11 Best Exfoliating Pads Of 2024, An Esthetician’s Recommendations
Eliminate dead skin cells with gentle and user-friendly exfoliating products.
Matthew has worked in the hair and beauty industry for over 27 years having managed salons, spas and esthetic clinics for brands like Toni & Guy and Aveda before starting his own chain of multi-award winning laser and skin clinics in central London.
Read full bio of Matthew Rundle
Experience: 3 yearsKrati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of experience in writing and editing for different niches.
Read full bio of Krati Darak
Experience: 5 yearsMedha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.
Read full bio of Medha Deb
Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
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Exfoliation is a vital step in a skin care routine that should be followed regularly. It gives skin a radiant look by removing the dead skin cells. Using the best exfoliating pads makes the process of exfoliation easy. You also get a post-facial glow that makes you look super refreshed. The process of exfoliating removes the old and dead skin slowly. If neglected, it may result in breakouts. Mathew Rundle, Esthetician, says “ Exfoliating pads really are a time saver and are a fantastic addition to your skin care regime. Rather than using a gritty scrub, which can be very easy to get carried away with and over exfoliate your skin, an exfoliating pad will deliver carefully targeted ingredients to gently reveal smoother, fresher skin. ”
These exfoliating pads are a popular trend among skin care enthusiasts and are also known for their ease of use. These pre-soaked pads not only save time but also cut down the expenses spent on salon treatments.
But how can you choose the right one? And which ones are the best? We have compiled a list for you in which you can find the 11 best exfoliating pads. You can choose the one that suits your skin needs. Keep reading to know more about them!
Read on to know more!
In This Article
11 Best Exfoliating Pads Of 2024
1. Best For Uneven Skin Tone:Neogen Dermalogy Bio-Peel Gauze Peeling Pad
Bask in the nourishment of green tea and get rid of skin impurities with Neogen Dermalogy Bio Peel Gauze Peeling. Instantly refreshing and hydrating, this clinically-tested soft peeling process is nothing like you’ve experienced before. The 100% cotton exfoliation pad with chemical peeling has gauze on one side to exfoliate and an embossed side to remove the excess sebum and dead skin cells. Easy-to-use is one of the best ways to pamper your skin!
Pros
- Eliminates dead skin cells
- Purifies and evens out skin texture
- Gentle and easy-to-use
- 100% cotton pad
- Suitable for all skin types
- Pleasant fragrance
- Clinically-tested
Cons
- Not recommended for very sensitive skin
- Expensive
- Contains alcohol
"These exfoliating pads help me reduce the look of my pores. They make my skin appear smooth and rejuvenated. They are gentle, even for my sensitive skin."
Pro Tip2. Best Anti-Aging Benefits:RoC Daily Resurfacing Facial Disks
If you are looking for a product that can help minimize the appearance of aging signs, try the RoC Daily Resurfacing Facial Disks. It is a self-foaming cleanser with a blend of anti-aging and skin-conditioning formulas. It is nothing short of a divine experience for your skin according to many reviewers. Watch those fine lines and wrinkles diminish gradually as your complexion gets healthier, brighter, and clearer day by day. Suitable for removing makeup around eye areas, these clinically-proven exfoliating pads are so gentle that they can be used daily. The brand claims that users may notice reduced fine lines and improved skin tone and texture within a week of using the daily cleansing pad as instructed.
Pros
- Diminishes fine lines and wrinkles
- Anti-aging benefits
- Self-foaming skin conditioning formula
- Not harsh on the skin
- Guarantees result in 7 days
- Clinically-proven results
Cons
- Feels soapy on skin
- Not suitable for sensitive skin
"These exfoliating pads are gentle and give me a smoother complexion. I often use them as a part of my skin prep process before applying makeup. They enhance my skin's health without irritating it."
3. Best Sun Protection:QRxLabs Glycolic Acid 20% Resurfacing Pads
Did you know that glycolic acid is hailed as the Holy Grail exfoliator by the skincare industry? Here’s a brand giving you 20% pure glycolic acid to treat skin burns and fine lines, reduce acne scars, and more! Besides this, the professional-grade resurfacing pad also contains the benefits of essential vitamins like B5, C, and E that hydrate and repair skin damaged by sun exposure. It is packed with antioxidant agents like green tea and calendula extracts that soothe and refresh your skin instantly. All this in one non-woven textured exfoliating pad!
Pros
- Hydrates the skin with essentials vitamins
- Radiance-boosting
- Reduce acne scarring
- Cleans, refreshes, and soothes the skin
- Eco-friendly packaging with 50 pads
Cons
- Avoid if you have very sensitive skin
Pro Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has made it to our top favorite list with more than 15,541 rave reviews on Amazon.
| Neogen Dermalogy Bio-Peel Gauze Peeling Pad Best For Uneven Skin Tone | RoC Daily Resurfacing Facial Disks Best Anti-Aging Benefits | QRxLabs Glycolic Acid 20% Resurfacing Pads Best Sun Protection | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | Combination | Dry | All |
| Dimensions | 3.82 x 3.82 x 3.15 inches | - | - |
| Weight | 6.76 Ounces | - | 4 Ounces |
| Package Dimensions | - | - | 2.68 x 2.6 x 2.32 inches |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 1,064 | 9,501 | 15,541 |
| Price | $39.99 | $9.97 | $19.95 |
4. Best Non-Comedogenic:Neutralyze Exfoliating Pads – Maximum Strength Acne Treatment
Are acne and excess oil troubling that beautiful skin of yours? Get rid of them with these maximum-strength, anti-acne exfoliating pads that are specifically formulated to eliminate impurities disturbing your skin. The clinically-proven exfoliating pads minimize enlarged pores post-acne treatment, improve skin texture, and fight blemishes with 2% salicylic acid and 1% mandelic acid. It is also highly recommended and validated by leading dermatologists.
Pros
- Fights acne and reduces post-acne marks within weeks
- Suitable for all skin color and types
- Non-comedogenic
- Free from sulfates, paraben
- Cruelty-free
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Clinically-proven results
Cons
- It dries out the skin. Use a moisturizer post application
- It contains alcohol
"These pads are a helpful addition to my skin care routine. I like them for my semi-oily skin. They have reduced my acne and work well with my nightly moisturizer. They enhance my skin texture without causing dryness."
Pro Tip5. Best For Skin Texture Improvement:Nip + Fab Glycolic Fix Night Pads Extreme
Fix up your skin as celebrities do with Nip + Fab Glycolic Fix Night Pads Extreme. Giving your skin a fab and flawless glow, the brand has revolutionized the exfoliation process like no other. Using cutting-edge ingredients like glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and dragon’s blood, 2-3 wipes a week at night, will give your skin the much needed TLC it deserves. Celebrities love it, and makeup artists swear by it! If you are someone who loves to keep up with skincare trends, this one’s definitely for you.
Pros
- Contains glycolic acid that exfoliates the skin
- Contains brightening agents
- Refines pores and improves skin texture
- Brightens complexion
Cons
- Works best at night
- Not recommended for very sensitive skin
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The extensive 9,302 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are vouching for this product.
6. Best Clinically Proven:StriVectin Advanced Resurfacing Daily Reveal Exfoliating Pads
StriVectin Advanced Resurfacing Exfoliating Pads are scientifically formulated to eliminate dead skin cells and brighten the skin tone. The clinically examined and confirmed pads are rich in AHAs, PHAs, BHAs, and TXAs, which exfoliate the skin and give soft and smooth textured skin. The tester’s experience indicates that it also tightens the pores and gives an even toned skin. They are clinically-proven to boost skin’s cell renewal rate and resurface dull and rough skin. It is recommended to use it once daily in the evening. They are ideal for all skin types; however, a patch test is recommended for all.
Pros
- Brightens skin tone
- Wrinkle reduction
- Tightens pores
- Hypoallergenic
- Non-irritating
- Vegan
- Ideal for all skin types
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Coal tar-free
- SLS & SLES-free
- Formal Dehydrate-free
- Triclocarban-free
- Clinically proven results
Cons
- None
"These exfoliating pads are great for my nightly routine. They have helped my skin become even and brighter only with some weeks of use. They are gentle for daily use and leave my skin smoother without irritation or dryness. They have subtle scents which do not overwhelm me."
7. Best Anti-Acne Ingredients:Neutrogena Rapid Clear Treatment Pads
Unlike other exfoliating pads, Neutrogena Rapid Clear Treatment Pads reduce pimples, redness, and swelling within 8 hours! Clinically-tested and infused with powerful anti-acne ingredients, it dissolves oil and eliminates the root cause of breakouts even before they appear! With no impurities or dead skin cells left behind, these dermatologist-recommended exfoliating pads are by far the quickest way to get back your natural, glowing, and acne-free skin according to the reviewer’s experience.
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Powerful anti-acne ingredients
- Dissolves excess oil
- Not expensive
- Dermatologically-approved
Cons
- The result may vary across skin types
- Some may find it too greasy
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Almost 11,121 happy users have mentioned the value and quality of this product.
8. Best For Instant Skin Lifting:L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Triple Power LZR Peel Pads
If anti-aging had a mantra, it would start with L’Oreal. This wondrous product has customers going gaga over how effective it is when it comes to evening out skin tone and reducing the appearance of fine lines. Offering a refreshing and delightful experience, you feel your mood and skin lifted instantly. So, the next time you feel your skin needs a youthful glow, L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Triple Power LZR Peel Pads with so many rave reviews are the ones you need for a smoother skin texture.
Pros
- Repairs texture
- Helps reduce blackheads and minimize breakouts
- Spot treatment
- Accelerates skin renewal
- Hydrates skin
Cons
- Avoid using regularly if you have sensitive skin
9. Best Against Blackheads:Remedial Glycolic Acid Resurfacing Pads
The Remedial Glycolic Acid Resurfacing Pads are the solution for exfoliating and removing dark spots and blackheads. They have 30% glycolic acid, which helps loosen dead skin cells and unclog pores, while enhancing cell turnover. They are infused with vitamins B5, C, and E, witch hazel, menthol, calendula, allantoin, green tea, and eucalyptus, which have anti-aging and skin conditioning properties that revitalize the skin. With the goodness of so many active ingredients, these professional-grade facial pads proven to deliver visible results remove dark spots and brighten the complexion giving you healthy, glowing, and youthful-looking skin.
Pros
- Anti-aging effect
- Reduces dark spots and blackheads
- Moisturizes the skin
- Brightens complexion
Cons
- Not suitable for dry, sensitive, or acne-prone skin
10. Best For Pore Unclogging:Replenix Acne Solutions Gly/Sal 10-2 Pads
Are you exposed to dust and pollution all day? All that dirt and impurities on the skin are bound to give rise to breakouts. These dermatologically-approved dual-textured exfoliating pads contain 10% glycolic acid that deeply cleanse the skin without drying it, while 2% salicylic acid evens out the skin tone and texture. Rich in natural botanical extracts and witch hazel, these clinically verified gentle cleansers are carefully formulated to hydrate and soothe irritated skin. If acne and enlarged pore size are your problematic skin conditions, let these results-driven, expert-recommended exfoliating pads be the solution.
Pros
- Natural botanical extracts
- An anti-acne formula that soothes skin
- Evens out skin texture and tone
- Guarantees smoother-looking skin
- Pore refinement
- Professional-grade
- Visible results
Cons
- Expensive
"These pads have faded my sun-induced dark spots. They absorb excess sebum and eliminate dead skin cells, revealing smoother skin. The pads help treat my breakouts and add a radiant glow to my skin. Although they have an unpleasant smell and are slightly sticky, their effects overshadow these shortcomings."
11. Best For Sensitive Skin:First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads
Clean and clear skin is the perfect canvas for makeup. And if you love applying makeup then you’ll love these exfoliating pads too. They are scientifically formulated with tested ingredients like lactic acid and glycolic acid that gently exfoliate dull skin, cucumber and Indian gooseberry tone the skin, while lemon peel and licorice roots brighten the complexion. Don’t worry about breakouts or dryness, these dermatologist-tested cleansers are so gentle that they can be used on sensitive skin. Promising radiance in a swipe, these exfoliating pads are an absolute must-have, according to the reviewers!
Pros
- Natural ingredients
- Deep and gentle exfoliation
- Hydrates and tones skin
- Brightens the skin
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Allergy-tested and non-comedogenic
- No sulfates, parabens, or alcohol
- Dermatologically tested
Cons
- Expensive
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has gained over 2,158 positive reviews on Amazon, making it an all-time best-seller.
Are you wondering why you need exfoliating pads? Read on to know more.
Why Do You Need Exfoliating Pads
Exfoliation pads do that magic to your skin that face wash and makeup removers fail to. Eliminating dead skin cells and making way for newer, fresher, and healthier skin than before, you’ll love how your skin will look in the mirror the next day. Your complexion glows, acne reduces, redness is gone, hydration level increases, appearance of pores diminishes, and the fine lines are far from visible! We don’t know about you but it wouldn’t be wrong to call them instant skin refreshing boosters, that can instantly level up your skin care routine.
Still thinking why do you need exfoliating pads? You’ll find your answer after using a few wipes, we promise.
What Ingredients Should I Look For In Exfoliating Pads
While buying exfoliating pads, you must look for:
- Glycolic acid (AHA): Glycolic acid deeply cleanses and removes dead skin cells and impurities without drying out the skin.
- Salicylic acid (BHA): Salicylic acid, on the other hand, unclogs pores, reduces sebum secretion, and fights acne and other oily skin issues.
Together, these two acids help maintain the pH level of the skin for a healthier and brighter glow. After using these exfoliants, make sure to follow up with a good moisturizer with ceramide as its key ingredient in your daily routine. This will ensure your skin barrier stays intact, rough texture on the skin is removed, and you have a clearer complexion.
Infographic: Common Mistakes To Avoid While Using Exfoliating Pads
Our skin needs deep exfoliation at regular intervals to remove dead skin cells and replenish its natural texture. Exfoliating pads work wonders in rejuvenating the skin by clearing old skin cells without burning a hole in your pocket. However, it is important to be cautious with exfoliating pads as they can get abrasive with incorrect use. Check out the infographic below to learn more about common mistakes you must avoid while using exfoliating pads and make the most out of them.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
You need not have to stand in long queues in front of salons to get clear, glowing skin. A proper skin care routine is the key to getting radiant skin. Exfoliating is one of the crucial steps of the process. The exfoliating pads on our list are convenient and help remove dead skin cells from the skin’s surface and give you a spa-like experience. They help rejuvenate new skin cells and provide you with an instant glow. The Neogen Dermalogy Bio-Peel Gauze Peeling Pad is the most convenient choice that offers exfoliation and hydration, while QRxLabs Glycolic Acid 20% Resurfacing Pads are an antioxidant-rich option that boosts radiance. If you are seeking a gentle option for sensitive skin then try First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads. These pads are gentle, non-comedogenic, travel-friendly, and easy to use. However, some products may not suit sensitive skin types so check out for fragrance-free, sensitive skin-friendly pads. So, read the reviews well before selecting one for yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are exfoliating pads good?
Yes, they are incredibly beneficial for the skin. Since our skin sheds from time to time, it does not shed completely, and exfoliation helps in getting rid of dead skin cells that may clog pores and lead to breakouts. It also removes impurities, dirt, and excess oil.
What are the best peel pads?
There are several good exfoliating peel pads in the market. However, Glycolic Acid 20% Resurfacing Pads and Aveeno Clear Complexion Daily Facial Cleansing Pads are two of the best ones in the market today. You can try any one of the 11 pads mentioned above!
Do glycolic pads work?
Yes, they do. Glycolic acid is a strong exfoliating agent that gently removes all the dead skin cells without disturbing the natural oils. It also unclogs pores and removes impurities.
How to use exfoliating pads?
Take an exfoliating pad and very gently wipe it over your face. Do this in the areas under your eyes, near your hairline and neck too. If the pad is dual-textured, you must exfoliate your skin first and then use the embossed side to clean the dirt and impurities. Usually, people don’t rinse after exfoliating. But if you feel the need, you may do so and pat dry with a soft towel later.
Can you use exfoliator pads every day?
Yes, most exfoliating pads are gentle enough for everyday use because of the combination of exfoliating and moisturizing substances.
What are exfoliating pads for?
Exfoliating pads remove the germs, sweat, and dead skin cells on your skin that clog your pores causing blackheads and acne.
Is it better to exfoliate in the morning or at night?
It is better to exfoliate at night as it will improve the absorption of products you use before bed. It also helps to get rid of the day’s makeup, impurities, sebum, and oil.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Krati Darak, is a beauty and skin care enthusiast. She loves spending her time experimenting with new skin and beauty products. That’s how she has come up with this specially curated list of the best exfoliating pads. After going through in-depth reviews and customers’ feedback on popular beauty forums, she recommends nothing but the best for you here. These exfoliating pads are a popular trend among skin care enthusiasts and are also known for their ease of use. They save time and cut down the expenses spent on salon treatments.
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