Best Exfoliants Scrubs for 2026

Discover expert reviews and ratings on the best exfoliants and scrubs to reveal smoother, brighter, and healthier-looking skin. Our comprehensive product comparisons help you find the perfect face and body exfoliating solutions tailored to your skin type and beauty goals.

Updated February 2026 18 Products Analyzed

St Ives Fresh Skin Apricot Scrub
9.2Score
Selection #1

St Ives Fresh Skin Apricot Scrub

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St Ives Fresh Skin Apricot Scrub is a gentle yet effective exfoliant beloved for its ability to reveal smooth, radiant skin using natural apricot kernel particles. Formulated without parabens and phthalates, it's dermatologist-tested and suitable for various skin types, including sensitive skin. With over 8,000 positive reviews, this affordable scrub is a tried-and-true staple that delivers visible results without irritation.

Effectively removes dead skin cells and refines texture
Recent product shrinkflation—smaller size, higher price
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Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment
9.2Score
Selection #2

Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment

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BudgetPremium

Kate Somerville's ExfoliKate is a premium dual-action exfoliant combining physical scrubbing with gentle enzymes for smooth, refined skin texture. With consistently high praise from loyal users and visible improvements in acne and pore appearance, it delivers professional-grade results that justify its investment for non-sensitive skin types.

Dual physical and chemical exfoliation for superior results
Premium price point may deter budget-conscious buyers
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Tree Hut Vanilla Shea Sugar Scrub
9.2Score
Selection #3

Tree Hut Vanilla Shea Sugar Scrub

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Tree Hut's Vanilla Shea Sugar Scrub delivers an exceptional balance of gentle exfoliation and deep hydration, making it a standout choice for all skin types. Infused with real sugar, shea butter, and nourishing natural oils, this scrub effectively removes dead skin while leaving skin soft and moisturized. At an affordable price point with over 13,000 five-star reviews, it's earned its reputation as America's #1 body scrub brand.

Perfect balance of exfoliation and hydration
Scent intensity is subtle for some users
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Murad AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser
9.2Score
Selection #4

Murad AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser

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Murad's triple-acid exfoliating cleanser delivers effective, gentle exfoliation in a luxurious creamy formula that visibly smooths skin texture and brightens complexion without harsh irritation. Users consistently praise its gentle yet powerful performance, with many reporting improved skin clarity, reduced dryness, and smaller pores after regular use. At its current price point for 2oz, it's a premium investment backed by high customer satisfaction and long-term loyalty.

Creamy formula exfoliates without stripping or irritating skin
Premium price point for only 2oz
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Tatcha The Rice Polish
9.1Score
Selection #5

Tatcha The Rice Polish

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Tatcha The Rice Polish is a gentle, non-abrasive powder exfoliator that transforms into a soft foam when mixed with water. Users consistently praise its effectiveness at brightening and smoothing skin without irritation, making it ideal for sensitive and acne-prone skin types. While premium-priced, the product's luxury ingredients and long-lasting formula justify the investment for devoted skincare enthusiasts.

Gentle yet effective exfoliation without irritation
Premium price point may deter budget-conscious buyers
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Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant
9.1Score
Selection #6

Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant

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This powder exfoliator combines salicylic acid and papaya enzyme to gently remove dead skin while maintaining skin health. Users consistently praise its effectiveness for achieving smoother, clearer skin without harshness, even for sensitive skin types. The product offers excellent longevity despite its small size, with most users experiencing visible results within weeks of regular use.

Gentle yet effective exfoliation for sensitive skin
Premium price point may be steep for some
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Good Molecules Overnight Exfoliating Treatment
9.1Score
Selection #7

Good Molecules Overnight Exfoliating Treatment

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BudgetPremium

This affordable AHA and BHA exfoliating serum delivers professional-grade results with minimal ingredients, making it ideal for sensitive and acne-prone skin. Users consistently report smoother, more radiant skin with reduced pores and fewer breakouts, though the strong chemical scent may be off-putting for some. It offers exceptional value without compromising on effectiveness.

Powerful AHA/BHA formula at budget-friendly price
Strong chemical scent that lingers on skin
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First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads
9.1Score
Selection #8

First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads

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First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads are daily exfoliating treatment pads formulated with lactic and glycolic acids designed for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Users consistently praise their gentle yet effective ability to remove residual impurities, improve skin texture, and enhance radiance without irritation. With nearly 2,700 reviews and great ratings, these pads have become a staple in many skincare routines.

Gentle yet effective exfoliation safe for sensitive skin
Noticeable fragrance from licorice root ingredient
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Paula's Choice SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
9Score
Selection #9

Paula's Choice SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

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Paula's Choice 2% BHA is a highly-effective salicylic acid exfoliant that delivers visible results in pore refinement, acne control, and skin texture improvement within weeks of consistent use. Users consistently praise its ability to reduce hyperpigmentation, minimize pores, and fade acne scars while maintaining a gentle formulation suitable for sensitive skin. Despite requiring an adjustment period and careful dosing, this dermatologist-recommended product has earned a loyal following for transforming problematic skin with drastic, long-lasting results.

Dramatically minimizes pores and improves skin texture
Requires adjustment period; may cause initial flaking
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Clinique 7 Day Daily Gentle Face Exfoliator
9Score
Selection #10

Clinique 7 Day Daily Gentle Face Exfoliator

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BudgetPremium

Clinique's lightweight exfoliating scrub delivers gentle daily exfoliation with silica granules that leave skin smooth, soft, and refreshed. Users consistently praise its mild formula suitable for all skin types and note it works effectively without irritation. Though priced at a premium, the product's versatility and Clinique's trusted brand reputation make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking dependable facial exfoliation.

Gentle enough for daily use on all skin types
Premium pricing compared to alternative exfoliants
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Sunday Riley Good Genes Lactic Acid Treatment
8.8Score
Selection #11

Sunday Riley Good Genes Lactic Acid Treatment

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This cult-favorite lactic acid serum delivers visible results in skin brightness, texture, and tone evening with consistent use. Users praise its luxurious feel and gentle effectiveness compared to harsher chemical exfoliants, though the premium price point remains a significant consideration for most consumers.

Visibly brightens skin and improves texture within days
Premium pricing
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Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Toner & Pink Juice Moisturizer Duo
8.8Score
Selection #12

Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Toner & Pink Juice Moisturizer Duo

Pricing
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This dual-step skincare set combines a gentle PHA + BHA exfoliating toner with a lightweight hydrating moisturizer, formulated specifically for oily and combination skin types. Users report effective pore-minimizing results and appreciation for the quality-to-price value, with consistent use delivering noticeable improvements in skin texture and appearance. The clean ingredient profile and sensorial formulation make it an excellent choice for those seeking professional-grade skincare without harsh actives.

Effectively minimizes pores and clears blackheads
Limited bottle size for its current price point
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The Ordinary Bright & Hydrated Duo Set
8.5Score
Selection #13

The Ordinary Bright & Hydrated Duo Set

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This potent two-product kit pairs a strong AHA 30% + BHA 2% chemical exfoliant with hydrating Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, delivering visible results in skin brightness, texture, and clarity. Users report impressive improvements in pore appearance and skin radiance within weeks, though the exfoliant requires careful use and proper technique for beginners. At its current price point with strong customer satisfaction, it's an effective combination for committed skincare enthusiasts.

Noticeably brighter, smoother skin with improved texture
Not suitable for skincare beginners or sensitive skin
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Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial
8.5Score
Selection #14

Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial

Pricing
BudgetPremium

This premium exfoliating mask delivers visible results with noticeably smoother, brighter skin and reduced pores after use. While highly effective, it's quite potent—users with sensitive skin should start with shorter application times and expect some stinging. The price point is high but justified by its transformative benefits, though the packaging design has been problematic for some customers.

Visibly reduces pores and brightens skin immediately
Intense stinging and burning sensation during application
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Frank Body Coconut Coffee Scrub
8.5Score
Selection #15

Frank Body Coconut Coffee Scrub

Pricing
BudgetPremium

Frank Body Coconut Coffee Scrub is a natural, vegan exfoliating body scrub featuring roasted coffee grinds and jojoba beads combined with nourishing coconut and grapeseed oils. Users consistently praise its pleasant coffee aroma and ability to leave skin noticeably soft and hydrated, though many note the application can be quite messy. The product effectively exfoliates, revives dull skin, and delivers visible results, making it a popular choice despite the cleanup challenge.

Leaves skin incredibly soft and silky smooth
Very messy application; coffee grounds scatter easily
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HERBIVORE Blue Tansy BHA & Enzyme Pore Refining Mask
8.5Score
Selection #16

HERBIVORE Blue Tansy BHA & Enzyme Pore Refining Mask

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This premium gel resurfacing mask combines enzymes and BHA to clarify skin and minimize pores with visible results within a week. While users rave about its ability to reduce redness, improve complexion clarity, and deliver a subtle glow, it requires proper application technique and realistic expectations for a runny gel formula with a natural earthy scent. Best suited for twice-weekly use with appropriate skin recovery time between applications.

Noticeably improves skin clarity and radiance within days
Runny gel texture difficult to apply and remove properly
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Neutrogena Deep Clean Gentle Daily Facial Scrub
8.5Score
Selection #17

Neutrogena Deep Clean Gentle Daily Facial Scrub

Pricing
BudgetPremium

This oil-free daily facial scrub effectively removes dirt, oil, and dead skin cells with gentle exfoliators suitable for everyday use. Users consistently praise its mild citrusy scent, easy rinse-off, and ability to leave skin soft and smooth. However, some note it may be too pasty in texture and isn't specifically formulated for acne control.

Gentle yet effective exfoliation for daily use
Texture can be too pasty for some users
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Kiehl's Pineapple Papaya Facial Scrub
8.2Score
Selection #18

Kiehl's Pineapple Papaya Facial Scrub

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BudgetPremium

Kiehl's Pineapple Papaya Facial Scrub delivers a gentle yet effective exfoliating experience suitable for all skin types. The product leaves skin feeling soft, refreshed, and silky with a well-balanced formula that avoids harsh irritation. Users consistently praise its mild exfoliating action and suitability for sensitive skin, making it a reliable choice for maintaining smooth complexion.

Gentle exfoliation without irritation or drying
May not exfoliate strongly enough for intensive treatment
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