The best exfoliators for dry skin, according to our editors

if you have dry skin, your first impulse may be to stay away from physical and chemical exfoliants. But detachment can really help reduce the feeling of tightness, exfoliate dead skin cells and reduce flaking. However, a harsh scrub will be too intense for your skin type. To help you choose the physical or chemical exfoliator that's right for you, we've rounded up our favorite mild options below. 

Vichy Mineral Double Glow Peel Facial Mask

If you can't stand exfoliating every day, we suggest incorporating a mask into your daily routine once or twice a week. This option from Vichy not only sells for drugstore price, but also brightens dull skin in just five minutes of use. The mask contains volcanic rocks for mechanical exfoliation and fruit alpha hydroxy acid enzymes for chemical exfoliation. 

L'Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensive Serum 10% Pure Glycolic Acid

For a chemical exfoliator that's gentle enough for everyday use, choose this Glycolic Acid Serum from L'Oréal. A few drops every evening will remove dead skin cells and reduce the appearance of dark spots and wrinkles. Aloe's soothing formula makes it suitable for dry and sensitive skin, just be sure to apply a hydrating moisturizer such as L'Oréal Paris Revitalift Anti-Aging Hydrating Face Cream. 

Ultrafine facial scrub La Roche-Posay

Prefer a physical exfoliating scrub? This option from La Roche-Posay will give you the pleasure of mechanical peeling without irritation. It combines ultra-fine pumice and moisturizing glycerin into a gel-like aqueous liquid to get rid of dead skin without irritating sensitive skin. 

Lancôme Rénergie Lift Multi-Action Ultra Milk Peeling 

Formulated with a gentle exfoliating Lipohydroxy Acid (LHA), this bi-phasic peel is great for getting rid of winter-induced flakiness. The product exfoliates dead cells, but leaves the skin soft and nourished. Simply shake the bottle to mix the formula and pour onto a cotton pad, wipe over face and wait for it to dry. Then apply serum and moisturizer of your choice. 

SkinCeuticals Retexturing Activator 

With ingredients such as glycolic acid to repair rough texture and amino acids to replenish, strengthen and hydrate the skin's protective barrier, this serum is ideal for those with dry skin. With it, your skin will be smooth and radiant throughout the year. 

Pixi Glow Mud Cleanser 

If you have acne but also deal with dry skin, check out Pixi Mud Cleanser. Glycolic Acid Exfoliator provides deep cleansing for radiant skin. The product also contains aloe vera and other soothing botanicals that soothe and hydrate the skin. 

Photo: Shante Vaughn