10 Gentle Exfoliators That Are Safe and Effective for Mature Skin

Exfoliation is a crucial part of skin care, but not everyone can handle the same strength of products. Those with mature skin should be a bit more cautious when picking out an exfoliator as our skin tends to thin and grow more reactive with age. Thankfully, there are plenty of gentle yet effective exfoliators with anti-aging benefits that check all the boxes—these are a few we recommend for refining mature skin.

Gentle exfoliators for mature skin

1 / 10

Oak Essentials Renew Face Polish ($58)

This luxe formula has been dermatologist-tested for sensitive skin, so you can rest assured it won’t be too harsh. The gentle, biodegradable polishing beads prevent over-exfoliation and help support the skin’s barrier, resulting in smoother, more hydrated, glowing skin.

• BUY ON OAK ESSENTIALS – $58
• BUY ON ULTA – $58

2 / 10

The Outset Exfoliating Caffeine Micro Polish ($34)

The Outset is always looking out for sensitive skin, so it’s no surprise their alternative to aggressive exfoliants is stellar. This polish is likened to a morning cup of coffee for the skin with a gentle, energizing, antioxidant-packed formula that promote smoother, brighter skin. The secret ingredient is fine perlite—a non-abrasive mineral that can be used daily.

• BUY ON THE OUTSET – $34
• BUY ON AMAZON – $34

3 / 10

Dermalogica Multivitamin Thermafoliant Face Exfoliator ($66)

Dermalogica’s variety of exfoliators are well-beloved. This one is infused with age-fighting ingredients like retinol and physical and chemical exfoliants. Reviewers confirm it’s gentle on sensitive skin—one notes their skin “appears flawless and even after using” it.

• BUY ON DERMALOGICA – $66
• BUY ON AMAZON – $66

4 / 10

Tatcha The Rice Polish: Gentle ($68)

Tatcha’s The Rice Polish is an undoubtedly iconic foaming enzyme exfoliant powder that improves skin texture and hydration. Luckily, the brand has a variety of formulas to accommodate different skin types. For mature skin, the Gentle edition is probably your best bet, although the Calming and Classic variants can also work nicely.

• BUY ON TATCHA – $68
• BUY ON AMAZON – $68

5 / 10

Lancer The Method: Polish ($80)

This polish from celeb-loved dermatologist Harold Lancer, MD is known for its ability to fade dark spots and wrinkles. Natural minerals and pumpkin and pomegranate enzymes effectively and gently exfoliate skin for a smoother, softer, brighter complexion.

• BUY ON LANCER – $80
• BUY ON AMAZON – $80

6 / 10

Alastin ReSURFACE Skin Polish ($71)

Alastin notes that this formula is suitable for most skin types, including aging and dry complexions, as it gently removes buildup and impurities without stripping the skin. Post-polish skin will instantly feel smoother and look brighter. The powerful exfoliating ingredients like volcanic minerals and alpha hydroxy acids sit in a hydrating formula to ensure skin doesn’t get irritated.

• BUY ON ALASTIN – $68
• BUY ON AMAZON – $71

7 / 10

TULA Skin Care So Polished Exfoliating Sugar Scrub ($34)

Probiotic extracts, sugar and papaya and pineapple enzymes gently brighten, smooth and degunk without stripping skin. Plus, the scent of this super gentle scrub will transport you to a beachside vacation.

• BUY ON TULA – $34
• BUY ON AMAZON – $34

8 / 10

Elemis Gentle Rose Exfoliator ($49)

If you love the smell of roses, this exfoliator is for you. The micro-spherical jojoba beads that exfoliate skin are balanced with hydrating rose absolute and soothing cucumber extract for a gentle scrub.

• BUY ON AMAZON – $49
• BUY ON DERMSTORE – $49

9 / 10

Grown Alchemist Polishing Facial Exfoliant ($65)

This sensitive skin-friendly exfoliant is designed to be mild with finely milled Bamboo particles and skin-nourishing ingredients like camellia seed and rosehip oil to keep the barrier happy and healthy while buffing skin.

• BUY ON GROWN ALCHEMIST – $65
• BUY ON AMAZON – $65

10 / 10

La Prairie Cellular Mineral Face Exfoliator ($165)

If you’re looking for luxe at-home exfoliation, La Prairie has you covered. The key to this formula is that it keeps skin moist and soft while refining skin so the exfoliation doesn’t over-strip the skin.

• BUY ON NORDSTROM – $165
• BUY ON SAKS FIFTH AVENUE – $165