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Here’s the truth: Regular exfoliation is a non-negotiable if you want smoother, brighter skin—and the best exfoliating pads make it almost too easy to check off your list. Once known for being harsh and stingy, today’s exfoliators are far gentler, coupling a wide range of actives—from hydrating polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) to more potent blends with salicylic or glycolic acid, and even fruit enzymes of all sorts—with skin-soothing ingredients (such as allantoin and cica) that cater to every skin type and concern. Whether you’re tackling dullness, breakouts, rough texture, or dark spots, these pre-soaked pads sweep away dead skin cells and deep-cleanse pores in a few swipes—especially convenient when you’re traveling or simply running late.
Our Top Exfoliating Pads
- Best Overall: Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel, $94
- Best for Sensitive Skin: Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads, $69
- Best for Oily Skin: Medicube Zero Pore Pad, $19
- Best for Uneven Texture: SkinMedica Even & Correct Brightening Treatment Pads, $60
Frequently Asked QuestionsLargeChevron
- Are exfoliating pads good for your skin?
- How many times a week should you use exfoliating pads?
- Meet the experts
- How we test and review products
- Our staff and testers
From gentle, glow-boosting formulas for sensitive and dry skin to expert-level exfoliators for oily and acne-prone skin, these hard-working exfoliators are worth swiping into your routine.
Best Overall: Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel
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Dr. Dennis Gross
Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel
Amazon
Nordstrom
Sephora
Allure editor in chief Jessica Cruel applying the Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel
Jessica Cruel
Why it’s worth it: Dr. Dennis Gross’s Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel is the peel pad—the icon that launched in 2000, offering an at-home alternative to in-office chemical peels. What makes them a standout? “These peel pads contain both alpha hydroxy and beta hydroxy acids to improve the appearance of pores, radiance, fine lines, texture, and tone,” Brendan Camp, MD, a New York-based double board-certified dermatologist, told Allure.
It simplifies the exfoliating process to just two beginner-friendly pads, with step one soaked in five exfoliating acids (including glycolic, lactic, and salicylic) to sweep away dead skin, smooth texture, and clear pores. To further boost firmness and reduce irritation, step two neutralizes the acids (a.k.a. it brings your skin’s pH to its normal level) and infuses the skin with calming ingredients, such as green tea extract. After following these steps, our testers say it delivers that fresh-from-a-facial glow in just a few minutes. (The brand recommends applying both pads in circular motions until they feel dry and waiting two minutes in between steps.)
And if oiliness and hyperpigmentation are prime concerns, “it's a tried-and-true product that works especially well for people with oily skin or those prone to breakouts," Heather Woolery-Lloyd, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami, previously said. Plus, for skin that can handle higher concentrations of actives, or leans super sensitive, Dr. Dennis Gross also offers Extra Strength and Ultra Gentle versions—because exfoliation isn’t one-size-fits-all.
Tester feedback from editor in chief Jessica Cruel
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“Whenever someone asks me the best peel for beginners, I always point them to Dr. Dennis Gross. His portfolio of exfoliating pads comes in many varieties that suit first-timers and experienced pros. This Universal Peel sits right in the middle. Step 1 contains the exfoliating AHA and BHA acids. The second step is the neutralizer. The first part gives a slight tingle, and the second step is a true burn that lasts about 30 seconds. The glowy skin results are instant. I love that they come individually wrapped, which means they will never dry out. Plus, they are easy to throw in your toiletry bag for travel.” —Jessica Cruel, editor in chief
More to know
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- Key ingredients: Step 1: glycolic acid, lactic acid, malic acid, salicylic acid, witch hazel, green tea; Step 2: ascorbic acid, retinol, vitamin E, resveratrol, green tea, adenosine
- Who it’s for: people with dark spots, uneven skin, or dullness
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Size: 5 count, 30 count, or 60 count
Best for Sensitive Skin: Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads
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Elemis
Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads
Amazon
Allure managing editor Alessandra Foresto applying the Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads
Alessandra Foresto
Why it’s worth it: We've all been stung by exfoliators, which is why Elemis's Best of Beauty-winning Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads are a breath of fresh air, especially if you have sensitive or dry skin. For starters, they're soaked with lactic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid with a larger molecular size compared to other AHAs, meaning they only exfoliate the upper layers of your skin . (Whereas, glycolic acid is the smallest AHA and can more easily penetrate to deeper layers, but opens itself up to higher chances of irritation.) And at a very gentle 1% concentration of the active, plus moisturizing glycerin and shea butter, these pads can even be used daily. (We will note that these pads contain fragrance, so keep that in mind.) The pad’s dual-sided texture adds another layer of exfoliation, with a textured side to provide light physical exfoliation as you glide it over the face and neck, and a softer side to smooth and soothe.
To further assist cell turnover, the brand's proprietary Tri-Enzyme Technology, a blend of papain, protease, and subtilisin enzymes, dissolves the keratin proteins that bind skin cells together and the proteins found in sebum and sweat. Meaning, all of these actives help reveal brighter, smoother, and downright glowing skin over time.
Tester feedback from managing editor Alessandra Foresto
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“I'm new to using exfoliating pads, but lately my eczema breakouts are leaving hyperpigmentation behind almost immediately, so I'm in need of a little more regular exfoliation. I had tried a few different exfoliating toners but hadn't seen a significant change until I started using these. My facialist commented on how much better my dark spots looked after a month of use. They don't sting, smell strongly, or leave my face feeling dry.” —Alessandra Foresto, managing editor
Tester feedback from commerce editor Madison San Miguel
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“I usually stay clear of exfoliating pads because most formulas can feel harsh on my dry to very dry skin. This is one of very few formulas that didn’t make my skin feel ‘tight’ or burned immediately after. Instead, it surprisingly felt soothing and hydrating, likely from the addition of glycerin and shea butter in the formula, even when I’ve used it repeatedly in a row. Though it suggests twice daily, my skin has found it comfortable enough to swipe the pads twice a week during my evening routine—so far, I have enjoyed the glowing results in the AM.” —Madison San Miguel, commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: 1% lactic acid, Tri-Enzyme Technology, shea butter, glycerin
- Who it’s for: sensitive skin
- Fragrance-free: no
- Size: 14 count or 60 count
Best for Oily Skin: Medicube Zero Pore Pad
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Medicube
Zero Pore Pad
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Medicube Zero Pore Pad
Sarah Han
Why it’s worth it: K-beauty doesn’t mess around when it comes to skin-care innovation, and Medicube’s Zero Pore Pads—a.k.a. those TikTok and Amazon-famous exfoliating pads—are proof. They help balance congested skin with a solid dose of AHAs and BHAs—4.5% lactic acid and 0.45% salicylic acid—that tighten the look of pores, loosen and sweep away dead skin cells, and minimize oiliness with every swipe. The pad’s embossed side and cypress tree leaf add another layer of exfoliation to combat excess sebum production and refine large pores. Toss in hydrating panthenol, hyaluronic acid, allantoin, and Centella asiatica (cica), and you’ve struck gold with a formula that effectively clears away buildup without compromising your barrier—because that’s always the priority, even for oily skin.
Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han
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“My large pores and oily T-zone are easily the bane of my skin-care existence, but I've finally gotten around to regular exfoliation in the daytime, in addition to my retinol in the nighttime—and I think it's helped tremendously! (Plus, my makeup never pills anymore!) One easy method has been these Medicube Zero Pore Pads—I spend about 30 seconds sweeping the textured side all over, but concentrating on my T-zone, before quickly using the smooth side to soothe my skin. There's a little bit of initial redness around my nose but 1) because I rub a bit aggressively and 2) it disappears almost as quickly as it appears. My skin is extra soft afterwards and my pores look a little tighter and refined. I officially get the hype surrounding these!” —Sarah Han, commerce editor
Tester feedback from associate social media manager Katie Gunderman
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“The Medicube Zero Pore Toner Pads are always the first skin-care step. They refresh my face and prep it for the rest of my skin-care or makeup routine. They always leave my skin feeling clean and hydrated, and I love how easy they are to pop on.” —Katie Gunderman, associate social media manager
More to know
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- Key ingredients: lactic acid, salicylic acid, Centella asiatica, panthenol, allantoin
- Who it’s for: all skin types, especially oily or acne-prone skin
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Size: 70 count
Best for Mature Skin: InnBeauty Skin Prep Exfoliating Pads
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InnBeauty
Skin Prep Exfoliating Pads
Amazon
Shop
Sephora
Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the InnBeauty Skin Prep Exfoliating Pads
Christa Joanna Lee
Why it’s worth it: As we age, cell turnover and collagen production naturally slow, making regular exfoliation an important step in a mature skin-care routine. InnBeauty’s Skin Prep Exfoliating Pads are especially great for addressing common aging concerns thanks to plumping and wrinkle-smoothing peptides as their key ingredients. New York City-based board-certified dermatologist David Kim, MD, says peptides are helpful for people to start using in their late twenties, early thirties, and onwards, when their bodies start to lose collagen at a more rapid pace—so with consistent use (recommended three times a week), these pads can help support firmer, smoother skin over time. Plus, its blend of AHA (glycolic and mandelic acids) and PHA also helps smooth fine lines, even out tone, and boost elasticity for triple the benefits. To counteract any irritation, the formula includes ectoin and squalane to strengthen your barrier and lock in moisture. Another bonus? Each pad is designed with a finger pocket you can slide your pointer and middle finger into for better control.
Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee
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“If you have sensitive skin like I do and can never quite nail the ‘right’ amount of exfoliation, these pads make it goof-proof. There's a little flap so you can slip it over your fingertips and have better control of where you’re sweeping. I love them in the morning to prepare for makeup and smooth away any dull, rough patches, but the textured pad is also great at night because it grabs leftover makeup and grime post-cleanse. They’re not sopping-wet (like toner pads tend to be), but one pad is definitely enough for my whole face.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer
More to know
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- Key ingredients: AHA (glycolic and mandelic), PHA, peptides, ectoin, squalane
- Who it’s for: mature skin, sensitive skin
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Size: 60 count
Best for Uneven Texture: SkinMedica Even & Correct Brightening Treatment Pads
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SkinMedica
Even & Correct Brightening Treatment Pads
Amazon
Dermstore
Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai using the SkinMedica Even & Correct Brightening Treatment Pads
Deanna Pai
Why it’s worth it: SkinMedica’s Even & Correct Brightening Treatment Pads are infused with 10% glycolic acid, plus anti-inflammatory witch hazel for a serious boost in cell turnover. (Because witch hazel is an astringent that draws water out of the skin, it’s not ideal for dry and sensitive skin.) That high concentration of glycolic acid matters for smoothing texture, since glycolic acid’s small molecular size means it can really penetrate the skin, helping to clear buildup and bumps at a deeper level.
That’s not all: The main innovation is the brand’s proprietary 2% LTN Complex, a powerful blend of melanin-synthesis-slowing tranexamic acid, hydrating lotus sprout extract, and brightening niacinamide that helps fade dark spots, discoloration, and stubborn post-acne marks that just won’t quit.
Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai
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“I'm so prone to hyperpigmentation that I get a dark spot if I even think about a zit (or so it feels), so following a gnarly breakout, I usually come in hot with these exfoliating pads. They're not what I'd call gentle, but that's what I like: The combo of glycolic acid and witch hazel basically resurfaces my skin, leaving it brighter and baby-soft.” —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: lotus sprout extract, tranexamic acid, niacinamide, 10% glycolic acid, witch hazel
- Who it’s for: people with uneven texture or stubborn hyperpigmentation
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Size: 60 count
Best for Dullness: First Aid Beauty Brighten & Glow Facial Radiance Pads
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First Aid Beauty
Brighten & Glow Facial Radiance Pads
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Sephora
Allure commerce editor Madison San Miguel applying the First Aid Beauty Brighten & Glow Facial Radiance Pads
Madison San Miguel
Why it’s worth it: If your complexion has been looking more somber than cheery, First Aid Beauty’s Bright & Glow Radiance Pads are a one-step shortcut to a glowier complexion. Glycolic and lactic acids gently slough away any grime or buildup—the very stuff that leaves skin lackluster—while smoothing over rough patches, bumps, and uneven texture. For an extra brightening boost, the formula pairs citrus and other fruit extracts with potent hydrators, such as hyaluronic acid, cucumber water, and aloe, to help keep skin feeling fresh and never stripped.
Tester feedback from commerce editor Madison San Miguel
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“Truthfully, I was nervous to swipe a pad on my face because of its glycolic acid component (which can irritate or ‘tighten’ my dry skin). But after a few passes, I was surprised to see a subtle glow rather than a bright red aftermath. From seeing my makeup on the pad itself to the soothing relief from the cucumber water and aloe, these pads are satisfying from start to finish. I typically don't reach for toner pads daily, but these might have me convinced.” —Madison San Miguel, commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: glycolic acid, lactic acid, hyaluronic acid, glycerin
- Who it’s for: people with skin dullness or uneven texture
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Size: 60 count or 28 count
Frequently Asked Questions
Are exfoliating pads good for your skin?
Yes, exfoliating pads can be a great addition to your skin-care routine, especially when used correctly. “Exfoliating pads usually have superficial chemical exfoliants like AHA, BHA, and/or PHAs, which gently remove the top layer of dead skin cells and debris, improving the appearance of the skin’s texture and tone,” says Claire Wolinsky, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. By clearing away buildup, these acids can help unclog pores, smooth rough patches, and give your skin a brighter, more even look. “I love exfoliating pads and use them almost every day,” she adds. Just be sure to pick a formula suited to your skin type to reduce the risk of irritation, and ease into the formula (see below) if you’re new to acids.
How many times a week should you use exfoliating pads?
How often you should use exfoliating pads depends on your skin type and the strength of the formula, but easing in gradually is key. “When starting with these products, it’s best to introduce only two days a week,” says Dr. Wolinsky. While pads can be used morning or night, and even for daily use (depending on the formula), she personally prefers using them in the morning to lightly exfoliate before applying her vitamin C serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen. (Emphasis on SPF, as exfoliants make your skin more sensitive to light.) Others may enjoy using them at night for that extra-clean feeling before bed. One important note for beginners: “I would be cautious about using exfoliating pads with a retinoid, since both can be irritating,” she says. If you’re using both, she suggests alternating nights to avoid overwhelming your skin.
Meet the experts
- Brendan Camp, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
- Claire Wolinsky, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
- Heather Woolery-Lloyd, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami
- Hope Mitchell, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Perrysburg, Ohio
- Lindsey Zubritsky, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Pittsburgh
- Saami Khalifian, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist based in Encinitas, California
How we test and review products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that's included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.
For our list of the best exfoliating pads, we considered each product's performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from makeup artists, dermatologists, and cosmetic chemists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.
Our staff and testers
A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.
After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we've solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it's never been tested on curls? We're proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.
