Exfoliating toner pads: which acid fits your skin and how to use them safely
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- Salicylic acid (BHA) exfoliating pads. Best for: Oily skin, clogged pores and acne-prone areas. See options on Amazon
- Gentle lactic acid (AHA) toner pads. Best for: People who tolerate a mild acid formula and want label-directed exfoliation. See options on Amazon
- Glycolic acid (AHA) toner pads. Best for: Oily or thicker skin that already tolerates acids. See options on Amazon
- Alcohol-free, fragrance-free exfoliating pads for sensitive skin. Best for: Sensitive skin that still wants occasional exfoliation. See options on Amazon
What exfoliating toner pads do
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) describes two kinds of exfoliation. Mechanical exfoliation uses a tool or scrub to remove dead skin cells. Chemical exfoliation uses acids, such as alpha and beta hydroxy acids, to dissolve them. Toner pads are chemical exfoliation in a convenient format: the pad carries the acid, and you swipe it across clean skin.
The pad itself adds a little friction, so swipe lightly. If you prefer a liquid or serum, see our guide to AHA and BHA exfoliants.
AHA vs BHA pads: which acid for which skin
| Acid on the label | Type | Often suits | Watch for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Salicylic acid (check the actual active ingredient) | BHA | Oily and acne-prone skin | FDA advises against using BHA products on infants and children |
| Glycolic acid | AHA | Oily or thicker skin that tolerates stronger products | Sun sensitivity; can sting |
| Lactic acid | AHA | People who tolerate a mild formula; acid type alone does not prove gentleness | Sun sensitivity |
FDA says the most common AHAs in cosmetics are glycolic and lactic acid, and that the most common BHA is salicylic acid. The AAD's guidance on face masks points people with oily or acne-prone skin toward AHAs or BHAs for exfoliation, and tells people with sensitive skin to avoid strong AHAs or BHAs.
Strength, pH and sun safety
FDA reports that the Cosmetic Ingredient Review industry panel concluded AHA products with glycolic or lactic acid are safe for consumers when:
- the AHA concentration is 10 percent or less,
- the final product has a pH of 3.5 or greater, and
- the product either protects against sun sensitivity or tells users to use daily sun protection.
Sun sensitivity is real. In an FDA study, after four weeks of AHA use, volunteers' sensitivity to UV reddening rose by 18 percent. FDA's suggested label tells users to use a sunscreen, wear protective clothing and limit sun exposure while using the product and for a week afterward. For salicylic acid, FDA also advises sun protection and testing a product on a small area of skin before using it on a large area. See our sunscreen SPF 30 guide for daily options.
Gentle pads for sensitive skin, and who should skip them
The AAD says dry, sensitive or acne-prone skin may do best with only a mild chemical exfoliator, and that over-exfoliating can cause red, irritated skin. It flags some groups for extra care:
- Darker skin tones. Avoid strong chemical or mechanical exfoliation, especially if you get dark spots after acne, bug bites or burns. The AAD says aggressive exfoliation may increase pigmentation.
- People using retinoids, retinol or benzoyl peroxide. Adding an exfoliant may worsen dryness or cause breakouts.
- Broken or sunburned skin. The AAD says never exfoliate over open cuts or wounds or sunburned skin.
- Children. FDA says to avoid BHA products on infants and children.
Pads with alcohol may feel refreshing, but the AAD's acne advice is to skip astringents and rubbing alcohol, which dry the skin.
How to use exfoliating toner pads
- Patch test first on a small area, as FDA advises for BHA products.
- Cleanse, then swipe one pad lightly over dry skin, avoiding the eyes and lips.
- Follow the label on whether to rinse and how often. FDA says not to exceed the recommended applications.
- Moisturize afterward. The AAD says exfoliation can dry the skin, so apply moisturizer right after.
- Start slowly. The AAD says more aggressive exfoliation needs to be done less often.
- Stop if you get stinging that lasts or irritation, and ask a doctor if it does not settle.
What to look for when you buy
Salicylic acid (BHA) exfoliating pads
Best for: Oily skin, clogged pores and acne-prone areas
The AAD points people with oily or acne-prone skin toward BHAs such as salicylic acid for exfoliation.
Watch out: FDA advises sun protection and says to avoid BHA products on infants and children; can dry skin if combined with other acne products.
See options on AmazonGentle lactic acid (AHA) toner pads
Best for: People who tolerate a mild acid formula and want label-directed exfoliation
Lactic acid is one of the two most common cosmetic AHAs FDA names, and the AAD says sensitive or dry skin may do best with a mild chemical exfoliator.
Watch out: FDA found AHAs raise sun sensitivity; wear sunscreen during use and for a week after stopping.
See options on AmazonGlycolic acid (AHA) toner pads
Best for: Oily or thicker skin that already tolerates acids
The AAD says oily or thicker skin may tolerate stronger chemical treatments. FDA reports an industry panel conclusion for glycolic and lactic acid at no more than 10 percent, a final pH of at least 3.5 and sun-protection conditions. This is not FDA product approval.
Watch out: Not for sensitive skin or darker skin prone to dark spots; the AAD warns strong exfoliation may increase pigmentation.
See options on AmazonAlcohol-free, fragrance-free exfoliating pads for sensitive skin
Best for: Sensitive skin that still wants occasional exfoliation
The AAD tells people with sensitive skin to avoid strong acids, fragrance and rubbing alcohol, so a mild, alcohol-free pad is the safer start.
Watch out: Even mild pads can irritate; patch test and use them less often at first.
See options on AmazonQuestions people ask
- Are exfoliating toner pads good for oily skin?
- Often, yes. The AAD suggests AHAs or BHAs such as salicylic acid for oily or acne-prone skin, and says oily or thicker skin may tolerate stronger chemical exfoliation.
- Can I use exfoliating toner pads every day?
- Follow the label and start slowly. The AAD says more aggressive exfoliation should be done less often, and over-exfoliating can cause red, irritated skin.
- Do exfoliating pads make you sensitive to the sun?
- AHAs do. FDA found sensitivity to UV reddening rose by 18 percent after four weeks of use, and advises sunscreen during use and for a week afterward. FDA also advises sun protection with BHA products.
- Are Korean exfoliating toner pads different?
- They work the same way. Check which acid is on the label and whether it contains fragrance or alcohol, then choose by skin type as above.
- Can I use toner pads with retinol?
- Be careful. The AAD says exfoliating while using retinol, prescription retinoids or benzoyl peroxide may worsen dryness or cause breakouts.
Sources
- How to safely exfoliate at home (aad.org), American Academy of Dermatology
- Alpha Hydroxy Acids (fda.gov), US Food and Drug Administration
- Beta Hydroxy Acids (fda.gov), US Food and Drug Administration
- Do facial masks work, and should I add one to my skin care routine? (aad.org), American Academy of Dermatology
- 10 skin care habits that can worsen acne (aad.org), American Academy of Dermatology