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ExfoliatorsHelping You Find the Best
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ExfoliatorsHelping You Find the Best
  • 10 Best Exfoliators in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed By Dermatologist 1
  • 10 Best Exfoliators in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed By Dermatologist 2
  • 10 Best Exfoliators in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed By Dermatologist 3
  • 10 Best Exfoliators in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed By Dermatologist 4
  • 10 Best Exfoliators in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed By Dermatologist 5

10 Best Exfoliators in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed By Dermatologist

Exfoliation sloughs away dead skin cells, resulting in a much-improved appearance of the skin. Fortunately, with these wonder products called physical and chemical exfoliators, the glowing and smoother skin we all dream of is now easier to achieve. What's more, is that some exfoliators can be used on the face, neck, body, and underarms!


However, with the plethora of options available in the market, it can be tricky to pick one. Hence, we have crafted a top 10 list of recommendations to help you score the most suitable exfoliator for your skin. We also included a buying guide and some tips to help you narrow down your choices—with insights and tips from board-certified dermatologist Dr. Aznaida L. Tawagon-Pandapatan!

Last updated 06/25/2025

Quick List - Top Exfoliators

1

Cetaphil

Daily Exfoliating Cleanser
Daily Exfoliating Cleanser

Gentle Daily Exfoliation for Smoother, Healthier-Looking Skin

2

Paula’s Choice

Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

Gentle Exfoliation that Unclogs, Refines, and Brightens

3

Human Nature

Niacinamide Scrub Mask
Niacinamide Scrub Mask

Glow Naturally, Scrub Beautifully

4

COSRX

BHA 4% Blackhead Power Liquid
BHA 4% Blackhead Power Liquid

Powerful Pore Clearing and Brightening

5

Skinfood

Black Sugar Mask Wash Off
Black Sugar Mask Wash Off

Smooth, Glow, and Renew with Every Wash

Dr. Aznaida L. Tawagon-Pandapatan
Expert
Dermatologist
Dr. Aznaida L. Tawagon-Pandapatan

Graduated Dermatology Residency from the University of the Philippines-Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH), Dr. Aznaida L. Tawagon-Pandapatan is a Fellow of the Philippine Dermatological Society. She is the co-founder of Pandapatan Dermatology Clinic in Marawi City. She is also a part-time faculty of Xavier University-JPRSM in Cagayan de Oro. She is passionate about skin health and skincare, and dreams of world peace.

Dr. Aznaida L. Tawagon-Pandapatan's Profile
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Benefits of Exfoliation

Benefits of Exfoliation

The skin naturally exfoliates on its own, but this process tends to slow down as we age. There are also instances when dead skin cells do not shed fully, leaving your skin with dry and flaky patches. Using an exfoliator, especially for rough and bumpy skin, can help speed up the shedding of dead skin cells and encourage the turnover of new ones for smoother and more radiant skin.


Exfoliation can also improve the efficacy of other skincare products you're using, as it can let them penetrate your skin deeper without being hindered by any barrier. On top of that, it can also offer deeper cleansing. It can wash away deep-seated grime and dirt that your cleanser might have missed, and it improves blackheads as well.

Dr. Aznaida L. Tawagon-Pandapatan
Dermatologist
Dr. Aznaida L. Tawagon-Pandapatan

The keratinocytes in our epidermis have a cell turnover of about 40-50 days. This process slows down as we grow older. Also, due to some factors (hormones, environmental), some of the keratinocytes do not separate from their neighboring cells properly, thus giving us rough, dull skin. And this is where exfoliants can help us to get healthier, smoother skin.

How to Choose an Exfoliator - Buying Guide

Here are some key points to consider:


  1. Select active ingredients based on your skin concerns and skin type. 
  2. Physical and chemical: choose from the two types of exfoliators. 
  3. Face or body: check the scope of the exfoliator.

For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.

1

Select Active Ingredients Based on Your Skin Concerns and Skin Type

When choosing an exfoliator, it is necessary to take your skin type into account. This way, you can minimize the risk of irritation, and it can let you achieve your desired result. Whether you have dry, oily, or combination skin, or if you have specific concerns,  know which type of exfoliator is best for you in the section below.

Dark Spots: Look for Exfoliators With Vitamin C, Honey, and Other Lightening Ingredients

Dark Spots: Look for Exfoliators With Vitamin C, Honey, and Other Lightening Ingredients

If one of your aims is to reduce dark spots and blemishes and achieve a glowing complexion, opt for exfoliants with ingredients like honey, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, ground almond, and cornmeal. These ingredients are packed with antioxidants that help fight free radical damage. They also have anti-inflammatory properties that can aid in wound healing and lightening of acne scars and dark spots. 


Other beneficial ingredients are ginseng and Tasmanian pepperberry, which help with circulation in your skin's blood vessels, leading to an even and radiant skin tone. Aside from that, they have the added advantage of being able to stimulate collagen production. 

Dry Skin: Go for Chemical Exfoliators With Glycolic Acid, Avoid Physical Exfoliators

Dry Skin: Go for Chemical Exfoliators With Glycolic Acid, Avoid Physical Exfoliators

If your skin is leaning more on the dry side, it is ideal to look for gentle chemical exfoliators with glycolic acid. Among all alpha-hydroxy acids, glycolic acid has the tiniest molecules that allow them to deeply penetrate and exfoliate the skin effectively. It's also good to try exfoliants with nourishing ingredients like Vitamin B, shea butter, ceramides, coconut extract, and aloe vera. 


These ingredients help boost the hydration levels in your skin and add extra value for those with dry skin or those who are prone to developing dry and flaky patches. It's also best to avoid physical exfoliators that can be too harsh and cause microtears in your skin.

Dr. Aznaida L. Tawagon-Pandapatan
Dermatologist
Dr. Aznaida L. Tawagon-Pandapatan

AHAs like lactic and glycolic acids in low percentages can be good for home use. For those with dry skin, it is still best to find a formula with moisturizers incorporated in them to avoid getting irritated. Look for shea butter, glycerine, avocado oil, and the like in the ingredient list.

Oily and Acne-Prone Skin: Try Salicylic-Infused Exfoliators and Grain-Based Scrubs, Avoid Comedogenic Ingredients

Oily and Acne-Prone Skin: Try Salicylic-Infused Exfoliators and Grain-Based Scrubs, Avoid Comedogenic Ingredients

Overproduction of sebum clogs the pores and has the tendency to cause acne and blackheads. Hence, your best bet is to avoid exfoliants with comedogenic ingredients like lanolin or argan oil. Instead, look for exfoliators that are infused with salicylic acid. This beta-hydroxy acid does not just get rid of dead skin cells but also deeply penetrates and unclog pores.


Stronger exfoliators are more recommended to people with oily skin than those with dry skin. So if you have oily skin, you can also use physical exfoliants like grain-based scrubs, as long as they're used gently and within the right frequency.

Dr. Aznaida L. Tawagon-Pandapatan
Dermatologist
Dr. Aznaida L. Tawagon-Pandapatan

The BHA salicylic acid is great in penetrating sebum, thus best used by people with oily or combination skin (oily T-zone) or those who have acne. As a beginner, you may opt for short-contact products like wash-off masks or cleansers with salicylic acid. Once you have established that you can tolerate it, you may shift to leave-on toners or moisturizers with salicylic acid content.

Combination Skin: Pick Ones With AHA and BHA, Avoid Those That Contain Alcohol

Combination Skin: Pick Ones With AHA and BHA, Avoid Those That Contain Alcohol

If you both have oily and dry sections on your face, you have a combination skin type. Thus, you can look for chemical exfoliators infused with both AHA and BHA. Salicylic acid can help unclog pores, while glycolic acid can hydrate skin.


It can be tricky to manage combination skin, as you have to deal with the specific concerns of both dry and oily skin. However, one thing is for sure - avoid products that contain alcohol, which can irritate both skin types. Always go for gentle formulations to prevent causing areas of sensitivity.

Dr. Aznaida L. Tawagon-Pandapatan
Dermatologist
Dr. Aznaida L. Tawagon-Pandapatan

Combination AHA-BHA exfoliators are best for those who have resilient skin. If you have sensitive skin, best to stick with a single type of exfoliant as these combination types have the potential to irritate your skin. Even for those with resilient skin, go slow. Also, don't forget to do a patch test first prior to using these on your face.

2

Physical and Chemical: Choose From the Two Types of Exfoliators

Exfoliators can be classified as either physical or chemical. Physical exfoliants require manual scrubbing of the skin to get rid of dead skin cells, while chemical exfoliants use acids to break the bonds between the cells in the top layer of the skin. As discussed above, the kind of formulation you choose will depend on your skin concerns.  

For Physical Exfoliators, Choose Ones With Fine Grains, and Avoid Plastic Microbeads

For Physical Exfoliators, Choose Ones With Fine Grains, and Avoid Plastic Microbeads

While physical exfoliants deliver quicker results, they can be harsh on the skin. If you do decide to go for a physical type, make sure it is fine-grained and gentle. It's best to avoid those with plastic microbeads, as they tend to be more abrasive on the skin, as well as more harmful for the environment. Natural grains like sugar, strawberry seeds, and bamboo granules are a better option. 

Dr. Aznaida L. Tawagon-Pandapatan
Dermatologist
Dr. Aznaida L. Tawagon-Pandapatan

Physical exfoliators like beads, sugar, oatmeal, washcloths, and others, need to be scrubbed to the skin to dislodge epidermal cells manually. But this type of exfoliation is not ideal for those with sensitive skin.

Chemical Exfoliators for Gentler Exfoliation

Chemical Exfoliators for Gentler Exfoliation

On the other hand, chemical exfoliants work without the need for physical scrubbing. They’re considered the gentler option between the two. They are usually composed of chemicals like alpha or beta hydroxy acids that dissolve dead skin cells to reveal the new layer of skin underneath.

Dr. Aznaida L. Tawagon-Pandapatan
Dermatologist
Dr. Aznaida L. Tawagon-Pandapatan

Chemical exfoliants at home include fruit enzymes, AHAs, and BHAs. There are other chemicals that are commonly used in dermatological clinics such as phenol, which should never be used at home.

3

Face or Body: Check the Scope of the Exfoliator

Face or Body: Check the Scope of the Exfoliator

While it may seem convenient and economical to just use the same exfoliator for your entire body and face, it might cause more harm than good. Exfoliators formulated for the body tend to contain stronger chemical concentrations that may be too harsh for your face.


The skin in your face is also more delicate than the other parts of your body, so using harsh products may cause irritations and even breakouts. On the other hand, using a face exfoliator for your body may not cause harm, but it might not be that effective as well.

Dr. Aznaida L. Tawagon-Pandapatan
Dermatologist
Dr. Aznaida L. Tawagon-Pandapatan

Face exfoliants generally contain lower percentages of chemical exfoliants or finer beads. So always check if the exfoliator you are purchasing is for the body or for the face. Body exfoliators should never be used for the face unless specified in the product to be safe for face use.

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10 Best Exfoliators to Buy Online

The products we introduce below were carefully curated by the mybest team, from the best-sellers of E-commerce sites like Lazada, and using the points mentioned in our detailed and thoroughly researched buying guide.
Popularity
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Products

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Key features

Details

Type

Best for

Key Ingredients

Scope

Net Weight

1

Cetaphil

Daily Exfoliating Cleanser

Cetaphil Daily Exfoliating Cleanser 1

Gentle Daily Exfoliation for Smoother, Healthier-Looking Skin

Physical

All Skin Types, Sensitive Skin

Bamboo Extract, Pro-Vitamin B5, Vitamin E, Micro-Fine Granules

Face

178 mL

2

Paula’s Choice

Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant  1

Gentle Exfoliation that Unclogs, Refines, and Brightens

Chemical

All Skin Types, Normal, Oily

Salicylic Acid (BHA), Green Tea Leaf Extract, Methylpropanediol, Butylene Glycol

Face

30 mL

3

Human Nature

Niacinamide Scrub Mask

Human Nature Niacinamide Scrub Mask 1

Glow Naturally, Scrub Beautifully

Physical

Dry Sin, Sensitive Skin, Oily Skin

Niacinamide, Bamboo Scrubs, Kaolin Clay, Vitamin E, Bergamot Peel Oil, Soybean Oil, Hydrated Silica, Natural Ingredients

Face

100 mL

4

COSRX

BHA 4% Blackhead Power Liquid

COSRX BHA 4% Blackhead Power Liquid 1

Powerful Pore Clearing and Brightening

Chemical

Oily Skin, Sensitive Skin

Betaine Salicylate, Willow Bark Water, Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Panthenol, Butylene Glycol, Hexanediol, Arginine

Face

100 mL

5

Skinfood

Black Sugar Mask Wash Off

Skinfood Black Sugar Mask Wash Off	 1

Smooth, Glow, and Renew with Every Wash

Physical

All Skin Types, Normal Skin, Oily Skin, Sensitive Skin, Dry Skin

Black Sugar

Face

100 mL

6

Isntree

Chestnut BHA 2% Clear Liquid

Isntree 	 Chestnut BHA 2% Clear Liquid 1

Gentle Exfoliation, Clear Skin

Oil Skiny, Acne-Prone Skin

Oil Skiny, Acne-Prone Skin

Propanediol, Hexanediol, Salicylic Acid, Chestnut Shell Extract, Sodium Hydroxide, Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium, Willow Bark Extract, Allantoin

Face

100 mL

7

Céleteque

Hydration Gentle Exfoliating Facial Wash

Céleteque Hydration Gentle Exfoliating Facial Wash 1

Refresh and Renew: Gentle Exfoliation

Physical

Sensitive Skin

Sodium Lactate, Cellulose, Panthenol, Lactic Acid, Bisabolol, Chamomilla Matricaria Flower Water, Jojoba Esters, Vitamin E, Vitamin C, Phenoxyethanol

Face

100 mL

8

SOME BY MI

AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner

SOME BY MI AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner 1

Clear Skin, 30 Days to Miracle Radiance

Chemical

All Skin Types, Sensitive Skin, Acne-Prone Skin, Oily Skin

Alpha Hydroxy Acid, Beta Hydroxy Acid, Poly Hydroxy Acid, Tea Tree Water Extract, Niacinamide, Adenosine, Papaya Extract, Witch Hazel Extract, Salicylic Acid, Lactobionic Acid, Citric Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Peppermint Oil

Face

30 mL

9

Neogen

Bio-Peel Gauze Peeling Lemon Pads

Neogen Bio-Peel Gauze Peeling Lemon Pads 1

Reveal Radiance, One Peel at a Time

Physical and Chemical

All Skin Types, Normal Skin, Oily Skin, Sensitive Skin, Dry Skin

Lemon Fruit Extract, Lactic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Papaya Fruit Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Green Tea Extract, Tea Tree Oil, Centella Asiatica Extract

Face

30 pads

10

The Ordinary

AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution 1

Powerful Exfoliation for Brighter, Smoother Skin in Minutes

Chemical

All Skin Types, Not for Sensitive

Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Tartaric Acid, Citric Acid, Salicylic Acid, Tasmanian Pepperberry Derivative, Hyaluronic Acid Crosspolymer, Vitamin B5, Black Carrot Extract

Face

30 mL

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Cetaphil
Daily Exfoliating Cleanser

Daily Exfoliating Cleanser 1
Source:lazada.com.ph
Reference price
₱461
Mid
Reference price
₱461
Mid

Gentle Daily Exfoliation for Smoother, Healthier-Looking Skin

Features and benefits:

  • Contains micro-fine exfoliating beads
  • Supports natural surface cell turnover
  • Helps defend against five signs of skin sensitivity
  • Helps maintain skin's moisture barrier


Reviews mention:
The inclusion of bamboo extract, pro-vitamin B5, and vitamin E is praised for leaving skin feeling smooth, soft, and radiant. Several reviewers report improved skin texture and smoother, healthier-looking skin after regular use. A few users find the exfoliating beads a bit rough or harsh, especially for very sensitive skin.

TypePhysical
Best forAll Skin Types, Sensitive Skin
Key IngredientsBamboo Extract, Pro-Vitamin B5, Vitamin E, Micro-Fine Granules
ScopeFace
Net Weight178 mL
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No.2

Paula’s Choice
Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

Reference price
₱900
High

Gentle Exfoliation that Unclogs, Refines, and Brightens

Features and benefits:

  • A powerful exfoliant that penetrates pores
  • Gently exfoliates dead skin layers
  • Feels like a toner and sinks quickly into the skin
  • Minimizes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
  • Enriched with antioxidant-rich green tea extract


Reviews mention:
Many users report significant improvements in skin clarity, texture, and tone within a week. It has anti-aging benefits such as reducing fine lines and wrinkles and improving sun-damaged skin. Some users experience a "purging" phase where breakouts may temporarily worsen before the skin improves.

TypeChemical
Best forAll Skin Types, Normal, Oily
Key IngredientsSalicylic Acid (BHA), Green Tea Leaf Extract, Methylpropanediol, Butylene Glycol
ScopeFace
Net Weight30 mL
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No.3

Human Nature
Niacinamide Scrub Mask

Reference price
₱259.75
Low Mid

Glow Naturally, Scrub Beautifully

Features and benefits:
  • Helps restore the skin barrier
  • Minimizes the appearance of enlarged pores
  • Supports youthful-looking skin
  • Helps rebuild healthy skin cells damaged
  • Provides gentle exfoliation

Reviews mention:
Users appreciate that the mask is made with natural ingredients (98% natural), including niacinamide, bamboo scrubs, and kaolin clay. The product is praised for effectively removing dead skin cells, resulting in smoother, clearer, and brighter skin. The scent is noted by some to be a bit strong or not particularly pleasant.
TypePhysical
Best forDry Sin, Sensitive Skin, Oily Skin
Key IngredientsNiacinamide, Bamboo Scrubs, Kaolin Clay, Vitamin E, Bergamot Peel Oil, Soybean Oil, Hydrated Silica, Natural Ingredients
ScopeFace
Net Weight100 mL
View all
No.4

COSRX
BHA 4% Blackhead Power Liquid

Reference price
₱347
Mid

Powerful Pore Clearing and Brightening

Features and benefits:
  • Contains a gentle BHA derived from willow bark water
  • Clears clogged pores and reduces blackheads
  • Reduce marks from spots
  • Balances excess sebum production
  • Provides gentle exfoliation

Reviews mention:
The product has a lightweight, silky liquid texture with a dewy finish that spreads easily and absorbs quickly. Several users mention that it helps maintain clear pores and reduces the need for salon cleanups. A few reviewers feel the formula is too mild or gentle and may not be effective enough for those with severe blackheads or who need stronger exfoliation.
TypeChemical
Best forOily Skin, Sensitive Skin
Key IngredientsBetaine Salicylate, Willow Bark Water, Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Panthenol, Butylene Glycol, Hexanediol, Arginine
ScopeFace
Net Weight100 mL
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No.5

Skinfood
Black Sugar Mask Wash Off

Reference price
₱499
Mid

Smooth, Glow, and Renew with Every Wash

Features and benefits:

  • Contains organic black sugar granules
  • Exfoliates and refines skin texture
  • Enriched with nourishing oils
  • Reduces blackheads
  • Creamy texture with sugar particles


Reviews mention:
Many users consider it a "holy grail" exfoliator that effectively removes dead skin cells while hydrating the skin, leaving it smooth, plump, and radiant. The scent is generally described as sweet and pleasant, not overpowering. It does not come with a spatula, which some find inconvenient and less hygienic.

TypePhysical
Best forAll Skin Types, Normal Skin, Oily Skin, Sensitive Skin, Dry Skin
Key IngredientsBlack Sugar
ScopeFace
Net Weight100 mL
View all
No.6

Isntree
Chestnut BHA 2% Clear Liquid

Reference price
₱304
Low Mid

Gentle Exfoliation, Clear Skin

Features and benefits:
  • A gold standard ingredient for exfoliating
  • Reducing whiteheads and blackheads
  • Infused with tannins extracted from chestnut shells
  • Reducing shine and oily skin appearance
  • Deeply hydrate and maintain skin moisture

Reviews mention:
Many users find it effective for gentle yet thorough exfoliation, removing dead skin cells and leftover makeup, resulting in clearer, smoother skin. The formula is appreciated for being lightweight, non-sticky, and pleasant with no strong odor. It requires follow-up with a moisturizer as it can leave the skin feeling slightly dry or tight after use.
TypeOil Skiny, Acne-Prone Skin
Best forOil Skiny, Acne-Prone Skin
Key IngredientsPropanediol, Hexanediol, Salicylic Acid, Chestnut Shell Extract, Sodium Hydroxide, Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium, Willow Bark Extract, Allantoin
ScopeFace
Net Weight100 mL
View all
No.7

Céleteque
Hydration Gentle Exfoliating Facial Wash

Reference price
₱144
Low

Refresh and Renew: Gentle Exfoliation

Features and benefits:

  • Contains perfectly spherical microbeads
  • Antioxidants that nourish, protect, help brighten the skin
  • Helps maintain the skin’s moisture balance
  • Revitalizes tired-looking skin
  • Prevents dryness after cleansing


Reviews mention:
Many reviewers note the product is hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and pH balanced, which reduces the risk of breakouts and irritation. Some users found it more effective than other cleansers. Some caution that those with active pimples or very sensitive skin should use it sparingly.

TypePhysical
Best forSensitive Skin
Key IngredientsSodium Lactate, Cellulose, Panthenol, Lactic Acid, Bisabolol, Chamomilla Matricaria Flower Water, Jojoba Esters, Vitamin E, Vitamin C, Phenoxyethanol
ScopeFace
Net Weight100 mL
View all
No.8

SOME BY MI
AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner

Reference price
₱400
Mid

Clear Skin, 30 Days to Miracle Radiance

Features and benefits:
  • Contains a powerful blend of three chemical exfoliants
  • Soothing, anti-inflammatory
  • Helps regulate sebum production
  • Provides antibacterial effects
  • Enriched with natural extracts

Reviews mention:

Users with sensitive, combination, and acne-prone skin praise the toner for its effective oil control and mild exfoliation that smooths skin texture. Many appreciate the lightweight, refreshing texture that absorbs quickly. Some users experienced irritation or breakouts when using the toner daily.

TypeChemical
Best forAll Skin Types, Sensitive Skin, Acne-Prone Skin, Oily Skin
Key IngredientsAlpha Hydroxy Acid, Beta Hydroxy Acid, Poly Hydroxy Acid, Tea Tree Water Extract, Niacinamide, Adenosine, Papaya Extract, Witch Hazel Extract, Salicylic Acid, Lactobionic Acid, Citric Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Peppermint Oil
ScopeFace
Net Weight30 mL
View all
No.9

Neogen
Bio-Peel Gauze Peeling Lemon Pads

Reference price
₱425
Mid

Reveal Radiance, One Peel at a Time

Features and benefits:

  • Combines gentle physical exfoliation
  • Embossed pad to smooth and refine skin texture
  • Lemon version brightens and firms skin
  • Green tea version soothes, hydrates, and revitalizes skin
  • Wine version offers anti-aging benefits


Reviews mention:
The pads provide a convenient, easy-to-use exfoliation combining both mechanical and chemical exfoliation in one step. The product is gentle enough for sensitive skin and does not cause irritation for many users. Some users find the product only moderately effective or "just okay," feeling it does not deliver dramatic results.

TypePhysical and Chemical
Best forAll Skin Types, Normal Skin, Oily Skin, Sensitive Skin, Dry Skin
Key IngredientsLemon Fruit Extract, Lactic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Papaya Fruit Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Green Tea Extract, Tea Tree Oil, Centella Asiatica Extract
ScopeFace
Net Weight30 pads
View all
No.10

The Ordinary
AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

Reference price
₱899
High

Powerful Exfoliation for Brighter, Smoother Skin in Minutes

Features and benefits:

  • Contains a high concentration of exfoliating acids
  • Removes dead skin cells from the surface
  • Water-based serum format
  • Helps prevent blackheads and breakouts
  • Designed as a wash-off peeling mask


Reviews mention:
Many users report significantly clearer, smoother, and softer skin after use, with noticeable reduction in pore congestion and improved skin texture. One user noted their pores looked exceptionally clean and felt like the product "resets" the pores weekly. Some users found it necessary to limit application to specific congested areas.

TypeChemical
Best forAll Skin Types, Not for Sensitive
Key IngredientsGlycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Tartaric Acid, Citric Acid, Salicylic Acid, Tasmanian Pepperberry Derivative, Hyaluronic Acid Crosspolymer, Vitamin B5, Black Carrot Extract
ScopeFace
Net Weight30 mL
View all

Exfoliating Tips from Dr. Aznie

While exfoliation can provide benefits to your skin, it may also cause harm when done incorrectly. Below are some things to keep in mind to make the most out of your exfoliator.

Consider the Existing Skin Products You Use

Consider the Existing Skin Products You Use
Dr. Aznaida L. Tawagon-Pandapatan
Dermatologist
Dr. Aznaida L. Tawagon-Pandapatan

If you have acne or are on an anti-aging regimen, you most likely have either benzoyl peroxide or retinoids (adapalene, tretinoin, retinol, retinal) in your regimen. These will already give you good cell turn-over and there is no need to use additional exfoliants, as these can result in irritations and even erosions. If you think you will still benefit from exfoliants, talk to a dermatologist first.

Do: Best Exfoliation Practices

Do: Best Exfoliation Practices
Dr. Aznaida L. Tawagon-Pandapatan
Dermatologist
Dr. Aznaida L. Tawagon-Pandapatan

It is always best to do a patch test prior to using chemical or physical exfoliants. Make sure to wash them off completely with every use. Bland moisturizers are a must after each exfoliation session—look for a good balance of humectants and occlusives.


If you have tried your own regimen and you feel it is not working for you, it is always best to consult a board-certified dermatologist. There could be other important factors that the derm will be able to help you with. The derm will be able to find these out upon complete physical examination (in person or online) and upon complete medical history.

Dont's: What Habits Should Be Avoided

Dont's: What Habits Should Be Avoided
Dr. Aznaida L. Tawagon-Pandapatan
Dermatologist
Dr. Aznaida L. Tawagon-Pandapatan

If you have sensitive skin, stick to low-percentage, wash-off, chemical exfoliants and avoid leaving them on for more than 10 minutes. You should also avoid physical exfoliants. If you find a chemical exfoliant that works for you, stick with it. Do not experiment with using physical and chemical exfoliants at the same time


If you have retinoids and benzoyl peroxide in your regimen, ask a board-certified dermatologist first if you can still benefit from exfoliants and which exfoliant can be safe to add to your regimen.

Only Use One Exfoliant

Only Use One Exfoliant
Dr. Aznaida L. Tawagon-Pandapatan
Dermatologist
Dr. Aznaida L. Tawagon-Pandapatan

Exfoliants do help our epidermal keratinocytes to shed off effortlessly, but we should always be careful in using too many exfoliants on our skin. Check your current regimen—it is best to have just one exfoliant in there.


For example, if you have a cleanser with glycolic acid, a sunscreen with salicylic acid, and a moisturizer with lactic acid, chances are you might be over-stripping your skin, and this may lead to irritation, flaking, itchiness, or even hyperpigmentation. Ideally, keep only one and drop the other two. If you cannot decide which one to keep, consult a board-certified dermatologist, we have your best interests at heart!

Frequently Asked Questions Answered By Dr. Aznaida L. Tawagon-Pandapatan

Learn more about exfoliators as Dr. Aznaida answers some of the most asked questions on the internet!

When and How Often to Exfoliate the Face?

Exfoliants are best used at night, twice a week. For those with resilient skin, they can tolerate exfoliants every other night or even nightly.

When in the Skincare Routine is It Best to Exfoliate the Skin?

  1. Remove make-up and use a mild cleanser first.
  2. Pat dry face with towel.
  3. Apply chose exfoliant, avoid the sensitive eye areas, nasal mucosa, and lips.
  4. Leave on for 5-10 minutes or as advised by your dermatologist. 
  5. Once time is up, use a soft cotton sheet to gently remove the product from the face, avoiding the eye areas, before washing it off completely with mild soap and water.

What to Do After Exfoliating?

Always apply a bland moisturizer. Do not apply other harsh products such as those containing alcohol, other acids (in toners), benzoyl peroxide, or retinoids. You may apply your retinoids the 1-2 days after.

How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations

Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.

Top 5 Exfoliators

No. 1: CetaphilDaily Exfoliating Cleanser

No. 2: Paula’s ChoiceSkin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

No. 3: Human NatureNiacinamide Scrub Mask

No. 4: COSRXBHA 4% Blackhead Power Liquid

No. 5: SkinfoodBlack Sugar Mask Wash Off

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.

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