20 Best Exfoliators for Oily Skin to Get Squeaky Clean Pores
Let’s admit that picking out the best exfoliators for oily skin is not an easy task! That’s because oily skin peeps often have to deal with acne, an unflattering sheen, breakouts, clogged pores, extreme greasiness, whiteheads, and blackheads. Hence, they are consistently looking out for the best solution to get rid of them from the wide range of skincare products available on the market. And, it is this miraculous beauty product named “exfoliator” that has the power to turn your skin into the dream that you have been wishing for. However, we often overlook their benefits when it comes to our daily skincare routine. Beyonce’s dermatologist, Dr. Harold Lancer, has shed light on proper exfoliating technique, saying, “The outer layer of skin in both men and women is called the epidermal stratum corneum. You need to exfoliate that before it can even tolerate proper cleansing.” And by using the best exfoliator, you can facilitate cleansing your skin and enhance the penetration of active ingredients from serums and creams.
Skin exfoliators can be your savior on dull skin days for their powerful components that deep cleanse your pores, unclog them, remove dead skin cells, and leave your skin smooth and supple. If you follow the usage properly, exfoliators will make the skin even more prepared for the religious skincare routine right after that. It will make the serums and moisturizers work better on your skin to improve your overall appearance.
Clinique Exfoliating Scrub
Neutrogena Skin Perfecting Daily Liquid Facial Exfoliant
Mario Badescu Skincare Glycolic Grapefruit Cleansing Lotion
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser
First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub
Sephora Collection Brightening Dual Exfoliator
Clean & Clear Oil-Free Deep Action Exfoliating Scrub
MAJESTIC PURE Himalayan Scrub
Era Organics Revive Microdermabrasion
In This Article
20 Best Exfoliators for Oily Skin
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1Best for Acne-prone Skin
Clinique Exfoliating Scrub
Oily skin people often hesitate to opt for a scrub because of the fear that the product shall puncture pustular acne and lead to aggravation of the latter. However, the Clinique exfoliating scrub has been specially formulated to battle this fear with ease. The scrub contains a considerable amount of salicylic acid which is known for its potent exfoliating properties. However, the product does not deprive the skin of its natural oils and maintains the required level of moisture. This super gentle exfoliating scrub also helps to ease fine lines, tighten the skin, and boost better assimilation of serums, thereby gradually improving skin health.
- Brightens complexion
- Improves skin luster
- Combats sun damage
- Reverses hyperpigmentation
- Content tend to solidify soon
Neutrogena Skin Perfecting Daily Liquid Facial Exfoliant
A gentle liquid exfoliant that de-flakes tough skin without causing redness, unclogs pores without making them susceptible to further accumulation of sebum, dirt and grime, and softens tough skin creases by effortlessly combating excess shine is this product by Neutrogena. It is designed with skin-friendly ingredients like glycolic and citric acid that help to reduce discoloration and reverse sun damage. Moreover, the product helps to fight stubborn freckles, and age spots providing a brighter-looking, smoother, luminous complexion. To note more, after having used the product for a few days, our in-house skincare experts could feel a reduction in the number of skin zits, a massive improvement in skin texture, and their dullness fading away.
- Pampering texture
- Refreshes dull skin
- Vegan
- Smoothes skin texture
- May cause burns in rare cases
Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant
Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting exfoliator is one of the best exfoliators for oily skin and can be a holy grail in your beauty stash to remove dead skin cells if applied properly! The 2% BHA liquid exfoliant or salicylic acid gently exfoliates the upper layer of your skin by removing blackheads, unclogging the large pores, and exfoliating the dead cells. Other than these, the unique composition ensures that it takes care of wrinkles, aging, and redness without stripping off the natural oil.
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
- Travel-friendly
- Not good for sensitive skin
Mario Badescu Skincare Glycolic Grapefruit Cleansing Lotion
If nasty acne is making your skin look dull and lifeless, give this cleansing lotion by Mario Badescu Skincare a try. It is infused with power-packed ingredients, including glycolic acid, grapefruit extract, and aloe vera that soothe the skin intensely and repair it from within. When these ingredients come together, they make for a potent formula that combats a plethora of skin issues, including dullness, signs of aging, blackheads, and dark spots. Once you start using this lotion, you’ll add magic back to your skin and get Cleopatra-like skin.
- Offers gentle exfoliation
- Soothes the skin
- Treats dullness
- Prevents breakouts
- Refreshing scent
- Might not be suitable for people with skin sensitivities
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser
What makes La-Roche Posay a loving brand is its top-notch formulations that address various skin concerns and offer desired results. This gel cleanser is another high-end product by the brand that is made with salicylic acid, glycerin, and lipo-hydroxy acid to clean the skin without leaving it dry or irritated. The inclusion of glycerin makes this gel cleanser a safe pick for people with dry skin, as glycerin acts as a natural humectant and seals moisture into the skin. Whether you have acne or dryness, it helps combat both with its effective formula. An added perk is that it's fragrance-free and oil-free, making it a perfect pick for people with oily and sensitive skin.
- Unscented
- Allergy-tested
- Non-comedogenic
- Paraben-free
- Faulty packaging
M3 Naturals Charcoal Scrub
M3 Naturals Charcoal Exfoliating Scrub is one of those good exfoliators for oily skin that take care of not only your face but also your body. Loaded with collagen and stem cells, the gentle product scrubs away dead skin cells, toxins, and cellulite for a natural glow! The strong exfoliator comes with the goodness of coconut oil and charcoal granules that ensures a spa-like experience in the comfort of your home restoring your natural skin glow.
- Balances skin pH
- Cruelty-free
- Best for sensitive skin
- Don’t spread easily on the body
Aveeno Positively Positively Radiant Brightening Scrub
Aveeno Positively Radiant Brightening Scrub is a one-stop face exfoliator for oily skin that helps your skin achieve an even skin tone and smooth texture. The product removes impurities, dead cells, and excessive oil and makes the skin brighter and shinier with time. The gentle scrub’s key ingredients are derived from soy extract and natural granules that ensure squeaky clean skin by removing dirt, grime, and bacteria. The non-comedogenic feature of the product further ensures a youthful glow without infusing harsh chemicals into your skin.
- Soap-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Free of parabens
- Too slimy
First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub
First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub is a blessing in disguise for the ones who are struggling to get rid of the stubborn keratosis pilaris. With 10% of potent alpha hydroxy acid, the product claims to be the best scrub for oily skin. Introduce the goodness of glycolic and lactic acid to your skincare routine for smoother and glossier skin, as these are loaded with chemical and physical solutions that scrub off all the rough bumps, clogged pores, uneven skin tone, and even ‘chicken skin’.
- No microplastic
- Free of paraben
- Cruelty-free
- Strong smell
Sephora Collection Brightening Dual Exfoliator
For skin that is impoverished due to dullness and flare-ups, and is constantly in search of a messiah product that reduces photo discoloration and treats visible and blind zits, this dual enzyme exfoliator by Sephora acts quite as the “knight in shining armor”. This exfoliating solution reduces visible blemishes and stubborn freckles and helps to improve the texture of the skin, thereby providing a naturally radiant finish. The product is also best suited for oily and combination skin as it helps to unclog congested pores and tighten pore size. Lastly, it provides a luminous, brightened complexion and works religiously toward improving natural radiance.
- Reduces discoloration
- Removes tough dead skin
- Non-itchy
- Gluten-free
- Tends to leave patches on skin
Clean & Clear Oil-Free Deep Action Exfoliating Scrub
Clean & Clear Oil-Free Deep Action Exfoliating Facial Scrub has been the savior for many girls in their teenage years to get smooth skin. Loaded with cooling ingredients, this has proven to be one of the top-rated exfoliators for oily skin and it also claims to cleanse your clogged pores while removing the dirt, grime, and oil that cause acne and blackheads. The gentle formula of the product clears the surface of your skin with the help of an oil-free micro-scrubber that refreshes your skin for a smooth and glowy appearance.
- Value-for-money
- Deep clean
- Budget-friendly
- Tingling feeling
MAJESTIC PURE Himalayan Scrub
MAJESTIC PURE Himalayan Salt Body Scrub is one exfoliating cleanser for oily skin that not only cleanses your pores but also moisturises them at the same time. The body scrub is loaded with the goodness of lychee oil, Himalayan salt, and almond oil that ensure the therapeutic detox your skin has been craving. The scrub infuses hydration into your dry skin without stripping away the natural oil from your face.
- Free of additives
- Convenient packaging
- Cruelty-free
- Crumbly
Palmer's Coconut Oil Formula Coconut Sugar Facial Scrub
Palmer's Coconut Oil Formula Coconut Sugar Facial Scrub needs no introduction for its effectiveness when it comes to getting squeaky clean pores. The facial scrub promises to gently scrub off all your dead cells while stimulating blood flow that facilitates a brighter, fresher-looking complexion. With the goodness of key ingredients like coconut water, chamomile, shea, and cocoa butter, this exfoliant for oily skin hydrates your face by balancing moisture. Rejuvenating your skin has never been this easy!
- Good for sensitive skin
- Revitalises skin
- Smells heavenly
- Packaging could be better
Era Organics Revive Microdermabrasion
Era Organics Revive Microdermabrasion is one of the best exfoliators for oily skin, and it naturally pulls out the impurities from the upper layer of your skin for a youthful glow. The scrubber helps clean your pores effectively so that the blackheads in your skin don’t result in acne. With the nourishing properties of manuka honey and walnut, this exfoliant ensures microdermabrasion from the comfort of your home. This exfoliator for oily acne-prone skin is also best to reduce fine lines, and wrinkles, for a youthful glow.
- Premium ingredients
- Doesn’t irritate the skin
- Brightens skin tone
- Not for sensitive skin
Neutrogena Bright Boost Resurfacing Exfoliator
Neutrogena Bright Boost Resurfacing Exfoliator for oily skin doesn’t disappoint you with its effective formula. The exfoliator is loaded with the goodness of glycolic acid, and mandelic AHAs for a gentle strip off of the dirt, grim, and blackheads giving you radiant skin. The micro face polish brightens up the face in the very first use for a smooth facial surface. Get visibly improved skin facilitated by uniquely formulated premium ingredients that will in no way harm your skin!
- Alcohol-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist-tested
- Overpowering smell
Garnier SkinActive Exfoliating Face Scrub
Garnier SkinActive Exfoliating Face Scrub is undoubtedly one of the top-rated exfoliators for oily acne-prone skin that is dealing with multiple other issues. The active key ingredients present in the scrub unclog the pores while gently exfoliating the upper layer for smoother skin and a shinier appearance. The scrub comes with salicylic acid and is derived from natural ingredients like green tea extract for an unparalleled experience. Get your hands on one of the best exfoliators for oily skin that you will not regret stocking up on!
- No paraben
- Reduces the appearance of pores
- Little goes a long way
- Unpleasant scent
Paula's Choice SKIN PERFECTING 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant
Paula's Choice SKIN PERFECTING gel exfoliant is one good facial exfoliator that bestows your skin with the goodness of dermatologists' favorite acids like hyaluronic acid, and glycolic acid, along with many other natural ingredients like green tea, chamomile, aloe vera, etc. The non-abrasive exfoliator has the potency of 8% AHA gel that gently scrubs off the impurities in your skin and also ensures firmness as you age. The therapeutic properties of the organic ingredients ensure a soothing effect on your skin without infusing any harmful components.
- Travel-friendly
- Sustainable packaging
- Little goes a long way
- Not for sensitive skin
THRIVE Natural Energy Scrub for Men & Women
THRIVE Natural Energy Scrub for Men & Women is one natural exfoliating face wash for oily skin that promises to improve skin texture by unclogging the pores and preventing ingrown hair. The product is loaded with exotic ingredients like Costa Rican plant oil, and Arabica coffee grounds that help in boosting the skin's glow and restore radiance. The exfoliator comes with tiny granules made from natural ingredients like apricot, and walnut shells that give an effective physical-scrub-like effect when you apply it.
- Anti-fungal properties
- Anti-inflammatory
- Cruelty-free
- Strong smell
Lumin Exfoliating Rub for Men
Lumin Exfoliating Rub for Men is one of the effective face scrubs for men with oily skin that promises to get rid of dullness, blackheads, and dark spots from the very first use. With charcoal, licorice root, and activated charcoal, ditching the lifeless skin has never been this easier. The exfoliant further promotes faster regeneration to help the skin achieve a younger-looking appearance and a brighter complexion without any irritation. Be ready to admire your skin in front of the mirror!
- Smoothens the skin
- Reduces acne scars
- Doesn’t irritate
- Runny consistency
Clear Collective Exfoliating Jelly Cleanser
The Clear Collective Exfoliating Jelly Cleanser is one mighty strong exfoliant for the face and it comes with three cult-favorite acid components like AHA, BHA, and PHA that help remove even the stubborn patches, grim, oil, and dead cells for brighter skin tone. Experience the luxury of this cleanser that helps you get squeaky clean pores and a velvety soft feel all day, every day.
- No artificial colour
- Free of sulfate and parabens
- Works wonder on cystic acne
- Not for sensitive skin
MOTHER MADE Exfoliating Aqua Peel Gel
MOTHER MADE Exfoliating Aqua Peel Gel is one of those daily facial exfoliators that gently scrub off all your flaky, dry, and dull-looking skin for an instant dewy appearance. With the goodness of vitamin E, green tea, baobab tree extract, and hyaluronic acid, this Korean product is best known for giving a brighter complexion hassle-free. The cellulose fiber present in the product gently pulls out all the impurities present in the skin, leaving it further supple and smooth.
- Gentle acid peel
- Moisture-rich
- Vegan-friendly
- Clumpy when applied
That was all about the best exfoliators for oily skin. Now, let us run you through the reasons for investing in one.
Why Do I Need to Exfoliate?
You need to indulge in regular exfoliation to exfoliate your skin and smoothen uneven skin texture. Following are a few reasons to do so:
- The best face exfoliator for oily skin may help in promoting collagen production by stimulating your skin and enhancing blood circulation.
- It will relieve the pores of stubborn dirt, oil plugs, grime, and even ingrown hair, for clean, clear skin.
- It will keep your sebaceous glands in control and thereby help you to get rid of an oily sheen and greasiness.
- It will reveal clear and glowy skin.
- It will also help in promoting the elasticity of your skin.
- It will boost the skin renewal process.
- It will aid in enhancing the moisture level of your skin.
- It will facilitate deeper penetration of your skincare products.
After taking note of the above reasons, roll your eyes over to know the steps of using one in the right manner.
How Do You Exfoliate an Oily Face?
Following are the steps to follow to exfoliate your oily face and pave the way for clearer skin.
Step 1: Damp your face with warm water.
Step 2: Squeeze a little amount of face scrub or exfoliator of your choice.
Step 3: Massage your face in circular motions. Apply very little pressure and keep massaging for at least a minute.
Step 4: Make sure you scrub your T-zone area really well as your nose, forehead, and chin dead with a higher amount of oil production.
Step 5: Rinse thoroughly with warm or lukewarm water followed by cold water to tighten the opened pores.
Step 6: Pat dry with a clean microfibre towel.
Tada! You are done!
How to Choose the Right Exfoliator for Oily Skin?
Exfoliation is one of the most important parts for beauties with oily skin. To choose the best kind of exfoliator for our skin, we must know the types of exfoliators available.
Skin Type: Make sure you analyze your skin type and conditions thoroughly before splurging on any exfoliator for oily skin. For those with oily as well as sensitive skin types, must get their hands on a gentle, toxic-free exfoliator. Check whether you possess normal skin, combination skin, rough skin, or very flaky skin and accordingly invest in a high-grade exfoliator or scrub for oily skin. Basically, there are two types of exfoliators — physical exfoliators and chemical exfoliators, which we will be discussing below.
Types of exfoliators: There are two types of exfoliation — physical and chemical. Oily skin people may choose any exfoliator. But, if you ask which suits oily skin most, it could be subjective.
- Physical Exfoliants: A physical exfoliation consists of tiny granules and physical exfoliants that help remove the sebum, blackheads, whiteheads, grease, and dirt from your pores and the upper layer of your skin.
- Chemical Exfoliants: A chemical exfoliation is an amalgamation of chemicals, such as AHA, malic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and BHA that are often used to deep cleanse our pores without harming the upper layer of skin.
Texture: Ensure that you rely on a gentle exfoliant and soothing skincare products. An exfoliator with tiny granules will damage the upper layer of your skin.
Ingredients: Make sure you vouch for natural exfoliators that are infused with organic and active ingredients. A gentle exfoliator can boost skin cell turnover and pave the way for glowing skin. You can get your hands on the best exfoliator for oily skin that is enriched with the goodness of jojoba oil, chamomile extracts, tea tree oil, walnut shell powder, and lemon peel. These ingredients may help in getting rid of the dead skin build-up thereby help you achieve the glowy skin of your dreams.
Formula: A non-comedogenic product will be great as it will not allow the building of the product and further clogging of the pores. Secondly, the gentler the formula, the better. It should be free from artificial color, paraben, sulfate, and fragrances.
Exfoliating the upper layer of the skin must come under the top priorities on your skincare checklist! Exfoliators are those magical products that not only deeply cleanse the skin barrier but also strip off all the impurities that are hidden deep inside the pores. Do yourself a favor and add these best exfoliators for oily skin to your beauty stash for which your skin will thank you later!
FAQ's
Why Trust Pinkvilla
Anoushka, our skincare expert is whom you can always trust for some good skin-related advice. Lately, she is obsessing over skin exfoliators, and after putting in thorough research, trials, and tests, has curated this list of the best exfoliators for oily skin. According to her, these products are your savior on days when your skin looks dull. Amongst all, her personal favorite is the Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant which can be a holy grail in your beauty stash to remove dead skin cells. You can also check out the rest of her recommendations and rejuvenate your skin in a budget-friendly way!
Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!
Anoushka is certified in Professional Skincare and is a Mass Media (Journalism) graduate from Mumbai University. As a More
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