A Beginner’s Guide to Chemical Exfoliation

If you think exfoliation stops at using buffing sponges and grainy cleansers, it’s time to slough off old definitions.

Physical exfoliation involves manually removing dead cells clinging to the top layer of your skin. If you’re like me and rely on facial scrubs to cleanse, you may have overlooked an alternative way to uncover baby-soft skin.

Chemical exfoliators incorporate ingredients that do the work for you. When applied, these special acids and enzymes loosen up and lift away dead skin—plus, the powerful agents penetrate pores to detoxify for an even deeper clean. Chemical exfoliants have distinct uses and yield unique results ranging from ageless, glowing skin to clear complexions for the acne-prone.

How exactly does this work? Let’s get scientific.

The most common types of chemical exfoliators are alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs). When you hear “AHAs” think water-soluble acids. These exfoliating ingredients are made from sugary fruits and encourage cell regeneration for smoother, tighter, and more even-toned skin. Glycolic acid, lactic acid, and citric acid are among the most well-known AHAs.

BHAs are oil soluble, and these acids venture into pores to unclog and dry out excess sebum effectively preventing skin blockages. The most common BHA is acne eradicator salicylic acid.

If chemical exfoliation isn’t currently part of your skincare routine, check out these game-changing products chock full of AHAs and BHAs to address your most pressing skin concerns.

Peter Thomas Roth Firmx Peeling Gel , $49

This peeling gel works three times harder than conventional cleansers by rolling, lifting, and sweeping away dead skin cells to reveal younger looking skin over time. Massage onto skin and leave on for 1-5 minutes while the multi-action enzymes and cellulose gently exfoliate. Also formulated with hyaluronic acid, this peeling gel kicks in to soothe and improve hydration for smooth, firm results without added dryness and irritation.

HoliFrog Halo AHA + BHA Evening Serum , $69

Make sure your skin drinks in a dose of AHAs and BHAs before bed—it’s the perfect nightcap. Featuring an 11% (!) blend of AHAs (glycolic, lactic, phytic, citric) and BHAs (salicylic acid), this glow-inducing serum clears excess sebum from pores and resurfaces skin while you’re sleeping—it’s a dream. The formula also includes antioxidants andhumectants that add hydration to offset potential moisture loss from the high percentage of chemical exfoliants.

Moon Juice Acid Potion Resurfacing Exfoliator , $42

Ready to turn up the exfoliation? This potent treatment pairs a 25% blend of five AHAs and BHAs to sweep away dead skin, encourage cell turnover, and minimize the look of pores and fine lines. But it’s not all acid, all the time: reishi, niacinamide, and antioxidant-rich tocotrienols help soothe, hydrate, and support the skin barrier. Consider it a reset button for dull, uneven skin.

Good Molecules Pineapple Exfoliating Powder , $8-$16

Just add water. This powder-to-paste exfoliator takes a two-pronged approach to dullness. Gentle physical exfoliation from rice starches in addition to chemical exfoliation from fruit enzymes—pineapple, kiwi, and papaya—to loosen dead skin and smooth away buildup. Calamine and allantoin help keep things calm, while a vitamin C derivative supports a brighter-looking complexion. Bonus: there are no microbeads, nut shell powders, or AHAs in sight.

Susanne Kaufmann Enzyme Exfoliator, $80

Looking for a gentler approach? This gentle exfoliator uses fruit acids from apple, papaya, and kiwi to lift away dead skin and buildup without abrasive particles. Aloe vera helps cool and soothe, while ectoine, fenugreek, and fermented white lupin help nourish skin as you exfoliate. Use it once a week to leave your complexion looking clearer, brighter, and ready for whatever serum or mask comes next.

Nurain Alicharan contributed to this article. This article was originally published January 26, 2023, and last updated on October 5, 2026.