15 Exfoliators Gentle Enough for Winter Skin

When the temperature drops, it’s easy for skin to become rough, dry, and flaky. The winter air strips away moisture, making it harder to maintain a healthy, smooth complexion. That’s why it’s essential to use exfoliators that are gentle enough for this time of year. Harsh exfoliating products can cause irritation, especially when the skin is already sensitive. Opt for products that are mild yet effective, giving you a fresh, radiant look without drying out your skin. These gentle exfoliators help clear away dead skin cells while keeping the moisture locked in.

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Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 6% Mandelic + 2% Lactic Acid Liquid Exfoliant

This exfoliant uses a combination of mandelic and lactic acids, which are more gentle than other acids typically used in exfoliation. The mandelic acid works on the skin’s surface to clear away dead cells while the lactic acid supports moisture retention, making it ideal for dry winter skin.

It is formulated to help improve skin texture and tone without irritation, providing a smoother appearance. Using this liquid exfoliant regularly can help combat dullness caused by winter’s harsher elements.
Estimated market value: $35

KraveBeauty Kale-Lalu-yAHA Gentle AHA Exfoliator

KraveBeauty’s exfoliator is designed with a gentler approach to exfoliation, making it suitable for sensitive skin during the colder months. The product contains a blend of AHAs, which remove dead skin cells while encouraging cell turnover.

Its lightweight formula ensures that skin doesn’t feel stripped after use, offering mild exfoliation while keeping the skin hydrated. This makes it perfect for individuals with dry or sensitive winter skin.
Estimated market value: $28.

Caudalie Gentle Buffing Cream

Caudalie’s cream exfoliator features fine, smooth particles that provide gentle, non-abrasive exfoliation. It helps to slough off dead skin cells without disrupting the skin barrier, making it ideal for use in winter when the skin is more prone to sensitivity.

This scrub also includes nourishing ingredients that hydrate and soothe skin, leaving it soft and radiant. It is a great choice for those who want to exfoliate without causing irritation or dryness.
Estimated market value: $34

Human Nature Niacinamide Scrub Mask

This scrub mask from Human Nature offers a two-in-one treatment that exfoliates and nourishes the skin with niacinamide, known for its calming and hydrating properties. It gently removes dead skin while promoting a brighter, more even skin tone without causing dryness or tightness.

It’s especially effective for individuals experiencing flaky skin during the winter months, as niacinamide helps improve the skin barrier, reducing sensitivity. Regular use leaves the skin feeling refreshed and smooth.
Estimated market value: $15.

Garnier Bright Complete Brightening Scrub

Garnier’s scrub is formulated with natural exfoliants and is designed to brighten the skin while maintaining a mild touch. It’s an excellent option for winter skin, as it helps remove dullness and rough texture without being too harsh.
The formula contains vitamin C, known for its brightening effects, which can help combat the pale and tired appearance common in colder months. This scrub’s gentle approach makes it suitable for all skin types, even in the winter.
Estimated market value: $12.

Nivea Derma Skin Clear Scrub

This scrub is designed to gently exfoliate while also targeting clogged pores. In winter, when skin is more prone to dryness, this scrub’s smooth texture ensures that it won’t irritate or dry out the skin.

The scrub effectively clears the surface of dead skin cells, making way for healthier skin to shine through. It is particularly helpful for people with acne-prone skin who are looking for a mild exfoliant that won’t aggravate winter breakouts.
Estimated market value: $10.

Ponds Pore Clear Facial Scrub

Ponds’ scrub is formulated to help with both exfoliation and pore purification. It’s gentle enough to be used a couple of times a week during the winter months when skin may need extra care to avoid becoming too dry or inflamed.

The formula helps smooth out rough patches and ensures that skin feels soft without being overly stripped of moisture. Follow up with a hydrating serum or cream to lock in moisture and protect the skin barrier.
Estimated market value: $9.

Fresh Sugar Strawberry Exfoliating Face Wash

This dual-action product is both a gentle exfoliator and a cleanser, designed to wash away impurities while exfoliating the skin. It is a fantastic option for winter when a single product that does both is ideal for a simplified skincare routine.

The scrub’s soft, natural sugar crystals dissolve quickly, preventing any irritation, while the moisturizing ingredients ensure skin doesn’t feel dry or tight after use. It’s a quick and effective way to keep skin fresh during colder months.
Estimated market value: $30

St. Ives Fresh Skin Apricot Scrub

St. Ives is known for its apricot scrub, which has been a popular choice for many years. Though it is a more traditional scrub, it is still gentle enough for occasional use during the winter months if your skin isn’t overly sensitive.

While this scrub provides a more invigorating feeling, be mindful of how your skin reacts during colder months, as it may require extra hydration afterward. It’s best used when your skin can handle a more intense scrub.
Estimated market value: $8.

Indie Lee Coconut Citrus Body Scrub

Indie Lee’s Coconut Citrus Body Scrub offers a refreshing experience that combines the natural exfoliating power of coconut shell powder with the uplifting scent of citrus. This scrub gently buffs away dead skin cells, leaving your body feeling soft and smooth without stripping moisture.

The formula is designed to nourish the skin while exfoliating, making it an excellent choice for winter when the skin can be drier. The added coconut oil helps hydrate and replenish, ensuring your skin stays moisturized and refreshed after use.
Estimated market value: $40.

La Mav Jojoba Beads & Argan Oil Exfoliating Scrub

La Mav’s Jojoba Beads & Argan Oil Exfoliating Scrub is a luxurious yet gentle option for those looking to exfoliate without irritation. The jojoba beads are natural and round, making them ideal for a mild scrub that won’t harm or scratch the skin.

This scrub is enriched with argan oil, which provides essential hydration, keeping the skin soft and smooth. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a nourishing exfoliation that maintains skin’s moisture, especially during colder months.
Estimated market value: $35.

SkinCeuticals Micro-Exfoliating Scrub

SkinCeuticals Micro-Exfoliating Scrub is designed to provide a deep yet gentle cleanse. With its finely milled exfoliants, it effectively removes dead skin cells and impurities while refining the skin’s texture.

This scrub also contains soothing ingredients that ensure skin remains calm and hydrated after exfoliation. Ideal for those with sensitive skin, it offers an effective solution for achieving a polished complexion without irritation.
Estimated market value: $40

Herban Salted Butter Moisturizing Scrub

Herban Salted Butter Moisturizing Scrub is a luxurious scrub that uses natural sea salt to exfoliate while nourishing the skin with shea butter. The coarse salt crystals help buff away dead skin cells, leaving the skin smooth and revitalized.

After exfoliation, the buttery texture melts into the skin, providing deep moisture that lasts long after use. This scrub is perfect for those looking to combine exfoliation with intense hydration during the colder months.
Estimated market value: $35

Lancôme Exfoliating Rose Sugar Scrub

Lancôme Exfoliating Rose Sugar Scrub combines fine sugar particles with the soothing properties of rose extract to gently exfoliate and hydrate the skin. The sugar crystals help remove dead skin cells while the rose extract calms and soothes the skin.

This scrub’s luxurious texture provides an indulgent experience while leaving skin soft and smooth. It’s perfect for anyone who needs a mild exfoliant with a calming fragrance, especially in the winter when skin needs extra care.
Estimated market value: $55

Kiehl’s Amino Acid Scalp Scrub Detox Treatment

Kiehl’s Amino Acid Scalp Scrub Detox Treatment is designed to exfoliate the scalp and promote healthy hair growth. This treatment uses amino acids and apricot seed powder to gently exfoliate the scalp while detoxifying and removing buildup.

It also provides hydration to the scalp, which is especially beneficial during winter when the skin can become dry and flaky. Regular use helps maintain a clean, healthy scalp without over-drying or irritating the skin.
Estimated market value: $40.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.