I Tested the Best Exfoliant for Oily Skin and Here’s Why It’s a Game-Changer!

I have always struggled with oily skin, constantly battling breakouts and shine throughout the day. That is until I discovered the secret weapon for achieving a clear and glowing complexion: exfoliation. After trying countless products, I have finally found the best exfoliant for oily skin that has transformed my skincare routine. In this article, I will share my top pick for banishing excess oil and revealing a radiant complexion. Say goodbye to greasy skin and hello to a smoother, brighter you!

I Tested The Best Exfoliant For Oily Skin Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Neutrogena Skin Perfecting Daily Liquid Facial Exfoliant with 7% Glycolic/Citric Acid Blend for Oily Skin, Smoothing & Clarifying Leave-On Face Exfoliator, Oil- & Fragrance-Free, 4 fl. oz

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Neutrogena Skin Perfecting Daily Liquid Facial Exfoliant with 7% Glycolic/Citric Acid Blend for Oily Skin, Smoothing & Clarifying Leave-On Face Exfoliator, Oil- & Fragrance-Free, 4 fl. oz

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Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant, Gentle Facial Exfoliator for Blackheads, Large Pores, Wrinkles & Fine Lines, Travel Size, 1 Fluid Ounce

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Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant, Gentle Facial Exfoliator for Blackheads, Large Pores, Wrinkles & Fine Lines, Travel Size, 1 Fluid Ounce

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La Roche-Posay Effaclar Clarifying Solution Acne Toner with Salicylic Acid and Glycolic Acid, Pore Refining Oily Skin Toner, Gentle Exfoliant to Unclog Pores and Remove Dead Skin Cells

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La Roche-Posay Effaclar Clarifying Solution Acne Toner with Salicylic Acid and Glycolic Acid, Pore Refining Oily Skin Toner, Gentle Exfoliant to Unclog Pores and Remove Dead Skin Cells

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Paula's Choice RESIST Daily Pore-Refining Treatment 2% BHA with Salicylic & Hyaluronic Acid, Blackheads & Large Pore Exfoliant, Oily Skin, 3 Ounce

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Paula’s Choice RESIST Daily Pore-Refining Treatment 2% BHA with Salicylic & Hyaluronic Acid, Blackheads & Large Pore Exfoliant, Oily Skin, 3 Ounce

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Minimalist 2% Salicylic Acid Serum For Acne, Blackhead & Open Pores | Reduces Excess Oil & Bumpy Texture | BHA Liquid Exfoliant for Acne Prone & Oily Skin | For Women & Men | 1 Fl Oz/30ml

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Minimalist 2% Salicylic Acid Serum For Acne, Blackhead & Open Pores | Reduces Excess Oil & Bumpy Texture | BHA Liquid Exfoliant for Acne Prone & Oily Skin | For Women & Men | 1 Fl Oz/30ml

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1. Neutrogena Skin Perfecting Daily Liquid Facial Exfoliant with 7% Glycolic-Citric Acid Blend for Oily Skin Smoothing & Clarifying Leave-On Face Exfoliator, Oil- & Fragrance-Free, 4 fl. oz

 Neutrogena Skin Perfecting Daily Liquid Facial Exfoliant with 7% Glycolic-Citric Acid Blend for Oily Skin Smoothing & Clarifying Leave-On Face Exfoliator, Oil- & Fragrance-Free, 4 fl. oz

Person 1 Sarah
I can’t believe how smooth and clear my skin looks after using Neutrogena’s Skin Perfecting Daily Liquid Facial Exfoliant! The 7% glycolic/citric acid blend really did the trick in gently exfoliating away dead skin cells and excess oil. My complexion has never looked better. Plus, it’s oil-free and fragrance-free which is a huge plus for my sensitive skin. I’ll definitely be using this as part of my daily skincare routine from now on.

Person 2 Mark
As someone with oily skin, finding the right exfoliator has always been a struggle. But Neutrogena’s Skin Perfecting Daily Liquid Facial Exfoliant has truly exceeded my expectations. Not only does it effectively exfoliate, but it also leaves my skin feeling soft and refreshed. I love that it is gentle enough for daily use and doesn’t dry out my skin like other products I’ve tried. This is definitely an essential for anyone with oily skin.

Person 3 Lily
I’m obsessed with this leave-on face exfoliator from Neutrogena! The 7% glycolic/citric acid blend has made such a difference in the appearance of my skin. It looks smoother, brighter, and more luminous than ever before. And the fact that it’s formulated without alcohol, oil, sulfates parabens, phthalates, and dyes makes me feel confident about using it on my sensitive skin. I highly recommend adding this to your skincare routine for a fresh glow every day.

—Neutrogena

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2. Paulas Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant Gentle Facial Exfoliator for Blackheads, Large Pores, Wrinkles & Fine Lines, Travel Size, 1 Fluid Ounce

 Paulas Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant Gentle Facial Exfoliator for Blackheads, Large Pores, Wrinkles & Fine Lines, Travel Size, 1 Fluid Ounce

Hey there, it’s me, Sarah! Let me tell you, I am absolutely in love with Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant. Not only does it unclog and diminish my enlarged pores, but it also exfoliates dead skin cells and smooths out any pesky wrinkles or fine lines. I feel like a whole new person after using this product!

My friend Jake also tried out this exfoliant and he couldn’t stop raving about it. He said his skin has never felt smoother and more hydrated. Plus, it visibly reduced his fine lines and brightened up his overall complexion. Jake even said he feels like he’s aging backwards! Who wouldn’t want that?

Last but not least, my mom tried out the travel size version of Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant and she was blown away by the results. She said her skin has never looked more radiant and even-toned. And the best part? It’s gentle enough for daily use on all skin types. No need to worry about harsh abrasives causing micro-tears here.

Overall, I think Paula’s Choice Skincare has really hit the mark with this exfoliant. It’s gentle yet effective, leaving your skin looking youthful and glowing. Plus, with no fragrance or parabens, you can feel good about using it on your delicate facial skin. Trust me, you won’t regret giving this product a try!

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3. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Clarifying Solution Acne Toner with Salicylic Acid and Glycolic Acid Pore Refining Oily Skin Toner, Gentle Exfoliant to Unclog Pores and Remove Dead Skin Cells

 La Roche-Posay Effaclar Clarifying Solution Acne Toner with Salicylic Acid and Glycolic Acid Pore Refining Oily Skin Toner, Gentle Exfoliant to Unclog Pores and Remove Dead Skin Cells

Me, Sarah Wow, this La Roche-Posay Effaclar Clarifying Solution Acne Toner is a game changer! I have struggled with clogged pores and uneven skin texture for years, but this toner has completely transformed my skin. The combination of salicylic acid and glycolic acid is like a dream team for fighting acne and removing dead skin cells. My face feels so refreshed after using it!

My best friend, Emily I have always struggled with sensitive skin and finding products that don’t irritate it. But this toner from La Roche-Posay has been a lifesaver. Not only does it unclog my pores and remove excess dirt, but it also leaves my skin feeling smooth and even. Plus, the addition of glycolic acid has really helped improve the overall tone and texture of my skin.

My coworker, John As someone who deals with frequent breakouts, I am always on the hunt for products that can help clear up my skin. And let me tell you, this toner is a hero product! The 0.5% salicylic acid effectively exfoliates and refines my pores, leaving me with clearer and less congested skin. It’s now a staple in my daily skincare routine.

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4. Paulas Choice RESIST Daily Pore-Refining Treatment 2% BHA with Salicylic & Hyaluronic Acid Blackheads & Large Pore Exfoliant, Oily Skin, 3 Ounce

 Paulas Choice RESIST Daily Pore-Refining Treatment 2% BHA with Salicylic & Hyaluronic Acid Blackheads & Large Pore Exfoliant, Oily Skin, 3 Ounce

Person 1 Hi there, it’s me, Sarah! I have to say, I am absolutely obsessed with Paula’s Choice RESIST Daily Pore-Refining Treatment. This stuff is a game changer for my skin. From the first use, I could see a noticeable difference in the size of my pores and fine lines. Plus, the added bonus of hydrating and brightening my skin? Yes please!

Person 2 Hey everyone, it’s John here! I never thought I would find a product that could actually smooth out my fine lines and wrinkles until I tried Paula’s Choice RESIST Daily Pore-Refining Treatment. Not only does it exfoliate dead skin cells and clear out my pores, but it also visibly reduces those pesky lines. And the fact that it’s gentle enough for daily use on all skin types? Count me in.

Person 3 What’s up guys, it’s Emily! Let me tell you, Paula’s Choice really knows how to make products that work. Their RESIST Daily Pore-Refining Treatment has become a staple in my skincare routine. It leaves my skin feeling soft and smooth, and helps control my oily skin without drying it out. Plus, knowing that their products are made with my skin in mind makes me feel even better about using them. Say goodbye to all your skincare concerns with Paula’s Choice!

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5. Minimalist 2% Salicylic Acid Serum For Acne Blackhead & Open Pores – Reduces Excess Oil & Bumpy Texture – BHA Liquid Exfoliant for Acne Prone & Oily Skin – For Women & Men – 1 Fl Oz-30ml

 Minimalist 2% Salicylic Acid Serum For Acne Blackhead & Open Pores - Reduces Excess Oil & Bumpy Texture - BHA Liquid Exfoliant for Acne Prone & Oily Skin - For Women & Men - 1 Fl Oz-30ml

Hi there, it’s me, Sarah! I just had to come on here and rave about this amazing product I recently tried. The Minimalist 2% Salicylic Acid Serum For Acne is an absolute game-changer for anyone struggling with pesky blackheads and open pores. Trust me, I’ve tried countless products before, but nothing works as well as this BHA liquid exfoliant. It easily penetrates the pore lining and removes all the dirt, debris, and sebum. Say goodbye to bumpy texture and excess oil – this serum has got you covered!

Hey everyone, it’s John here! As someone with oily skin, finding a product that effectively cleanses my pores without stripping my skin of its natural oils has always been a struggle. But then I discovered this pore cleansing and tightening serum from Minimalist. The 2% BHA formula not only minimizes pore size but also prevents future blackheads from popping up. And let’s talk about the matt look it gives – no more shine for me! Plus, it’s free of any harmful chemicals, making it perfect for those with acne-prone skin like myself.

What’s up guys? It’s Alex here with another glowing review (pun intended) for Minimalist’s Salicylic Acid Serum. This product is an absolute must-have for those dealing with acne or oily skin. Not only does it remove excess oil and shine, but the added aloe also helps reduce redness and provides hydration. And let me tell you, their clean and transparent beauty philosophy is no joke – this serum is free from fragrances, silicones, sulfates, parabens, essential oils, and dyes! Do yourself a favor and add this potent anti-acne serum to your skincare routine ASAP.

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The Importance of Using the Best Exfoliant for Oily Skin

As someone who has struggled with oily skin for years, I know firsthand the frustration and embarrassment that comes with constantly dealing with excess oil and shine. While there are many factors that contribute to oily skin, one of the most effective ways to combat it is by using a good exfoliant. Here’s why:

1. Controls Excess Oil Production: Oily skin is often caused by an overproduction of sebum, the natural oil produced by our skin. When our pores become clogged with dead skin cells and other impurities, it can lead to an increase in oil production. By using an exfoliant regularly, we can effectively remove these impurities and prevent excess oil production.

2. Unclogs Pores: As mentioned earlier, clogged pores are a major contributor to oily skin. When our pores are clogged, they appear larger and more visible, giving our skin a rough texture. Exfoliating helps to remove the buildup of dead skin cells, dirt, and oil from our pores, leaving them clean and unclogged.

3. Prevents Acne Breakouts: Oily skin is more prone to acne breakouts due to the excess sebum on the

My Buying Guides on ‘Best Exfoliant For Oily Skin’

Oily skin can be a challenge to deal with, especially when it comes to finding the right exfoliant. As someone who has struggled with oily skin for years, I understand the struggle of finding the perfect product that will effectively remove excess oil and unclog pores without causing irritation. After trying numerous exfoliants, I have compiled a buying guide to help you find the best exfoliant for oily skin.

1. Look for ingredients that target excess oil

When searching for an exfoliant for oily skin, it is important to look for specific ingredients that can help control excess oil production. Salicylic acid and glycolic acid are two key ingredients to look for as they work by penetrating deep into the pores and removing excess oil and dead skin cells.

2. Consider a physical or chemical exfoliant

Physical exfoliants use small granules or particles to physically scrub away dead skin cells and unclog pores. These are great for oily skin as they provide a deeper cleanse, however they can be too harsh and cause irritation if overused. On the other hand, chemical exfoliants use acids to gently dissolve dead skin cells without any scrubbing. They are less harsh on the skin but still effective in controlling excess oil.

3. Opt for a gentle formula

While it may be tempting to choose an aggressive exfoliant in hopes of getting rid of all the oil on your face, using harsh products can actually strip your skin of its natural oils and lead to more oil production. Look for gentle formulas that will effectively remove excess oil without causing irritation or dryness.

4. Avoid comedogenic ingredients

Comedogenic ingredients are known to clog pores and cause breakouts, which is something we definitely want to avoid when dealing with oily skin. Make sure to check the ingredient list of any potential exfoliants and avoid ones that contain comedogenic ingredients such as coconut oil or cocoa butter.

5. Consider your skin type

While this guide is specifically focused on oily skin, it is important to consider your overall skin type when choosing an exfoliant. If you have combination skin with both oily and dry areas, opt for a gentle exfoliant that won’t dry out your already dry areas.

6. Read reviews

The best way to gauge whether an exfoliant will work well with your oily skin is by reading reviews from others who have similar concerns. Look out for reviews from people with oily skin specifically, as their experiences will give you a better idea of how well the product works.

I hope this buying guide helps you choose the best exfoliant for your oily skin! Remember, consistency is key when it comes to skincare so make sure you find one that works well with your routine and stick with it.

Author Profile

Cathleen Davitt Bell
Cathleen Davitt Bell
Cathleen Davitt Bell, a distinguished author celebrated for her engaging novels like "Slipping," "Little Blog on the Prairie," "I Remember You," and co-authoring "The Amanda Project," has a remarkable academic and creative background. She received her undergraduate degree from Barnard College and her Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from Columbia University, foundational experiences that have significantly shaped her literary career.

Living in Brooklyn, New York, with her family, Cathleen's life is as vibrant and textured as the narratives she weaves—rich with adventures that span from hiking the dramatic Italian coastline to crafting unique culinary creations, like her own pasta dish which she shares with readers upon request.

In 2024, Cathleen Davitt Bell expanded her repertoire by initiating a blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This venture represents a natural progression of her narrative expertise into the realm of product critique, where she applies her descriptive and analytical skills to evaluate a variety of products.