15 Best Chemical Exfoliators in Malaysia: Your Ultimate Guide to Flawless Skin

Ready to give your skincare routine a proper glow-up with the best chemical exfoliators in Malaysia? Forget the sandpaper scrubs of yesteryears; we’re diving deep into the game-changing world of chemical exfoliators. Yeah, the word “chemical” might sound a bit, well, harsh. But stick with us, because these bad boys are all about giving you that radiant, smoother complexion.

In Malaysia’s humid climate, your skin collects more than just likes on your latest selfie — it gathers dirt, oil, and pesky dead skin cells too. So, it’s high time to break up with your deadbeat skin cells and swipe right on chemical exfoliators. Buckle up, beauty aficionados, you’re in for a smooth ride!

How Do Chemical Exfoliators Work Their Magic?

Ever wondered how these mysterious liquids bring out your inner glow? Well, the magic of chemical exfoliators lies in their active ingredients. When it comes to choosing the best chemical exfoliator Malaysia for face, consider active ingredients like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), and polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) to name a few. 

Unlike physical exfoliators, which manually scrub away the top layer of skin, chemical exfoliators dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells. This makes it easier to shed them, revealing a fresher, smoother layer underneath. 

AHAs work wonders for surface-level concerns like fine lines and uneven tone, while BHAs dig deep into your pores, tackling oil and acne. And if you’ve got sensitive skin, don’t fret; PHAs offer a gentler option, promising similar results without irritation.

Can They Play Well With Other Skincare Products?

A big yes, but with a few caveats! Mixing chemical exfoliators with other active ingredients can either be a match made in skincare heaven or a disastrous cocktail. Rule of thumb: avoid using retinol, benzoyl peroxide, or other acids alongside your chemical exfoliator to sidestep irritation. 

On the flip side, these chemical exfoliators can make your skin more receptive to hydrating ingredients. So feel free to layer on that hyaluronic acid serum or vitamin C cream for an added boost. Just don’t forget your SPF in the morning; exfoliated skin is more susceptible to the sun!

Benefits of Using Chemical Exfoliators

First up, they’re pro-ageing’s worst enemy. By speeding up cell turnover, they smooth out skin texture and give those fine lines and wrinkles a run for their money. And if you’re wrestling with uneven skin tone or pesky dark spots, AHAs like glycolic and lactic acid come to the rescue, fading discolorations and unveiling a fresher, more radiant complexion beneath.

But wait, there’s more. Not only do they help balance out your skin tone, but these acids also zoom in on age spots and hyperpigmentation, making them less noticeable over time. If that’s not enough to sway you, how about their prowess in minimising the appearance of enlarged pores? 

AHAs focus on cleaning up the surface, while BHAs like salicylic acid dive deep into the pores, reducing excess oil and making them appear smaller. In short, incorporating chemical exfoliators into your routine could be the best decision you’ve made for your skin, ticking multiple beauty boxes in one fell swoop!

15 Best Chemical Exfoliators in Malaysia

1. Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

Among the popular options available at Watsons, Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant stands out as one of the best chemical exfoliators in Malaysia. This liquid exfoliant is a must-have for acne-prone skin, boasting a 2% Salicylic Acid formula alongside Green Tea Extract. Not only does it target acne and blackheads, but it also refines your skin’s texture without any harsh abrasion.

Why we love it:

• Expertly formulated with proven ingredients for tackling acne and blackheads
• Uses a non-abrasive, leave-on formula that’s easy on your skin
• Incorporates antioxidant-rich Green Tea Extract for added skincare benefits

Price: RM 158.52

Where to buy: Paula’s Choice

2. Cosrx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid

Cosrx’s exfoliant is a fan favourite in the Asian beauty sphere, offering a milder alternative to the usual salicylic acid products. With 4% Betaine Salicylate and 64% Willow Bark Extract, it gently exfoliates while still delivering results.

Why we love it:

• Contains a gentler form of salicylic acid that’s still effective for clearing pores
• Perfect for beginners and those with sensitive skin
• A well-loved choice within the Asian beauty community

Price: RM 116.56

Where to buy: Cosrx

3. Stridex Daily Care Acne Pads Maximum Strength

Stridex pads are your go-to for fuss-free exfoliation. These pre-soaked pads contain 2% Salicylic Acid and work diligently to unclog pores while also preventing future acne flare-ups. These chemical exfoliators can even be used for body acne and ingrown hairs.

Why we love it:

• Convenient, pre-soaked pads make for an easy application
• Effective for both facial and body acne
• Tackles existing acne and offers preventive care for future breakouts

Price: RM 35.39

Where to buy: Amazon

4. Sebogel

Sebogel is a dermatologist-recommended exfoliator, designed specifically as the best chemical exfoliator Malaysia for oily skin. With 2% Salicylic Acid and 6% Niacinamide, this gel effectively regulates sebum production and adds a noticeable glow to your complexion.

Why we love it:

• Endorsed by dermatologists for its efficient formula
• High Niacinamide content brightens and tightens skin
• Works wonders in managing excess oil and reducing acne

Price: RM 70.92

Where to buy: Amazon

5. Pixi Glow Tonic

An award-winning exfoliant, Pixi Glow Tonic is a treat for dull skin. With a 5% Glycolic Acid formula, this tonic rejuvenates your complexion while also tackling acne marks. One of the best chemical exfoliator for face, and is also infused with beneficial ingredients like Aloe Vera and Red Ginseng.

Why we love it:

• Comes with a proven track record and multiple awards
• Enhanced with natural ingredients like Aloe Vera for added benefits
• Highly effective for brightening skin and smoothing texture

Price: RM 135.21

Where to buy: Pixi Beauty

6. Cosrx AHA 7 Whitehead Power Liquid

Cosrx AHA 7 Whitehead Power Liquid is a Korean Chemical Exfoliators brand that serves silky-smooth skin on a platter. With a concoction of 7% Glycolic Acid, Apple Water, and 2% Niacinamide, this exfoliator goes deep to renew your skin’s surface and bolster its natural barriers.

Why we love it:

• High glycolic acid content for deep exfoliation
• Fortified with barrier-boosting Niacinamide
• Twice-weekly use offers radiant, refined skin

Price: RM 102.57

Where to buy: Cosrx

7. Glyco 6 Glycolic Acid Cream

Glyco 6 is an affordable, dermatologist-endorsed exfoliating cream. It contains a 6% Glycolic Acid blend in a cream base, offering the dual benefits of exfoliation and moisturisation — ideal for dry skin types.

Why we love it:

• Budget-friendly and dermatologist-recommended
• Moisturising cream base
• Targets dark spots and acne marks efficiently

Price: RM 53.62

Where to buy: Amazon

8. AHA Glow Face Wash

AHA Glow Face Wash is the perfect entry point for chemical exfoliation newbies. With just 1% Glycolic Acid, it gently cleanses, combats active acne, and lightens marks, making it a go-to for oily and acne-prone skin.

Why we love it:

• Beginner-friendly Glycolic Acid concentration
• Effectively fights active acne
• Great for oily, acne-prone skin

Price: RM 68.03

Where to buy: Amazon

9. Kaya Purifying Toner

The Kaya Purifying Toner is a gentle elixir with a low concentration of AHA, making it another great pick for those just starting out with chemical exfoliants. Fortified with Niacinamide, Rose, and Cucumber Extract, it doesn’t just fight acne; it also balances skin pH and soothes.

Why we love it:

• Gentle formula, perfect for beginners
• Contains soothing Rose & Cucumber Extracts
• Balances pH for healthier skin

Price: RM 163.19

Where to buy: Amazon

10. By Wishtrend Mandelic Acid 5% Skin Prep Water

This is a gentler mandelic acid-based exfoliant that’s suitable for all skin types. At a concentration of 5%, it effectively addresses texture issues, dullness, and pigmentation. It even offers antibacterial properties, making it great for combating inflammatory acne.

Why we love it:

• Contains versatile Mandelic Acid
• Suitable for all skin types
• Boasts antibacterial properties

Price: RM 82.06

Where to buy: Wishtrend

11. Deconstruct Beginners Exfoliating Serum

This exfoliating serum is a gentle yet effective introduction to the world of chemical exfoliants. With a blend of 5% Lactic Acid, 1% Hyaluronic Acid, and 1.5% Probiotics, it leaves the skin not just exfoliated, but also hydrated and fortified.

Why we love it:

• Infused with skin-plumping Hyaluronic Acid
• Probiotics for a stronger skin barrier
• Gentle formulation for beginners

Price: RM 90.22

Where to buy: Distacart

12. Isntree Clear Skin 8% AHA Essence

Isntree Clear Skin Essence packs a potent blend of 4% Glycolic Acid and 4% Lactic Acid, transforming dull skin into a soft, glowing canvas. Additionally, it’s enriched with soothing Centella Asiatica and hydrating Hyaluronic Acid, making it powerful yet gentle on the skin.

Why we love it:

• Dual acids for potent exfoliation
• Enriched with soothing Centella
• Potent yet minimally irritating

Price: RM 67.14

Where to buy: IsNtree

13. Minimalist PHA 3% + Biotic Toner

Minimalist PHA 3% + Biotic Toner does it all — balances pH, tightens pores, and hydrates the skin, while gently exfoliating. It features a unique blend of Prebiotics, Probiotics, Hyaluronic Acid, and Polyglutamic Acid, providing immense hydration and a microbiome-friendly environment for your skin.

Why we love it:

• Offers pH-balancing properties
• Hydrates with Hyaluronic Acid
• Includes Prebiotics and Probiotics

Price: RM 41.92

Where to buy: Minimalist

14. Rejuglow Face Wash

Rejuglow is a standout face wash formulated specifically for oily, acne-prone skin. With a blend of 2% Glycolic Acid and 1% Salicylic Acid, this product controls acne while rejuvenating your skin, making it ideal for those dealing with both acne and signs of ageing.

Why we love it:

• Dual acid formula controls acne
• Reduces whiteheads effectively
• Adds a rejuvenating glow

Price: RM 62.85

Where to buy: Ebay

15. The Ordinary Peeling Solution

Another standout is The Ordinary’s AHA + BHA Peeling Solution, often ranked as the best chemical exfoliator at Malaysia Watsons stores. It is a highly concentrated, quick-action peeling solution containing 30% AHA and 2% BHA. This wash-off mask delivers noticeable results in under 10 minutes, focusing on improving your skin’s texture and tone.

Why we love it:

• High AHA and BHA concentration
• Quick results in under 10 minutes
• Monthly application for maintained results

Price: RM 44.29

Where to buy: The Ordinary

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