What to look for in the best exfoliator for men

Choosing the right exfoliator can help men achieve smoother, clearer skin while addressing specific skincare needs.

1. Skin Type Compatibility

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Consider whether your skin is oily, dry, sensitive, or combination. Gentle exfoliators with mild ingredients are best for sensitive or dry skin, while those with stronger actives like salicylic acid may suit oily or acne-prone skin.

2. Type of Exfoliation

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Exfoliators come in physical (scrubs) and chemical (acids or enzymes) forms. Physical scrubs offer instant results but may irritate sensitive skin, while chemical exfoliants provide a gentler, deeper cleanse over time.

3. Frequency of Use

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Some exfoliators are designed for daily use, while others should be used only once or twice a week to prevent over-exfoliation. Check product instructions and start slowly to gauge your skin’s response.

4. Additional Benefits

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Look for added skincare benefits such as hydration, anti-aging properties, or soothing ingredients like aloe vera. These can enhance your routine and address multiple concerns simultaneously.

  1. 1

    Charlotte Tilbury

    201 REVIEWS
    A facial exfoliant with a resurfacing AHA, BHA and PHA acid blend plus hydrating polyglutamic acid to reveal radiant, glowing, youthful skin.
  2. 2
    31 REVIEWS
    A delicate liquid exfoliator for a fresh glow.
  3. 3

    Furtuna Skin

    55 REVIEWS
    Triple olive exfoliation. A smart way to regenerate, resurface and retexturize.
  4. 4
    3 REVIEWS
    Just like your nightly exfoliating serum for the face... now for the body.
  5. 5
    1 REVIEWS
    Exfoliating brightening gel
  6. 6

    Dr. Barbara Sturm

    61 REVIEWS
    Perfect for oily and combination skin types, this cleansing foam does double duty with exfoliating action, too!
  7. 7
    3 REVIEWS
    A gentle formulation to exfoliate, purify, soothe and hydrate
  8. 8

    Joanna Vargas

    95 REVIEWS
    This purifying mask with kaolin clay, volcanic ash, and exfoliants reveals a visibly brighter complexion using natural and botanical extracts.
  9. 9

    SkinCeuticals

    183 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Daily exfoliating cleansing gel targets dullness and rough skin texture for a clear and bright complexion.
  10. 10

    Costa Brazil

    85 REVIEWS
    Exfoliate, cleanse and energize skin in one step with our antioxidant-rich exfoliating body scrub.

What to look for in the best exfoliator for men

Choosing the right exfoliator can help men achieve smoother, clearer skin while addressing specific skincare needs.

1. Skin Type Compatibility

Citrus catapult arrow

Consider whether your skin is oily, dry, sensitive, or combination. Gentle exfoliators with mild ingredients are best for sensitive or dry skin, while those with stronger actives like salicylic acid may suit oily or acne-prone skin.

2. Type of Exfoliation

Citrus catapult arrow

Exfoliators come in physical (scrubs) and chemical (acids or enzymes) forms. Physical scrubs offer instant results but may irritate sensitive skin, while chemical exfoliants provide a gentler, deeper cleanse over time.

3. Frequency of Use

Citrus catapult arrow

Some exfoliators are designed for daily use, while others should be used only once or twice a week to prevent over-exfoliation. Check product instructions and start slowly to gauge your skin’s response.

4. Additional Benefits

Citrus catapult arrow

Look for added skincare benefits such as hydration, anti-aging properties, or soothing ingredients like aloe vera. These can enhance your routine and address multiple concerns simultaneously.