Are you having some skin issues that you can’t seem to get rid off, or do you just want your skin to look your absolute best? Introduce exfoliating to your skincare routine. Exfoliating removes the upper layer of dead skin cells, opens clogged pores and reveals the skin underneath, making your complexion look smoother, brighter and more even. Exfoliants can reduce breakouts, dark spots and fight the signs of aging. On top of that, by exfoliating your resurfaced skin allows other products to sink in to your skin more deeply and your makeup to sit more beautifully. Want to know which are the best cruelty-free face exfoliators? First let us explain the types of exfoliators and what to keep in mind.
Jump to: The 12 Best Cruelty-Free Exfoliators for Your Face
Physical and Chemical Exfoliators
In general there are two types of exfoliators; the classic type, the physical exfoliants, containing particles such as grains or seeds to scrub of the dead skin.
And secondly, the chemical exfoliants which are formulated with acids that dissolve dead skin cells. Al though acids sound slightly disturbing, this type of exfoliating is generally more gentle than the classic type as they don’t contain particles that can damage your skin.
AHA’s and AHB’s
The most common chemical exfoliants are AHA’s (alpha-hydroxy acids) and AHB’s (beta-hydroxy acids). AHA’s (such glycolic acid and lactic acid) exfoliate the skin’s top layer for a brighter and more even complexion and BHA’s (of which the most commonly used is salicylic acid) exfoliate the skin on a deeper level to purify the pores.
Generally speaking AHA’s are recommended for dry skin and AHB’s are better for oily, combination and acne-prone skin.
Although the chemical exfoliants are popular at the moment, this doesn’t mean a physical exfoliants is not as good. It depends on your skin type and needs which type does the most for you, and on your personal preference.
Keep in Mind
There are 2 important things to remember when you start exfoliating.
1) Don’t overuse
Al though exfoliating has lots of benefits for your skin, you shouldn’t overuse it. Overusing can lead to irritation, dehydration, redness and breakouts. In general, depending on your skin type as well as the strength level of the product, don’t exfoliate more than 2 to 3 times a week and always follow the instructions of the specific product.
2) Use sunscreen
Exfoliating makes your skin more sensitive to the sun, so be sure to use sunscreen on a daily basis (yes, also in the winter or when it is cloudy). Are you on the market for a cruelty-free face sunscreen? Check out our top 11.
Ahead, the 12 best cruelty-free face exfoliators.
Vegan
Do you want your exfoliator to be 100% animal-friendly, so besides cruelty-free also vegan? Check out the 7 vegan options.
Index
- Dermalogica – Daily microfoliant (VEGAN)
- Glossier – Solution (VEGAN)
- REN – Glycolactic Radiance Renewal Mask
- Tata Harper – Regenerating Cleanser (VEGAN)
- Paula’s Choice – Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
- Pixi – Glow Tonic (VEGAN)
- Kate Somerville – ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment
- Drunk Elephant – T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial (VEGAN)
- Ole Henriksen – Transforming Walnut Scrub (VEGAN)
- Murad – Rapid Resurfacing Peel
- The Ordinary – AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution (VEGAN)
- Lancer – The Method: Polish
The 12 Best Cruelty-Free Exfoliators
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1/12
Best Gentle Cruelty-Free Exfoliator:
Dermalogica – Daily Microfoliant
VEGAN
Shop at Amazon | $$$
Looking for a light scrub that you can use on a daily basis? Then give this one a go. It works a little different than you are used too, as this exfoliator comes in a powder. By adding water you create a creamy paste. The vegan formula contains rice bran to gently scrub and remove dead skin cell and salicylic acid to purify the pores. After rinsing your skin feels smoother (but not stripped) and has a subtle glow. Although this scrub is gentle enough for everyday use, do ask yourself if your skin really needs this. Dry skin types are probably good with 1 or 2 times a week.
Exfoliation: physical and chemical
Skin type: all
Skin concerns: pores, texture, fine lines
Key ingredients: rice bran, salicylic acid
Free of: parabens, sulfates, phthalates, synthetic fragrance
Parent company: Dermalogica is owned by Unilever, a company that is not cruelty-free
2/12
Best Cruelty-Free Leave-On Exfoliator:
Glossier – Solution
VEGAN
Shop at Glossier | $$
Glossier’s Solution comes in a powerful yet gentle blend of AHA’s, BHA’s and PHA (which falls under the AHA family) that deeply cleanses out the pores and dissolves dead skin cells. In a poll of users with acne-prone skin, 94% said their skin was clearer after 4 weeks. This leave-on liquid exfoliant comes in the cutest pink packaging and a push down pump, making for easy application. May slightly tingle at first, this is normal. The only small con we see – if anything – is that it is bit sticky.
Exfoliation: chemical
Skin type: all
Skin concerns: pores, texture, acne
Key ingredients: salicylic acid, lactic acid, glycolic acid
Free of: paraben, sulfates, alcohol
3/12
Best Cruelty-Free Exfoliator Mask for Aging Skin:
REN – Glycol Lactic Radiance Renewal Mask
Shop at Amazon | $$$
Thanks to the phenomenal blend of glycol and natural fruit acids this mask renews skin cell and leaves a seamless and revivified complexion. This in one of REN’s bestsellers and once you have tried it you understand why. The AHA’s resurface the skin and visibly improves firmness, while at the same time it reduces fine lines, making this exfoliating mask ideal for aging skin. It also diminishes the visibility of pores and blesses you with a beautiful glow. Fresh, citrusy scent. It is a thick and pretty sticky consistency, so don’t use more that needed and this mask will last you a long time.
Exfoliation: chemical
Best for: all skin types, except super sensitive. If you’re not sure do a patch test first
Skin concerns: pores, texture, tone, fine lines, firmness
Key ingredients: glycol, lactic acid, natural fruit acids
Free of: parabens, sulfates, phthalates, synthetic fragrance
Parent company: REN is owned by Unilever, a company that is not cruelty-free
R E L A T E D : The Best Cruelty-Free Face Serums for Aging Skin
4/12
Best Daily Exfoliating Cleanser:
Tata Harper – Regenerating Cleanser
VEGAN
Shop at Amazon | $$$$
Get clear, polished skin that glows with Tata Harper’s gentle exfoliating cleanser. Apricot and white willow bark work together to exfoliate and renew skin to look its absolute best, buffing and polishing the skin while cleansing pores and hydrating dry skin. You’ll see a more even toned and brighter complexion that will leave you looking naturally radiant.
It can be used on a daily basis or in alteration with a non-exfoliating cleanser. For the best cruelty-free facial cleansers go here.
Exfoliation: physical and chemical
Best for: all skin types
Skin concerns: pores, texture, tone
Key ingredients: apricot microspheres and BHA from white willow bark
Free of: paraben, sulfates SLS and SLES, animal (by)products
4/12
Best Cruelty-Free Exfoliator For Acne-Prone Skin:
Paula’s Choice – 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Shop at Amazon | $$$
If breakouts and blackheads are your main skin issue, this is what you need. With the anti-inflammatory properties of BHA this formula is ideal for oily, combination and blemish-prone skin. It reduces impurities and other imperfections, leaving you with a clearer complexion. Meanwhile, green tea extract delivering antioxidants to sooth, calm and protect. It is gentle enough for sensitive skin.
Note: don’t use this if you are allergic to aspirin.
Exfoliation: chemical
Best for: oily, combination and acne-prone skin
Skin concerns: pores, acne, blackheads
Key ingredients: salicylic acid, methylpropanediol, butylene glycol
Free of: parabens, sulfates, phthalates, alcohol, fragrance
Related: The Best Vegan + Cruelty-Free Acne Products
5/12
Best Cruelty-Free Exfoliating Toner:
Pixi – Glow Tonic
VEGAN
Shop at Amazon | $$
Another cult classic is Pixi’s exfoliating toner with 5% glycolic acid. Gets rid of all imperfections; acne, blackheads, enlarged pores and even fine lines. It increases skin circulation and leaves it with a healthy dewy glow. Just apply a few drops on a cotton pad and sweep all over you face and neck. Formulated with aloe vera and ginseng for some extra TLC. Skin instantly feels refreshed and hydrated. We love, and we are not alone – it has a 4.5 rating on Amazon.
Exfoliation: chemical
Skin type: all
Skin concerns: enlarged pores, acne, fine lines
Key ingredients: glycolic acid, butylene glycol
Free of: parabens, sulfates, alcohol
6/12
Best Multitasking Cruelty-Free Exfoliator:
Kate Somerville – ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment
Shop at Amazon | $$$$
Featuring both physical and chemical exfoliants, this at home facial is the best of both worlds. The mix of lactic acid, salicylic acid and papaya enzymes work together to dissolve and buff away dull and dead skin cells and uncover your best skin yet. Aloe vera, honey and vitamin E soften and calm the skin and rosewood and cinnamon reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Massage it in for 30 seconds and rinse off after a minute or 2 and this bestseller makes you feel as if you just walked out of the salon. Clear, glowing complexion, here we come!
Exfoliation: physical and chemical
Skin type: normal, dry, oily and combination
Skin concerns: pores, texture, tone, fine lines and wrinkles
Key ingredients: lactic acid, salicylic acid, papaya
Free of: parabens, sulfates, phthalates
Parent company: Kate Somerville is owned by Unilever, a company that is not cruelty-free
7/12
Best Cruelty-Free Exfoliator Overall:
Drunk Elephant – T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial
VEGAN
Shop at Amazon | $$$$
This cult-favorite exfoliator mask makes you feels like you just got yourself a professional facial. The combination of 25% AHA’s and 2% BHA’s smooths and brightens your complexion and minimizes the visibility of pores and fine lines. Meanwhile it removes all dead skin cells, revealing the new and luminous skin underneath. Works well for acne prone skin too. The mask might tingle or sting a little, this means the acids are working. Rinse off after 20 minutes (or shorter if it stings too much) and follow with a few drops of the included organic marula face oil to sooth and hydrate. The little bottle costs some coins, but you only use this once a week or less, depending on your skin type and needs. And considered you might skip that chemical peel at the salon, it is not so expensive after all.
Exfoliation: chemical
Skin type: all
Skin concerns: pores, texture, tone, acne
Key ingredients: glycolic acid, salicylic acid
Free of: sulfates, alcohol, silicones, fragrance
Parent company: Drunk Elephant is owned by Shiseido, a company that is not cruelty-free
RELATED: The Bestselling Products of Cruelty-Free Brand Drunk Elephant
8/12
Best Cruelty-Free Physical Exfoliator:
Ole Henriksen – Transforming Walnut Scrub
VEGAN
Shop at Amazon | $$$
Made of crushed walnut powder, this intense scrub is one to take seriously. It lifts every last bit of dead skin and at the same time reduces redness and blotchiness, leaving an evenly toned and extremely soft skin. On top of that your revitalized face will be so smooth, you won’t believe how well your foundation looks. Works wonders on dry skin too. Must be noted that this physical exfoliant is not the finest out there, so don’t overuse and make sure you massage with the lightest pressure. A lot of reviewers rave about the scent of this scrub.
Exfoliation: physical
Skin type: all
Skin concerns: pores, texture, tone
Key ingredients: walnut shell powder
Free of: parabens, sulfates, phthalates
Parent company: Ole Henriksen is owned by KENDO, a company that is not cruelty-free
9/12
Best Cruelty-Free Exfoliating Wipes:
Murad – Rapid Resurfacing Peel
Shop at Amazon | $$$$
These easy to use wipes exfoliate and brighten your complexion in no time, ideal when you’re in a hurry or on the go. One swipe with this miracle wipe and 3 seconds to dry and there you have have your resurfaced and glowing skin. This facial peel stars 10% glycolic acid that buffs away all dead skin cells. Combined with vitamin C to combat environmental damage and intensify your glow and licorice root extract to sooth and boost brightness. Use no more than 2 times a week. It can sting a little a first. Must be noted to those with sensitive noses, the scent of these wipes is quite strong.
Exfoliation: chemical
Skin type: normal, dry, oily and combination
Skin concerns: pores, texture, tone, acne, fine lines
Key ingredients: glycolic acid
Free of: parabens, sulfates, phthalates, gluten
Parent company: Murad is owned by Unilever, a company that is not cruelty-free
10/12
Best High-Impact Cruelty-Free Exfoliator:
The Ordinary – AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution
VEGAN
For the pro chemical peelers amongst us that are ready to step up the game, this is yours. Uniting a whopping 30% AHA’s and 2% BHA this peeling radically improves skin’s texture and tone. It leaves skin smooth, soft and glowy. Diminishes skin problems like acne without drying the skin out. It also preps the skin perfectly for other products and makeup. Best part? It is the cheapest of this list.
Are you a chemical peel beginner? You can better start with a lower concentration of acids, like The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution, and gradually increase (if needed).
Exfoliation: chemical
Skin type: oily, combination and acne-prone skin. Not suitable for very sensitive skin
Skin concerns: pores, texture, acne, fine lines
Key ingredients: glycolic acid, salicylic acid, lactic acid, tartaric acid, citric acid
Free of: parabens, sulfates, phthalates, alcohol, silicones, gluten
11/12
Best Cruelty-Free Physical Exfoliator:
Lancer – The Method: Polish
Shop at Amazon | $$$$
Can your skin use a deep cleanse but do you prefer a real scrub over a chemical one? This ‘heavy duty’ granule exfoliator buffs away all the dull dead skin cells and leaves it thoroughly cleansed. As if you just had a micro-dermabrasion. Ensures skincare products to be absorbed effectively. Formulated with algae and fruit extracts to cleanse and nourish. It has a calming lavender scent. The grains are fine but kind of harsh, so gently swipe it over your face and depending on your skin type don’t use more than once a week. It is expensive, that said a little does go a long way.
Good to know: Lancer’s Polish is the first step of Lancer’s three step regime called The Method (Polish, Cleanse and Nourish).
Exfoliation: physical
Skin type: normal, combination, sensitive
Skin concerns: pores, tone, texture, fine lines
Key ingredients: sodium bicarbonate, magnesium oxide, fruit ferment extracts
Free of: parabens, sulfates, phthalates
More Cruelty-Free Skin Care:
– Face Mist
– Body Wash
– After Sun Products
– Face wash
