The Best Chemical Exfoliators for Soft, Smooth Skin

When you think of face exfoliators, what springs to mind? Probably something along the lines of a grit-like scrub or buffing sponge, right? Whilst physical exfoliators are great for sloughing away dead skin cells, sometimes they just don’t cut it when it comes to giving you that baby-soft feel (no matter how long and hard you scrub for).

Chemical exfoliators, however, do just the trick.

Whilst ‘chemical peel’ and ‘exfoliating acids’ sound like they belong in a science lab rather than your bathroom cabinet, they’re surprisingly a better – and gentler – option for your skin. Typically powered by AHAs and BHAs, they provide a much less abrasive exfoliation yet penetrate skin at a deeper level. That means they not only dissolve the impurities sitting on top of your skin, but they unclog pores, improve skin texture, boost radiance, fend off fine lines, clear acne and so much more. The result? That pillow-soft skin you've been longing for!

Not sure where to start? Don't fret, as we've rallied together the best chemical exfoliators that deliver on the soft, smooth skin promise.

See, chemical exfoliators aren’t all that scary! And once you incorporate them into your routine and begin to see your skin transformation, you’ll wish you had never overlooked them. Better late than never, hey?! Plus, you're now equipped with the best of the best. Still not convinced? Don't worry, as we answer all of your FAQs below.

Are chemical exfoliants safe?

Yes, chemical exfoliants are completely safe and can be bought over the counter and used at home. In fact, since chemical exfoliants do not need to be manually rubbed into skin, they are considered safer and less abrasive than many physical exfoliants. Instead, they efficiently penetrate deeper layers of skin and break down dead skin cells with less chance of irritation.

Every individual skin type can react different to chemical exfoliants, so we always advise that you start with a low-concentration formula and carry out a patch test on a smaller area of skin before jumping right in. If you follow the directions of your product and refrain from using a chemical exfoliator every day, then they make the perfect addition to your skin care routine and are a safe way to achieve flawless, radiant skin.

How often should you use chemical exfoliants?

How often you use a chemical exfoliator really depends on your skin type and how your complexion handles the treatment. As a general rule, experts advise that a chemical exfoliant is used no more that two to three times per week. Dry, sensitive and mature skin types should stick to using chemical exfoliators once or twice a week as the acids can cause irritation. Oily and acne-prone skin types tend to tolerate chemical exfoliators better, and therefore can be used two to three times a week. Of course, each product has its own directions and guidelines so be sure to double check these before use.

What is the best gentle chemical exfoliant?

PHAs, also known as polyhydroxy acids, are the most gentle type of chemical exfoliant. Unlike AHAs and BHAs, PHA molecules are larger, which means they can help shed away dead skin cells, all whilst drawing water and hydration to the top layers of skin.