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Using one of the best face exfoliators is a key step in any skin-care routine (yes, even if you have sensitive skin). These formulas work hard to slough away dead skin cells and unclog pores to minimize the look of fine lines and boost radiance—plus, they help the rest of your skin-care products absorb better. Whether you prefer physical or chemical exfoliants, using one regularly can help reveal a smoother, more even-toned complexion. From serums with alpha and beta hydroxy acids that gently dissolve buildup, to gritty yet delicate scrubs that polish your skin, these are the exfoliators our editors actually use, and we’ve got the receipts (a.k.a. selfies) to prove it. Scroll on for our tried-and-loved picks, plus pro tips from board-certified derms to keep your skin smooth and clear for the long haul.
Our Top Face Exfoliators
- Best Overall: Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel, $94
- Best for Oily Skin: Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads, $69
- Best for Dry Skin: Eadem Cashmere Peel Milky Exfoliant & Hydrating Essence, $42
- Best for Sensitive Skin: Medik8 Press & Glow Daily Exfoliating PHA Tonic, $35
Frequently Asked QuestionsLargeChevron
- What are chemical exfoliators?
- What are physical exfoliators?
- Can you over-exfoliate?
- Meet the experts
- How we test and review products
- Our staff and testers
Best Overall: Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel
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Dr. Dennis Gross
Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel
Amazon
Nordstrom
Dermstore
Allure editor in chief Jessica Cruel applying the Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel
Jessica Cruel
Why it’s worth it: If the word “peel” makes you nervous, don’t worry—Dr. Dennis Gross’s Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peels are of the gentle variety. The two-step system is designed to exfoliate and nourish without irritation, so even sensitive skin types can get in on the glow. “These peel pads contain both alpha hydroxy and beta hydroxy acids to improve the appearance of pores, radiance, fine lines, texture, and tone,” Brendan Camp, MD, a New York-based double board-certified dermatologist, told Allure. Step one clears away dead skin and gunk with exfoliating acids like lactic, malic, and glycolic; step two adds in soothing, anti-aging ingredients like green tea and adenosine. You know what they say: Just a few swipes a day keeps dullness at bay.
Cruel after applying the Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel
Jessica Cruel
Former Allure features director Dianna Singh after applying the Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel
Dianna Singh
Tester feedback from editor in chief Jessica Cruel
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“Whenever someone asks me the best peel for beginners, I always point them to Dr. Dennis Gross. His portfolio of exfoliating pads suits both first-timers and experienced pros, and this Universal Peel sits right in the middle. Step 1 contains the exfoliating AHA and BHA acids. The second step is the neutralizer. The first part gives a slight tingle, and the second step is a true burn that lasts about 30 seconds. The glowy skin results are instant. I love that they come individually wrapped, which means they will never dry out. Plus, they are easy to throw in your toiletry bag for travel.” —Jessica Cruel, editor in chief
Tester feedback from former features director Dianna Singh
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"What may look like a makeup remover wipe at first glance is actually a pad packed with chemical exfoliators that help brighten instantly and improve discoloration over time. I first discovered these back when I was a beauty assistant (so, longer ago than I'd like to admit), and yet somehow I'm still pleasantly surprised by the next-day glow I get from using one of these at night." —Dianna Singh, former features director
More to know
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- Type: chemical
- Key ingredients: glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, green tea, adenosine
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Oily Skin: Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads
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Elemis
Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads
Amazon
Allure commerce editor Sarah Han using the Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads
Sarah Han
Why it’s worth it: Exfoliation doesn't get much easier than swiping on a pad. The Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads, a 2026 Best of Beauty Award winner, combine lactic acid with three enzymes that help loosen and remove dead skin cells before they can build up and contribute to clogged pores. That can give it an extra edge compared to other formulas: “Using two mechanisms could improve exfoliation without requiring a high concentration of either ingredient,” says Farhaad Riyaz, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Plymouth, Michigan.
Each pad also has a textured side for a little extra buffing and a smooth side for a gentler swipe. While oily skin types will especially appreciate the pore-clearing benefits, our editors with dry and sensitive skin also noticed smoother, brighter skin without the usual post-exfoliation tightness, thanks in part to moisturizing ingredients like glycerin, betaine, and shea butter. Plus, in addition to being an exfoliant, "lactic acid is also a humectant, meaning it can help support skin hydration even while exfoliating,” adds Dawn Queen, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City.
Han before using the Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads
Sarah Han
Han after using the Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads
Sarah Han
Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han
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“No matter what time of the year it is, my combination skin needs consistent exfoliation to look its best—or, at the very least, brighter and more even-toned. By far, the easiest way to decongest my pores is whipping out one of the Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads and giving my T-zone a very proper run-through. Lactic acid is super effective at buffing away dead skin and uneven texture, and I swear my skin is noticeably softer and brighter with each use." —Sarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
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- Type: chemical and physical
- Key ingredients: lactic acid, enzymes, glycerin, betaine, shea butter
- Fragrance-free: no
Best for Dry Skin: Eadem Cashmere Peel Milky Exfoliant & Hydrating Essence
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Eadem
Cashmere Peel Milky Exfoliant & Hydrating Essence
Amazon
Shop
Sephora
Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Eadem Cashmere Peel Milky Exfoliant & Hydrating Essence
Christa Joanna Lee
Why it’s worth it: If you still believe that the harsher the exfoliation, the better the results, Eadem's Cashmere Peel Milky Exfoliant & Hydrating Essence might change your mind. Unlike the watery, sometimes irritating formulas you might associate with exfoliating acids, this 2024 Allure Best of Beauty Award winner has a "milky, almost lotion-like texture that feels extra soothing if you have dry skin," says Mamina Turegano, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New Orleans.
But don't mistake its gentle feel for a lack of exfoliating power. Dr. Turegano points to its 9% blend of "lactic, azelaic, and tranexamic acids" that "helps slough away dead skin cells, smooth rough patches, and fade the look of dark spots." And because dry skin needs moisture just as much as it needs exfoliation, panthenol helps support the skin barrier, while rice water and colloidal oatmeal help keep skin hydrated and soothed.
Lee before applying the Eadem Cashmere Peel Milky Exfoliant & Hydrating Essence
Christa Joanna Lee
Lee after applying the Eadem Cashmere Peel Milky Exfoliant & Hydrating Essence
Christa Joanna Lee
Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee
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“I already use prescription tretinoin every other day or every three days (depending on when I remember), so I like giving my skin a little extra boost with Eadem's Cashmere Peel Milky Exfoliant & Hydrating Essence on my off days. It's hard to believe this is technically a peel because it feels so gentle on my dry, sensitive skin. I do get a little redness afterward that lasts an hour or two, but that's pretty typical for me with any exfoliant (and my skin is prone to redness as a baseline). What I really like is how lightweight and hydrating it feels. My skin looks glowy once my redness dissipates, and it leaves a nice, smooth base for makeup.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer
More to know
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- Type: chemical
- Key ingredients: 9% blend of lactic, azelaic, and tranexamic acids, panthenol, rice water, colloidal oatmeal
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Hyperpigmentation: Rose Ingleton MD SuperFruit Exfoliating Tonic
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Rose Ingleton MD
SuperFruit Exfoliating Tonic
Amazon
Shop
Sephora
Allure social media manager Bianca Richards applying the Rose Ingleton MD SuperFruit Exfoliating Tonic
Bianca Richards
Why it’s worth it: Dark spots have a way of sticking around long after whatever caused them—whether that's acne, sun exposure, or inflammation—has cleared up. That's because excess melanin (the pigment that gives skin its color) can linger in the skin for months. The Rose Ingleton MD SuperFruit Exfoliating Tonic helps move things along with 8% glycolic acid, which exfoliates dead skin cells to gradually reveal a brighter, more even-looking complexion. “It’s very lightweight, and I especially like it for someone whose skin looks dull or uneven and wants that fresh, polished look without using a scrub,” says Cheryl Karcher, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
The 2026 Best of Beauty Award winner also contains a blend of Jamaican superfruit extracts, including sugarcane, orange, and lemon, plus licorice root extract to help fade the look of discoloration. And because glycolic acid can be drying, aloe, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid help keep skin hydrated. Still, 8% is on the stronger side for an at-home exfoliant, so ease into it, especially if you're already using retinol or other exfoliating acids.
Richards before applying the Rose Ingleton MD SuperFruit Exfoliating Tonic
Bianca Richards
Richards after applying the Rose Ingleton MD SuperFruit Exfoliating Tonic
Bianca Richards
Tester feedback from social media manager Bianca Richards
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“Even though I don't tend to pick at my stubborn breakouts, since they sit deep beneath the skin, they leave dark marks when they leave. I love Rose Ingleton MD's gel cleanser (another Best of Beauty winning product), and pairing that with the Exfoliating Toner and moisturizer of choice has given my skin-care routine the upgrade I desperately needed! Because glycolic acid is one of the strongest acids to slough away dead skin, I have to be extremely cautious with how many times I use this product and deciding what other skin-care products I pair it with. I prefer using this twice a week at night with a hydrating serum and thick moisturizer to implement a lot of hydration back into the skin, and within 1.5 weeks of use, a blemish mark below my chin has quickly faded down without leaving any signs of irritation. It's a miracle product for those who are looking to incorporate a gentle exfoliant in their routine!" —Bianca Richards, social media manager
More to know
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- Type: chemical
- Key ingredients: 8% glycolic acid, Jamaican superfruit extracts, licorice root extract, aloe vera, glycerin, hyaluronic acid
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Sensitive Skin: Medik8 Press & Glow Daily Exfoliating PHA Tonic
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Medik8
Press & Glow Daily Exfoliating PHA Tonic
Amazon
Shop
Dermstore
Why it’s worth it: Exfoliating can be tricky (if not impossible) when your skin is easily irritated, but Medik8's Press & Glow Exfoliating PHA Tonic takes a gentler approach. Instead of stronger acids like glycolic, it uses 5.5% gluconolactone, a type of polyhydroxy acid that “gently removes dead skin cells while helping skin hold onto moisture,” says Dr. Turegano. It also contains glycerin, which draws water into the skin to keep it hydrated. “It's one of my favorite humectants to keep the skin looking fresh and bouncy,” says Carlos Vieira, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Philadelphia. Aloe vera, acai, and prickly pear extracts also help soothe skin and keep irritation to a minimum.
Lee applying the Medik8 Press & Glow Daily Exfoliating PHA Tonic
Christa Joanna Lee
Lee after applying the Medik8 Press & Glow Daily Exfoliating PHA Tonic
Christa Joanna Lee
Tester feedback from Lee
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“It’s only recently that I’ve become a toner convert, and this one finally convinced me that toners aren’t the stingy, drying formulas of the past. It feels as gentle as water (don’t worry—it’s definitely not just water) on my dry, sensitive skin. The mild exfoliating acids are cushioned with aloe vera, leaving my skin soft, calm, and refreshingly clean.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer
More to know
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- Type: chemical
- Key ingredients: 5.5% gluconolactone, hyaluronic acid, green tea, aloe, prickly pear extract
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Fast-Acting: Shani Darden Triple Acid Signature Peel
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Shani Darden
Triple Acid Signature Peel
Amazon
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Sephora
Cruel applying the Shani Darden Triple Acid Signature Peel
Jessica Cruel
Why it’s worth it: Have a wedding in your future or just want to give your skin a reboot? Shani Darden's Allure Best of Beauty Award-winning Triple Acid Signature Peel delivers almost immediate radiance, thanks to a two-step process that deeply resurfaces and cleanses skin. The first step uses a blend of lactic, glycolic, and mandelic acids to remove dead skin cells, which makes it all the easier for the neutralizing clay mask—your second step—to clear oil and gunk from pores. (The mask contains glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and allantoin, so it won't leave skin feeling tight, but you should still follow up with a nourishing moisturizer after.) It's potent, so you only need to use it every other week at most, or as needed for special occasions.
Cruel before applying the Shani Darden Triple Acid Signature Peel
Jessica Cruel
Cruel after applying the Shani Darden Triple Acid Signature Peel
Jessica Cruel
Tester feedback from Cruel
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“When I have to be on TV or walk the red carpet, there is only one product I trust to leave my skin glowing, and that's this peel. I have been lucky enough to get the full celeb facial treatment at Shani Darden's LA studio. This two-step exfoliant bottles a little of that magic up for at-home use. I love that it comes with a brush to apply the acid step. Then, you slather on the clay mask, which gives the whole thing a whipped consistency. It tingles a bit, but after I rinse, my skin is visibly glowier.” —Jessica Cruel, editor in chief
More to know
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- Type: chemical
- Key ingredients: mandelic acid, lactic acid, kaolin clay
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
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Paula's Choice
Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Amazon
Dermstore
Sephora
Why it's worth it: There are skin-care products that live up to the hype, and then there's the Best of Beauty Award-winning Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, which lives well beyond a viral moment. This is partly due to the 2% concentration of salicylic acid, which is the highest amount allowed in over-the-counter products. "Salicylic acid is an oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid (or BHA) that goes deep into the pores to clear out dirt, oil, and other impurities," Claire Chang, MD, a New York City-based dermatologist, told Allure. "It exfoliates and reduces clogged pores, leading to clearer and brighter skin." So, if you struggle with texture or acne, consistent use will help with cellular turnover to promote clearer, smoother skin. Antioxidant-rich green tea counters irritation typically experienced with harsh exfoliators, for softer skin without the sensitivity.
Former Allure senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin before using the Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Sarah Felbin
Felbin after using the Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Sarah Felbin
Tester feedback from former senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin
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“Paula's Choice has never let me down, and this toner is no different. It's gentle enough on my sensitive skin, yet tough enough on my oily T-zone and acne to prevent future breakouts. A splash on a cotton round is enough to treat my entire face, and I'm always left glowing.” —Sarah Felbin, former senior commerce editor
More to know
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- Type: chemical
- Key ingredients: 2% BHA (salicylic acid), green tea, butylene glycol
- Fragrance-free: yes
Other face exfoliators we like
Best for Mature Skin: SkinBetter Science AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads
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SkinBetter Science
AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads
SkinBetter Science
Why it’s worth it: SkinBetter Science’s AlphaRet line has earned a following among dermatologists, thanks to a combination of a retinoid and lactic acid that helps smooth fine lines, uneven tone, and rough texture. Its AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads take things a step further by adding glycolic acid to remove dead skin cells on the surface and salicylic acid to clear out the pore-clogging buildup that can lead to breakouts. Dr. Turegano loves the formula for “tackling several skin concerns at once, from dullness to fine lines.”
But with a retinoid and multiple exfoliating acids working together, these pads aren't exactly beginner-friendly, especially if your skin is sensitive or easily irritated. “The brand recommends up to three evenings a week, but I’d start with one or two, especially if you’re already using other active ingredients,” says Dr. Turegano, who adds, “I personally use this once a week.”
Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai
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“I've been a fan of SkinBetter's AlphaRet for years—the Clearing Serum is amazing if you have acne-prone skin—so I had a feeling I'd like these peel pads. And I was right. They're definitely intense, with just the slightest tingling sensation, but my oily, acne-prone, dark spot-riddled skin needs the power. It left my skin smoother and clearer after a single pass. I'm using them every other night to start, alternating them with my regular retinoid (and occasionally taking breaks from both, depending on my skin). It's not for the faint of heart, but it's excellent if your skin can handle it.” —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor
More to know
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- Type: chemical and physical
- Key ingredients: retinol, lactic acid, glycolic acid, salicylic acid
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Drugstore: RoC Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing 2-Step Peel Pads
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RoC
Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing 2-Step Peel Pads
Amazon
Shop
Ulta Beauty
Why it’s worth it: Yet another exfoliating pad loaded with retinol, the RoC Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing 2-Step Peel Pads tackle two common concerns with aging skin: dullness and wrinkles. Step one is an exfoliating pad soaked in a blend of acids, including lactic, glycolic, and mandelic, which together help loosen and remove dead skin cells to make skin look smoother and brighter. “The peel step helps get rid of that dull surface layer that can make mature skin look flat.” says Dr. Karcher.
Step two is a retinol treatment that “is working more gradually on cell turnover, texture and fine lines,” she says. It also contains ectoin and allantoin to soothe and support skin, which is especially important when you're using multiple active ingredients. Because both steps contain potent active ingredients, start slowly rather than using them every night, especially if your skin is dry or sensitive.
More to know
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- Type: chemical and physical
- Key ingredients: lactic acid, glycolic acid, mandelic acid, retinol, ectoin, allantoin
- Fragrance-free: yes
Frequently Asked Questions
What are chemical exfoliators?
Chemical exfoliators are active ingredients that help loosen the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to shed and reveal newer and healthier cells beneath, according to Tiffany J. Libby, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Rhode Island. "They also help unclog pores and exfoliate away surface skin cells; they also brighten skin, improve skin cell turnover and renewal, and some may even help stimulate collagen production within the skin," she explains. Resurfaced skin can also allow subsequent skin-care products to absorb more effectively.
Choosing a formula that contains the best exfoliant ingredients for your skin type is also critical. Michelle Henry, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, suggests initially avoiding mechanical exfoliation if you have sensitive skin and instead choosing alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid. "They exfoliate the upper layers of the skin while also hydrating and helping your skin retain moisture," she says. Dr. Libby echoes this advice: "If you have sensitive skin, start with polyhydroxy acids, or lactic acid and mandelic acid, which are larger alpha hydroxy acid molecules [that] do not penetrate as deeply into the skin and are least likely to cause irritation." For people with more resilient skin who require an intensive acne-fighting treatment, we recommend using salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid with a small molecular weight, allowing it to penetrate pores more effectively than other exfoliating actives.
What are physical exfoliators?
Physical exfoliators have granules that manually buff away dead skin cells from the surface of your skin. Dr. Henry says physical exfoliation is key for oily skin, since it helps remove layers of oil buildup. "When you have oily skin, your dead skin cells are more adherent and don't flake off as quickly, which can contribute to breakouts," she explains. She recommends using an exfoliating face scrub with salicylic acid, which "gently speeds up skin turnover and better penetrates oil and oily follicles" to keep skin clean and clear of blemishes. Dr. Libby agrees, adding that salicylic acid “is excellent at targeting oil and unclogging pores.”
Can you over-exfoliate?
Yes, definitely. Despite the benefits of using an exfoliator, overdoing it can cause redness, irritation, breakouts, and damage to your skin barrier. Additionally, using an exfoliator that's either too harsh or too gentle for your skin type can rob you of that luminous finish you're seeking. To strike the right balance, make sure you're not exfoliating too often—no more than three times a week (one or two times should be enough for dry or sensitive skin). Or, look into the dermatologist-approved skin-cycling trend, a regimen that alternates between using active ingredients and letting the skin rest.
Dr. Henry recommends exfoliating with a physical exfoliator for about 30 seconds (or less) using small, gentle, circular motions. She adds that it’s important to follow the instructions printed on the packaging for chemical exfoliators, as they can vary by product.
Meet the experts
- Brendan Camp, MD, is a double board-certified dermatologist in dermatology and dermatopathology at MDCS Dermatology in the tri-state area.
- Claire Chang, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
- Michelle Henry, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin & Aesthetic Surgery of Manhattan based in New York City
- Cheryl Karcher, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Center Aesthetic & Dermatology based in New York City.
- Tiffany J. Libby, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Brown Dermatology based in Rhode Island.
- Dawn Queen, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Park Ave Derm based in New York City.
- Farhaad Riyaz, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in Plymouth, Michigan.
- Mamina Turegano, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist, internist, and dermatopathologist based in New Orleans.
- Carlos Vieira, is a board-certified dermatologist at The Dermatology Specialists based in Philadelphia.
How we test and review products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.
For our list of the best face exfoliators, we considered each product's performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from board-certified dermatologists and cosmetic chemists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.
Our staff and testers
A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.
After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we've solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it’s never been tested on curls? We're proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.
