liquid exfoliant is formulated to unclog pores, reduce blackheads, control excess oil production, and improve the overall texture and clarity of the skin. It is a lightweight and non-abrasive formula that can be easily incorporated into your skincare routine.
Pros & Cons Of Paulas Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid
Pros
Controls Oily
Gentle
Non-greasy
Cons
Sun Sensitivity Possible
2. The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2%

The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is a potent chemical exfoliant designed to provide a deep exfoliation and resurfacing treatment for the skin. It combines alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), such as glycolic and lactic acid, with beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), specifically salicylic acid. This combination targets various skin concerns, including uneven texture, dullness, blemishes, and clogged pores. The high concentration of acids in this solution promotes effective exfoliation and reveals a smoother, brighter complexion.
Pros & Cons Of The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2%
Pros
Deep Exfoliation
Targets Multiple Skin Concerns
Time-Efficient
Cons
Temporary Redness
3. Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment

Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment is a popular exfoliator that combines both physical and chemical exfoliation to reveal smoother and more radiant skin. It contains a blend of natural exfoliating enzymes, such as papaya, pineapple, and pumpkin, along with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs). This treatment is designed to deeply cleanse pores, remove dead skin cells, improve skin texture, and enhance the overall appearance of the skin.
Pros & Cons Of Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment
Pros
Dual Exfoliation
Controls Oil
Suitable For Most Skin Types
Cons
Potential Skin Sensitivity
4. COSMEDIX Purity Cleanser Exfoliating

COSMEDIX Purity Cleanser Exfoliating is a gentle yet effective exfoliating cleanser that is specifically formulated to cleanse, clarify, and renew the skin. It combines natural exfoliants, such as olive seed powder and salicylic acid, to provide a thorough cleanse and exfoliation. This cleanser is designed to remove impurities, excess oil, and dead skin cells, leaving the skin refreshed, smooth, and radiant.
Pros & Cons Of COSMEDIX Purity Cleanser Exfoliating
Pros
Gentle Exfoliation
Deep Cleansing
Controls Oil
Cons
Scent
5. Murad Clarifying Cleanser - Acne Control

Murad Clarifying Cleanser - Acne Control is a targeted cleanser formulated to address acne-prone skin but works well for oily, sensitive, and combination skin. It contains a blend of active ingredients, including salicylic acid, green tea extract, and menthol, to help clear breakouts, prevent future blemishes, and promote a healthier complexion. This cleanser aims to deeply cleanse the skin, remove impurities, and control excess oil production without over-drying the skin.
Pros & Cons Of Murad Clarifying Cleanser - Acne Control
Pros
Effective For Most Skin Types
Deep Cleansing
Refreshing
Cons
Scent
Sun Sensitivity
6. GinZing Refreshing Scrub Cleanser

GinZing Refreshing Scrub Cleanser is a gentle exfoliating cleanser that is formulated to refresh and awaken dull and tired-looking skin. It contains natural exfoliants, such as jojoba beads and panax ginseng, along with other energizing ingredients to cleanse the skin, remove impurities, and promote a brighter and more radiant complexion.
Pros & Cons Of GinZing Refreshing Scrub Cleanser
Pros
Gentle Exfoliation
Brightens The Skin
Suitable For Most Skin Types
Cons
Fragrance
Sun Sensitivity
7. SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser

SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser is a powerful cleanser that combines alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) to provide an intensive exfoliation and deep cleansing experience. It is designed to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and improve the overall texture and clarity of the skin. The cleanser also contains botanical extracts to soothe and nourish the skin, leaving it refreshed and rejuvenated.
Pros & Cons Of SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser
Pros
Gentle Exfoliation
Deep Cleansing
Botanical Extracts
Cons
Price
Sun Sensitivity
8. Peach Slices Acne Exfoliating Toner

Peach Slices Acne Exfoliating Toner is a targeted toner designed to address acne-prone skin. It contains a combination of exfoliating ingredients, such as glycolic acid and salicylic acid, to help unclog pores, remove dead skin cells, and promote a smoother and clearer complexion. The toner also includes soothing and hydrating ingredients to balance the skin and minimize potential irritation.
Pros & Cons Of Peach Slices Acne Exfoliating Toner
Pros
Effective Exfoliation
Oil Control
Sebum Control
Cons
Fragrance
Sun Sensitivity
9. Pharmagel Enzyme Ex-Cell

Pharmagel Enzyme Ex-Cell is an enzyme-based exfoliating treatment that aims to gently remove dead skin cells and promote a more radiant complexion. It utilizes natural fruit enzymes, such as papaya and pineapple enzymes, to break down the bonds between dead skin cells, revealing smoother and brighter skin. The formula also contains moisturizing ingredients to help nourish and hydrate the skin.
Pros & Cons Of Pharmagel Enzyme Ex-Cell
Pros
Gentle Exfoliation
Nourishing
Hydrating
Cons
Scent
Price
10. Shira Organic Pure AHA Treatment Scrub

Shira Organic Pure AHA Treatment Scrub is an exfoliating scrub formulated with pure alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) derived from organic fruits. It aims to gently remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and promote a smoother and more even skin texture. The scrub also contains organic botanical extracts to nourish and revitalize the skin.
Pros & Cons Of Shira Organic Pure AHA Treatment Scrub
Pros
Gentle Exfoliation
Natural AHA Source
Cons
Scent
Sun Sensitivity
How To Choose The Best Exfoliator For Oily Skin
1. Look for oil-controlling ingredients
Opt for exfoliators that contain oil-controlling ingredients like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or benzoyl peroxide. These ingredients help to regulate sebum production and unclog pores, which are common concerns for oily skin.
2. Consider the type of exfoliator
Exfoliators come in different forms, such as scrubs, chemical exfoliants (like AHAs and BHAs), or enzymatic exfoliants. Oily skin types often benefit from chemical exfoliants as they penetrate the skin more deeply, effectively removing excess oil and dead skin cells.
3. Consider frequency of use
Oily skin can generally tolerate more frequent exfoliation, but it's essential to find the right balance. Start with exfoliating once or twice a week and monitor how your skin responds. If you notice excessive dryness or irritation, reduce the frequency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How often should I exfoliate my oily skin?
Oily skin can generally tolerate more frequent exfoliation compared to other skin types. Start with exfoliating once or twice a week and observe how your skin responds. If your skin tolerates it well, you can gradually increase the frequency, but be cautious not to over-exfoliate, as it can lead to irritation and dryness.
Should I moisturize after exfoliating oily skin?
Absolutely! Moisturizing after exfoliation is crucial, even for oily skin. Exfoliation can temporarily disrupt the skin barrier, leading to dryness. Choose lightweight, oil-free moisturizers that won't clog pores or feel heavy on the skin. Moisturizing helps balance the skin and prevents excessive oil production as a compensatory mechanism.
Can exfoliation make oily skin more oily?
No, exfoliation doesn't make the skin produce more oil. In fact, it can help regulate oil production by removing excess oil and unclogging pores. However, over-exfoliating or using harsh products can lead to skin irritation, triggering the skin to produce more oil as a protective response. Finding the right balance and using gentle exfoliators is key.
Conclusion - A Few Final Words!
By following these guidelines and considering your individual skin concerns and preferences, you can confidently choose the best exfoliator for your oily skin. Regular exfoliation, when done correctly, can lead to a more refined and radiant complexion, helping you achieve your desired skincare goals. Always listen to your skin, be patient, and adjust your routine as needed. With proper care and the right exfoliator, you can enjoy healthier, more balanced skin. Thanks for reading!