This popular choice from The Ordinary is designed to resurface skin, exfoliate dead cells, unclog pores and boost surface turnover so you're left with noticeably smoother, more radiant skin. This solution uses a mixture of glycolic, lactic and salicylic acid. The first two are alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) that exfoliate the skin's outer layer, while the last one, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA), reduces pore congestion.

Promising reviews: "I woke up to smoother, brighter skin after the first use! I was skeptical because of all the Instagram hype of the 'blood' face peel, but I figured, why not. I am 37 years young and I have hormonal acne around my jawline, which leaves hyperpigmentation marks. I struggle with the marks and uneven texture. One use last night, and this morning a major difference. This is not a magic eraser or a magic wand... I know I’ll have to use this once a week along with my normal rigorous routine to combat my hormones. Try it. You don’t be disappointed!" — EML2282

This powerful 2% BHA salicylic acid exfoliant is beloved by skin care obsessives. It helps to clear skin and unclog pores by gently sloughing away dead skin to reveal the texture-free glow hiding underneath. It's especially great for those with acne-prone skin or who want a smoother, brighter complexion.

Promising review: "I hardly use many products on my face. But lately I have been testing with new things as I am entering my 30's. Ordered the small bottle. I highly recommend. I have seem overall improvement with the texture and coloration of my skin after using the product for two weeks now. My dark spots are diminishing. I still have plenty of product to use, and it makes my face feels so good and soft. I highly recommend. Will be ordering the large bottle next time." — Kayla

If you need further proof of its effectiveness, look no further than the fact that Good Molecules' glycolic toner is currently sold out everywhere but Ulta. Its gentle formula is powered by glycolic acid, galactomyces ferment, hyaluronic acid and aloe, so skin stays balanced and hydrated while the toner exfoliates thoroughly and leaves behind bright, fresh skin.

Promising review: "This product is everything I've hoped for! I've been using it consistently for about 6 months now and have noticed huge changes. It has helped brighten my skin and fade dark spots faster, it has also improved the bumps on arms and prevents ingrown hairs! Seriously great stuff, a little goes a long ways so you get your moneys worth." — CJ

If you're looking for something that is gentle enough to use every day and will complement the rest of your beauty routine without stripping your skin, check out Ren's daily AHA tonic. It's a skin-refining toner that can slough away skin cells and clear away excess sebum and oils and leave skin looking clear, bright, hydrated and soft. It can leave skin looking dewy and fresh, with a reasonable mid-range price point that makes it more accessible than other equally effective daily options.

Promising review: "It's the best. I love this stuff, has an astringent feel but also fizzy if that makes sense. Feels healthy like apple cider vinegar for your face LOL. and it hugely has improved my texture, pores smaller, everything. A bottle seems to last long enough for me. I highly recommend especially if you are like me, I have oily skin and am prone to small acne whiteheads etc. And fungal breakouts." — Caitlin D.

Drunk Elephant's Babyfacial has long been a popular option for people looking for powerful exfoliation. It's made with a unique blend of AHAs, including glycolic, tartaric, lactic and citric acids along with salicylic acid and chickpea flour. They can help to smooth, brighten and unclog pores while helping to soothe redness and help keep skin clear. It's definitely one of the spicier formulations on this list, so those with ultra-sensitive skin probably want to work their way up to this one. It comes with a marula face oil to help soothe and nourish the skin after use.

Promising review: "This product is a game changer. I had a malignant melanoma removed from my face more than 10 years ago. I have had a rough patch on my cheek ever since. Despite meticulous care of my skin every day, that area did not change. I went back and forth about using this product. If fact, I was going to send back after reading several reviews that said it burned the skin. Last night I thought, what the heck lets try it. I cannot believe it! That area is gone this morning. This is the holy grail of my skin care. Please do not be afraid to use this amazing product. Thank you drunk elephant!" — debbie

First Aid Beauty's facial radiance pads are packed with lactic and glycolic acids — two types of chemical exfoliants that skin care experts have previously told HuffPost can fade hyperpigmentation, refine skin texture and reduce fine lines by improving collagen production. The removal of dead skin cells through exfoliation can even make your other skin care products penetrate better. These compostable pads make it easy to apply this important anti-aging ingredient and are also enriched with soothing cucumber water and lemon peel.

Promising reviews: "Amazing, effective product! Your skin will look and feel 10 years younger after 1 month of use!" — Its A Mystery

"Great product. Doesn't dry out your skin but keeps it smooth and literally makes you look younger!!" — L. Michelle Cox

"In my late 50's and I use this every night! It's keeping my skin brighter and helps with my aging process!~ Love this product and I've used MANY for anti-aging. This is one that I never run out of!" — Sandy

Don't sleep on Glossier just because it's a millennial pink viral brand. Formulated to sweep away dead skin and leave you with a soft, glowing complexion, this cruelty-free exfoliator combines the power of AHA, BHA and PHAs to leave you fresh and smooth. It can help to fight acne, lighten hyperpigmentation, hydrate, unclog pores and condition rough skin while being gentle enough to use daily.

Promising review: "I love this product and I am new to Glossier skincare—and I am throughly impressed. My skin is oily-combo-textured-w/ dark spots. I had a hormonal breakout & this has helped! Read the instructions & ease into use (especially if you have sensitive skin like me). My skin looks clear after use." — LoreLaMe

This Farmacy toner is as nourishing as it is deeply exfoliating, thanks to the botanical-powered BHAs with which it is formulated. Salicylic acid and papaya enzymes can provide a deep clean while also helping with the look of pores, while moringa seed extract and moringa water cleanse impurities and refresh the skin. It's great for those with oily skin, as the super-light formula can reduce shine without stripping your skin of its natural moisture barrier.

Promising review: "This toner is very effective and fast acting, seeing visible improvements after less than a week.
I was previously an esthetician, this is a worthy and affordable product that I prefer over other standard brand products!" — Ayalah

Pixi's Glow Tonic exfoliates and brightens with a powerful formula of glycolic acid, aloe vera, ginseng and botanical extracts. It's also alcohol-free and unscented, so it's safe for all skin types. You can use it daily after your cleanser and before your moisturizer for a lovely dewy finish that won't strip your skin. It's a great ultra-gentle option (that's still effective) for anyone dipping their toes into exfoliators for the first time.

Promising review: "Trusted brand for my sensitive skin. It helps minimize oiliness, it makes my pores smaller and does not cause any breakouts. I have been using this product for years now." — Bernardo Deyto