Best chemical exfoliators for smooth and soft skin

Chemical exfoliators can be a temporary solution to dull skin texture, clogged pores and uneven skin tone. Unlike physical exfoliators, chemical ones can gently dissolve dead skin cells and reveal the radiant skin underneath. From alpha hydroxy acids, beta hydroxy acids, and poly hydroxy acids to enzymes, there are several types of chemical exfoliators. Regular use of these exfoliators may help improve your skin texture by removing dead skin cells. By penetrating deep into the skin, they may help promote clear and radiant skin. Chemical exfoliators may also help reduce the occurrence of blackheads and whiteheads, which can lead to clearer skin overall. We have curated a list of the best chemical exfoliators, which you may include in your skincare routine for clearer and more radiant skin.

6 best chemical exfoliators

Check out this list of the best chemical exfoliators in India and pick the one that suits your needs:

1. The Ordinary Exfoliating AHA and BHA Peeling Solution

Say goodbye to acne and congested pores by using the best chemical exfoliators for oily skin. This one from The Ordinary may help provide brightening effects. This peeling solution contains 30 per cent Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) and 2 per cent Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA). This chemical exfoliator may provide a facial solution in just 20 minutes. The brand also claims that this product is clinically formulated.

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2. Paula’s Choice-Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant

Paula’s Choice-Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant is suitable for sensitive skin. This exfoliating lotion may help unclog and diminish enlarged pores, exfoliate dead skin cells, smooth wrinkles and brighten your skin tone. It may even help combat redness, wrinkles, ageing, enlarged pores and blackheads. This exfoliant is packed with green tea, polysorbate 20, salicylic acid, sodium hydroxide and tetrasodium edta. Regular use of this exfoliant may help improve your skin texture, clear pores, and promote blemish-free skin.

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3. Minimalist 25% AHA + 2% BHA + 5% PHA Peeling Solution

Experience professional-grade exfoliation at home with Minimalist 25% AHA + 2% BHA + 5% PHA Peeling Solution. By providing multi-level exfoliation, this chemical exfoliant may help result in skin lightening and brightening. Regular use of this product may help remove tan, and sun damage, promote cell turnover and smooth skin texture. It contains glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid, salicylic acid, and gluconolactone, which may help remove dead skin cells, provide protection against UV radiation, reduce blackheads and clear pores. This exfoliant also contains turmeric extract and aloe vera, which may help heal and soothe your skin. The brand also claims that this product is free from fragrance, silicones, sulphates, parabens, essential oils, and dyes, and is hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic.

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4. Cosrx AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner

Fade dark spots and brighten your skin by using this clarifying treatment toner from Cosrx. Ideal for normal skin types, this product is formulated using AHA/ BHA and purifying botanical ingredients. This mist-type toner may help soothe, refresh and soften your skin. Using this toner claims to help maintain your skin’s optimal pH level, and keep your skin hydrated and healthy. The brand also states that this product is hypoallergenic, dermatologically tested, free from cruelty and paraben.

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5. Conscious Chemist Advanced Resurfacing Peeling Solution

Achieve smoother and more refined skin by using Conscious Chemist Advanced Resurfacing Peeling Solution. This product is formulated using 25% AHA, 2% BHA and 5% PHA. It is suitable for all skin types and may help reveal a smoother and more radiant complexion. Use this peeling solution to remove clogged pores, prevent breakouts, and leave your skin clearer and healthier skin. This dermatologically-tested skin may reduce the appearance of ageing. The brand also claims that this product is free from fragrance and harmful toxins.

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6. Chemist at Play 26% AHA 2% BHA 4% PHA Peeling Solution

Chemist at Play 26% AHA 2% BHA 4% PHA Peeling Solution may help remove dead skin cells, smoothen skin texture and claims to provide glowing skin in 10 minutes. It may help remove tan, and hyperpigmentation, clean pores and remove blackheads. The brand claims that this product is free from sulphate, mineral oil, phthalate, alcohol and paraben.

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What are the benefits of using chemical exfoliators?

• Chemical exfoliators help remove the outermost layer of dead skin cells, which can cause a rough, uneven texture. Regular use of these products may help promote smoother skin and make it soft and supple.
• Chemical exfoliants may help remove dead skin cells, and unveil a more radiant and luminous complexion. This renewed brightness can make your skin look healthier and radiant.
• Chemical exfoliators like AHAs may help promote cell turnover and fade dark spots and uneven skin tone. By shedding the top layers of skin, these products may help reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation.
• Exfoliants like BHA can penetrate deep into the skin to clear out excess sebum and dead skin cells. Regular use of these products may help prevent breakouts, reduce blackheads, and minimise the appearance of pores.
• By removing the layer of dead skin cells, chemical exfoliators may help enhance the skin’s ability to absorb other skincare products.
• It can stimulate collagen production and accelerate cell turnover, which may help reduce the appearance of fine lines, and wrinkles and improve skin firmness.

Things to remember while choosing the best chemical exfoliators

Here is a guide to help you choose the best chemical exfoliators:

• Understand your skin type and then choose the product that suits your needs. Opt for AHAs like lactic acid or glycolic acid for dry skin to help promote moisture retention. For oily skin, choose BHAs like salicylic acid to control excess oil and prevent clogged pores. In case of sensitive skin, choose PHAs to provide exfoliation without penetrating, minimising irritation. For combination skin, look for products that combine AHAs and BHAs.
• Identify your skin concerns as it will help choose the product, which can provide targeted treatment. For instance, go for AHAs like glycolic acid to prevent ageing and reduce fine lines and BHAs like salicylic acid to treat acne and clogged pores.
• Pay attention to the concentration level of the product and start with a lower concentration. It will allow your skin to adjust. Check the pH level and additional ingredients of the product to keep your skin balanced.
• Perform a patch test before applying the product to ensure that it does not have any adverse reactions.
• Consult your dermatologist before including these products in your skincare products. They will help you choose the right product as per your skin type and needs.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

• Are chemical exfoliators safe?
  Chemical exfoliators are generally considered safe as they are milder than physical exfoliators. According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association states that individuals with oily and thicker skin should use chemical exfoliators. But if you have a darker skin tone, avoid using these products as they may cause acne breakouts.
• Can chemical exfoliators treat skin disorders?
  The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology states that chemical peels are one of the safest and most effective ways to treat skin disorders and rejuvenate and refresh your skin. It can help treat acne, melasma, photodamage and more.

(Disclaimer: At Health Shots, we make a constant effort to break the clutter for our readers. All products listed are carefully curated by the editorial team but use your discretion and an expert’s opinion before using them. Their price and availability may differ from the time of publication. If you buy something using these links in the story, we may earn a commission.)