Collage: Jemeria Davison; Source images: Courtesy of brands Save Story Save this story Save Story Save this story 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.
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.
Save to wishlist Save to wishlist Dr. Dennis Gross
Allure editor in chief Jessica Cruel applying the Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel
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
“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…