If you’re reading this in mid-January 2026, you know the drill: your skin is probably reeling from holiday stress, winter dehydration, or just the general "blah" that comes with a New Year reset. You want a clean slate, but you don’t want to pay full price for it.

I’ve spent the last 72 hours scouring the web, tracking Best Seller lists, and checking subscription orders to find where the actual value is right now. We aren’t just looking for "cheap"; we’re looking for skincare routine staples that actually work—without nuking your moisture barrier.

Here is the no-nonsense guide to the best exfoliating face wash deals available online right now.

exfoliating face wash

1. The "Insider Secret": NING Dermologie Peeling Gel

If you’ve been following the shift toward "barrier-first" exfoliation, you’ve probably heard of NING Dermologie. While the big-box brands spend millions on TV ads, this brand has quietly become a favorite for those with Dry to Sensitized Skin.

Right now, they are running a promotion on their Peeling Gel for Face: Purifying Exfoliating Face Wash.

The Deal: Usually, boutique brands like this don't do deep discounts, but if you opt for subscription orders, you can snag a significant percentage off plus Free Shipping.

Why it’s different: Unlike harsh scrubs that feel like sandpaper, this uses jojoba spheres and a unique peeling mechanism to gently cleanse and lift dead skin cells. It’s specifically formulated for Sensitive Skin or Skin Prone to Redness. You literally feel the difference as the gel clumps up, taking the rough texture with it. If you want that youthful appearance without the stinging of high-percentage acids, this is the "clean slate" you need.


2. The Drugstore Heavyweights: CeraVe & Olay

You can’t talk about facial cleansers without mentioning the "blue and white" bottles.

CeraVe SA Cleanser & Foaming Oil Cleanser

Target and Amazon are currently battling for the lowest price on the SA Cleanser. This is the gold standard for acne-prone skin and active acne because it uses salicylic acid (a beta-hydroxy acid) to dissolve excess oil.

  • The Hack: Look for "Buy 2 Get 1 Free" deals on skin care at Target.
  • Pro Tip: If you have Normal to Dry Skin, skip the SA and go for the Hydrating Facial Cleanser or the Foaming Oil Cleanser. For heavy makeup days, their Makeup Removing Cleanser Balm is currently bundled with a FREE gift (usually a travel-size Micellar Water) if you sign up for their rewards program.

Olay’s "Super" Deals

Olay has reinvented itself recently. Their Super Serum and Super Serum Night are currently part of a "New Year, New Glow" bundle.

  • The Deal: Head to Olay’s site and sign up for Olay Text Alerts. You’ll often get an instant $5-$10 off your first order.
  • What to grab: The Peptide Facial Refining Concentrate and Super Cream are currently discounted when bought as a set. They’ve also released Limited Edition Fall Mystery Bags that are being cleared out—perfect for grabbing Anti-Aging TSA Approved minis.

3. The Clinical Grade: SkinMedica & Professional Picks

If you’re serious about your skin barrier and follow the American Academy of Dermatology guidelines, you might be looking for something more "medical."

SkinMedica® Method products are rarely "on sale," but authorized retailers like Dermstore often offer 15-20% off for first-time shoppers. Their AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser is a powerhouse. It combines alpha-hydroxy acid with physical exfoliation (think tiny Jojoba Beads).

Sunburn Alert: Because this product contains AHA, it increases sun sensitivity. Don't forget your broad-spectrum protection. I’m seeing deals on Daily Sheer Defense SPF 25 and Sun Protection TSA Approved sticks that are perfect for your gym bag.


4. The "Body & Soul" Extras: Papatui & More

Exfoliation doesn't stop at the neck. I’ve noticed a surge in deals for PAPATUI deodorant and their coconut deodorants. If you’re looking for animal-derived ingredients-free options, this line is surprisingly solid.

For the body, look for the Superquench Body Butter and Luminous Hydration Body Oil. These are great for maintaining hydrated skin after a hot shower. If you have tattoos, the ENHANCING TATTOO STICK is currently on a "Buy One Get One 50% Off" at several major retailers.


The Chemistry of Your Choice: What to Look For

When you're scrolling through these deals, don't just look at the Net Volume or the pretty packaging. Look at the skin care actives.

Ingredient

Best For

What it Does

Salicylic Acid

Acne-prone skin

Dissolves excess oil in pores.

Hyaluronic Acid

Dry skin

Provides 24-hour hydration.

Benzoyl Peroxide

Active acne

Kills bacteria (can be drying).

Jojoba Beads

Rough texture

Provides a gentle physical exfoliation.

Beta-hydroxy acid

Oily/Clogged pores

Deep cleans inside the follicle.

Using AI Skin Analysis Technology

Before you drop $100 on a new skincare routine, many sites now offer AI skin analysis technology. Use it. It’s not perfect, but it’s better than guessing your Skin Type. It can help identify if you’re actually dealing with Dry to Sensitized Skin or if you just have a damaged moisture barrier from over-exfoliating.


Advanced Tips for the Savvy Buyer

  1. Check the Curves: For tools, look for an Advanced Pivoting System in facial brushes. They should follow the curves of your face to ensure you don't over-scrub the bony areas like your cheekbones.
  2. TSA Approved: Always check if there’s a "mini" version of your favorite face cleanser. It’s cheaper to test a travel size than to commit to a full bottle that makes you break out.
  3. The "Last 10 Years" Rule: Stick to brands with a track record. While new "indie" brands are fun, your skin texture is an investment. Brands like NING Dermologie or Olay have formulas that have been refined over years, not weeks.
  4. The Makeup Connection: If you're buying a lip defining pencil or lip color, see if they throw in a Pencil Sharpener. It’s a small thing, but those concentrated ingredients in high-end liners last longer when cared for. For your lips, don't miss the Clean Swipe Hyaluronic Lip Balm—it’s a lifesaver for winter.

Final Verdict: Which Deal Wins?

If you have dry skin and want a glow without the "ouch," NING Dermologie’s Peeling Gel is the most practical choice right now. The jojoba spheres ensure you don't strip your skin's natural oils.

If you are fighting excess oil and breakouts, the CeraVe SA Cleanser at Target (via the "Buy 2 Get 1" deal) is unbeatable for the price.

Lastly, if you're looking for a total overhaul, the Olay Super Serum Night paired with a Peptide Facial Refining Concentrate will give you that youthful appearance by morning.

One last thing: Always check for Free Shipping thresholds. Sometimes adding a $5 Adaptive Moisture Lotion or a lip color to your cart saves you $10 in shipping fees. That's just math.

exfoliating face wash

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How often should I use an exfoliating face wash?

Listen to your skin. If you’re using something gentle like NING Dermologie, 2-3 times a week is usually the sweet spot. If you’re using heavy salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, start once a week. Overdoing it wrecks your moisture barrier, leaving you red and flaky.

Q2: Can I use these products if I have active acne?

Yes, but be careful. Avoid aggressive physical exfoliation (like rough scrubs) on active acne, as it can spread bacteria and cause scarring. Stick to chemical exfoliants like beta-hydroxy acid or very gentle jojoba beads. If it stings or draws blood, stop immediately. Your skin isn't a floor to be scrubbed.

Q3: Is NING Dermologie safe for "Skin Prone to Redness"?

Actually, that’s where it shines. Most facial cleansers for exfoliation are too aggressive. The Peeling Gel is designed to lift dead skin cells without triggering inflammation. It focuses on maintaining hydrated skin while smoothing rough texture, making it a safer bet than high-percentage acid peels for reactive types.

Q4: Do these deals apply to subscription orders only?

Not always, but that’s where the "real" money is saved. Most brands give you 15-20% off just to "set it and forget it." Just make sure there’s an easy "cancel anytime" button. Also, look for Free Shipping—paying for postage in 2026 is basically a tax on the impatient.

Q5: Will exfoliating help with my "youthful appearance" goals?

Consistency beats intensity. By removing the "gray" layer of dead skin cells, you allow your Super Serum or Hyaluronic Acid to actually penetrate. This improves skin tone and skin texture over time. Just don't forget the broad-spectrum protection daily, or you’ll undo all that hard work in one afternoon.