Best Glycolic Acid Face Scrubs of 2026
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Glycolic acid face scrubs are a popular skincare product that contain alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) and are designed to exfoliate and improve the texture of the skin. These scrubs work by removing dead skin cells and unclogging pores, revealing brighter, smoother, and more youthful-looking skin. Glycolic acid is also known to stimulate collagen production, which can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. While glycolic acid face scrubs may not be suitable for everyone, those who are looking to improve their skin's texture and appearance may benefit from adding this product to their skincare routine.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
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Top 4 Glycolic Acid Face Scrubs
Nip + Fab Glycolic Acid Face Scrub Extreme
The Nip + Fab Face Scrub is designed to exfoliate and resurface your skin effectively. It combines the power of glycolic acid and salicylic acid to cleanse and polish, helping to remove dirt and dead skin cells. This scrub not only fights blackheads through chemical exfoliation but also unclogs pores, making your skin clearer. With a super-strength formulation featuring 6% glycolic acid, it brightens your complexion and decongests your skin for a fresh, revitalised look.
NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Exfoliator with Salicylic Acid
The NIVEA Derma Exfoliator is designed to visibly reduce blemishes and prevent their return, helping you achieve clearer skin within just seven days. This facial exfoliator supports your skin's natural renewal process, encouraging the removal of old skin cells for a fresh appearance. With a concentrated formula featuring 8% Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, and Niacinamide, it effectively unclogs pores and improves skin texture. By incorporating this product into your evening routine, you can enjoy smoother, healthier skin overnight.
Minimalist 11% Glycolic & Tranexamic Acid Exfoliator
The Minimalist Exfoliator is designed to enhance your skin's appearance and health. It features Glycolic acid, which effectively removes dead skin cells and promotes cell turnover, giving you a fresher look. The addition of Salicylic acid provides a multi-level exfoliation, helping to clear your pores of excess oil and dirt. Tranexamic acid works to inhibit melanin synthesis, targeting hyperpigmentation and promoting an even skin tone. This powerful combination ensures your skin feels revitalised and well-balanced.
Neutrogena Deep Clean Exfoliating Facial Cleanser 150ml
The Neutrogena Deep Clean Cleanser uses gentle micro-peeling particles with glycolic acid to free your pores and gently remove trapped dirt, sebum, and make-up. This means your skin is thoroughly cleansed without harsh scrubbing. It is suitable for all skin types and protects against 100% of harmful substances and daily environmental impacts, helping you maintain healthier skin. The cleanser also refines your complexion, giving you a radiant, fresh appearance. It's simple to use—just apply to a damp face, massage gently, and rinse off with water for clean, glowing skin.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What does glycolic acid do to your face?
When applied to the skin, glycolic acid works to break the bonds between the outer layer of skin cells, including dead skin cells, and the next skin cell layer. This creates a peeling effect that can make the skin appear smoother and more even.
2. Can I use glycolic acid everyday?
Is Glycolic Acid okay for everyday use? Depending on the concentration, yes, you can use Glycolic Acid every day. If you're new to chemical exfoliants, you should work up to using it every day slowly rather than overdoing it at the beginning.
3. What should you not mix with glycolic acid?
But overall, stick to using water-based products and serums together. AHAs and BHAs, such as glycolic, salicylic, and lactic acids should never be used with Vitamin C. Vitamin C is an acid, too, and is unstable, so the pH balance will be thrown off by layering these ingredients together and might as well be useless.
During our glycolic acid face scrub research, we found 59 glycolic acid face scrub products and shortlisted 4 quality products. We collected and analyzed 93,783 customer reviews through our big data system to write the glycolic acid face scrubs list. We found that most customers choose glycolic acid face scrubs with an average price of £5.14.
The glycolic acid face scrubs are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of glycolic acid face scrubs, including Nip+Fab, NIVEA, Minimalist, Neutrogena.
Charlotte Powell is a dermatologist and a licensed cosmetologist from Westminster, London. However, she was first a cosmetologist from London Beauty Training School. According to Charlotte, she needed better insight into the human skin, hence the dermatology degree. Long before she acquired her degree, she wrote and edited articles, eBooks, and editorials for companies and websites. Charlotte combines her skill and knowledge in providing DIY Beauty tips amongst other fashion related topics.