Exfoliators & Scrubs

Shop face exfoliators at Rover Island. Exfoliating clears the build-up of dead skin cells that makes skin look dull and feel rough. Choose leave-on acids (AHA, BHA, PHA and LHA), peeling pads, rinse-off peeling gels or gentle polishes, from ranges such as medicube Red, COSRX, Anua Heartleaf, PURITO Oat and TOCOBO.

Chemical or Physical Exfoliation?

Physical exfoliators, such as scrubs and polishes, use fine particles to buff the surface. Chemical exfoliators use acids to loosen dead skin cells without rubbing. Peeling gels sit in between: they roll away dead skin as you massage them in.

Which Exfoliating Acid Suits You?

AHA (Glycolic and Lactic Acid)

  • Works best for: Dull, rough-feeling skin
  • Good to know: Works on the surface of the skin

BHA (Salicylic Acid)

  • Works best for: Oily skin and the look of blackheads
  • Good to know: Oil-soluble, so it works inside pores

PHA

  • Works best for: Sensitive or dry skin
  • Good to know: A larger molecule with a gentler feel

LHA

  • Works best for: Gentle, gradual exfoliation
  • Good to know: Often found in Korean peeling gels

More in AHA & BHA.

How Often to Exfoliate

Start once or twice a week in the evening and build up slowly. Tightness, stinging, redness or an unusual shine are signs to slow down. Avoid combining several exfoliating products, or exfoliating and retinol, on the same night.

Protect Your Skin Afterwards

Exfoliated skin is more sensitive to the sun, so wear sunscreen every morning.

Ranges in This Collection

medicube Red peeling pads, COSRX Power Liquid and peeling gel, Anua Heartleaf, PURITO Oat, TOCOBO, Clinique Clarifying Lotion and AXIS-Y. For the body, see Bath & Body.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I exfoliate if I have sensitive skin?

Many people can, with a gentle option such as PHA or a peeling gel, used once a week.

Should I exfoliate before or after cleansing?

After. Cleanse first, then use your exfoliant, then continue with toner and moisturizer.

Can I use a face scrub every day?

Most people get better results with a few times a week. Daily scrubbing can irritate the skin.