21 Best Exfoliators For Dry Skin To Get Smooth And Healthy Skin In 2024
21 Best Exfoliators For Dry Skin To Get Smooth And Healthy Skin In 2024
Use these gentle and hydrating exfoliators to remove dead skin cells and get youthful skin.
Winter care includes taking care of your dry skin. It also involves using the best exfoliator for dry skin to get rid of your skin troubles. Flaky skin during winter leads to irritation, rashes, blemishes, and blackheads. To protect your skin from dust, pollution, and other irritants, you should get a high-quality exfoliating agent. Therefore, it’s essential to add an exfoliator to your skincare routine to keep your skin healthy. The exfoliator can help remove dead skin and leave you with soft, supple, and glowing skin that radiates freshness. Here is our carefully-curated list to help you pick the right one that suits your requirements.
Benefits Of Exfoliating Dry Skin
There are many benefits of exfoliating dry skin. The following are some of them.
1. Unclogs pores: Exfoliation helps remove dead, dry skin, dirt and grime, impurities, and excess oil from the skin’s layers. This helps unclog pores and prevents blackheads, whiteheads, blemishes, and acne.
2. Better penetration: Unclogged pores and clean skin can open the pores and allow skincare products to penetrate the pores and nourish them.
3. Even skin tone: Regular exfoliation helps reduce dark spots, acne scars, hyperpigmentation, and rough skin texture. Exfoliators contain skin-brightening and lightening ingredients that make the skin tone brighter.
4. Boosts circulation: Exfoliating the skin improves blood circulation. It facilitates lymphatic drainage, which aids in internal cleansing and provides oxygen-rich blood to the skin, thereby helping you achieve glowing skin.
5. Eliminates dead cells: Exfoliation eliminates dead cells and unclogs pores, boosting cell regeneration, giving you a more youthful appearance.
6. Stimulates collagen production: Collagen helps maintain the skin’s consistency and texture, making it appear younger and tighter. It improves skin elasticity and thereby reduces aging signs.
21 Best Exfoliators For Dry Skin
1. Best Gentle Formula: Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting Facial Exfoliant
Paula’s Choice brings you its Skin Perfecting skin exfoliant, made of two percent beta hydroxy acid (BHA). The gentle formula is non-abrasive and can remove blackheads, control enlarged pores, reduce wrinkles and fine lines, remove dead skin cells, even out the skin tone, and reduce stress and aging signs. This facial exfoliant is a hydrating blend that cleanses the skin, evens the skin tone, and activates cells, thereby improving blood circulation. It does not contain parabens or harmful chemicals. Take a look at a tester’s experience in this video review to get more information on the exfoliant for oily skin.
Pros
- Lightweight formula
- Quick-absorbing
- Reduces redness and soothes sensitive skin
- Easy-to-use leave-on formula
- Cruelty-free
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Might leave stains on pillow covers
- Some may find it drying
"It's a relief to see my skin becoming softer and smoother, with less visible pores, after using this one. I especially like the mild scent. I've also realized that restraint is the key—a few times a week is enough to see promising results."
2. Best Microdermabrasion Sugar Scrub: Era Organics Revive Microdermabrasion Facial Scrub
Revive+ from Era Organics is a facial exfoliating mask with walnuts, manuka honey, aloe vera, and vitamin C. It helps remove blackheads, dry and dead skin cells, and impurities. This scrub contains botanical extracts and is best for dry skin. It minimizes pores and moisturizes the skin base. This microdermabrasion sugar scrub gently smoothens the skin, removes grime, provides nutrition, and reveals healthy and bright skin from the inside. It leaves the skin feeling soft and nourished. This video showcasing a reviewer’s experience offers a more detailed explanation of this exfoliant.
Pros
- Made of organic ingredients
- Reduces dark spots
- Improves skin texture
- Helps fight blemishes
- Polishes stretch marks and acne scars
- Paraben- and alcohol-free
Cons
- May not be suitable for sensitive skin
- May be less gritty than expected
3. Best Water-Based Formula: Toyo-Cure Natural Aqua Gel
Toyo-Cure’s natural aqua gel water-based formula does not contain harsh chemicals and helps remove dead cells and grime. It captures dead skin cells on the skin’s surface and uses a unique active hydrogen water formula to remove them. The formula is suitable for all skin types, making your skin smooth, soft, and flawless. This skin peel gel does not contain colors, fragrances, and preservatives.
Pros
- Contains plant-based ingredients
- Improves skin’s absorption capacity
- Helps reduce blackheads, pores, and acne
- Stimulates cell renewal
- Gentle on skin
Cons
- May be less suitable to treat hyperpigmentation
"I tried many products for my stubborn dead skin cells, but nothing really worked until I found this one. Both the texture and the scent are pleasant, and it offers a deep cleansing."
4. Best Natural: NeedCrystals Microdermabrasion Crystals
NeedCrystals natural facial exfoliant is crafted with microdermabrasion crystals, which help remove dullness, dead skin cells, and blackheads, heal acne scars, reduce enlarged pores and wrinkles, and clear skin blemishes. The aluminum oxide in the formula provides a spa-like facial cleansing effect. This exfoliator stimulates blood circulation, nourishes the skin, and makes the skin youthful and vibrant. Check out a tester’s experience in this review video to learn more about the product.
Pros
- 100% natural exfoliating crystals
- Gentle formula
- Cruelty-free
- Does not irritate sensitive skin
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Some may find the crystals too small
- May not be ideal to treat age spots
"As this facial scrub is compatible with all types of cleansers, I find it easy to incorporate it into my daily skincare routine. It effectively exfoliates and promotes a natural glow, and the non-irritant factor is much appreciated."
5. Best Chemical-Free: Vivo Per Lei Facial Peeling Gel
Vivo Per Lei offers a gentle exfoliator and facial peel made from Dead Sea minerals and nutshell powder. It helps remove blackheads and gently peels off dead skin cells to reveal the youthful layer. The cleanser removes grime and sebum, unclogs the pores, and allows the skin to breathe. It also reduces discoloration, brightens skin tone, and minimizes aging signs such as wrinkles. The gentle formula does not contain harsh chemicals, making it ideal for all skin types.
Pros
- Non-irritating formula
- Suitable for both men and women
- Forms a barrier to lock moisture
- Helps in cell regeneration
Cons
- Some may find it difficult to wash off
- May have a strong smell
6. Best Hypoallergenic: Cetaphil Extra Gentle Daily Scrub
The extra gentle daily scrub by the celebrity-endorsed and dermatologist-recommended brand, Cetaphil, is ideal for all skin types, especially dry and mature skin. It is made of fine micro granules that can gently exfoliate the skin of sebum, grime, and dead skin. This daily scrub is hypoallergenic, non-irritating, and non-comedogenic. It makes the pores clean without clogging and leaves the skin healthy, smooth, and baby-soft. This clinically tested and results-driven formula promotes natural cell production and improves skin texture.
Pros
- Nourishing formula with vitamins
- Hydrates the skin
- Helps prevent breakouts
- Fragrance-free
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons
- May not work on blackheads
- May not offer deep exfoliation
"The gentle effect of this face wash is a treat for my skin! It removes the makeup without drying out the skin, making it a dependable choice for everyday skin care. The two-pack is a lovely perk for me and my sister."
7. Best Collagen-Based: M3 Naturals Brown Sugar Scrub
M3 Naturals Brown Sugar Scrub is infused with stem cells and collagen, making it an ideal formula for treating acne scars, stretch marks, and cellulite. You can use it as a scrub for the face, body, and feet. The formula is rich in antioxidants, essential oils, and glycolic acid to keep the skin healthy, youthful, and radiant and give it a silky smooth texture. Its sugar granules help promote the production of natural collagen and prolong cell life. The formula removes harmful toxins, provides anti-aging properties, brightens the skin, and balances the pH level.
Pros
- Made of natural ingredients
- Ensures deep exfoliation
- Suitable for all skin types
- Cruelty-free
- Free of harsh and harmful chemicals
- Ideal for those who shave and wax
Cons
- May be difficult to apply
- Some may find it slightly abrasive
"This exfoliator with natural ingredients has been a delight to my skin! It's soothing and refreshing and doesn't cause skin irritation. I'd advise a slow start, though—three or four times a week would be nice."
8. Best For Glowing Skin: Proactiv+ Skin Smoothing Exfoliator
If your skin is dry and sensitive, you need Proactiv+ Skin Smoothing Exfoliator. It is a benzoyl peroxide exfoliating facial cleanser that you can use on the back and other body parts. The creamy and moisturizing formula helps treat acne in 90 days. This body scrub minimizes pores, prevents the increase of flare-ups, and promotes bright, healthy, and glowing skin. The exfoliating solution removes excess oil, impurities, and grime while giving a smooth texture to the skin.
Pros
- Non-drying formula
- Kills acne-causing bacteria
- Safe to use on all skin types
- Prepares the skin for acne treatment
- Ideal for everyday use
Cons
- Exfoliating particles may be too small
"It's the perfect face wash for my acne-prone skin. It effectively prevents breakouts and is very gentle on my skin. There's the potential for product waste, though, as the cap is non-removable."
9. Best Non-Abrasive: Bliss Jelly Glow Peel
Bliss Jelly’s gentle exfoliator is infused with natural fruit enzymes. Papaya and pineapple enzymes serve as exfoliants in this recipe, removing dead, dry skin cells. The peel-off foot mask locks in moisture and revitalizes cells while maintaining the natural skin barrier.
The scrub contains cellulose plant fibers, coconut oil, vitamin B5, niacinamide, and sodium hyaluronate that help eliminate dead skin. It is free of parabens, sulfates, and other chemicals. The enzyme exfoliant softens and revitalizes the skin.
Pros
- Ideal for dry and sensitive skin
- Prepares skin for smooth makeup application
- Non-abrasive formula
- Vegan-friendly and cruelty-free product
- Suitable for daily use
Cons
- Some may find it too mild
- May be difficult to wash off
"This exfoliator has found a sweet spot in my skincare routine. It does a fantastic job of sloughing off dead skin cells without being harsh to my skin. The fragrance is decent as well."
10. Best Skin-Friendly: Honeyskin Exfoliating Scrub
For super-smooth and soft skin, give this scrub a try. It exfoliates the skin gently and helps remove dirt and dead skin cells. The scrub is infused with the goodness of aloe vera, which soothes the skin while refreshing it. Jojoba seed oil and vitamins E and B ensure radiant, soft, and younger-looking skin. The cream formula also helps reduce the appearance of dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles.
Pros
- Free of harmful chemicals
- Does not cause irritation or redness
- Gentle on the skin
- Nourishes the skin
- Helps even out skin tone
- Safe for sensitive skin
- Has a creamy texture
Cons
- Might not contain enough granules
"Thanks to this foot care set, the dry, cracked heels I used to struggle with have become a past. The scrubber fits comfortably in my hands and offers effective exfoliation. As the gel lacks deep-moisturizing properties, I've combined it with my foot lotion for better results."
11. Best Cruelty Free:Majestic Pure Coconut Milk Body Scrub
The Majestic Pure coconut milk body scrub is formulated to promote healthy skin turnover. The exfoliator contains anti-cellulite properties that help reduce stretch marks, eczema, acne, and varicose veins. This natural beauty recipe is a well-balanced combination of nutrients, fats, and minerals with high protein content. It helps reduce dryness and flaking, rejuvenates damaged skin, and minimizes wrinkles and aging signs while softening and nourishing mature skin.
Pros
- Creates a barrier against skin infections
- Protects skin from UV radiation
- Not tested on animals
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Some may find it less exfoliating
- Some may not like the crumbling consistency
"The texture resembles grated coconut and is gentle on my skin. Though the scent isn't my favorite, the smoothness it provides to my skin brings me back to it every day."
12. Best Healthy Grow:Tatcha The Rice Polish, Classic
The results-driven Tatcha Rice Polish daily skin exfoliator is ideal for normal to dry skin. This clinically tested water-activated exfoliant is made of famous Japanese rice bran. It produces a creamy foam that gives the skin a polished and smooth texture and a healthy glow. Papaya enzymes and silk proteins promote natural cell regeneration while nourishing and conditioning the skin for a fresh and silky finish.
The amino acid base is pH neutral and effectively cleanses the face without removing the skin’s natural moisture. Hadasei-3 is an anti-aging Japanese superfood combination blend of green tea, rice, and algae that restores youthful radiance.
Pros
- Non-abrasive formula
- Made of natural ingredients
- Prepares skin for smooth makeup application
- Improves skin texture
- Reduces the appearance of pores
Cons
- May not be suitable for irritated skin
- May leave the skin feeling a bit dry
"Tatcha's rice polish is the latest addition to my skincare regime. The grains are gentle yet effective on my skin, leaving it soft and smooth. Also, I like that a little goes a long way."
13. Best For Dry Skin:Dermadoctor KP Duty Body Scrub
Dermadoctor KP Duty, a scrub developed by dermatologists, is an essential exfoliant for people with keratosis pilaris and rough, dry skin. It contains 10% AHAs, PHAs, BHAs, and beneficial botanical extracts that soothe the skin and give it a smooth, soft texture.
With its dual-action exfoliation, the clinically verified advanced formula helps enhance bumpy, rough, and dull skin. The dermatologically approved scrub, a balanced mixture of a chemical peel and microdermabrasion, cleanses and improves the skin’s texture, preparing it for self-tanning and post-bathing treatments.
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Ideal for dry and normal skin
- Hypoallergenic
- Fast-acting formula
- Cruelty-free
- Gluten-free
Cons
- Some may find the smell overpowering
- May not provide lasting results
"After a few weeks of use, I've noticed an improvement in my skin texture, with reduced redness and more of a healthy glow. Also, it only requires a minimal amount for effective exfoliation."
14. Best For Normal Skin:Besito Microdermabrasion Exfoliation Face Scrub
Mother Made Aqua peeling gel is rich in green tea, hyaluronic acid, Baobab seed extract, and vitamin C. The dermatologist-tested Korean facial exfoliating scrub is extremely gentle and provides all-natural skincare. The gel peel removes dead skin cells and impurities from the face.
It leaves the skin feeling baby-soft and radiant with a smooth and even tone. The apple extract and allantoin help brighten the complexion and reduce dark spots and rough skin texture. It hydrates and conditions the skin while soothing it. The vegan formula is cruelty-free and hypoallergenic.
Skin Type: All, Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Dry | Package Dimensions : 6.34 x 2.17 x 1.65 inches; 3.38 Ounces
Pros
- Helps correct hyperpigmentation
- Made of plant extracts
- Formaldehyde-free
- Adds moisture to the skin
Cons
- Some may find it slightly abrasive
- May not be suitable for sensitive skin
15. Best Vegan Formula:Mother Made Exfoliating Aqua Peeling Gel
Mother Made Aqua peeling gel is rich in green tea, hyaluronic acid, Baobab seed extract, and vitamin C. The Korean facial exfoliating scrub is extremely gentle and provides all-natural skincare. The gel peel removes dead skin cells and impurities from the face.
It leaves the skin feeling baby soft and radiant with a smooth and even tone. The apple extract and allantoin help brighten the complexion and reduce dark spots and rough skin texture. It hydrates and conditions the skin while soothing it. The vegan formula is cruelty-free and hypoallergenic.
Pros
- Free from scratchy artificial beads
- Reduce signs of aging
- Suitable for combination skin
- Non-drying formula
- Ideal for pre-makeup cleanse
- Suitable to use as a body scrub
Cons
- Some may find it less exfoliating
"I like using this product for its effective yet soothing formula. It removes dirt and dead skin cells without causing irritation and leaves my skin fresh and well-prepared for other skincare products."
16. Best For All Skin Types: Pharmagel Enzyme Ex-Cell Facial Scrub
The Pharmagel exfoliator is a papaya face scrub ideal for all skin types. It gently exfoliates dry, dead skin cells from the neck and face with papaya enzymes and walnut grains. The Enzyme Ex-Cell cleanses and brightens the complexion while maintaining the skin’s natural oils. The sunflower oil and allantoin formula penetrates the pores and soothes the skin. You can use this results-driven scrub before shaving for a smoother surface and exposed undergrowths. You can also use it anywhere on the body for a mild, refreshing feeling.
Pros
- Polishes skin for a radiant glow
- Safe to use on sensitive skin
- Fragrance-free formula
- Non-irritating formula
Cons
- Some may find the tube format difficult to use
- May not provide deep exfoliation
"It's the perfect face wash for my acne-prone skin. It effectively prevents breakouts and is very gentle on my skin. There's the potential product waste due to the non-removable cap, but it serves its purpose well."
17. Best Mess Free:InstaNatural Brightening Vitamin C Face Scrub
The key active ingredient in the InstaNatural face scrub is vitamin C. It’s a gentle natural exfoliator rich in coconut water, green tea, quartz crystals, strawberry seeds, sugarcane extract, and jojoba beads. This results-driven scrub brightens the face while gently removing dull, dead skin cells. It also promotes healthy cell renewal and improves skin texture and complexion.
The cleanser contains aloe vera and plant ingredients that protect the skin from external aggressors and has moisturizing effects. It removes dullness and tones the skin to give a fresh and refreshing appearance.
Pros
- Non-abrasive formula
- Suitable for all skin types
- Softens fine lines and wrinkles
- Vegan-friendly and cruelty-free
- Free of harsh chemicals and synthetic dyes
Cons
- May not be suitable for deep exfoliation
- Some may not like the scent
18. Best Sulfates Free:O.R.G Skincare Body Scrub Deep Gel Exfoliator
The O.R.G Skincare body scrub and exfoliator softens the skin by peeling off layers of dirt and dead skin. It is infused with natural ingredients such as grapefruit seed and aloe leaf extract, this scrub hydrates and nourishes the skin. Its organic and non-abrasive formula removes skin impurities without damaging the skin underneath. Moreover, this scrub’s key benefits include a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This multifunctional scrub can also be used as a shaving cream or to perform manicures and pedicures at home.
Pros
- Helps even textured skin
- Contains organic enzymes
- Contains retinol
- Paraben- and alcohol-free
Cons
- Might not be suitable for acne-prone skin
- Some might find the consistency watery
19. Best Hassel-Free:Ongaro Beauty Organic Skin Care
Ongaro Beauty’s organic face scrub is rich in organic ingredients such as papaya, pineapple, grapefruit, and pumpkin enzymes that gently exfoliate the skin. It is an anti-aging formula that removes dead cells from the skin’s top layer, revealing a smooth and radiant complexion. It also keeps the skin hydrated and does not cause drying. The non-abrasive, cruelty-free enzyme exfoliant is soft on the skin and does not contain harsh chemicals.
Pros
- Naturally exfoliates the skin
- Suitable for all skin types
- Nourishes the skin
- Ideal for everyday use
- Free of coarse granular beads
- Prepares the skin for smooth makeup
Cons
- Some may find the consistency thick
- May not offer deep exfoliation
20. Best Antioxidants:Dermalogica Thermafoliant Body Scrub
The clinically proven Dermalogica Thermafoliant body scrub is a dual-action exfoliator that cleanses and hydrates the skin. It contains tea tree and castor oils that energize the skin and promote cell renewal. Antioxidants penetrate the skin and purify it. This professional-grade cleanser relieves dryness and conditions the skin, giving it a healthy glow. The naturally derived botanical ingredients, such as licorice, chamomile, white tea, oils, and grapefruit peel, with replenishing bio-lipids, strengthen the skin’s barrier and revitalize it.
Pros
- Ideal for acne-prone skin
- Refines skin texture
- Safe to use on sensitive skin
- Vegan-friendly and cruelty-free
- Paraben- and gluten-free
- Mess-free scrub
Cons
- Some may find the consistency hard to spread
- May not lather well
"Though the formula is slightly thick, once rinsed, it leaves my skin soft, smooth, and supple. Those fine, natural grits are incredibly gentle. The scent is mild, too, and has no lingering effect."
21. Best For Sensitive Skin:RD Alchemy Natural Products Renewing Polisher Scrub
The skin polishing scrub from RD Alchemy Natural Products helps with cell regeneration. The 100% natural, organic face scrub is ideal for all skin types. It contains jojoba beads, rice bran, aloe vera, herbal extracts, and natural oils. The hydrating formula nourishes the skin and brightens the complexion. Natural glycolic, citric, lactic, , tartaric acid, and alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA) exfoliate the top layer of the skin and reveal smooth, renewed skin.
Pros
- Non-drying formula
- Biodegradable beads
- Pleasant fragrance
- Safe to use on sensitive skin
- Free of parabens and sulfates
- Cruelty-free formula
Cons
- May not provide adequate exfoliation
"This mild exfoliator has a gentle scrubbing texture that soothes the rough patches without causing irritations. It also has a lovely scent that I am fond of. I have been using it daily."
How To Choose The Right Exfoliator For Dry Skin?
When selecting an exfoliator for dry skin, consider the following factors.
1. Hydrating formula: Choose an exfoliator with clinically proven or dermatologist-recommended hydrating ingredients, including natural oils, aloe vera, soft sugar granules, jojoba wax beads, salicylic acid, and glycolic acid for dry skin.
Georgia Smith, an experienced cosmetic chemist and beauty therapist, says, “It is best to avoid physical exfoliators with crushed seeds or irregular granules that may cause inflammation and microtears in your skin. Opt for scrubs with jojoba wax beads or soft sugar granules that are gentle and smooth. Moreover, do not forget to moisturize thoroughly afterward.”
2. Non-comedogenic: Choose an exfoliator that can unclog pores by removing excess sebum and reducing pigmentation. It should not cause pores clogging and should be easy to wash.
3. Gentle formula: Exfoliation or mild extra scrubbing may cause dry skin to tear or rip. Thus, select a formula that is mild and gentle on the skin.
Dry skin is sensitive and needs special attention. Adding an exfoliator to your skincare regime keeps the skin nourished and clean and helps regenerate healthy skin cells. So, if you want your skin to be smooth, youthful, and glowing, choose from our list of the 21 best exfoliators for dry skin and give it the TLC it deserves.
And here’s a tip just for you – After you have chosen an exfoliator, keep in mind that over-exfoliation, particularly if you have dry skin, can cause harm. Exfoliate dry skin once or twice a week.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Should I exfoliate every day if I have dry skin?
No, over-exfoliation can damage your skin and make it even drier.
2. How often should I exfoliate my face?
You should exfoliate twice or three times a week for healthy, glowing skin.
3. Is it better to exfoliate with physical exfoliators or chemical exfoliators?
Both physical and chemical exfoliators have their own benefits. Chemical exfoliators are hassle-free, less time-consuming, and gentle on your skin, while physical exfoliators give faster results.
4. How should I exfoliate my dry skin?
In the case of a physical scrub, apply a pea-sized amount of the scrub to your clean, damp skin and massage in circular motions for a few minutes. After rinsing your skin with cold water, pat it dry and moisturize it.
When using a chemical exfoliator, wash your face, pat dry your skin, and apply the exfoliator with a cotton pad. Let it dry, and then follow up with a moisturizer.
Not only is dry, flaky skin annoying to deal with, but it also makes you more prone to rashes. Invest in an exfoliator that protects your skin against dust and pollution while continuously ridding your skin of dead cells. Adding an exfoliator to your daily routine can help you get smooth, silky, and radiant skin that doesn’t require heavy maintenance. The options listed here are infused with many beneficial and effective ingredients, so pick one that suits your skin, budget, and lifestyle.
Infographic: How To Care For Dry Skin?
While gentle and regulated exfoliation can help remove dead skin cells from dry skin for better absorption of skincare products, there are other practices you need to follow regularly to reduce the risks of skin flaking, itching, and cracking. Check out the following infographic for a quick glimpse of these vital dry-skin-friendly rituals you must incorporate right now.
References
- How To Test Skin Care Products
https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/prevent-skin-problems/test-skin-care-products