Exfoliating products can be harsh on sensitive skin, so its important to choose a gentle exfoliator with minimal ingredients and no added fragrances. Chemical exfoliators, specifically mandelic acid and polyhydroxy acids (PHAs), are usually a safer bet for sensitive skin, offering a gentler alternative to abrasive physical exfoliators. Here are some of the best exfoliators for sensitive skin, according to various sources:
1. Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Ultra Gentle Daily Peel for Sensitive Skin
- Type: Chemical exfoliator
- Active ingredients: Glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acid
- Positive: Gentle, effective, suitable for all skin types
- Negative: Expensive
2. e.l.f. Cosmetics Gentle Peeling Exfoliant
- Type: Chemical exfoliator
- Active ingredients: Unknown
- Positive: Budget-friendly, great for all skin types, not greasy
- Negative: Contains fragrance
3. OSEA Undaria Body Polish
- Type: Physical exfoliator
- Active ingredients: Bamboo powder, jojoba beads
- Positive: Moisturizing, eco-friendly
- Negative: High price point
4. First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub
- Type: Physical exfoliator
- Active ingredients: Unknown
- Positive: Gentle, effective ingredients to smooth rough, bumpy skin
- Negative: May increase sensitivity to the sun
5. Zen Out of Ten Face Scrub
- Type: Physical exfoliator
- Active ingredients: Jojoba beads, bamboo powder
- Positive: Gentle, effective, unclogs pores, removes dead skin cells, reveals brighter, smoother, and even complexion
- Negative: None mentioned
6. Skinceuticals Micro-Exfoliating Scrub
- Type: Physical exfoliator
- Active ingredients: Hydrated silica, glycerin, aloe extract
- Positive: Suitable for all skin types, micro-exfoliates while hydrating and softening the skin
- Negative: None mentioned
When choosing an exfoliator for sensitive skin, its important to look for products that are free of common irritants like artificial fragrances, dyes, alcohol, and overly-harsh acids. Additionally, its recommended to exfoliate one to three times a week.
