The 26 Best Exfoliators for Men

Guys have unique skin-care needs and should use high-quality products to protect their skin. Here are the 26 Best Exfoliators for Men.

Author:
In Partnership with Blu Atlas
Jan 6, 2023 11:50 PM EST

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From renewing cells to preventing blackheads by unclogging pores, exfoliation has an abundance of benefits for the skin. In a healthy skin-care routine, exfoliation is where the magic happens. Many guys wash their faces and use moisturizer but either skip the exfoliation step because it takes too long or because they don’t think it’s necessary. But that couldn’t be further from the truth.

Guys have unique skin-care needs and should be using high-quality products to treat and protect their skin. If the goal is ensuring your skin is as healthy as can be, then exfoliation is one of the most important aspects of skincare. Think of it as a workout for your skin – it maintains good health inside and out.

A man’s skin needs extra-deep cleaning. Exfoliating helps clear away the dead cells, bacteria, and impurities that cause problems for the skin. By removing that unwanted layer of dead skin, new, healthy cells have the opportunity to reach the skin’s surface. This type of skin-cell renewal keeps skin glowing and looking its best. What’s more, renewed, fresh skin is better able to receive other skin products. With regular exfoliation, products like moisturizers, serums, and other topical products will penetrate the skin and work more effectively.

Exfoliation has another key benefit for guys: shaving. Every guy wants a close, clean shave without annoying irritation, tiny nicks or ingrown hairs. Exfoliation makes the shaving process more efficient. By removing dead skin cells and making facial hair stand at attention, exfoliation helps prepare skin for the razor or electric shaver to do its work.

So, what types of exfoliators should you look for? There are essentially two kinds of exfoliators: physical and chemical. The difference is in the ingredients. Chemical exfoliators rely mostly on fruit acids or enzymes to remove dead skin and clogged pores, and they can penetrate deeply, not just rest on the top layer of the skin. Chemical exfoliants break down the “glue” in the skin that hangs on to these old, dead cells and allows them to be shed. Physical exfoliants use tiny particles, like jojoba beads, rice flour, sea salt or even ground apricot kernels to physically clear away dead skin. When these particles are gently massaged into the skin, dead skin cells are lifted and rinsed away.

Then there are exfoliators that use a combination of physical and chemical exfoliants. These products do double duty to create fresher skin and improve its overall appearance. While the word “chemical” may sound ominous, most chemical exfoliants contain naturally occurring compounds that promote better skin health.

Salicylic acid, for example, is one of the most popular chemical compounds in skincare. It comes from natural sources like wintergreen leaves and white willow bark. It works by gently softening the top layer of skin, making it easier to remove dead, shedding cells. Retinol, glycolic acid, alpha hydroxy acids, peptides and hydroquinone are other chemicals commonly found in skin-care products that promote the natural health and well-being of the skin.

But that’s not to say all ingredients are created equal. It’s important to avoid harmful chemicals in skincare that act as preservatives or as part of the fragrance. So many companies use phthalates in their products that it has become known as the “everywhere chemical.” It’s a manufactured compound that can be absorbed into the skin and can disrupt the body’s hormonal balance. Some studies have shown it can alter DNA integrity in human sperm. In short, read labels and stay clear of any products containing phthalates.

Now that we know a little more about why exfoliation is an important step in men’s skincare, let’s take a look at some of the best exfoliators for men.

Exfoliation: What’s Next?

Now that you have a complete list of exfoliants that can help you achieve the best skin possible, it’s essential to know how to use them. It’s always best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and read the label before use. Exfoliators can be used day or night – whichever works best for your routine. Many skin experts recommend exfoliating two to three times per week, but you can undoubtedly exfoliate more if you think you need to.

How will you know if you’re overdoing it? If you’re exfoliating too harshly or too frequently, your skin will send you signals. It may feel too dry or tight, or even look slightly irritated. If this happens, it’s best to cut back on exfoliation in your skin-care routine or take a break for a week or so. Remember that exfoliation aims to nourish skin and restore it to optimum health, not strip it of all its moisture.

Start with a clean, damp face. Simply rinsing your face with warm water will likely be enough in the mornings, but at night you may want to wash with a mild cleanser to sweep away the day’s dirt and grime. Then apply a nickel-size amount of your exfoliator of choice into your hand. Some products need to be activated with water, so make sure to read the label for directions.

Gently rub the exfoliator into the face with circular motions. Remember that pressure is important. You don’t have to scrub the skin vigorously: the exfoliator does all the heavy lifting for you. Massage for up to 60 seconds and then pat dry with a clean towel. Never rub the skin with a towel – a gentle pat is all you need. Now you’re ready for the next step in your skin-care routine. If you’re shaving, this will be the best time to get that clean, close shave. Skin is smooth, hair follicles are straighter and softer, and you’re ready for whatever shaving technique suits you best.

Because your skin is now super-clean, it’s usually best to follow your exfoliation step with a good-quality moisturizer. Regardless of your skin type, where you live, the time of year or the weather, dermatologists and skin-care experts recommend applying sunscreen every day. Even on cloudy days, up to 80% of the sun’s damaging rays break through the clouds and damage skin cells. Once the sun’s rays penetrate the skin, they cause damage to the cells underneath, resulting in hyper-pigmentation (red or dark spots), fine lines and wrinkles, and even skin cancer.

Always choose a sunscreen that has broad-spectrum coverage and apply it at least 30 minutes before going outdoors. For sensitive skin, look for a sunscreen containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are physical compounds that protect skin from the sun, and are a good choice for people with sensitive skin.

1. Blu Atlas Exfoliating Scrub

Blu Atlas Exfoliating Scrub does the tough job of removing dirt, oil and grime, but leaves the skin soft, supple and smooth. Powerhouse brand Blu Atlas doesn’t use harmful chemicals that cause skin irritation. Instead, their formula relies upon well-tested and vetted ingredients like hibiscus and bamboo. Dead skin cells get washed away, and jojoba oil, rich in vitamins A, E and D, adds nourishing moisture back in. Best of all, it is made with 98% naturally sourced ingredients.

This is a great scrub for blemish-prone and sensitive skin. Bamboo is an antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory ingredient, so it gently calms and cleanses inflamed skin, without harsh chemicals. It’s easy on the skin but highly effective in helping you get a healthy-looking complexion.

[$25; bluatlas.com]

2. May Lindstrom The Honey Mud

This face scrub from Cremo deep cleans without drying out the skin. Its base is a physical exfoliant of crushed walnut shells and colloidal oatmeal to draw out impurities trapped deep in the pores. It naturally protects the skin by helping restore moisture.

Cremo’s line of men’s grooming products contains fragrances that many reviewers say are masculine but not too sporty. Their products are specifically formulated to help guys get the closest shave possible, so this scrub promises the best barber-grade shave experience after use.

[$8.99; cremocompany.com]

3. Cremo Exfoliating Face Scrub

[$8.99; cremocompany.com]

4. Osmia Black Clay Facial Soap

Men have thicker facial skin that’s more prone to oiliness and breakouts because of their testosterone levels and the density of their hair follicles. This exfoliation one-two punch is a combination of daily Black Clay Facial Soap and a Detox Exfoliating Mask to be used once a week. The Black Clay Facial Soap is a gentle exfoliator with the anti-inflammatory benefits of minerals from Dead Sea mud and black clay.

The Detox Exfoliating Mask has activated charcoal and finely ground walnut shells to help prevent ingrown hairs and deeply cleanse the skin, making it one of the best exfoliators for men. It also contains honey and raw cacao, ensuring a soft, supple finish rather than a tight, dry sensation.

[$24; osmiaorganics.com]

5. Eminence Organics Strawberry Rhubarb Dermafoliant

This “dermafoliant” (same as an exfoliant) from Eminence Organics helps guys achieve a radiant complexion. It’s a powder-based formula of rice powder that absorbs oil while lactic and salicylic acids remove dead skin cells. It’s activated by mixing a small amount of the powder with water. The strawberries and rhubarb infuse the skin with antioxidants. This gentle exfoliator won’t irritate the skin, so it’s suitable for daily use.

[$33; amazon.com]

6. Buttah Tea Tree & Aloe Exfoliating Scrub

Buttah is a company focused on skin care for melanin-rich skin tones. Their Tea Tree & Aloe Exfoliating Scrub is an excellent choice for treating, cleansing and exfoliating blemish-prone skin. Kaolin clay acts as a detoxifying treatment and absorbs excess oils, while tea tree oil helps clean the skin.

Natural eco-beads remove dead skin cells and aloe vera works to calm and tone the skin. This hydrating and soothing formula nourishes skin and will leave your face feeling smooth every time.

[$22; amazon.com]

7. The Body Shop Seaweed Pore-Cleansing Exfoliator

This cleanser, scrub and exfoliator does it all without irritating skin. It visibly reduces the size of pores and leaves skin feeling refreshed and smooth. Seaweed may sound like an unusual choice for a skin-care ingredient, but it’s packed with vitamins C and B12, potassium, and iron, all of which are nourishing for the skin.

This cleansing exfoliator has a list of power-packed ingredients that get delivered with the help of tiny jojoba beads and olive stone seaweed (which is also known as Irish moss, and is harvested from West Cork, Ireland). This formula is vegetarian, and reviewers love the fresh, clean scent.

[$17.10; amazon.com]

8. La Roche-Posay Ultra Fine Scrub

La Roche-Posay’s French drugstore formula scrub is made with pumice particles that provide physical exfoliation. Reviewers with sensitive skin say the fine grains are not too harsh on the skin. It exfoliates and refreshes the complexion with antioxidant thermal spring water. The light, refreshing scent is ideal for men who don’t want a strong, overpowering fragrance.

[$18.99; amazon.com]

9. Elina Organics Organic Face Scrub

Elina Organics Organic Face Scrub is full of natural ingredients that help improve skin and is one of the best exfoliators for men. If blackheads are a concern, this formula will gently remove dead skin cells with tiny particles of crushed walnut shells.

The fresh and hydrating extracts of rosehips, burdock root, honey and green tea will leave your face feeling fresh and soft without over-drying the skin. Reviewers love the gentle, soothing scent of this face scrub.

[$20; elinaorganics.com]

10. Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey 2-in-1 Face Scrub & Cleanser

Mielle Organics Pomegranate and Honey Face Scrub and Cleanser works to clean skin and exfoliate deep into the pores with walnut shell flour. It ensures skin is more radiant and evens out skin tone, leaving you with skin that is smooth, soft to the touch and in healthier condition.

This face scrub and cleanser contains vitamins A and E to protect and restore skin. A little goes a long way, and with daily use, your face will be glowing and flawless.

[$9.99; mielleorganics.com]

11. Neutrogena Skin Balancing Gel Cleanser

If you have sensitive skin and have been reluctant to try an exfoliant because it would be too harsh, this might be the best choice for you. It’s gentle enough even for daily use. The key ingredients are PHAs, which are a type of polyhydroxy acids that don’t cause skin irritation.

A relatively new chemical exfoliant ingredient in skin care, PHAs have larger molecules than other beta hydroxy acids. They work by not penetrating as deeply into the skin as other acids, so they’re less likely to cause redness or irritation. However, they’re still an effective exfoliating ingredient. This gel formula will clean the skin and remove the buildup that causes dullness, dryness and blemishes.

[$7.97; amazon.com]

12. Farmhouse Fresh One Fine Day Flawless Face Polish

This shea-sugar cleanser and exfoliator from Farmhouse Fresh Organics and Naturals works well for guys with sensitive skin, rosacea or dryness. It’s a whipped micro polisher that contains rich shea butter to replenish lost moisture without clogging pores and causing blemishes.

This scrub from well-known all-natural brand Farmhouse Fresh won’t leave your face feeling overly dry or tight. Plus, it’s delightfully scented with grapefruit and natural citrus oils, so you’ll feel invigorated all day long.

[$28; amazon.com]

13. Coola Pacific Polish Gentle Sea Salt Facial Exfoliator

With ultra-fine, mineral-rich sea salt exfoliators, fruit acids and moisturizers, the Coola Pacific Polish Gentle Sea Salt Facial Exfoliator has something for every skin type. It gently removes dead skin cells and leaves skin more refined.

Papaya extract helps purify and decongest blocked pores, and a blend of Ayurvedic oils, including coconut and sunflower oil, helps nourish the skin. Coola’s Gentle Sea Salt Facial Exfoliator will leave your skin dewy, soft and perfectly primed for a clean shave.

[$32; nordstrom.com]

14. Boscia Exfoliating Gel Peel

This chemical and physical exfoliator is a lightweight gel that works as a peel to sweep away dead skin. It contains multi-fruit alpha-hydroxy acids that bond to the skin and penetrate pores, so all oil, dirt, toxins and bacteria will get gently washed away.

Boscia’s formula also has pomegranate enzymes that naturally brighten skin, and jojoba and willowherb to calm skin inflammation and reduce redness. Skin will be cleansed, nourished and radiant if you use this product regularly.

[$34; boscia.com]

15. Kiehl’s Age Defender Dual-Action Exfoliating Cleanser

From Kiehl’s line of men’s grooming products, this face cleanser and exfoliator is a great choice for guys looking to reduce signs of aging in their skin. The Age Defender Dual-Action Exfoliating Cleanser contains Moroccan lava clay and phytic acid, which remove dead skin cells and nourish the healthy skin cells underneath.

Kiehl’s Age Defender Dual-Action Exfoliating Cleanser also helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and improves skin’s overall texture, so it’s a great choice for men with mature, aging skin.

[$28; kiehls.com]

16. Elemis Blackcurrant Jelly Exfoliator

It sounds delicious, but it’s not for eating! Elemis’ exfoliator is a gentle, antioxidant-rich scrub made for all skin types. It uses crushed blackcurrants to remove dead skin and clean clogged pores. With black seed oil, which is rich in omega-6 vitamins, and grape seed oil for nourishing the skin, this exfoliator will clean your skin while protecting its natural moisture barrier.

The benefits of the jelly-like formula are moisture-enhancement properties for the skin. Moisturized skin looks better, feels better and protects the skin from drying out.

[$33; elemis.com]

17. Aveeno Positively Radiant Skin Brightening Daily Scrub

If you’re looking to reveal brighter and more radiant skin, look no further than Aveeno’s Skin Brightening Daily Face Scrub. With lots of nourishing natural oils like jojoba and soy, this face scrub and wash gently exfoliates, removing the day’s grime, dirt and oil, and leaving behind soft, supple skin.

Its ingredients are specifically formulated to rebalance your skin’s natural ecosystem so you won’t be too dry or too oily. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by how radiant your skin can look. This scrub is gentle and can be used daily.

[$5.62; amazon.com]

18. Clinique for Men Face Scrub

Clinique been in the skin-care business for nearly 50 years, so they know a thing or two about the profession. This lightly scented scrub has a creamy base and contains tiny silica beads to physically exfoliate dead skin. The water-based formula has mild cleansing agents to keep skin clear of bacteria and impurities.

Clinique for Men Face Scrub is suitable for all skin types, so even if you have sensitive skin this exfoliant is a good choice. It’s a great pre-shave step and will help you get the close shave you want without the annoying ingrown hairs or irritation.

[$21.99; amazon.com]

19. Jack Black Energizing Scrub

Jack Black Energizing Scrub is a pre-shave cleanser and facial scrub that will energize the skin. This invigorating formula with vitamin C and mint will wake you up in the mornings and help prepare skin for a close, clean shave. It unclogs pores, prevents ingrown hairs and minimizes shaving irritation while protecting the skin’s natural barrier with gentle moisturizers.

[$30; getjackblack.com]

20. Lumin Exfoliating Rub

Lumin’s Exfoliating Rub is formulated to remove impurities and dead skin cells, leaving skin soft and smooth. It starts with charcoal to buff away dead skin and contains rosemary leaf extract, which has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Also included is green tea extract, which helps nourish skin and protect it from free radicals. Green tea is loaded with natural antioxidants that balance and restore the skin’s health. Antioxidants play an important role in protecting skin from sun damage and air pollution.

[$15.20; luminskin.com]

21. Brickell Men’s Renewing Face Scrub

This scrub exfoliates and has an invigorating, fresh scent. Brickell’s formula starts with a base of jojoba beads, coffee extract and pumice to slough off dead skin. Great for guys with any skin type, the scrub relies on tiny particles to thoroughly clean the skin and is a great pre-shave product for guys with thick facial hair. Whiskers will be lifted up and ready for a clean, close shave.

[$22; amazon.com]

22. Naturopathica Oat Cleansing Facial Polish

For a gentler scrub that exfoliates lightly, Naturopathica Oat Cleansing Facial Polish has natural ingredients to leave skin nourished and firm. This cleanser and exfoliator contains soothing oat, which cleanses the skin with natural properties called saponins, and calms and soothes inflammation. It also physically exfoliates and removes impurities with tiny jojoba beads. Skin will be nourished but not irritated with this mild exfoliant.

[$62; naturopathic.com]

23. Lancer’s The Method: Polish

Developed by a Beverly Hills dermatologist, Lancer’s product line is pricey but effective, and is revered by Hollywood celebrities. This exfoliating skin polish contains quartz crystals and pumpkin and pomegranate enzymes for nourishment and antioxidants.

Lancer’s belief is that exfoliation is the most important first step in skincare, because cell turnover allows subsequent products to penetrate deeper and work better. Reviewers agree that their skin is left feeling softer and smoother after using this product.

[$80; nordstrom.com]

24. Trish McEvoy Beta Hydroxy Daily Exfoliator

It doesn’t get any easier to exfoliate than this. If grooming time is limited and you’re looking for a handy, simple product, look no further than Trish McEvoy’s Daily Exfoliator. These single-use, fragrance-free pads are soaked with salicylic acid to dissolve dead skin cells that make skin look dull and cause annoying blemishes.

These pads are super-easy to use; no rinsing required. Just gently wipe over your face and throw away. They're great for travel or for any man who is looking for a quick and simple exfoliator without any hassle.

[$75; nordstrom.com]

25. Dermalogica Daily Superfoliant

Dermalogica’s Daily Microfoliant is powder-based and activated with a small amount of water. It is gentle yet effective due to its microparticles of activated charcoal. This product will help keep skin balanced and draw impurities out of the skin.

To restore skin to its natural balance, it contains hard-working enzymes and alpha hydroxy acids. The skin’s natural barrier will be stronger and healthier, fighting off free radicals and leading to fewer signs of aging.

[$19.50; dermalogica.com]

26. Scotch Porter Exfoliating Face Scrub

Scotch Porter’s Exfoliating Face Scrub removes dead, unwanted skin cells with pomegranate enzymes. One of the best exfoliators for men, it’s a great choice for oily or combination skin. This scrub has effective cleanser and exfoliator that deeply cleans pores without leaving skin feeling tight and dry. Reviewers love the clean, refreshing scent of this product.

[$11.39; amazon.com]