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Shop by Skin Type or Concern

Not sure where to start? Here’s how to find the right face exfoliator for your skin.

  • Normal to combination skin: Manual resurfacing with our Microcrystal Buffing Cream
  • Sensitive or reactive skin: An exfoliator for sensitive skin like 3 Phase Gentle Cream Exfoliant
  • Dry or dehydrated skin: Hydration-focused exfoliation with Hydrating Skin Refiner
  • Congested or oilier skin: A deeper weekly treatment with Charcoal & Black Mud Refiner

Buffing Cream: Physical Exfoliation for Smoother Texture

If your skin tolerates manual exfoliation well, a physical exfoliant is one of the most effective ways to resurface. It works by gently polishing away dead skin cells with fine particles, rather than dissolving them chemically.

Our Microcrystal Buffing Cream uses fine volcanic microcrystals suspended in a soothing, conditioning base. Massaged onto damp skin, it uncovers fresher skin underneath, softens the look of enlarged pores and helps smooth fine lines and old acne scarring over time. Use it once or twice a week for general maintenance, or several days in a row for a more intensive resurfacing effect.

Exfoliating Cream: Gentle Chemical Exfoliation

If manual scrubbing isn’t right for your skin, a chemical exfoliant offers a gentler alternative. It dissolves the bonds holding dead skin cells together rather than buffing them away, which makes it a comfortable option for reactive, easily irritated or first-time exfoliating skin.

Our 3 Phase Gentle Cream Exfoliant combines natural papaya and pineapple enzymes in a non-granular, leave-on formula. Applied as a mask for 10 to 20 minutes, it smooths, brightens and clarifies the complexion without the friction of a scrub.

It’s a good starting point if you’re searching for an exfoliator for sensitive skin, since the enzyme action works gradually rather than all at once.

Skin Refiners for Hydration and Congestion

Alongside our buffing and enzyme creams, our range includes two skin refiners for more specific concerns. The Hydrating Skin Refiner is suited to those who want the benefits of regular exfoliation without the tightness or dryness some formulas can leave behind, making it a comfortable option for drier skin types.

For congested or oilier skin, the Charcoal & Black Mud Refiner offers a more intensive weekly treatment, drawing out impurities while still supporting the skin’s overall balance.

What’s the Difference Between a Buffing Cream and an Exfoliating Cream?

A buffing cream physically removes dead skin cells through manual friction, while an exfoliating cream, sometimes called a chemical or enzyme exfoliant, works by dissolving the bonds between them. Neither is better across the board; it comes down to your skin’s texture, sensitivity and what you’re trying to achieve.

As a general guide, physical exfoliants suit once or twice weekly use, while a gentler chemical formula can usually be used two to three times a week. Skin refiners tend to sit somewhere in between, depending on the formula. All of our exfoliators work best on freshly cleansed skin, so start with one of our cleansers to remove make-up and daily build-up first.

It’s also worth avoiding other actives, like retinol or acid-based serums, on the same night as exfoliating, and following up with a hydrating moisturiser or serum to support your skin barrier. If your skin ever feels tight, flaky or reactive after using other products, scale back and give it a few days to recover.

Why Shop Your Face Exfoliator With Maxwell’s

Every one of our face exfoliators in Australia has been developed under the direction of Maxwell’s founder Julie Maxwell, formulated to deliver real results without unnecessary irritation.

If you’re after a deeper exfoliation than an at-home cream can offer, our dermaplaning treatment is worth exploring in clinic, removing both dead skin cells and fine facial hair for an instantly smoother finish.

Getting your skin ready for warmer weather? Our guide to prepping your skin for summer covers how exfoliation fits into a seasonal routine.

Find Your Perfect Face Exfoliator at Maxwell’s

Browse our full exfoliator range above, or get in touch with our Gold Coast clinic if you’d like a personalised recommendation.

Call us on (07) 5591 1744, or drop into our Main Beach clinic for a consultation with one of our skin therapists. You can also explore the rest of Maxwell’s Skin & Body Clinic for our full range of treatments and skincare.

FAQs

How often should I exfoliate my face?

It depends on the formula. A physical exfoliant generally suits once or twice a week, while a gentler chemical option can usually be used two to three times a week. Always follow the directions on your specific product and build up gradually.

What’s the difference between a buffing cream and an exfoliating cream?

A buffing cream removes dead skin cells through manual friction, using fine particles massaged into the skin. An exfoliating cream works chemically, using enzymes or acids to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells, without any scrubbing required.

Can I use an exfoliator if I have sensitive skin?

Yes, though a gentle chemical formula like our 3 Phase Gentle Cream Exfoliant is usually more comfortable than a physical exfoliant. Start with shorter wear times or fewer sessions a week, and patch test first if you’re trying a new formula.

Should I exfoliate before or after cleansing?

Always after cleansing. Exfoliating on freshly cleansed, slightly damp skin helps the product work more evenly and prevents you from exfoliating over a layer of make-up or daily build-up.

Can I combine exfoliating with other active skincare?

It’s best to avoid layering exfoliation with retinol or acid-based serums on the same night, as this can increase the risk of irritation. Exfoliate first, then follow with a hydrating moisturiser or serum once your skin has settled.