Should you exfoliate while treating acne?
Be careful. The American Academy of Dermatology lists exfoliants with toners and astringents as products that can dry skin and make acne look worse during treatment.
What AAD says
During acne treatment, use gentle, alcohol-free products and avoid ones that irritate skin, including exfoliants.
Ask first
If your acne treatment already dries or peels your skin, ask your dermatologist before adding any exfoliant.
When to stop
Stop a product and see a board-certified dermatologist if you get burning, swelling, blistering, hives, or symptoms that get worse. Get urgent help for trouble breathing or swelling of the face or lips.
Source
Reviewed September 23, 2026. General education, not diagnosis or personal medical advice.