Best overall
Paula's Choice
Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
8.6Excellent
The cult 2% salicylic acid leave-on exfoliant: reliably unclogs pores and smooths texture, with irritation the main risk.
Toner5$37.00
The best exfoliants, toners & masks
AHA, BHA and PHA exfoliants, toners, essences and masks, scored on results, gentleness and value.
- 6
- products scored
- 8.0
- average score
- 27
- creator reviews
Top rated
The podium.
This category covers leave-on and rinse-off exfoliants built on alpha hydroxy acids (glycolic, lactic, mandelic), beta hydroxy acid (salicylic) and polyhydroxy acids (gluconolactone), along with toners, essences, sheet masks and wash-off clay and peel masks. Chemical exfoliants loosen the bonds between dead surface cells so skin looks smoother and brighter; salicylic acid is oil-soluble, so it also works inside pores.
The FDA's guidance for cosmetics with AHAs recommends concentrations of 10% or less at a pH of 3.5 or higher for consumer products, and a sunburn alert on the label, because AHAs can increase skin's sensitivity to UV. The American Academy of Dermatology cautions that over-exfoliation can cause redness and breakouts, that people using retinoids or benzoyl peroxide should exfoliate more carefully, and that darker skin tones are more prone to dark spots after aggressive exfoliation. Masks and essences are mostly about hydration and feel; their effects are generally temporary.
Our Beauty score for exfoliants and masks weights results 30%, formula and ingredients 20%, texture and experience 15%, value 20% and community love 15%. For exfoliants, formula rewards disclosed acid strengths and pH within FDA-recommended ranges, soothing support ingredients and honest frequency guidance; results reflect smoother texture and clearer pores without irritation. For masks, we judge visible, reported benefit against price per use.
All exfoliants & masks
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6 products
Community favorite Trending
Hero Cosmetics
Mighty Patch Original
8.3Great
The benchmark hydrocolloid pimple patch: flattens surfaced whiteheads overnight and stops picking, but does little for deep, closed bumps.
Patches4$12.99
Best value Trending
The Ordinary
AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution
8.1Great
The viral red 10-minute at-home peel: strong, cheap and effective on texture, but only for experienced, non-sensitive skin.
Peel5$9.50
Best value Trending
The Ordinary
Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner
8.0Great
A cheap, effective daily glycolic toner for smoother, brighter skin, best for resilient skin that already tolerates acids.
Toner4$9.00
Viral Trending
Biodance
Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask
7.6Good
Viral overnight hydrogel mask that leaves skin plump and dewy by morning, though reviewers call the glow a short-term boost.
Sheet mask4$19.00
Glow Recipe
Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Toner
7.5Good
A hydrating, low-strength PHA + BHA toner that smooths and refines pores gently, at a premium price for its acid dose.
Toner5$36.00
Buying guide
How to choose exfoliants & masks.
- 01
Match the acid to your goal
Glycolic acid, the smallest AHA, works fastest on texture and dullness but stings more. Lactic and mandelic acids are larger and often better tolerated. Salicylic acid (BHA) suits oily, acne-prone skin and blackheads. PHAs such as gluconolactone are the gentlest option for sensitive skin.
- 02
Check strength and pH
The FDA recommends 10% AHA or less at pH 3.5 or higher for consumer products, and salicylic acid is typically 0.5–2% in leave-on products. Brands that publish both strength and pH make comparisons possible. Professional-strength peels belong in a dermatologist's office.
- 03
Start slowly and don't stack
Begin two or three times a week at night and increase only if your skin stays comfortable. Avoid using strong acids on the same night as a retinoid, and pause exfoliation if you see stinging, persistent redness, peeling or a shiny, tight look.
- 04
Wear sunscreen every day
AHAs increase sun sensitivity for about a week after use, which is why the FDA asks for a sunburn alert on the label. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher is non-negotiable while you exfoliate.
- 05
Be careful with scrubs and darker skin tones
The AAD notes that dry, sensitive or acne-prone skin may prefer a mild chemical exfoliant over scrubs, and that people with darker skin tones should avoid aggressive exfoliation, which can leave dark spots.
- 06
Judge masks by cost per use
Sheet masks and wash-off masks deliver short-term hydration or oil absorption. They can be pleasant, but compare price per use and treat them as a treat rather than a fix.
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FAQ
Questions, answered.
What's the difference between AHA, BHA and PHA?
AHAs such as glycolic and lactic acid are water-soluble and work on the skin's surface for texture and dullness. BHA (salicylic acid) is oil-soluble, so it also works inside pores, which suits oily and acne-prone skin. PHAs are larger molecules that penetrate slowly and are usually gentlest. Our guide to chemical exfoliants compares them in detail.
How often should I exfoliate?
Most people do well with two or three times a week; some tolerate a gentle daily toner. There is no fixed rule: reduce frequency if you notice stinging, redness or flaking, and skip exfoliation on irritated or sunburned skin.
Can I use an exfoliant with retinol?
You can, carefully. Many people alternate nights rather than layering both, because the combination can cause dryness and irritation. The AAD warns that exfoliating while using retinoids or benzoyl peroxide can worsen dryness. Start slowly and keep one night a week free of actives.
Are toners and essences necessary?
No. Hydrating toners and essences add a light layer of humectants and can feel good, but a well-formulated moisturizer does the same job. Acid toners are a type of exfoliant and should be counted as one in your routine.
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