8 Best Exfoliators for Combination Skin (Balance Your Face Like a Pro)
If you have combination skin, you know the struggle—your T-zone gets oily, but your cheeks feel dry, and finding skincare that works for both is not easy. When it comes to exfoliation, you need something strong enough to clear clogged pores but gentle enough to keep dry areas from getting flaky.
After a bit of trial and error (because, yep, I have combination skin too!), I’ve found some of the best exfoliators that actually work without making one part of your face worse. Whether you prefer a toner, scrub, enzyme exfoliator, or multi-tasking cleanser, I’ve got a pick for you.
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Let’s break down the best exfoliators for combination skin—plus some tips on how to exfoliate the right way!
How to Exfoliate Combination Skin (Without Messing It Up)
Combination skin is all about balance, so the way you exfoliate matters just as much as the product you use.
✔ Use both AHAs and BHAs – AHAs (like glycolic or lactic acid) exfoliate dry areas, while BHAs (like salicylic acid) keep oily areas clear. The best exfoliators for combo skin have both.
✔ Don’t exfoliate too often – 2-3 times a week is enough. Over-exfoliating can make dry areas drier and oily areas even oilier!
✔ Hydrate after exfoliating – Always follow with a lightweight moisturizer to lock in hydration.
✔ Consider multi-masking – If one exfoliator isn’t cutting it, try a gentle option for dry areas and a stronger one for your T-zone.
Now, let’s get into the best exfoliators for combination skin!
1. Best Overall Exfoliator for Combination Skin
✨ Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant (buy it here)
This is my holy grail exfoliator for combination skin. It has 2% salicylic acid (BHA) to unclog pores in oily areas, but it’s gentle enough for dry skin too. Plus, it’s a leave-on liquid, so no need to rinse—just apply and let it work its magic!
✔ Clears pores & smooths texture
✔ Gentle but super effective
✔ Works for acne-prone AND dry areas
💡 Need help figuring out how to exfoliate properly? Check out my guide on how to exfoliate your face the right way.
2. Best Drugstore Exfoliator (Budget-Friendly & Effective!)
✨ CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser (buy it here)
If you’re looking for an affordable, dermatologist-approved exfoliator, this is it. It’s a cleanser + exfoliant in one, so you can gently exfoliate while washing your face. It has salicylic acid to clear pores plus ceramides to keep skin hydrated.
✔ Won’t over-dry your skin
✔ Removes dead skin while keeping moisture locked in
✔ Great for sensitive combo skin
💡 Looking for an exfoliator that’s extra hydrating? Check out my picks for the best exfoliators for dry skin.
3. Best Exfoliating Toner for Combination Skin
✨ The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution (buy it here)
Toners are great if you want gentle daily exfoliation without using a scrub. This one is a fan-favorite because it has glycolic acid (AHA) to smooth dry areas and exfoliate oily zones without being too harsh.
✔ Brightens and smooths skin
✔ Helps with uneven texture & dark spots
✔ Super affordable!
💡 If your skin leans more oily, you might prefer something stronger. Check out my guide to the best exfoliators for oily skin.
4. Best Hydrating Exfoliator (For When Your Skin Feels Tight & Dry!)
✨ Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Toner (buy it here)
Some exfoliators leave combo skin feeling tight, but this one hydrates while it exfoliates. It has PHAs (a super gentle exfoliant) plus BHA to keep pores clear. Bonus: It smells amazing.
✔ Hydrates and exfoliates at the same time
✔ Won’t dry out sensitive areas
✔ Leaves skin super glowy!
💡 If your skin is extra sensitive, check out my picks for the best exfoliators for sensitive skin.
5. Best Exfoliating Cleanser (2-in-1 Time Saver!)
✨ Youth To The People Superfood Cleanser (buy it here)
If you like a quick, easy routine, this cleanser gently exfoliates while you wash your face. It has superfoods + AHAs to brighten skin, plus kale and spinach for hydration.
✔ Non-stripping and refreshing
✔ Clears congestion without drying
✔ Perfect for morning or nighttime use
💡 Love multi-tasking skincare? Check out my top face scrubs for glowing skin.
6. Best Enzyme Exfoliator (Gentle Yet Effective!)
✨ Tata Harper Regenerating Cleanser (buy it here)
If you have super sensitive combo skin, enzyme exfoliators are a great option. This one uses fruit enzymes (papaya & pomegranate) to break down dead skin—no harsh acids needed!
✔ Great for sensitive skin
✔ Leaves skin soft without irritation
✔ 100% natural and non-toxic
7. Best Physical Exfoliator for Combination Skin (If You Prefer a Scrub!)
✨ Tatcha The Rice Polish Foaming Enzyme Powder (buy it here)
Not all scrubs are bad! This one has ultra-fine rice powder that gently polishes your skin without causing micro-tears. It’s safe for combo skin and hydrates while exfoliating.
✔ Super gentle physical exfoliation
✔ Foams into a creamy lather
✔ Doesn’t strip moisture from dry areas
8. Best Luxury Exfoliator (For the Ultimate Glow!)
✨ Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night Serum (buy it here)
If you’re looking for a high-end exfoliator that actually works, this is worth the splurge. It has glycolic, salicylic, and lactic acids, but it’s balanced with soothing ingredients to prevent irritation.
✔ Brightens skin overnight
✔ Fades acne scars and uneven texture
✔ Works without over-drying skin
Exfoliating combination skin is all about finding the right balance—you need a product that can clear out clogged pores without stripping dry areas. Whether you prefer a toner, scrub, enzyme exfoliator, or serum, the options above are all combo skin-friendly.
Have you found an exfoliator that works for your combination skin? Let me know in the comments!