Top 5 Liquid Exfoliators

We all want that fresh-out-of-the-shower look for our skin, especially on our faces, and that’s why it’s so important to add a liquid exfoliator to your arsenal of prods. Used to gently cleanse away dead cells and leave behind more radiant skin, the active ingredients in these little miracle bottles do a much-more-thorough job than traditional face scrubs. —Vita Daily

plant life. Aveda’s Botanical Kinetics Exfoliant ($36) is a bestseller for a reason—not only does its non-abrasive liquid wipe away old surface cells, revealing a more refined complexion underneath, but it primes pores for maximum treatment and moisture benefits. It also has that classic Aveda "pure-fume" aroma with certified organic lime, geranium, eucalyptus and other plant and flower essences.

rose glow. Elemis’ Gentle Rose Exfoliator ($43) is a smoothing skin polish that buffs away dirt and dead skin cells to achieve a glowing, youthful look. It contains refreshing cucumber extract, is rich in vitamin C and it’s a natural antioxidant.

nothing ordinary. Formulated without parabens or sulfates, The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution ($5 at Sephora) has witch hazel for blemish-prone skin and helps exfoliate skin, fighting the appearance of blemishes and offering better visible skin clarity the more you use it.

cult fave. Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant is the brand’s number 1 product worldwide plus a cult favourite. This gentle leave-on exfoliant ($25) quickly unclogs pores, smooths wrinkles and brightens and evens out skin tone for balanced, healthful skin.

step by step. Step 2 in Clinique’s customized three-step skin-care system, the Clarifying Lotion Twice A Day Exfoliator is a dermatologist-developed liquid exfoliating lotion that clears the way for smoother, brighter skin ($32). It diminishes pollution, dirt and dulling flakes to let you put your best face forward.