To the joy of exfoliation. This is one of the most expressive and rewarding things we can do. But we have news: perhaps you haven't exfoliated properly in years. Or, even worse, not at all. And we write this with a touch of sadness because exfoliation is so easy and rewarding. Don't worry: 2026 will be the year you stop ignoring exfoliants. Exfoliating renews your skin, leaving it clean, radiant, and like new. Plus, the rest of your skincare routine will work better.
We've discovered six exfoliants for you. We don't want to overwhelm you with a long list of options. Less is more, in cosmetics and in life.
What is a facial scrub?
Let's start properly: with the definition. This cosmetic removes dead skin cells from the surface of your skin, which are what give it a dull and lifeless appearance. The result: softer skin (you'll want to touch it, or others will want to), minimized pores, better absorption of cosmetics, and that most visible benefit: that glow we all seek, that cosmetic Holy Grail.
Physical (or mechanical) exfoliants
You'll recognize them because they have small "granules" that, when massaged, remove dead skin cells. They can be made of sugar, salt, seeds, volcanic crystals, or bamboo. The effect is immediate, and you have complete control over the pressure. Massage gently and calmly. They're for you if you have normal or oily skin.
Chemical exfoliants (acids)
They sound harsh. They're not. Really. They don't scrape the skin; instead, they dissolve dead skin cells using acids (AHA, BHA, PHA). The result is a more even, brighter complexion. They're for you if you have uneven skin texture and blemishes. They work on all skin types.
Acids are your friends: learn their acronyms:
- AHAs: Glycolic, lactic. They provide luminosity and texture.
- BHA: Salicylic acid. It's ideal for acne.
- PHA: They are milder, therefore, they are good for sensitive skin.
Enzymatic exfoliants
They're called that because they use fruit enzymes that gently "digest" dead skin cells. Don't worry, they're super gentle and won't irritate. They're perfect for you if you have sensitive or reactive skin.
Why do we recommend exfoliating?
We have plenty of reasons, as the song says:
- Brightens: Removes the "matte" layer from the skin
- Softens: Soft texture
- Prevents: Fewer blackheads and pimples
- Power: Your products work much better
- Unifies: Improves blemishes and uneven skin tone
When and how much: frequency according to your skin type
Normal/combination skin
- Frequency : 2-3 times per week
-
What to use : Physical or chemical, you can alternate.
Oily/acne-prone skin
- Frequency : 2-4 times per week
-
What to use : Chemicals with BHA (salicylic acid)
Sensitive skin
- Frequency : 1-2 times per week
- What to use : Enzymatic or PHA
Dry skin
- Frequency : 1-2 times per week
-
What to use : Enzymatic or mild AHAs
* Important: If you use retinol or strong acids, reduce the frequency.
Choose your exfoliant according to your needs.
For immediate brightness
Goop Microderm Instant Glow Exfoliator
It combines four minerals with glycolic acid. You only need three minutes to get the effect of a professional facial. Gwyneth calls it "a powerful facial in a small jar."
For sensitive skin that can't tolerate anything
Vinegar Mask by Gallinée - 6% AHA/PHA + hibiscus vinegar.
In just 5 minutes, you'll have renewed skin without—and this is key—irritation. It's the best-selling exfoliator for sensitive skin. It has over 55 positive reviews and a 4.6/5 rating.
For enlarged pores and excess oil
Goop Cloudberry Exfoliating Jelly Cleanser.
It rinses off easily, leaving skin feeling fresh, silky, and radiant. It is clinically tested.
For blemishes and uneven skin tone
15% Glycolic Acid Overnight Glow Peel by Goop
Apply it at night and wake up with new skin. 15% glycolic acid + fruit extracts. Goop's heavy hitter.
The 6 best facial scrubs from Laconicum
1. Volcanic Exfoliator by Bioeffect - €49
#1 in premium physical exfoliants.
Star ingredient : Icelandic volcanic lava crystals + salicylic acid
For : Deep yet gentle exfoliation. Evens skin tone. Visible radiance.
Exfoliating with Icelandic lava crystals sounds intriguing. The microcrystals gently yet effectively remove dead skin cells. Add apricot particles and salicylic acid.
Result: Even skin tone, radiance, clean pores. It's gentle. It's effective. 4.7/5 based on 15 reviews. Use 1-2 times per week.
2. Sweet Therapy Scrub Mask by Huxley - €29.95
Top #1 in value for money
Star ingredient : Prickly pear oil from the Sahara + sucrose
For : Gentle exfoliation without irritation. Sensitive skin.
Mask and scrub in one. Huxley uses prickly pear from the Sahara Desert, discovered in Marrakech. Small, very soft granules. Gentle warming effect that draws out impurities without irritation.
Suitable for all skin types, especially those who are afraid of exfoliating. 4.6/5 with 9 reviews. Massage in, leave on for 5 minutes, rinse off.
3. Vinegar Mask by Gallinée - €26
Top #1 best seller (55 ratings, 4.6/5)
Star ingredient : 6% AHA/PHA + hibiscus vinegar + prebiotics
For : Gentle express chemical treatment. Radiance in 5 minutes. Respects the microbiome.
Gallinée is obsessed with protecting the good bacteria on your skin. This vinegar mask exfoliates chemically without being harsh. Jam-like texture.
In just 5 minutes, you'll have radiant skin, a refined texture, and an even tone. Immediate results without damaging the skin barrier. Perfect for all skin types, even sensitive ones. Use 1-2 times per week.
4. Goop Microderm Instant Glow Exfoliator - €150
Top in professional at-home treatments.
Star ingredient : 4 minerals (quartz, garnet, alumina, silica) + glycolic acid
For : Instant glow. The luxury at-home facial.
"A powerful facial in a small jar" - Gwyneth Paltrow. Inspired by professional microdermabrasion. Combines physical and chemical exfoliation.
Marshmallow texture. Massage for 3 minutes, rinse, and leave with baby-soft skin. 92% of users experienced improved barrier function after one use. Yes, it's expensive, but it's equivalent to a weekly professional facial at home. Use it 2-3 times per week.
5. 15% Glycolic Acid Overnight Glow Peel by Goop - €54
Top in powerful nighttime peeling
Star ingredient : 15% glycolic acid + fruit extracts + hyaluronic acid
For : blemishes, sun damage, uneven texture. Professional peeling pads.
"The most powerful product we have" - Gwyneth. High concentration (15% glycolic), pad format. Apply it before bed, it works overnight, and you wake up with new skin.
It's not for very sensitive skin. But if your skin tolerates it, the results are impressive. Use it one night a week. Sunscreen is a must the following day. 5.0/5.
6. Goop Cloudberry Exfoliating Jelly Cleanser - €42
Star ingredient : + orange peel enzymes + bamboo particles
For : Quick exfoliation while cleansing your skin
The actress and lifestyle guru wanted an exfoliant she could use frequently, something easy to use almost without thinking, in the shower, for example. She found it with this exfoliating cleanser.
You can use it every day.
Exfoliating isn't mandatory, but it's great. And it can transform your skin.
Luminosity, texture, absorption, acne prevention... everything improves with these products, but don't get too hung up on it: choose one that suits your skin. Use it as often as you'd like. Observe. Your skin will tell you if you're on the right track. Discover all these products at laconicum.com.
Quick FAQ
Can I use exfoliant if I have sensitive skin?
Yes. Choose enzymes or PHA. Start once a week. Gallinée's Vinegar Mask or Huxley's Sweet Therapy are good options.
Physical or chemical exfoliant?
It depends on your skin: physical cleansers provide immediate cleansing, while chemical cleansers penetrate better. You can alternate between them.
How often should I exfoliate?
Normal/combination: 2-3 times/week. Oily: 2-4 times/week. Sensitive: 1-2 times/week. Dry: 1-2 times/week.
Can I exfoliate if I use retinol?
Yes, but don't do them on the same day. Use retinol at night, exfoliate another day. Or, if not, reduce the frequency.
How long does it take to see results?
Brightening: immediate. Texture: 2-4 weeks. Dark spots: 8-12 weeks.
Can I use an exfoliant in the morning?
Yes, but sun protection is always a must. Some people prefer to use it at night.
Is it normal for my skin to peel afterwards?
This can happen with strong chemicals. If it's excessive, reduce the frequency.
Can I mix different types of exfoliants?
Alternate physical and chemical treatments on different days. Do not combine multiple chemical treatments or retinol treatments on the same day.
By: Anabel Vázquez
co-founder of Laconicum
