5 Best Exfoliators For Sensitive Skin In 2023

It’s officially 2023, so what better time to revamp our skincare routines? After all, our skin concerns won’t be solved when we use the same products for years and years without results. So isn’t it time to give our skin the beautiful change it deserves?

Key Takeaways

Here’s our list of the five best products for exfoliating sensitive skin in 2023.

• Best Overall: Viviane Woodard Natural Exfoliator Skinodyssey
• Best On A Budget: The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA
• Best Daily Exfoliator: Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Ultra Gentle Daily Peel
• Best Exfoliating Scrub: La Roche-Posay Ultra-Fine Face Scrub
• Best Leave-On Exfoliator: Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

Everyone needs a reliable exfoliator in their skincare product arsenal. But those with sensitive skin conditions may need to be more selective in the products they choose.

Our skin is ever-changing and constantly adapting to our surroundings. Even as we age, our complexion shows signs of our increasing years.

But that’s not something to try to hide or be ashamed of. Our skin is a unique canvas that shows the world our incredible life journey. Instead, caring for our skin is the first step in obtaining the glowing complexion we want and deserve.

We all have unique skin types that can affect how we treat our skincare routines. So when it comes time to exfoliate, those with sensitive skin can have a particular challenge. After all, many of us assume that exfoliators are simply too harsh for such delicate skin.

However, that’s not the case. There are many different exfoliating products out there that are perfectly suitable for sensitive skin or any other delicate skin type.

Wondering where to start? We’ve got your back.

See Related: 8 Signs You Probably Have Sensitive Skin

#1. Viviane Woodard Natural Exfoliator Skinodyssey

There are many factors that can lead to or contribute to sensitive skin. And those with skin sensitivity often are more vulnerable to irritation from their external environment and any skincare products they may use.

The first step to finding the right exfoliant for your unique complexion starts with identifying your skin type. Sensitive skin can often show up as dry skin, excessive itchiness, or even breakouts.

Treating your sensitive skin is a task that is critical for the health and wellness of your entire body and mind. And a great way to start this journey is by finding the right exfoliator.

The Benefits Of Exfoliation

Exfoliation is an essential part of your skincare process. Regular exfoliation is crucial for keeping your skin clean and your pores free while maintaining your plump, young, and smooth complexion. 

Gentle exfoliation promotes your skin’s natural collagen production to improve your complexion’s elasticity. Plus, physical and chemical exfoliants allow better absorption of the following serums and moisturizers in your skincare routine.

The benefits of exfoliating are endless, but it doesn’t come without some downsides.

Over-exfoliation can be particularly damaging to your skin’s natural protective barrier. And that can be particularly harmful to sensitive skin types.

The Perfect Sensitive Skin Exfoliator

Finding the right exfoliating product is critical for maintaining healthy skin and improving your complexion’s radiance. That’s where Viviane Woodard’s Natural Exfoliator Skinodyssey jumps in!

This iconic exfoliant is formulated with glycolic acid to restore your complexion’s youthful complexion quickly and effortlessly. Glycolic acid is, in fact, one of the best ingredients you can use on your skin, especially for those prone to sensitivity.

But this fantastic product doesn’t stop there. Its smooth and lightweight creamy formula can quickly whisk away dead skin cells and other impurities hiding in your skin. This allows the radiant and revitalized complexion you deserve to emerge for good!

This product’s alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are the key to its powerful exfoliating properties. AHAs promote youthful skin cell turnover and allow the top layer of your face to become more noticeably moisturized.

Say “goodbye” to dull, lifeless skin with Viviane Woodard’s iconic exfoliant. It’s that good!

#2. The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA

The skincare brand The Ordinary has made waves in the beauty world with its powerful yet affordable products. And there’s a reason why they have amassed such an impressive and cult-like following.

The Ordinary’s Lactic Acid 10% + HA chemical exfoliant is one of the best products for sensitive skin for multiple reasons. It boasts two of the most popular and powerful active ingredients in the skincare world.

Exfoliating Ingredients You Can’t Say No To

It starts with hyaluronic acid. This moisturizing ingredient ensures that adequate hydration is delivered to dry skin. As we know, a common symptom of skin sensitivity is dryness.

Secondly, its formula is adorned with lactic acid. This is how dead skin cells are removed and clogged pores are opened. So if you also have acne-prone skin, this is the exfoliant for you!

#3. Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Ultra Gentle Daily Peel

Many exfoliating acids can be too irritating for sensitive skin. Luckily, Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Ultra Gentle Daily Peel is formulated specifically for those with skin susceptible to irritation.

Gentle Enough For Daily Use

A more calm and soothing version of Dr. Gross’ Ultra Gentle Daily Peel, this daily treatment is perfect for removing impurities from the surface, such as dead skin cells, dirt, makeup, and excess oil. Plus, it’s made with both AHAs and beta hydroxy acid (BHA) salicylic acid to ensure your skin is properly exfoliated.

These acids not only exfoliate sensitive skin but also calm a stressed complexion. Anti-inflammatory ingredients such as witch hazel and green tea soothe your complexion, leaving you with visibly smoother and more even skin.

Bonus: What Type Of Cleanser Is Best For Combination Skin?

#4. La Roche-Posay Ultra-Fine Face Scrub

We can either exfoliate our skin physically or chemically. Ingredients like AHAs and BHAs are utilized in chemical exfoliation while mechanical exfoliation uses abrasives to remove dead skin cells physically.

Typically, physical exfoliation is too harsh for sensitive skin. But La Roche-Posay’s Ultra-Fine Face Scrub rewrites this rule.

The gentle formula is not only suitable for sensitive skin but is also powerful enough to deliver a genuinely life-changing exfoliation treatment. It utilizes both physical and chemical properties to exfoliate sensitive skin.

This dual action can completely revitalize your complexion. Thanks to the glycerin in this product, you’ll be left with a brighter and more even skin tone after just a few uses. Plus, your skin’s natural barrier will become strengthened and more healthy.

#5. Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

Each exfoliator is created differently, and you must adapt your skincare routine to fit each one. After all, some exfoliants are gentle enough to use daily while others should be reserved for only a few times a week.

Make sure you understand how your chosen exfoliant works. For example, is it a cleansing exfoliator or should you wash your face before use? Does it pair well with your favorite serum?

As we said, each exfoliant is unique. But there are certain products out there that are too good to pass up, regardless of your skin type.

An Exfoliant With An Impressive Résumé

Take, for example, Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant. This incredibly popular liquid exfoliant has made a name for itself for more reasons than one.

For starters, it’s made of BHAs that allow dead skin cells to be effortlessly removed while lighting the way for a glowing, radiant complexion to flourish. In addition, its lightweight and gentle formula is soothing enough for daily use and can be used as a leave-on treatment.

Wrinkles and fine lines will be quickly reduced, and even enlarged pores will be minimized. Not many exfoliators can target the number of skin concerns that this product can. There’s a reason why it’s a favorite skincare product for many worldwide!

Keep Reading: 9 Tips For Applying Makeup To Mature Skin

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For over 60 years, Viviane Woodard has represented “The Purity of Skincare”. We are the leading beauty brand for skin care products and promote the importance of good skin hydration. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest for skin care tips, product discounts, and more.