Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Why Exfoliation is Important for Dry Skin
Exfoliation isn’t just for oily or acne-prone skin — it’s essential for dry skin to:
Benefits of Exfoliating Dry Skin:
- 🧹 Removes flaky, dead skin that blocks moisture absorption
- 💧 Boosts hydration by allowing moisturizers to penetrate deeper
- 🌟 Improves skin texture and restores natural glow
- 🎯 Reduces patchiness and uneven tone
- 🧴 Preps skin for better product layering (serums, oils, creams)
Choosing the Right Exfoliant for Dry Skin
Dry skin needs gentle exfoliation — not gritty scrubs or strong peels.
Key Factors to Consider:
| Factor | Look For |
| Type of Exfoliant | Chemical (AHA) over physical scrubs |
| Texture | Gel, lotion, or serum-based (non-drying) |
| pH Level | Balanced (4–5) to avoid irritation |
| Soothing Ingredients | Aloe, niacinamide, panthenol |
| Hydration Boosters | Glycerin, hyaluronic acid, squalane |
| Fragrance-Free | Best for sensitive dry skin |
Best Exfoliating Ingredients for Dry Skin:
- Lactic Acid (AHA): Gentle, hydrates while exfoliating
- Mandelic Acid: Mild AHA for sensitive/dry skin
- Gluconolactone (PHA): Non-irritating for very dry or reactive skin
- Enzymes (Papaya/Pineapple): Exfoliate without scrubbing
- Glycerin, Squalane, Aloe: Restore moisture barrier
Best-Selling Exfoliants for Dry Skin
1. The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + HA
Description:
A mild AHA serum that gently exfoliates dull, dry skin and hydrates with hyaluronic acid.
Buy Now
Key Ingredients:
- Lactic Acid (5%)
- Hyaluronic Acid
- Tasmanian Pepperberry
Pros:
- Gentle enough for sensitive skin
- Hydrating and affordable
- Lightweight serum texture
Cons:
- Slight tingling first few uses
- Avoid if skin barrier is damaged
How to Use:
Apply 2–3 times per week at night before moisturizer.
2. Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 8% AHA Gel
Description:
A glycolic acid-based gel with added antioxidants to smooth, hydrate, and brighten dry, flaky skin.
Buy Now
Key Ingredients:
- Glycolic Acid (8%)
- Green Tea Extract
- Chamomile
Pros:
- Exfoliates and calms skin
- Improves tone and texture
- Non-drying gel formula
Cons:
- May be too strong for ultra-sensitive skin
- Slight stickiness
How to Use:
Apply PM, 2–3x per week. Follow with moisturizer.
3. First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads
Description:
Pre-soaked exfoliating pads ideal for dry or sensitive skin, with lactic acid and fruit enzymes.
Buy Now
Key Ingredients:
- Lactic Acid
- Glycolic Acid
- Cucumber & Lemon Peel
Pros:
- Quick and convenient
- Great for beginners
- Non-stripping formula
Cons:
- Light scent (not fragrance-free)
- Can dry out if container isn’t sealed well
How to Use:
Swipe one pad over clean skin once a day or every other day.
4. Biossance Squalane + Lactic Acid Resurfacing Night Serum
Description:
A deeply hydrating overnight AHA serum ideal for dry, mature, or sensitive skin.
Buy Now
Key Ingredients:
- Lactic Acid (10%)
- Squalane
- Clover Extract
Pros:
- Hydrates while exfoliating
- Visible results in 1–2 uses
- Fragrance-free
Cons:
- Premium price
- Best used only at night
How to Use:
Apply 1–2 pumps at night 2–3x a week.
5. The Inkey List PHA Toner
Description:
A super gentle PHA exfoliating toner for dry, textured, or reactive skin.
Buy Now
Key Ingredients:
- Gluconolactone (PHA)
- Aloe Vera
- Niacinamide
Pros:
- Perfect for very dry/sensitive skin
- Budget-friendly
- Calms and exfoliates together
Cons:
- Results are gradual
- Needs consistent use
How to Use:
Use once daily after cleansing.
6. Dermalogica Daily Milkfoliant
Description:
A powder exfoliant activated by water — gently polishes skin using oats and botanicals.
Buy Now
Key Ingredients:
- Oat Powder
- Coconut Milk
- Alpha Hydroxy Acids
Pros:
- Gentle enough for daily use
- Soothing and creamy
- Great texture refinement
Cons:
- Pricey for amount
- Not travel-friendly packaging
How to Use:
Dispense a small amount, add water, massage in, and rinse.
7. REN Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic
Description:
A mild, daily-use tonic with lactic acid that brightens and resurfaces dull, dry skin.
Buy Now
Key Ingredients:
- Lactic Acid
- Willow Bark Extract
- Azelaic Acid
Pros:
- Fast glow results
- Suitable for daily use
- Hydrating & exfoliating
Cons:
- Slight citrus scent
- Some tingling if skin is cracked
How to Use:
Apply on a cotton pad after cleansing, once daily.
8. Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Toner
Description:
A juicy, hydrating exfoliating toner that lightly resurfaces while deeply hydrating.
Buy Now
Key Ingredients:
- PHA (Gluconolactone)
- Hyaluronic Acid
- Cactus Water
Pros:
- Very hydrating
- PHA safe for dry/sensitive skin
- Leaves skin soft and glowy
Cons:
- Contains fragrance
- Not for broken or irritated skin
How to Use:
Use AM or PM, 2–4 times a week.
9. Peach & Lily Power Calm Hydrating Gel Cleanser with Gentle AHAs
Description:
A cleansing exfoliator that gently removes dead skin without drying, perfect for dry skin morning routine.
Buy Now
Key Ingredients:
- Lactic Acid
- Chamomile
- Cica
Pros:
- 2-in-1 cleanser + exfoliant
- Soothes redness
- Sulfate- and fragrance-free
Cons:
- Requires rinsing (not leave-on)
- Gentle exfoliation only
How to Use:
Use once daily in the morning.
10. Naturium Mandelic Topical Acid 12%
Description:
A high-strength yet gentle exfoliant for dry skin that’s prone to dullness and roughness.
Buy Now
Key Ingredients:
- Mandelic Acid
- Niacinamide
- Hyaluronic Acid
Pros:
- Mild, non-irritating
- Evens tone and smooths skin
- No fragrance or essential oils
Cons:
- Needs sunscreen use during day
- Texture is slightly sticky
How to Use:
Apply 2–3 nights per week under moisturizer.
How to Use Exfoliants Safely on Dry Skin
Steps:
- Start 2x/week and increase based on skin’s tolerance
- Always apply to clean, dry skin
- Follow with a hydrating moisturizer or facial oil
- Use exfoliants only at night, unless labeled for AM use
- Apply sunscreen daily – exfoliated skin is sun-sensitive
