Chemical exfoliants, such as acids that dissolve dead skin cells to reveal brighter, smoother skin, have traditionally been delivered via serums. While serums remain effective, exfoliating facial pads have surged in popularity. Dr. Dennis Gross's Alpha Beta Universal daily peel pads were once the gold standard, but their high cost limited accessibility. Today, a wide array of options exists, offering convenience and efficacy at various price points. These pads deliver AHAs and BHAs like glycolic and lactic acids to smooth and brighten skin, all in a convenient, pre-soaked format.
Using these pads also helps clear debris that can hinder product absorption, allowing moisturizers and serums to penetrate more effectively. This is especially beneficial during dry winter months when skin is prone to flakiness and buildup. With these easy-to-use pads, achieving glass-like skin has never been simpler. Below, find the best options tailored to your skin's needs.
Top Exfoliating Facial Pads
1. Medicube Zero Pore Pads 2.0
Available at Amazon and Ulta. A K-beauty cult favorite, these toning pads have replaced traditional AHA serums for many users. They exfoliate, balance, and brighten skin while reducing oil production and refining pores. Formulated with white willow bark, vitamin C, and calming botanicals like lavender, they leave skin soft, smooth, and glowing. Users report decreased melasma and improved texture at a fraction of the cost of competitors. $19 at Amazon, $21 at Ulta.
2. First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads
Available at Sephora, iHerb, and Dermstore. These gentle pads contain glycolic and lactic acids, plus lemon peel and Indian gooseberry to brighten and even tone. Ideal for sensitive skin, they smooth and hydrate, making skin makeup-ready. Reviewers rave about their effectiveness for breakouts and sensitivity. $38 at Sephora, $20 at iHerb (sample), $38 at Dermstore.
3. Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel
Available at Sephora and Amazon. The original two-step treatment: one pad exfoliates, the other provides anti-aging benefits. Contains five acids including glycolic, salicylic, and lactic to reduce dullness, uneven texture, pores, and hyperpigmentation. Stronger formula; start slowly. Users see noticeable improvement in five days. $94 at Sephora, $94 at Amazon.
4. Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads
Available at Amazon and Sephora. These pads use lactic acid, probiotics, and enzymes to brighten and exfoliate gently. Suitable for daily use, they reduce hyperpigmentation and even skin tone over time. Reviewers over 30 call them a must-have for reducing dark spots and aging signs. $62 at Amazon, $25 at Sephora (sample pack).
5. StriVectin Daily Reveal Exfoliating Pads
Available at Amazon, Dermstore, and Sephora. Highly rated with a potent blend of AHAs, PHAs, BHAs, and tranexamic acid. Once-daily use leaves skin clear, smooth, and bright. Mild citrus scent. Users compare them to expensive peels, noting reduced acne scars and glowing skin. $49 at Amazon, $49 at Dermstore, $49 at Sephora.
6. Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Exfoliant Pads
Available at Sephora and Amazon. Pre-soaked with the cult-favorite BHA toner, green tea extract, and methylpropanediol. BHAs slough off buildup and fight acne; green tea soothes; methylpropanediol hydrates. Ideal for travel. Reviewers love the gentle material and sufficient formula for face and neck. $16 at Sephora, $16 at Amazon.
7. SkinFix Resurface+ AHA/BHA Niacinamide Exfoliating Pads
Available at Sephora and Amazon. Glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acids plus niacinamide exfoliate, clean pores, and refine texture. Effective for rough texture, KP, acne, dark spots, and fungal acne. Can be used on body. Users praise improvement in texture and hyperpigmentation. $50 at Sephora, $50 at Amazon.
8. Innbeauty Project Slushy Serum Resurfacing Pads
Available at Sephora. Glycolic, mandelic, and fruit acids with ectoin, squalane, and peptide to smooth fine lines and support skin barrier. Finger pocket for easy use; oversized shape. Gentle enough for daily use, leaving skin hydrated and glowing. Reviewers call them perfection for pre-makeup prep. $56 at Sephora.
9. Peter Thomas Roth Acne Pore Correction Pads
Available at Sephora and Amazon. Formulated with 2% salicylic acid and glycolic acid to clear pimples, minimize pores, and improve texture. Aloe and allantoin soothe irritation. A holy grail for hormonal acne; users see improvement within a week. $49 at Sephora, $49 at Amazon.
10. Summer Fridays Daily Exfoliating Pads
Available at Sephora. Individually wrapped pads made in Korea with AHAs and PHAs for smooth texture and brightness. Hydrating glycerin keeps skin soft. Gentle enough for daily use; ideal as pre-makeup prep. Reviewers love the post-facial glow and zero irritation with retinol. $42 at Sephora.
