Chemical exfoliators can completely transform your skincare routine — helping you unclog pores, smooth texture, and reveal radiant skin without the harshness of physical scrubs. Over time, I’ve tried several exfoliants, and these are my top 5 picks, including my personal holy grail!
🌿 1. Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Best for: Dry, acne-prone, or milia-prone skin
This cult-favorite is a staple in my routine. As someone with dry and sensitive skin, I was hesitant to try a BHA — but this gentle, leave-on exfoliant worked wonders. It helped reduce breakouts, evened out my texture, and most impressively, it cleared up stubborn milia that no moisturizer or cleanser could touch.
My tip: Start slow (2–3 times a week) and always follow with a hydrating moisturizer + sunscreen.
🍂 2. Isntree Chestnut AHA 8% Clear Essence
Best for: Dull, rough, or dry skin with texture
This AHA essence combines glycolic and lactic acids with soothing ingredients like chestnut shell extract. It gently exfoliates the surface of the skin, making it ideal for those with dry or textured skin who want a smoother, brighter complexion without irritation.
Great for beginners looking for an effective but gentle AHA.
🌱 3. CosRx AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner
Best for: Oily to combination skin, daily maintenance
This toner is lightweight, non-irritating, and perfect for everyday mild exfoliation. It contains both AHA and BHA in low concentrations, making it a great option for maintaining clear skin without overdoing it.
Use it after cleansing to gently unclog pores and balance oil.
🌸 4. The Inkey List PHA Toner
Best for: Sensitive or redness-prone skin
PHAs are the most gentle exfoliating acids, and this toner is perfect for those with sensitive or reactive skin. It lightly resurfaces the skin while locking in moisture — ideal if other exfoliants have been too harsh for you in the past.
Great for calming and smoothing the skin barrier.
🧪 5. The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + HA
Best for: Dry, textured, or flaky skin
This serum provides gentle but effective exfoliation using lactic acid, which is hydrating and ideal for dry or dehydrated skin. It also includes hyaluronic acid to keep the skin plump and moisturized.
Perfect for those who want a glow without any stinging.
🧴 Final Thoughts
If you’re new to chemical exfoliants, go slow, patch test, and always wear SPF during the day. My personal favorite remains the Paula’s Choice 2% BHA — not only did it smooth out my dry skin, but it also completely cleared up my milia, which felt impossible before.
💬 Have you tried any of these? Let me know what worked for your skin — and if you’d like me to review a product you’re curious about, I’m always open to suggestions!
