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Exfoliation is the key to radiant, smooth skin, but not all exfoliators are suitable, especially for black skin.
Harsh scrubs can lead to problems like irritation and hyperpigmentation. We’ve put together a list of the finest exfoliators tailored for black skin, offering gentle yet effective solutions.
Whether you have acne-prone skin, scars, or simply want a luminous complexion, our guide has you covered. Say goodbye to harsh treatments and hello to products that exfoliate, soothe, and revitalize.
Join us to unlock the secrets of beautiful black skin!
What are the best exfoliators for black skin?
1. Avène Cleanance A.H.A Exfoliating Serum
This gentle exfoliating serum is a game changer for acne-prone skin or skin with past acne scars and texture.
With AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids), the Avène Cleanance Serum acts by preventing blackheads, reducing oiliness and the appearance of pores, and improving skin texture.
It contains lactic and succinic acid in a duo that reduces imperfections, pores, and marks. It also combines glutamic acid and Avène thermal spring water for a mattifying and soothing effect.
Suitable for sensitive skin, it has a formula with only 10 ingredients and 99% ingredients of natural origin, for maximum tolerance.
This is one of the best exfoliating serums for black skin with a light fast-absorbing texture, vegan formula, eco-responsible packaging, and fragrance-free formula.
2. Eucerin Hyaluron-Filler Night Peeling And Serum
If you’re looking for a good exfoliator for darker skin tones that multitasks, this Night Peeling and Serum from Eucerin is the perfect choice.
The Eucerin Hayluron-Filler Night Peeling and Serum contains an AHA complex that exfoliates the skin and stimulates cell renewal.
It is also formulated with 2 types of hyaluronic acid (high and low molecular weight) to improve hydration and soften the outer layers of the skin, as well as penetrate the deeper layers of the epidermis to repair wrinkles where they originate.
This product contains two textures – creamy emulsion and transparent gel – that mix upon application, providing effective results.
According to clinical studies, 96% of users confirm that it smoothes texture and 95% that it brightens the skin.
Dermatologically tested and non-comedogenic, it is ideal for all skin types.
3. Isdinceutics Glicoisdin 10 Soft Facial Gel With Peeling Effect
With 10% glycolic acid, the ISDIN is a soft gel with a peeling effect for all skin types.
This product comes in three different concentrations: 10, 15, or 25% glycolic acid, which means you can choose the strength that best suits your skin concerns.
Since we want to reduce the risk of irritation, this is the most gentle option. It contains 10% partially neutralized glycolic acid (4.0% free glycolic acid) for a soft peeling action.
It is also enriched with aloe vera for a moisturizing, soothing, and anti-irritant action.
This product refines the skin texture, stimulates natural cellular regeneration, prevents wrinkles, fine lines, and blemishes, improves skin elasticity, and brightens and evens out the complexion.
Ideal for all skin types, this is an excellent exfoliator for black skin.
4. Etat Pur Pure Active Citric Acid AHA
If you prefer to use specific, individual ingredients, the Etat Pur Pure Active Citric Acid offers you the wonders of citric acid, another exfoliating acid.
It has a concentration of 26% citric acid: 10% pure and 16% sodium citrate for a keratolytic, regenerating, and refining action.
With a vegan, minimalistic, and fragrance-free formula, it is ideal for all skin types, perfect for dull skin with enlarged pores.
If you want to achieve radiant skin in a few days, definitely try this one!
For better results, apply 1 drop of Etat Pur Pure Active Citric Acid AHA, in the evening, to face areas with enlarged pores, or 4 drops on the entire face for more a radiance boost. Apply for 4 consecutive days and then apply twice a week for 1 month. We recommend using high sun protection during the day.
WARNING: It is not recommended to use simultaneously with Etat Pur Salicylic Acid.
5. Collistar Gentle Gel Scrub Sensitive Skin
Are you looking for a physical exfoliator for black skin? Then, you should opt for gentle options like Collistar Gentle Gel Scrub.
This exfoliating gel helps to remove impurities and refine the texture of the complexion. It contains yarrow extract, which moisturizes and softens the skin, and pansy extract and inulin, a natural prebiotic that soothes the skin.
It features beads that physically remove the dead skin cells from the skin, revealing smooth radiant skin.
With a vegan, alcohol-free formula, it’s ideal for all skin types, including the sensitive ones.
6. Neutrogena Bright Boost Resurfacing Micro Face Polish
For a drugstore option that doesn’t compromise on quality, this Neutrogena product is a fantastic choice. It combines both physical and chemical exfoliation.
It contains 2 AHAs – Glycolic and Mandelic Acid, to provide a renewing action that brightens the complexion and helps fade hyperpigmentation. It also features natural microspheres that physically exfoliate the skin, providing smooth and soft skin.
Oil-free, alcohol-free, and non-comedogenic, it is suitable for all skin types and ideal for dull skin with hyperpigmentation.
TIP: If you are a fan of this brand, you may be interested in our post about the best Neutrogena products.
7. Strivectin Advanced Resurfacing Daily Reveal Exfoliating Pads
For a unique approach to skin exfoliation, consider these Exfoliating pads from Strivection, offering a convenient and mess-free skincare experience
These pads contain 4 types of acids: AHA, BHA, PHA, and tranexamic acid. Together, they renew the skin, revealing an intense glow. They also help eliminate blemishes, reduce the appearance of pores, and fade hyperpigmentation.
According to the clinical tests conducted by the brand, 100% of users felt their skin was brighter, 96% reported improved skin texture, and 90% minimized pores.
This cruelty-free and practical option is ideal for all skin types but should be used cautiously on sensitive skin.
8. Sesderma Acglicolic Classic Anti-Aging Body Milk
If you are looking for one of the best body exfoliators for black skin, you need to try this Sesderma product.
This anti-aging body milk stimulates collagen synthesis, reducing skin thickness, promoting cell renewal, and fighting the appearance of dark spots.
It contains 10% glycolic acid to eliminate dead cells and regenerate the skin, making it perfect for all skin types with signs of aging.
With a light, comfortable texture and a practical bottle with a dispenser, it is perfect for daily use on the body.
9. Bioderma Pigmentbio Sensitive Areas Targeted Brightening Care
More than a chemical exfoliant, this Bioderma cream is a targeted brightening care to brighten and even out the sensitive areas of the skin.
With azelaic acid, glabridine, and laminaria, it provides a depigmenting, anti-inflammatory, and soothing action, perfect to brighten darker skin on the knees, elbows, armpits, thighs, or crotch.
With high tolerance and no fragrance, it is ideal for sensitive areas (external intimate areas and friction areas) and all skin types and colors.
The Bioderma Pigmentbio is considered by many one of the best exfoliators for black skin.
10. Caudalie Vinosculpt Crushed Cabernet Body Scrub
Caudalie Vinosculpt is a gentle body scrub that keeps the skin smooth and also prevents razor bumps.
With grape-seed oil and honey, this body exfoliator provides a nourishing, antioxidant, and soothing effect. Its grainy texture derives from crushed cabernet, a 100% natural alternative.
If you’re looking for soft, glowing skin all over the body, definitely try this.
FAQs
Which ingredients work best for black skin?
AHAs (Alpha-hydroxy acids) in the right concentration are excellent chemical exfoliators, without being too harsh on the skin. If your skin is sensitive, look for lower concentrations or other ingredients in the same product that calm the skin. In general:
- Salicylic acid is excellent for congested, oily skin.
- Lactic acid is ideal for sensitive, dry skin.
- Glycolic acid is stronger than lactic acid and better at reducing hyperpigmentation.
- Citric acid is rich in antioxidants, so it brightens the skin tone.
How do you exfoliate your face?
Exfoliating your face with dark skin requires a gentle touch to avoid triggering irritation.
So, if you are using a physical exfoliator, don’t overuse it and ensure it is extra gentle. Apply it to damp skin and massage gently with your hand in circular motions, then rinse with water.
When using a chemical exfoliator, simply apply it to dry, clean skin, as with most serums.
After exfoliating, in either case, apply a gentle face moisturizer.
How do you exfoliate the body?
If you’re using a body scrub, the best way to do it is in the shower. Apply it to damp skin and massage gently with circular motions. You can use it regularly on your bum, for example, to prevent those small, but persistent bumps.
And definitely use it before shaving for smoother skin and to prevent ingrown hairs. And before applying any type of fake tan, for a more even color.
If you’re using an exfoliating cream, just apply it to dry skin like any other body moisturizer.
How often should you exfoliate the skin?
When it comes to exfoliation, you don’t want to overdo it. We don’t recommend using a scrub more than once or twice a week.
Regarding exfoliating creams and serums, it depends on the products, some are gentle enough for everyday use, while others should only be used 2 or 3 times a week.
We recommend reading the information about the products, before using it for the first time.
Do homemade scrubs work?
It depends! DIY scrubs may be an affordable way to exfoliate the skin. But be cautious with homemade products, since there is essentially no guarantee that the ingredients are appropriate for your skin.
We also don’t recommend storing homemade products at home to use later, since they don’t contain any ingredients to preserve the formula.
Conclusion
In conclusion, exfoliation is beneficial for all skin types when used correctly. To ensure you select the perfect exfoliator for your skin, we’ve curated a list of top exfoliators tailored to black skin.
Whether you’re dealing with acne-prone skin, battling scars, or simply yearning for a luminous complexion, our guide has got you covered. Bid farewell to abrasive treatments and say hello to products that not only exfoliate but also soothe and rejuvenate.
Within this comprehensive guide, we’ve spotlighted the best exfoliators for black skin, handpicked to cater to the unique needs of darker skin tones, all while guaranteeing a gentle and efficient exfoliating experience.
Unlock the secrets of beautiful black skin with our carefully selected exfoliators
We hope we helped you pick your next favorite product, but also know a bit more about exfoliation and its benefits and precautions.