10 Gentle Exfoliators Derms Love for Mature Skin

When it comes to skin care, exfoliation often feels like the secret handshake—it seems like all the cool kids know about it, but few explain exactly how to approach the practice, especially as your skin changes with age. As you get older, exfoliation isn’t about chasing elusive “antiaging” promises; it’s about addressing real, tangible changes that mature skin experiences like texture irregularities, dullness, and a slower cell turnover rate.

According to dermatologists Rajani Katta, MD, and Alexis Stephens, DO, FAAD, FAOCD, exfoliation can help by gently sweeping away dead skin cells to reveal smoother, more radiant skin underneath. But—and this is a big but—it’s also incredibly easy to overdo, which can lead to irritation, dryness, and even damage to an already fragile skin barrier. Dr. Katta explains, “The skin barrier is thinner in mature skin and doesn’t retain moisture as well [as younger skin does].” Damaging it through excessive exfoliation can result in issues like dermatitis or chronic irritation, she adds.

So what’s the solution? Gentle exfoliation can improve texture and encourage collagen production, but it’s all about choosing the right approach for your skin type and goals, according to Dr. Stephens. For most mature skin, she adds, that means steering clear of abrasive scrubs and instead reaching for chemical exfoliants like lactic or mandelic acids in low concentrations, or even enzyme-based options from papaya or pineapple extract. “These acids are milder, making them less likely to cause irritation,” Dr. Stephens says. Used sparingly—just once or twice a week—these can help you rediscover your skin’s natural glow without compromising its health.

The bottom line? Exfoliation for mature skin is less about dramatic transformations and more about finding a balance that nurtures your skin while respecting its evolving needs. And with that in mind, we’ve rounded up the best exfoliators that check all the right boxes—gentle, effective, and dermatologist-approved.

• Best Overall: Paula’s Choice 6% Mandelic Acid + 2% Lactic Acid Liquid Exfoliant
• Runner-Up: Olay Super Serum
• Best Budget Pick: The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + HA
• Best for Dry Skin: Neostrata Bionic Face Serum
• Best for Oily Skin: Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
• Best for Resilient Skin: Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial
• Best for Sensitive Skin: Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant
• Best for Brightening: L'Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 5% Glycolic Acid Peeling Toner
• Best for Night Use: Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel
• Best Single-Step Towelette: M-61 PowerGlow Peel

Now that you understand how gentle exfoliation can enhance your skin care routine and what ingredients to look for, it’s time to find the right product for your needs. Below, we’ve curated a list of the best exfoliators for mature skin, including dermatologist-recommended formulas, gentle AHAs, and hydrating options that respect your skin barrier.

• Gentle enough for sensitive skin
• Less expensive than many high-end options
• Helps brighten and smooth skin texture

• May not be strong enough for resilient skin that needs deeper exfoliation

Dr. Stephens recommends this exfoliator specifically for its use of both mandelic and lactic acid, which she says are milder than the more well-known AHA, glycolic acid, making it less likely to irritate your skin. She calls it “an affordable and gentle option for chemical exfoliation.”

Several reviewers highlight the noticeable glow this treatment delivers after just a few uses. One Sephora customer wrote, “My skin is very sensitive and temperamental and this is soothing, brightening, pore tightening, and there was an immediate improvement in overall tone and texture after the first two uses.”

• Hydrating formula that minimizes irritation
• Improves skin texture and tone

• May be too strong for very sensitive skin

Dr. Stephens points to this serum as a fantastic option for mature skin that isn’t overly sensitive, thanks to its star ingredient, lactic acid. “It’s a great option for those with a bit more resilient skin looking to take their skin to the next level,” she says. This AHA-based serum gently exfoliates while simultaneously drawing in moisture, leaving your skin visibly smoother and brighter. Plus, its lightweight formula absorbs easily, making it a great addition to both morning and evening routines. Just be sure to slather on SPF after you apply if you plan on wearing it during the day.

Fans rave about its versatility and efficacy. One user shared, “I’m an esthetician with sensitive, dry skin and high expectations. In one month of use I have had zero irritation, noticeable improvement in texture, a slight improvement in overall hydration, and zero progression of hyperpigmentation.”

• Smoothes skin texture
• Brightens uneven skin tone

• Only recommended for dry skin

This dermatologist-favorite (recommended to SELF by board-certified dermatologist Ife Rodney, MD, FAAD) offers a simple yet effective way to exfoliate on a budget as it targets dryness and uneven texture while ensuring your skin stays hydrated. One user with mature skin says it’s a mainstay in her skin care routine for that reason. She wrote, “I am 80 years old, and have a problem with acne, especially where I have wrinkles. I noticed a difference in three days. A lot less acne. I will order this again when I use this one up.”

• Ideal for dry and mature skin
• Provides hydration while exfoliating
• Strengthens skin barrier with antioxidants

• Expensive

If your skin leans dry or dehydrated, this serum is a must-try. It uses polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) to gently exfoliate, and also delivers intense hydration and strengthens the skin barrier with antioxidant-rich ingredients like green tea extract. It’s designed to soften fine lines while keeping irritation at bay, making it a standout for mature skin.

Jenny Liu, MD, FAAD, recommends this brand’s entire line of glycolic and PHA products to SELF, from cleansers to serums. She says polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) are gentler than traditional AHAs and provide exfoliation along with antioxidant protection.

• Helps to clear pores and prevent breakouts
• Absorbs quickly
• Evens skin tone

• May be too strong for sensitive skin

Salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA), makes this exfoliant a game-changer for acne-prone or oily skin. Dr. Rodney calls it “effective yet gentle.” This liquid exfoliant penetrates deep into the pores, dissolving the buildup of excess oil and dead skin cells, which helps to prevent clogged pores and breakouts because, yes, acne can still be an issue as you age.

One Sephora customer shared, “The standout feature of this exfoliant is its ability to slough off dead skin and excess sebum safely and without irritation. It's particularly impressive how it's helped me navigate the hormonal shifts of perimenopause, which have brought all kinds of fun changes to my skin. The salicylic acid works wonders for keeping pores clear and minimizing breakouts.”

• Multi-acid blend for deep exfoliation
• Rich in soothing oils to reduce irritation
• Great for textured or uneven skin tone

• Might be too strong for sensitive or thin skin
• Expensive

A powerful combination of AHA and BHA, this at-home peel is ideal for skin that can handle a more potent exfoliation. Dr. Rodney calls this a “powerful yet nourishing treatment” for anyone looking to address texture and dullness. Reviewers rave about the instant smoothness and brightness it provides. “I love the glow my skin has after using this. It really smooths everything out—my skin looks so fresh and even,” says one user.

• Gentle enough for daily use
• Great for sensitive skin types
• Leaves skin smooth without irritation

• Requires activation with water, which may be inconvenient in some scenarios

While most physical exfoliants have an earned reputation for being harsh, this rice-based enzyme powder exfoliant is a gentle but effective way to slough off dead skin cells: Dr. Stephens says it provides a mild exfoliation that’s safe for regular use without causing irritation. The enzymatic exfoliation works to remove debris while being soft on the skin, making it a great option for those with sensitive skin or anyone who prefers a gentler exfoliant. One customer shared, “I’ve used this product for 20 years, it’s exceptional to smooth lines and rough texture, and brighten skin tone. I will try other products but always come back to this product. I like that it doesn’t irritate my sensitive skin.”

• Free of parabens, fragrance, alcohol, and dye
• Good for all skin types

• Can be a bit strong for those with sensitive skin

If dullness and uneven tone are a concern, this toner, infused with glycolic acid, will help brighten your complexion with minimal effort. According to Dr. Liu, it’s a gentle, hydrating formula that’s great for evening out mature skin textures and tones. Reviewers love how this product can revive their dull skin. “I have the thinnest, most sensitive skin. I tried glycolic acid 25% and it disrupted my skin barrier too much. This, however, is perfect. My skin looks more taught and flawless. The lines on my forehead diminished. It only took a week to see a difference,” one customer wrote.

• Fast acting
• Evens out texture and skin tone
• Leaves skin bright and smooth overnight

• Strong scent
• Expensive for single-use pads

This two-step system delivers a balanced mix of AHAs and BHAs for a quick, effective treatment that reveals smoother, brighter skin by morning. Reviewers are impressed by the quick results, with one writing: “I’ve been using these for 15 years or more. They make your skin look great. When I go without them for even a few days, I can tell my skin doesn’t look as tight and my pores as small!”

• Convenient, travel-friendly pad format
• Super-quick treatment (only take a minute)

• Some reviewers with sensitive skin say it caused irritation

This single-use, exfoliating pad contains glycolic acid and lactic acid to gently resurface skin, along with other skin-nourishing ingredients like chamomile and green tea. They’re perfect for anyone who wants to refresh their complexion without harsh scrubbing or intense chemical treatments. As one user notes, they’re great for addressing hyperpigmentation or age spots: “I’ve been using this for about three weeks and I have to say, this stuff works. My pores are getting smaller, less sebum, and dark spots are fading. Not much change on the wrinkles. I’m 60 and I can kick and stretch!!”

Shop more products for mature skin:

• 12 Moisturizers Derms Love for Aging Skin
• 18 Best Eye Creams for Mature Skin, According to Dermatologists
• Derms Pick the Best Cleansers for Mature Skin