Best Exfoliating Face Serums in India (2026): Top AHA, BHA & PHA Serums for Glowing Skin
Get smoother, clearer skin with these 6 top-rated exfoliating face serums. From chemical peels to gentle plant-based AHAs, these serums help remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and reduce blemishes. Perfect for brightening dull skin, improving texture, and revealing a radiant glow—whether you have sensitive, oily, or acne-prone skin.
Whether you're dealing with acne marks, blackheads, uneven skin tone, pigmentation, or dullness, the right exfoliating serum can significantly improve your skin over time. These serums also help other skincare products absorb better, making your entire routine more effective.
To help you choose the right product, we've shortlisted the 6 best exfoliating face serums in India based on ingredients, effectiveness, customer reviews, formulation, and value for money.
| S.no | Best Face Serums for Exfoliation | Specialty |
| 1 | Dr. Sheth's Gulab & 6% Glycolic Acid & 5% Niacinamide Instant Brightening Face Serum | Best in Overall |
| 2 | Pilgrim 25% AHA + 2% BHA + 5% PHA Peeling Solution for Face | Best in Strength |
| 3 | Minimalist 25% AHA + 2% BHA + 5% PHA Peeling Serum Solution | Best in Formulation |
| 4 | SkinInspired AHA+BHA+PHA Lactic Acid + Salicylic Acid Face Serum | Best in Premium |
| 5 | Cos-IQ 25% AHA + 2% BHA + 6% PHA Peeling Solution for Face | Best in Dermatologically Tested |
| 6 | Blue Nectar AHA Exfoliator for Face with Plant Based Glycolic Acid from Sugarcane | Best in Affordable |
1. Dr. Sheth's Gulab & 6% Glycolic Acid & 5% Niacinamide Instant Brightening Face Serum
Active Ingredients: Gulab Extract, 6% Glycolic Acid, 5% Niacinamide, Gulab Extract, 6% Glycolic Acid, 5% Niacinamide
The Dr. Sheth instant brightening serum helps in removing all the dead skin cells and gives you a glow like no other. It helps in deeply exfoliating old skin and renews skin, all thanks to the powerful exfoliating AHA like Glycolic Acid. This serum also helps in reducing dark spots and blemishes as it comes with 5% Niacinamide to even out skin tone and make your skin look glowing. The Gulab Extract in the formula helps in neutralizing the pH of the skin and keeps irritation at bay.
What do other customers have to say about it?
Customers find the face serum for exfoliation effective and helpful for uneven skin tone. They say it helps brighten the skin and exfoliates the skin.
2. Pilgrim 25% AHA + 2% BHA + 5% PHA Peeling Solution for Face
Active Ingredients: Glycolic Acid, Hyaluronic Acid, Lactic Acid, Salicylic Acid
A weekly chemical peel at home is all you need to make your skin appear like a billion shining stars and this serum for exfoliation helps you achieve that glow. It is formulated with Salicylic Acid that is well-known for its pore exfoliating properties. This serum helps in regulating sebum production and eliminates stubbon blackheads as well as whiteheads. The Glycolic Acid in the serum helps in sloughing off the top layer of dead skin cells to reveal fresher, more radiant glow. This also helps in reducing discolourations of the skin and offers an even skin tone and texture with a firmer feel.
What do other customers have to say about it?
Customers have appreciated this face serum for skin exfoliation. They have mentioned that it is loaded with the best ingredients that help in removing dead skin cells and offer a glowing complexion.
3. Minimalist 25% AHA + 2% BHA + 5% PHA Peeling Serum Solution
Material Feature: Fragrance Free, Hypoallergenic, Natural
Treat yourself to a facial at home with the Minimalist Peeling Serum Solution that gives you naturally glowing smooth skin at home within just 10 minutes. This serum for exfoliation provides multi-level benefits that result in skin brightening and glow. It also helps in removing tanning, sun damage and pigmentation. The best part is the formulation of this face serum - it comes with AHA (Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid & Mandelic Acid) & PHA to provide a superficial peeling experience by removing dead skin cells and boosting cell turnover whereas the BHA (Salicylic Acid) in the formula clears pore & reduces blackheads.
What do other customers have to say about it?
Customers have said that this face serum is true to its claim. They have also mentioned that it clears up blackheads and whiteheads quickly and shrinks all pores.
4. SkinInspired AHA+BHA+PHA Lactic Acid + Salicylic Acid Face Serum
Active Ingredients: 4% Lactic Acid, 4% Gluconolactone, 2% Salicylic Acid, 2% Cica, 1% CutiBiome CLR
If you are looking for a luxury exfoliating serum to add to your routine then the SkinInspired AHA+BHA+PHA Lactic Acid + Salicylic Acid Face Serum is the best pick out there. It helps in revitalizing your skin with its revolutionary exfoliating formula. Lactic Acid in the serum is renowned for dissolving old skin cell bonds and providing effective exfoliation. This process helps reveal smoother skin, stimulates collagen and boosts cell turnover as well. All of this and more leads to a rejuvenated complexion. But this serum goes beyond that too. It helps in enhancing the skin's hydration process all while tightening and firming it.
What do other customers have to say about it?
Customers find the face serum effective for improving skin texture and tone. It leaves their skin soft, smooth, and rejuvenated. They appreciate its gentle exfoliation without causing irritation or redness.
5. Cos-IQ 25% AHA + 2% BHA + 6% PHA Peeling Solution for Face
Active Ingredients: Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Polyhydroxy Acids
A dermatologically tested exfoliating serum for face? What more can one ask for? This chemical serum for face is made with Salicylic Acid which is known for its pore-exfoliating properties. It helps in regulating sebum production and eliminating stubborn blackheads and whiteheads as well. It deep cleans every pore, fades dark spots and smoothens skin to reveal an even-toned, baby-soft skin. Glycolic Acid in the formula exfoliates the top layer of dead skin cells to reveal fresh, radiant skin underneath. It also helps in diminishing unwanted discolourations of the skin.
What do other customers have to say about it?
Customers have appreciated the quality of this face serum for skin exfoliation. They have also mentioned that it works really fast and gives a subtle glow the very next day.
6. Blue Nectar AHA Exfoliator for Face
Active Ingredients: 14 Ayurvedic Herbs (Sugarcane, Aloe Vera, Neem etc)
Last but not least on the list is this plant-based face serum for skin exfoliation. It is formulated with 14 different types of herbs along with plant-based AHA Glycolic Acid derived from Sugarcane. This serum is powerpacked with ingredients to offer a multi-level exfoliation every time you use it. It penetrates deep into the skin and helps in the removal of dead skin cells from the roots. It also assists in boosting collagen in the skin as the exfoliation speeds things up in the skin and make your skin look smoother and radiant.
What do other customers have to say about it?
Customers have appreciated the effectiveness of this skin serum for exfoliation. They have also mentioned that it provides results quickly and works well for all skin types.
FAQs
1. Which is the best exfoliating face serum in India?
Dr. Sheth's Gulab & 6% Glycolic Acid + 5% Niacinamide Serum is among the best exfoliating face serums for brightening, reducing pigmentation, and improving skin texture.
2. Can I use an exfoliating serum every day?
It depends on the formulation. Mild exfoliating serums may be used 2–3 times a week, while high-strength AHA/BHA peeling solutions should generally be used only once weekly.
3. Which exfoliating serum is best for acne-prone skin?
Serums containing Salicylic Acid (BHA), such as Cos-IQ or Pilgrim, are ideal for acne-prone skin as they help unclog pores and reduce excess oil.
4. Is an AHA BHA serum suitable for sensitive skin?
Yes, but choose lower-strength formulas with soothing ingredients like Cica or PHAs, and always patch test before regular use.
5. Should I apply sunscreen after using an exfoliating face serum?
Yes. Exfoliating acids increase sun sensitivity, so applying a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning is essential to protect your skin and maintain results.
Disclaimer: Times Shopping Guide is committed to bringing you the latest products from the best brands. Our selection is based on market research and positive consumer feedback. Times Shopping Guide is also a part of an affiliate partnership. In line with this, we may receive a portion of the revenue from your purchases. Please note that the product prices are subject to change based on the retailer's deals.



