If you’re after skin so smooth it feels illegal, it’s time to befriend chemical exfoliants. Unlike those old-school scrubs that feel like rubbing your face with sandpaper, these clever potions work beneath the surface, melting away dead skin and unclogging pores—no harsh scrubbing required. Let’s break it down: what they do, how to use them, and which ones are actually worth your money.
So, what are chemical exfoliants?
Think of them as skincare’s secret sauce. They’re made with acids or enzymes that dissolve dead skin cells, speed up cell turnover, and leave your face looking like it’s just had a glow-up. The main players:
- AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids): These water-soluble acids (like glycolic and lactic) smooth texture and brighten dull skin. Great for dry or sun-damaged faces.
- BHAs (Beta Hydroxy Acids): Oil-soluble and pore-penetrating, salicylic acid is the GOAT for tackling acne and blackheads. Oily and breakout-prone skin, this one’s for you.
- PHAs (Polyhydroxy Acids): The gentle giants of exfoliation—perfect if your skin is sensitive but still wants in on the glow game.
How to use chemical exfoliants (without wrecking your skin)
Look, acids are powerful, so let’s not go overboard. Some ground rules:
- Start slow—1–3 times a week until your skin gets used to it.
- Use at night—they can make your skin more sun-sensitive. If you use them during the day, SPF is mandatory (but honestly, SPF is always mandatory).
- Apply after cleansing but before your fancy serums and moisturizers.
- Don’t mix with retinol or vitamin C unless you’re a skincare wizard and know what you’re doing.
Why you’ll love them
What’s in it for you? Glad you asked!
- Smoother, brighter skin: Dullness, begone.
- Pore detox: Clears out congestion like a skincare plumber.
- Fades dark spots: Great for post-breakout scars and pigmentation.
- Better product absorption: Everything else in your routine will work harder.
- Anti-aging perks: Softer fine lines, firmer skin—what’s not to love?
Our five fave chemical exfoliants right now
1. Urban Jungle Swipe Right Liquid Exfoliant
This multi-tasking powerhouse isn’t just about getting that glow—it’s a full-body MVP. PHA (polyhydroxy acid) gently clears away dead skin and excess oil, making your face look fresh and radiant. But it doesn’t stop there! Swipe Right also smooths bumpy arms, softens legs, and tackles dry elbows like a pro. Plus, it’s loaded with soothing allantoin to support skin renewal and geranium flower oil for a refreshingly luxe scent. And because good skin should never come at the expense of the planet, it’s sustainably made, PETA & vegan certified.
2. Alpha-H Liquid Gold + Vitamin C
This cult classic got an upgrade with vitamin C, so now it not only resurfaces skin but also brightens and boosts collagen. Perfect if you want that “I just got a facial” glow without leaving your house.
3. Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Breakout-prone? This one’s a game-changer. Salicylic acid dives deep into pores, clears up congestion, and keeps pimples in check—without the drying effect of old-school acne treatments.
4. Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night Serum
A bougie blend of AHAs and BHAs that works overnight to resurface and refine. Bonus: it’s loaded with soothing extras like raspberry extract and marula oil, so you get major glow without irritation.
5. The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA
Budget-friendly, beginner-approved, and super effective. This lactic acid serum smooths and brightens, while hyaluronic acid keeps skin juicy and hydrated.
Final thoughts
If chemical exfoliants aren’t in your routine yet, this is your sign to jump on the bandwagon. Whether you want to fight breakouts, brighten up, or just level up your glow, there’s one out there with your name on it. Just start slow, always wear SPF, and get ready for seriously smooth skin.
In her spare time, she likes long walks down the makeup aisle and performing in Brisbane theatre. You can follow her adventures on Instagram and TikTok @thebeautypalate.
