Best Exfoliating Facial Cleansers of 2025

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.
Exfoliating facial cleansers are a popular choice among those seeking a deep cleanse and rejuvenated skin. These products contain gentle exfoliating agents, such as natural fruit enzymes or microbeads, that help to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. The exfoliation process not only leaves the skin feeling smoother and softer but also promotes a more even complexion and improves the absorption of other skincare products. With regular use, exfoliating facial cleansers can help to reveal a fresher and more radiant complexion.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 10 Exfoliating Facial Cleansers
CeraVe SA Cleanser with Salicylic Acid, Niacinamide & Ceramides
The CeraVe SA Cleanser is an exfoliating face wash that promotes radiance by removing dead skin cells with salicylic acid. This foaming cleanser contains hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and vitamin D to cleanse, exfoliate and hydrate skin without leaving a stripped feeling. It's suitable for acne-prone, oily skin and those with psoriasis. Additionally, this facial cleanser is formulated with three essential ceramides to maintain the skin's natural barrier. The CeraVe SA Cleanser is developed with dermatologists and is #1 dermatologist recommended skincare brand.
Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid Face Wash
Botanic Tree Face Wash is an exfoliating cleanser that is great for sensitive, oily, and acne-prone skin. With its 10% glycolic and salicylic acid formula, it effectively reduces acne and dark spots. This gentle yet effective cleanser removes makeup and oil without drying out your skin. It also works as a toner, resurfacing and nourishing aging skin. The glycolic acid in the cleanser removes dead skin and minimizes pores, leaving your skin feeling smooth and clean. It significantly reduces breakouts from acne, making it the perfect treatment for hormonal or cystic acne. Made in the USA, this sulfate-free and cruelty-free cleanser is a must-have in your skincare routine.
No7 Lift & Luminate Dual Action Cleansing Face Exfoliator
No7 Exfoliating Cleanser is a dual-action face cleanser and exfoliator that washes away dullness and impurities. Powered by a vitamin-rich formula, this daily exfoliating cleanser improves the appearance of skin tone, texture, and brightness for a more radiant look. It uses gentle particles to accelerate surface skin cell turnover, leaving your skin looking renewed and luminous. The addition of vitamin E ensures that your skin is thoroughly moisturized while removing excess oil. This dermatologically tested cleanser is suitable for sensitive skin, making it a convenient choice for achieving perfectly cleansed, renewed, and brighter-looking skin.
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Exfoliating Daily Facial Cleanser
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Exfoliating Daily Facial Cleanser is a value pack of 3, 5-ounce gentle face wash that cleanses, exfoliates, and hydrates the skin. It contains naturally-derived skin smoothers that effectively remove dirt, oil, and dry surface skin, while hyaluronic acid moisturizes the skin, clinically proven to increase skin's hydration level. This lightweight gel-cream formula is soap-, oil- and paraben-free, gentle enough for daily skincare routine, and non-comedogenic, won't clog pores while it gently exfoliates skin.
Cetaphil Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser
The Cetaphil Exfoliating Cleanser offers a gentle yet effective way to cleanse and exfoliate your skin. It promotes the renewal of surface skin cells, helping you achieve a smooth and radiant complexion after just one use. This cleanser is perfect for daily use, even for those with sensitive skin, as it provides a mild chemical exfoliation without disrupting your skin's natural barrier. Formulated with a unique blend of Salicylic Acid, Mandelic Acid, and Gluconolactone, it effectively removes excess oil while improving your skin tone and retaining moisture.
SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser
The SkinMedica Exfoliating Cleanser is a facial cleanser that effectively scrubs away dead skin cells, leaving your skin with a noticeably improved tone and texture. With its blend of alpha-hydroxy and beta-hydroxy acids, this cleanser gently exfoliates the skin, removing impurities and revealing a fresher, smoother complexion. Additionally, the cleanser is enriched with botanical extracts and panthenol, which help to hydrate and condition the skin, leaving it feeling soft and supple. Say goodbye to dull, uneven skin and hello to a radiant, revitalized complexion with the SkinMedica Exfoliating Cleanser.
Murad AHA/BHA Exfoliating Facial Cleanser
Murad Exfoliating Cleanser offers you a triple-action cleanse by combining hydration with physical and chemical exfoliation. By gently removing dull and dry skin, it reveals a more radiant complexion, preparing your skin for serums and treatments. This exfoliating treatment is suitable for all skin types and can be used 2-3 times a week. Packed with essential ingredients like Salicylic, Lactic, and Glycolic Acids, along with biodegradable Jojoba Beads and Sodium PCA, it encourages cell turnover and attracts moisture for a fresher appearance.
Rael Face Wash, Miracle Clear Exfoliating Cleanser
Rael Miracle Clear Cleanser is a specially formulated face wash for oily and acne-prone skin. Powered by nature, this gentle cleanser is infused with Succinic Acid to exfoliate the skin, Minerice Enzyme Complex to nourish deeply, and Wintergreen Extract to moisturize. It effectively cleanses the skin, removing dirt from pores without stripping it. The cleanser also supports the skin's barrier health, calms existing blemishes, and cares for future breakouts. With its powerful yet gentle formula, it is suitable for all skin types. Free of harmful ingredients, such as parabens and sulfates, it is non-irritating and safe for daily use. Keep your skin clear and healthy with Rael Miracle Clear Cleanser.
Soap & Glory Face Soap and Clarity Vitamin C Face Wash
Soap & Glory Vitamin C Cleanser is a 3-in-1 exfoliating and hydrating facial cleanser that removes makeup, unclogs pores, and provides a dose of vitamin C for brightening your skin. The non-drying formula is suitable for all skin types, leaving your skin clean, smooth, and radiant. With biodegradable wax beads that gently exfoliate, this cleanser helps in removing dirt and impurities, giving you luminous results. Enjoy the fragrance of chamomile, mint, sage, and eucalyptus for a refreshing cleanse.
Amazon Basics Replenishing Classic Cleanser
The Amazon Basics Cleanser gently washes away dirt, oil, and makeup, leaving your skin softer and smoother. It contains gentle exfoliators to refresh your skin without plastic beads. By washing away dull and dry skin, it helps reveal a refreshed, radiant look. For best results, use it every morning and evening by massaging it over your face and neck, then rinse thoroughly with water and pat dry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is exfoliating face wash good for skin?
Yes, exfoliating face wash can be beneficial for the skin. It helps to remove impurities, dead skin cells, and excess oil, which can clog pores and lead to acne breakouts. However, it's important to choose a gentle exfoliating face wash and not overdo it, as excessive exfoliation can cause irritation and inflammation.
2. Can I use exfoliating face wash everyday?
It is generally not recommended to use exfoliating face wash every day. Daily exfoliation can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and inflammation. It is best to follow the instructions on the product and consider your skin type before determining how often to exfoliate.
3. How often should I exfoliate my face?
The frequency of exfoliation depends on your skin type. If you have normal skin, you can exfoliate two to three times a week. If you have dry skin, it is recommended to exfoliate once a week or every other week with gentle exfoliants. If you have oily skin, you can exfoliate three to four times a week, provided your skin can tolerate it.
4. Should you use exfoliating face wash in the morning or night?
Exfoliating in the morning can be more beneficial due to the oils produced overnight. This allows for smoother removal of impurities, dead skin cells, and excess oil. However, it ultimately depends on personal preference and what works best for your skin. As long as you are gentle and follow up with moisturizer and sunscreen, you can exfoliate in the morning or at night.
5. Should you exfoliate or cleanse first?
It is recommended to cleanse before exfoliating. Cleansing helps remove dirt, sweat, and makeup from the skin's surface, creating a clean base for exfoliation. Exfoliating afterwards helps remove dead skin cells that can accumulate on the surface, leaving the skin refreshed and rejuvenated.
During our exfoliating facial cleanser research, we found 48 exfoliating facial cleanser products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 413,672 customer reviews through our big data system to write the exfoliating facial cleansers list. We found that most customers choose exfoliating facial cleansers with an average price of $13.86.
The exfoliating facial cleansers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of exfoliating facial cleansers, including CeraVe, Botanic Tree, No7, Neutrogena, Cetaphil. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Lisa Bechard is a skin therapist with 12 years of working experience in the beauty industry and also an experienced beauty writer who has expertise in skincare, medical aesthetics and cosmetic surgery, and wellness. Her writing skills are excellent and all her content is very persuasive and insightful.