17 Best Chemical Exfoliators in Malaysia

Achieving a flawless, glowing complexion is a universal desire, but it can often feel like an elusive goal, especially with the vast array of skincare products available in the Malaysian market.

One key step in unlocking your skin's true radiance is through the power of exfoliation.

Exfoliators are essential tools that remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and reveal the fresh, healthy skin beneath the surface.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the best exfoliators available in Malaysia, delving into the different types, their key benefits, and how to incorporate them into your skincare routine for maximum results. 

Understanding Exfoliation

Exfoliation is the process of removing the outermost layer of dead skin cells from the surface of the skin.

This essential step in any skincare regimen serves several important functions:

• Unclogging Pores: Exfoliating helps to remove built-up oil, dirt, and impurities that can clog pores and lead to breakouts.
• Improving Skin Texture: By sloughing off dead skin cells, exfoliation reveals the smoother, more even-toned skin underneath, giving your complexion a healthier, more radiant appearance.
• Enhancing Product Absorption: When the skin's surface is free of dead cells, it can better absorb the nourishing ingredients in your other skincare products, allowing them to work more effectively.
• Reducing the Appearance of Fine Lines and Wrinkles: Exfoliation can help to minimize the visible signs of aging by promoting cell turnover and improving skin elasticity.

Types of Exfoliators

When it comes to exfoliators, there are two main categories: physical and chemical.

Each type has its own unique benefits and is suitable for different skin types and concerns.

1. Physical Exfoliators

Physical exfoliators, also known as mechanical exfoliators, use abrasive particles or tools to physically scrub away dead skin cells.

Some common examples of physical exfoliators include:

• Scrubs: These contain small, grainy particles such as sugar, salt, or crushed walnut shells that help to slough off dead skin when massaged onto the face.
• Brushes and Sponges: Soft-bristled brushes or exfoliating sponges can be used to gently buff away dead skin cells.
• Cleansing Grains: These finely-milled powders, often made from ingredients like rice or oatmeal, can be mixed with water to create a gentle scrubbing paste.

Physical exfoliators are generally best suited for those with normal to oily skin types, as they can be more effective in removing stubborn buildup. 

However, it's important to use them with caution, as over-exfoliating can lead to irritation and dryness.

2. Chemical Exfoliators

Chemical exfoliators, on the other hand, use acids or enzymes to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to be easily sloughed off.

Some popular types of chemical exfoliators include:

• Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs): These water-soluble acids, such as glycolic acid and lactic acid, work by breaking down the "glue" that holds dead skin cells together, revealing the fresher, more radiant skin beneath.
• Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs): Salicylic acid is the most well-known BHA, and it's particularly effective at penetrating deep into the pores to unclog them and reduce the appearance of blemishes.
• Enzymatic Exfoliators: These gentle exfoliators use natural enzymes, often derived from fruits, to dissolve dead skin cells without the need for harsh scrubbing.

Chemical exfoliators are generally better suited for those with sensitive or dry skin, as they are less abrasive than physical scrubs. 

They can also be more effective in addressing specific skin concerns, such as pigmentation or acne.

19 Best Chemical Exfoliators

Now that you have a better understanding of chemical exfoliators, let's dive into the 19 best options available in Malaysia:

1. Pixi Glow Tonic

Key Ingredients: 5% Glycolic Acid, Aloe Vera 

Skin Type: All skin types, especially dull or uneven complexions 

Benefits: Gently exfoliates to reveal brighter, smoother skin; minimizes the appearance of pores; improves skin texture

2. The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + HA 2%

Key Ingredients: 5% Lactic Acid, Hyaluronic Acid 

Skin Type: Suitable for most skin types, especially sensitive or dry skin 

Benefits: Exfoliates and hydrates to improve skin smoothness and radiance; reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

3. Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

Key Ingredients: 2% Salicylic Acid 

Skin Type: Oily, acne-prone, or congested skin 

Benefits: Deeply cleanses pores, reduces breakouts, and improves overall skin clarity

4. COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser

Key Ingredients: 0.5% Betaine Salicylate (BHA) 

Skin Type: Suitable for all skin types, especially combination or acne-prone skin 

Benefits: Gently exfoliates and cleanses to unclog pores and improve skin texture

5. La Mer – The Renewal Oil Exfoliator

Key Ingredients: Miracle Broth™, La Mer's iconic elixir known for its rejuvenating and replenishing properties.

Skin Type: Suitable for all skin types, including: Dry, Oily, Normal, Combination.

Benefits: The exfoliator leaves the skin feeling softer, replenished, and visibly smoother.

6. Kiehl's Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution

Key Ingredients: 10% Vitamin C, 0.5% Salicylic Acid 

Skin Type: Dull, uneven, or sun-damaged skin 

Benefits: Brightens and evens out skin tone; reduces the appearance of dark spots and discoloration

7. The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution

Key Ingredients: 7% Glycolic Acid 

Skin Type: Suitable for most skin types, except very sensitive skin 

Benefits: Gently exfoliates to improve skin texture and clarity; reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

8. ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Glow Boost Exfoliator

Key Ingredients: Starflower Oil, Optimega Oil, Elderberry Oil, Padina Pavonica

Skin Type: Suitable for all skin types, including normal, dry, oily, combination, and sensitive skin.

Benefits: Gently buffs away dead skin cells for a smoother complexion.

9. Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant

Key Ingredients: Rice-based Enzyme Powder, Salicylic Acid 

Skin Type: Suitable for most skin types, especially dull or congested skin 

Benefits: Gently exfoliates to refine skin texture and minimize the appearance of pores

10. Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night Serum

Key Ingredients: 12% AHA/BHA Blend, Raspberry Extract 

Skin Type: Suitable for most skin types, especially aging or sun-damaged skin 

Benefits: Deeply exfoliates to improve skin clarity, texture, and firmness; reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

11. Kose Sekkisei Clear Treatment Essence

Key Ingredients: Japanese Apricot (Ume), Extract Honeysuckle, Angelica

Skin Type:  The Kose Sekkisei Clear Treatment Essence is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. 

Benefits: Lifts away dead skin cells, including melanin, to reveal a brighter, more translucent complexion.

12. Aesop Purifying Facial Exfoliant Paste

Key Ingredients: Bamboo Stem, Quartz, Lactic Acid 

Skin Type: Suitable for most skin types, especially dull or congested skin 

Benefits: Gently yet effectively exfoliates to refine skin texture and minimize the appearance of pores

13. Murad Rapid Relief Acne Spot Treatment

Key Ingredients: 2% Salicylic Acid, Sulfur 

Skin Type: Acne-prone or blemish-prone skin 

Benefits: Deeply exfoliates and dries out active breakouts to promote faster healing

14. ePure Crystal Clear Exfoliator

Key Ingredients: Copper Tripeptide-1, Sodium Hyaluronate, Nicotinamide,  Boerhavia Diffusa Root Extract

Skin Type: Suitable for all skin types, including normal, dry, oily, combination, and sensitive skin.

Benefits: Improves dullness and helps in the formation of new collagen for a more youthful appearance.

15. Sukin Jelly Exfoliator Brightening

Key Ingredients: Jojoba Beads, Glycerin, Aloe Vera, Vitamin E, Chamomile

Skin Type: Suitable for individuals with dry skin, the Sukin Jelly Exfoliator Brightening is formulated to nourish and hydrate the skin while improving texture and tone.

Benefits: Removes impurities and dead skin cells without irritating the skin.

16. Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 8% AHA Glycolic Acid Gel Exfoliator

Key Ingredients: Glycolic Acid (8%), Green Tea, Sodium PCA, Panthenol, Aloe Barbadensis

Skin Type: Suitable for Normal, Dry, Oily, Combination, and Sensitive skin types.

Benefits: Deeply exfoliates and smooths skin texture

17. First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads

Key Ingredients: 10% Lactic Acid, 0.5% Glycolic Acid 

Skin Type: Suitable for most skin types, especially dull or uneven complexions 

Benefits: Exfoliates and brightens to reveal a more even, radiant complexion; minimizes the appearance of pores

How to Incorporate Exfoliators into Your Routine?

Now that you've explored some of the best exfoliators available, it's important to understand how to properly incorporate them into your skincare routine for maximum benefits.

1. Frequency of Use

The frequency with which you should exfoliate depends on your skin type and the type of exfoliator you're using:

• Sensitive Skin: Use a gentle chemical exfoliator, such as an AHA or BHA toner, 1-2 times per week.
• Normal to Oily Skin: Use a physical or chemical exfoliator 2-3 times per week.
• Dry Skin: Use a gentle chemical exfoliator 1-2 times per week, and avoid over-exfoliating.

It's important to listen to your skin and adjust your exfoliation frequency as needed.

Over-exfoliating can lead to irritation, redness, and dryness, so it's best to start with a lower frequency and gradually increase if your skin can tolerate it.

2. Timing and Technique

When it comes to applying your exfoliator, the timing and technique can also make a difference in the results you achieve:

• Cleanse First: Always start with a clean, makeup-free face. Exfoliating on top of dirt and impurities can push them deeper into the skin, leading to clogged pores and breakouts.
• Apply Gently: Whether you're using a physical or chemical exfoliator, be gentle with your skin. Avoid scrubbing too hard or using excessive pressure, as this can cause irritation.
• Rinse Thoroughly: Make sure to rinse off all traces of the exfoliator, as leaving any residue on the skin can lead to further irritation.
• Follow Up with Hydration: After exfoliating, be sure to follow up with a nourishing moisturizer or serum to replenish the skin's moisture levels and prevent dryness.

By following these tips and incorporating exfoliators into your routine with care and consistency, you'll be well on your way to achieving the radiant, healthy-looking skin you've been dreaming of.

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Conclusion

Exfoliation is a crucial step in any comprehensive skincare routine, and the Malaysian market offers a wealth of high-quality options to suit a variety of skin types and concerns.

From gentle, enzymatic scrubs to powerful, acid-based toners, there's an exfoliator out there that can help you unlock your skin's true radiance. Remember to start slowly, listen to your skin's needs, and adjust your exfoliation frequency as necessary.

With the right exfoliator and a consistent, gentle approach, you'll be on your way to a complexion that's smoother, brighter, and more even-toned than ever before.

Your skin will thank you for it!