14 Best Exfoliators for Mature Skin, According to Dermatologists
Exfoliation is a key step in within skincare routines to achieve smooth, glowing skin—just ask any dermatologist. That’s because exfoliating helps get rid of dead skin cells that can clog pores, cause breakouts, and make skin appear dull, textured, and uneven. As skin ages, the natural exfoliation process slows, which is why it’s important to manually facilitate it with one of the best exfoliators for mature skin.
“As we age, cell turnover slows, leading to dullness and uneven texture. Regular exfoliation can restore radiance and smoothness,” says Dara Spearman, M.D., F.F.A.D., a board-certified dermatologist at Radiant Dermatology in Indiana. “Chemical exfoliation with AHAs (like lactic acid or glycolic acid) or enzymes is often best for mature skin,” she adds.
Meet the Experts: Dr. Emily Wood, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology in Marble Falls and Austin, TX; Brendan Camp, M.D., a double board-certified in dermatology and dermatopathology at MDCS Dermatology in New York City; Dara Spearman, M.D., F.F.A.D., a board-certified dermatologist at Radiant Dermatology in Indiana; Marisa Garshick, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York City.
But exfoliating too much is a problem, warns Marisa Garshick, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York City. “Mature skin is often thinner, drier, and more sensitive, so over-exfoliating can cause redness, irritation, or compromise the skin barrier.” Exfoliators can also make skin more sensitive to the sun, Brendan Camp, M.D., a double board-certified in dermatology and dermatopathology at the same practice adds. So, how do you exfoliate properly without irritating your skin? Dr. Emily Wood, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology in Marble Falls and Austin, TX suggests looking for formulas that contain nourishing and calming ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, or squalane. And of course, “it is important to use an SPF moisturizer or sunscreen in the morning,” adds Dr. Camp.
Most importantly, though. The key to finding the best exfoliator for your particular mature skin is choosing the right method and frequency based on your skin type and tolerance. Our dermatologists recommend starting once a week and building from there, as needed. Keep reading to find the best exfoliator to add to your skincare routine—from cleansers to toners, serums, and more—all dermatologist-recommended and approved.
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1
Best Overall Exfoliator for Mature Skin
SkinCeuticals Glycolic 10 Renew Overnight
Recommended by both Dr. Spearman and Dr. Garshick, this overnight treatment is a powerhouse exfoliator that works with all skin types. The 10% pure glycolic acid does most of the heavy lifting to exfoliate and remove dead skin cells while a small dose of phytic acid helps brighten and protect the new layer of revealed skin. Finishing the formula are a number of soothing botanicals which help your skin feel softer and more radiant. Because of its potency, Dr. Garshick recommends using it only a few times a week, though it has shown to be suitable for nightly use.
What a reviewer says: “My skin prior to using this, was really textured on my cheeks, however after the first use, I saw amazing results! My skin is getting smoother and has an amazing glow. I use the serum three times a week, alternating with my Retinol.”
| Active Ingredient | Glycolic acid, phytic acid |
| Size | 1.7 fl oz |
2
Best Value Exfoliator for Mature Skin
the ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + 2% HA
Pros
- Some reviewers say it is an affordable dupe for Sunday Riley’s Good Genes
- Gentle enough for sensitive skin
- Extremely affordable
Cons
- Some reviewers went through a purging period before seeing results
New to exfoliators? Dr. Spearman loves this budget choice for first-time chemical exfoliant users. Not only is the price right (under $10!), but she says the percentage of lactic acid in this formula is “gentle and hydrating,” meaning it resurfaces and tones your skin while minimizing irritation.
What a reviewer says: “My skin feels overall smoother and more even toned. I have sensitive skin and this feels gentle enough, no redness so far. I think it’s a great affordable exfoliant that delivers noticeable improvement.”
| Active Ingredient | Lactic acid |
| Size | 1 fl oz |
3
Best Drugstore Exfoliator for Mature Skin
Neutrogena Acne Stress Control Power-Cream Face Wash
Pros
- Great for acne-prone skin and breakouts
- Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive
- Affordable
Cons
- Not available on Amazon
Dr. Wood calls this drugstore choice “a favorite for years” for its potent but gentle formula that uses salicylic acid to unclog pores and soothing cucumber and green tea extracts to calm the skin. Specially formulated for those with acne-prone skin to prevent further breakouts, Wood says it is effective for all skin types, including sensitive, and helps reduce redness.
What a reviewer says: “This cream wash works wonders for stressed and breakout-prone skin. It cleans deeply, helps reduce redness, and prevents new breakouts without over-drying. My skin feels balanced, refreshed, and noticeably clearer with consistent use. Great for mature skin!”
| Active Ingredient | Salicylic acid |
| Size | 6 fl oz |
4
Best Exfoliator for Sensitive Mature Skin
Sunday Riley Good Genes
Pros
- Gentle enough for daily use on sensitive skin
- Instantly brightening
- Calms redness and breakouts
Cons
- Pricey for small bottle
Dr. Camp and Dr. Wood both recommend this popular serum from skincare brand Sunday Riley for those with sensitive skin, which catapulted to its top-tier viral status after being included in Oprah’s Favorite Things list back in 2018. “It’s gentle enough for daily use,” says Dr. Camp of the lactic acid-containing treatment that also includes a bevy of smoothing and calming botanicals like licorice, lemongrass, arnica, and aloe. Unsurprisingly, its popularity has not waned, and it an editor favorite here at Prevention as well.
What an editor says: “I really struggled with finding an exfoliator that didn’t not break out my dry, sensitive, and breakout prone skin—until I splurged on Good Genes,” says Senior Commerce Editor Charlotte Lewis Finigan. “It instantly brightens and soothes my skin, while getting rid of dull and textured patches. Since using it, my skin feels way softer and more moisturized.”
| Active Ingredient | Lactic acid |
| Size | 0.5 fl oz |
5
Best Overnight Exfoliator for Mature Skin
CeraVe Skin Renewing Nightly Exfoliating Treatment
Pros
- Minimizes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Highly moisturizing formula
- Great for dry and sensitive skin types
Cons
- Might be too heavy for oily skin
Looking for an overnight treatment that’s affordable, moisturizing, and dermatologist-approved? Dr. Wood recommends this treatment from CeraVe: “The added hyaluronic acid and ceramides really help to prevent the drying effects chemical exfoliators often produce,” she says. The multi-AHA formula is also particularly effective in helping reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles—an added bonus.
What a reviewer says: “I call this my ‘wake up and glow’ potion. It tingles a bit (which feels promising), and my skin looks smoother without the horror-movie peel. It’s like a mini chemical peel that doesn’t come with regret. I love how gentle and effective it is, especially for mature, sensitive skin like mine.”
| Active Ingredient | Glycolic and lactic acids, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides |
| Size | 1.7 fl oz |
6
Best Exfoliating Cleanser for Mature Skin
Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Cleanser
Kate Somerville has been synonymous with dermatologist-approved skincare for years. Dr. Camp says if you are in the market for an exfoliating cleanser, you can’t top this viral favorite. “Used just one to two times a week, this exfoliating treatment eliminates dull skin, removes buildup and residue, and reveals smoother, healthier-looking skin,” he says.
What a reviewer says: “I love the silky texture of the product and how it cleanses but doesn’t leave my skin feeling tight and dry. The enzymes provide a gentle exfoliation over time, and it works really well as a second cleanser!”
| Active Ingredient | Glycolic acid, lactic acid, fruit enzymes |
| Size | 4 fl oz |
7
Best Exfoliator for Mature Skin With Wrinkles
Maelove Super Smooth AHA + BHA Resurfacing Serum
Pros
- Reduces signs of aging
- Protects skin barrier from further damage
- Greatly improves texture
Cons
- Some reviewers complained of irritation on dry skin
“This exfoliating serum incorporates AHAs like lactic acid, glycolic acid, tartaric acid and BHA like salicylic acid to help get rid of dead skin cells and improve overall texture and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles,” Dr. Garshick shares. Even better, its formula is packed with peptides, antioxidants, and hyaluronic acid to help strengthen the skin barrier and protect against free radical damage. “It’s great for overall signs of skin aging,” she explains.
What a reviewer says: “Great stuff. It’s quick and easy and very effective. I use it once or twice a week and it helps keep my skin looking great. I’m in my early 60s with sun-damaged, slightly sensitive skin and this helps keep the bumpy-uglies at bay. No itching, burning, or irritation, just lovely smooth skin in the morning.”
| Active Ingredient | Lactic acid, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, tartaric acid, and peptides |
| Size | 1 fl oz |
8
Best Exfoliator for Oily Mature Skin
Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Pros
- Affordable for large bottle
- Layers well under makeup
- Minimizes pores and evens out texture
Cons
- Can be too irritating for dry or sensitive skin types
Those with oily skin should add this serum that Dr. Camp (and many others!) call “wildly popular.” Its beloved by skincare enthusiasts for its reasonable price tag and extreme effectiveness. Dr. Camp recommends it specifically for those who lean oily, saying: “This leave-on liquid exfoliant includes salicylic acid to clear pores and even skin tone.”—and over 109,000 Amazon reviewers agree.
What a reviewer says: “This exfoliant truly lives up to the hype! The 2% salicylic acid formula works gently yet powerfully to unclog pores, reduce blackheads, and refine skin texture. I started seeing smoother, clearer skin in just a few days. It also minimizes pore size and gives a subtle glow without irritation. The lightweight, water‑like texture absorbs quickly (though there’s a slight sticky feel that fades) and layers beautifully under moisturizer and SPF.”
| Active Ingredient | Salicylic acid |
| Size | 4 fl oz |
9
Best Facial Scrub
ALASTIN ReSurface Exfoliating Skin Polish
Dr. Wood calls this pick “one of the most effective yet gentle face scrubs that is on the market.” That is likely due to its formula, which contains volcanic minerals. “[The minerals] act as a gentle physical exfoliator,” she explains. If you are searching for that squeaky clean feeling that comes from using a facial scrub without the abrasiveness, this is her choice.
What a reviewer says: “After decades of multiple products, I finally get the skin texture that is baby soft from this product’s microsphere exfoliant. Actually gave up my Amore Pacifica dry exfoliator for this and it has permanently changed my mind. Satisfied with this scrub and loving my skin texture; buy this it really is worth the results.”
| Active Ingredient | Glycolic acid |
| Size | 2.3 fl oz |
10
Best Facial Scrub for Sensitive Mature Skin
Tatcha The Rice Polish
This physical exfoliant is as gentle as they come. Its key ingredient, a finely milled rice powder, combines with moisturizing and calming green tea and algae for a non-irritating finish for even the most sensitive skin. Dr. Spearman enjoys that this exfoliant turns into a creamy foam, perfect for those who want mild manual exfoliation without stripping or drying.
What a reviewer says: “I use it once a week for a skin refresh and it works AMAZING. For high exfoliation, pour in hand and add a LITTLE water, mix and apply on DRY skin. Gently rub in circular motion for 15 seconds and then add water to turn into foam to wash off completely. Your skin will feel soft, smooth and fresh. Your other skin products will absorb better and any skin texture will be addressed. One container lasts me eight months.”
| Active Ingredient | Rice powder, green tea, algae |
| Size | 2.1 oz |
11
Best Resurfacing Pad for Mature Skin
skinbetter science AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads
Resurfacing pads are a great solution for anyone looking for an “easy to use and a great all-in-option,” says Dr. Wood. Utilizing Skinbetter’s patented retinoid-AHA blend, this single pad can help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, pores, and rough patches to reveal a more radiant and youthful complexion. Though they may seem pricey, Dr. Wood says they can be used once per week, meaning that a 30 pad supply can last upwards of six months.
What a reviewer says: “Honestly, the best product I’ve found for controlling acne and evening out my skin tone. I only use one pad weekly, and it lasts forever. Totally worth every penny!”
| Active Ingredient | Glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acids, Alpha-Ret |
| Size | 30 pads |
12
Best Exfoliator for Mature Skin With Hyperpigmentation
Peter Thomas Roth Pro Strength Niacinamide Discoloration Treatment
Pros
- Highly moisturizing
- Evens out skin tone and discoloration
- Antioxidant-rich formula prevents further skin damage
Cons
- Pricey
For those who struggle with hyperpigmentation, it is time to meet the power of kojic acid, a potent anti-oxidant that has become a buzzy skincare ingredient due to its incredible brightening and anti-aging properties. It works its exfoliating magic overnight— combined with tranexamic acid and moisturizing niacinamide—in this treatment that comes recommended by Dr. Spearman. “It targets uneven tone while you sleep,” she says.
What a reviewer says: “With each of my pregnancies, I got dark spots. Now in my 50s, they really make me look old! This cream works so well at reducing the dark spots and even moisturizes my skin. This is one of my favorite products of all my skin care products, not just Peter Thomas Roth, but every product I’ve ever tried!”
| Active Ingredient | Niacinamide, kojic acid, peptides |
| Size | 1.7 fl oz |
13
Best Exfoliator for Mature Skin With Dark Spots
La Roche-Posay Glycolic B5 Serum
Pros
- Suitable for all skin types
- Reduces the appearance of dark spots, sun spots, and melasma
- Soothes as it exfoliates
Cons
- Reviewers found that the formula oxidizes quickly if not properly sealed after each use
If PTR’s overnight treatment is slightly out of budget, Dr. Garshick offers this choice from drugstore available brand, La Roche-Posay for a more affordable alternative. It uses the same key ingredients—kojic acid and tranexamic acid—and adds glycolic acid, vitamin B5, and thermal spring water “to help soothe the skin.” She recommends this as a “good option for all skin types,” especially those concerned with dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
What a reviewer says: “Excellent product ! I developed hyperpigmentation on my hands because of sun rays while I drive car , I was thinking to have laser treatment but I don’t not if I am eligible for this treatment or not, story short I started to use this serum, my hand dark pigmentation is getting lighter and lighter every day!!!!”
| Active Ingredient | Glycolic acid |
| Size | 1 fl oz |
14
Best Exfoliating Toner for Mature Skin
Medik8 Press & Glow
Dr. Garshick recommends adding this exfoliating PHA toner to your routine if you are looking to brighten while exfoliating. “I especially love that it is lightweight and won’t leave the skin feeling dry,” she adds of its formula which also includes prickly pear, aloe vera and acai extracts. Gentle enough to use up to twice a day, she also recommends the toner to use before applying skincare and makeup.
What a reviewer says: “My skin barrier is compromised and so my skin is sensitive. I cannot use retinol, glycolic acid, niacinimide or alpahhydroxy acids. I was hesitant to try this product, but my skin was getting so clogged with little bumps and dry patches. I used this one night before bed, let it dry and then slathered my face with Avene moisturizer. The next day my skin was shedding the dry patches and the bumps were practically gone. I waited one week to let my skin do its thing and then started using it once a day then twice a day. I have had zero issues and my skin looks great.”
| Active Ingredient | PHAs |
| Size | 6.7 fl oz |
Should you exfoliate mature skin?
A resounding yes, per all our dermatologists. “As we age, skin cell turnover naturally slows, leading to a duller complexion, uneven tone, and rougher texture,” says Dr. Garshick. “Gentle exfoliation can help restore a smoother, brighter appearance and enhance the effectiveness of hydrating or collagen-boosting treatments.”
How often should you exfoliate mature skin?
Overexfoliating is a real concern, our dermatologists warn. “Start slowly, once a week, and increase to 2–3 times weekly if tolerated,” Dr. Spearman tells us. “Pairing exfoliation with a nourishing moisturizer helps protect and hydrate the skin after treatment,” she adds.
“Always apply exfoliants to clean, dry skin and remember to still moisturize the skin to support the skin barrier,” Dr. Garshick says.
How to choose the best exfoliator for mature skin?
Opt for chemical exfoliators over physical ones. “Chemical exfoliants also contain ingredients that may provide additional benefits like treating discoloration, such as lactic acid, glycolic acid and mandelic acid or helping to prevent breakouts as with salicylic acid,” says Dr. Garshick. She warns also that physical exfoliators can be too abrasive and create microtears in mature skin, so if you prefer a scrub, look for finely milled ingredients like rice starch or powder.
Look for AHAs. To avoid irritation, “gentle chemical exfoliation with AHAs (like lactic acid or glycolic acid) or enzymes is often best for mature skin,” Dr. Spearman says. These water-soluble acids help remove dead skin cells and promote cell turnover, which leads to more collagen production and smoother, more even skin.
Add in moisturizing ingredients. Even the most gentle chemical exfoliants can be drying on mature skin, so formulas with moisturizing or soothing ingredients is what Dr. Wood recommends. “Niacinamide helps prevent redness and irritation while squalene moisturizes,” she says. “Hyaluronic acid and ceramides really help to prevent the drying effects chemical exfoliators often produce,” she adds.
Know your skin’s needs. Overall, exfoliating can help brighten your complexion, even out texture, and help your skincare penetrate. If you are looking for more than that, specific ingredients can help. Those looking to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles should opt for a formula with a retinoid. While those who are looking to reduce discoloration or hyperpigmentation might choose one featuring kojic acid.
How we chose
We received recommendations of the best exfoliators for mature skin from four different board-certified dermatologists across the country. Dr. Emily Wood, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology in Marble Falls and Austin, TX, Brendan Camp, M.D., a double board-certified in dermatology and dermatopathology at MDCS Dermatology in New York City, Dara Spearman, M.D., F.F.A.D., a board-certified dermatologist at Radiant Dermatology in Indiana, and Marisa Garshick, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York City, all contributed their favorite exfoliators that they use on their own clients.
As a writer with mature skin, I also contributed my own expertise and my own favorite—which aligned with the recommendations of our professional dermatologists. Last, I pored through countless reviews to make sure the doctor-recommended products saw similar results on real-life users.
Why trust us
For more than 70 years, Prevention has been a leading provider of trustworthy health information, empowering readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our editors interview medical experts to help guide our health-focused product selections. Additionally, Prevention also examines hundreds of reviews—and often conducts personal testing done by our staff—to help you make informed decisions.
Charlotte Lewis Finigan is the Senior Commerce Editor at Prevention. After a decade of working in Hollywood writers’ rooms and contributing pop culture writing to ETOnline, Bustle, TVGuide, and CBS, she underwent bariatric surgery and changed her focus to health and wellness. Previously, Charlotte was the Sexual Health & Wellness Writer for Refinery 29. There, she wrote and edited shopping content about new wellness trends, beauty launches, and sex-positive products. She currently lives in Brooklyn with her girlfriend—and the love of her life, her senior dog, Rory. All three can typically be found perusing the Fort Green farmer’s market for fresh produce or curling up on the couch to watch Survivor.
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