19 Best Body Scrubs and Exfoliators 2025, Tested and Reviewed

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I’ll let you in on a little secret: my journey for glowy and smooth skin (even during the depths of winter) starts with the best body scrubs. While our skin naturally exfoliates itself, physical exfoliators jumpstart the process by sloughing away dead skin cells. This helps your skin look more radiant and velvety-to-the-touch, a far cry from the sometimes dry, cracked and chalky skin that can build up all year round. And don’t worry, there are a slew of body scrubs on the market that contain hydrating ingredients so your skin won’t feel raw or stripped post-application.

Here, with the help of dermatologists and Glamour editors, we’ve rounded up our favorite scrubs. TLDR; our best overall pick was Nécessaire The Body Exfoliator, because it’s gentle enough to use on sensitive skin types, leaves skin looking glowy and rejuvenated, and smells glorious in the shower. After testing dozens of scrubs, trust us when we say, these are the ones that will change your body care routine for the better.

The best body scrubs, at a glance

• Best Overall: Nécessaire The Body Exfoliator, $30
• Best for Ingrown Hairs: Fur Silk Scrub, $54
• Best for Keratosis Pilaris: First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub With 10% AHA, $12
• Best Drugstore: Tree Hut Sugar Scrub, $8
• Best for Sensitive Skin: Skinceuticals Micro-Exfoliating Scrub, $35
• Best for Dry Skin: Soft Services Buffing Bar, $28
• Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Neutrogena Body Clear Body Scrub, $8
• Best Scent: Sol de Janeiro Bum Bum Scrub, $42

How we picked the best body scrubs

Best Overall: Nécessaire The Body Exfoliator

This gentle exfoliator does more than just physically slough away skin cells, it also contains alpha-hydroxy-acids (AHA) and beta-hydroxy-acids (BHA) chemical exfoliants to make skin look extra glossy and smooth. “Those with very sensitive skin should choose a gentle chemical exfoliant or a very fine-particle exfoliant that won’t be overly harsh or abrasive,” says Dr. Engelman, and this pick combines the best of both worlds. “I like that this body scrub helps address uneven skin texture, KP, ingrown hairs and more without stripping the skin of moisture thanks to niacinamide, and it’s also hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic,” she says.

Glamour’s commerce writer Alanna Martine Kilkeary has been a fan of this scrub for years because it’s gentle enough to not overly exfoliate or harm the skin, but potent enough to actually see a difference. “Whenever my skin is looking dull or flat, I always reach for this gentle scrub to get rid of dead skin cells. I’ve never felt dried out or stripped when using this, rather, it really helps my skin retain moisture post-shower. I always finish with a moisturizing cream to lock it all in, but I never felt that dreaded skin tightness that sometimes happens post-exfoliation with this pick. My favorite part is also how luxurious the scents are, and that it comes in a fragrance-free option that’s perfect for days your skin might be feeling extra sensitive.”

• Key Ingredients: AHAs, BHAs, volcanic pumice and niacinamide
• Scents: 3 options
• Who It’s Best For: Those looking to level up their exfoliant routine with something effective yet gentle
• Fragrance: Eucalyptus, Sandalwood, Fragrance-Free

Best for Ingrown Hairs: Fur Silk Scrub

According to the dermatologists we spoke to, body scrubs can do a thing or two about ingrown hairs. By sloughing away dead skin cells in these areas, you’ll be left with bump-free and more even-textured skin, says Dr. Engelman. That’s why Glamour’s Kilkeary is obsessed with this silky scrub: It helped solve her ingrown hair bumps along her bikini line. “I always dealt with unsightly, uncomfortable razor bumps (or the occasional ingrown hair) along my bikini line, and it took me years to figure out that an exfoliator can actually help minimize their appearance. I now don’t shower or shave without using this scrub that’s super gentle for any intimate area, and makes all the difference when it comes to wearing a bikini. If you struggle with skin texture in this area, I’d highly recommend adding this one to your shave routine, STAT.”

• Key Ingredients: Glycolic acid, lactic acid, jojoba beads
• Scents: N/A
• Who It’s Best For: Those looking to improve post-shaving bumps
• Fragrance: Fragrance-free

Best for Keratosis Pilaris: First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub With 10% AHA

“This scrub combines both physical exfoliants (pumice buffing beads) and chemical exfoliants (glycolic and lactic acids) to effectively help reduce KP and uneven texture,” says Dr. Engelman. She likes that it’s allergen-free and formulated with artificial fragrances, so it’s an ideal option for those with sensitive skin.

“This body scrub is a total lifesaver when it comes to renewing my sometimes bumpy upper arms and acne-prone shoulders. With the help of both glycolic and lactic acids, this scrub works overtime to erase dead skin and oil buildup whenever my skin needs a pick-me-up,” says Glamour contributor Talia Gutierrez.

• Key Ingredients: Glycolic acid, lactic acid
• Scents: N/A
• Who It’s Best For: Those dealing with keratosis pilaris or strawberry skin
• Fragrance: Fragrance-free

Best Drugstore: Tree Hut Sugar Scrub

While some scrubs can be hard to remove, leaving a sticky feeling, this one rinses off easily and provides lasting hydration thanks to the avocado and almond oils, and is a crowd favorite amongst Glamour editors and reviewers. “I always keep the Tree Hut exfoliating scrub in my shower because I like that it has all-natural ingredients and doesn’t leave skin feeling stripped, thanks to the shea butter in the formula. It has a dreamy sandalwood/vanilla scent that I’m in love with,” says style blogger and Glamour reviewer Stephanie Pernas.

• Key Ingredients: Lactic acid, shea butter
• Scents: 30
• Who It’s Best For: A body scrub rookie who doesn’t want to break the bank when shopping
• Fragrance: Favorites include Vanilla, Cherry Rave, Pink Champagne and Watermelon

Best for Sensitive Skin: Skinceuticals Micro-Exfoliating Scrub

Dr. Spearman highly recommends this scrub because the beads are super fine, meaning there’s no chance of microtears. “I really like this mild exfoliating gel because it’s one that you can actually use everyday, unlike other scrubs,” she says. It contains hydrated silica plus glycerin and aloe vera for a very gentle (yet worthwhile) exfoliation.

“Though it’s technically a face exfoliator (the directions make no mention of the body), I like that, as the name suggests, this formula has really fine scrubbing particles that are great for sensitive skin,” says Glamour contributor Brigitt Earley. “It’s great for my dry skin, too, since it’s not too abrasive or stripping. I found it left both the skin on my face and my body nice and soft. Plus, at this price point, I appreciate that it’s a multi-tasking product that saves space in the bathroom. The only downside? You don’t get that same sensory experience you get from body washes with delicious scents—this one is pretty basic in that department.”

• Key Ingredients: Hydrated silica, glycerin, aloe vera
• Scents: N/A
• Who It’s Best For: Someone who has sensitive skin and is looking for a derm-backed pick
• Fragrance: Fragrance-free

Best for Dry Skin: Soft Services Buffing Bar

If you dry skin year-round, you’ll definitely want a scrub with hydrating ingredients like glycerin and shea butter. This buffing bar has both of these moisturizing ingredients, plus microcrystals that help visibly brighten the skin, and even out texture.

“I don’t exfoliate regularly in the shower, though I do hate dealing with the dead skin that builds up from lotion and grime. My skin is quite sensitive, so that’s why I generally avoid harsh exfoliants. Still, I was curious to try this body bar, which is essentially a bar of soap with mineral microcrystals in its formula,” says Glamour commerce editor Malia Griggs. “I used it on wet skin, and at first, it was quite gentle and slippery but then quickly turned rough like sandpaper. I can’t say the feeling is entirely pleasant, but if you’re someone who likes the sensation of scrubbing, it definitely fulfills that. The bar doesn’t have a strong scent (in fact, almost none at all), which I appreciated. After using it, my skin did feel smoother and not too dry (perhaps thanks to its hydrating shea butter)..”

• Key Ingredients: Microcrystals, glycerin, shea butter
• Scents: N/A
• Who It’s Best For: Those with sensitive and drier skin who could use more glow without drying or stripping it out
• Fragrance: Fragrance-free

Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Neutrogena Body Clear Body Scrub

If you deal with pimples, look to this favorite scrub of Dr. Spearman’s. “This one has a blend of salicylic acid, glycerin and vitamin E, a great combination to help address acne on your chest or back,” she says. Blair Murphy-Rose, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in NYC, also recommends it because it doesn’t compromise ingredients for affordability. “The best OTC cleansers for oily and acne-prone skin are oil-free and contain BHAs (like salicylic acid) that travel deep inside the pores to keep them clean and to reduce sebum buildup,” she notes.

Glamour’s Kilkeary is also a big fan of this scrub, and she often reaches for it when she has a breakout on her back. “Sometimes I’ll get these stubborn, painful pimples on my back in the summer when it’s really hot or I’m sweating a little bit more than usual, so I always like to reach for a salicylic acid scrub to help exfoliate and unclog the area. It’s not sticky and doesn’t overly strip my skin. I usually feel like I’m getting a pretty deep clean with this one because it minimizes pimples really quickly, but I never feel like it’s too harsh or abrasive.”

• Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, glycerin, vitamin E
• Scents: One option
• Who It’s Best For: Those who struggle with body acne
• Fragrance: Clean, fresh

Best Scent: Sol de Janeiro Bum Bum Scrub

Sometimes you just want a body scrub that smells as good as it feels. This Bum Bum Scrub does just that and more because it has an addicting pistachio caramel scent and contains effective exfoliants like crushed cupuaçu seeds and sugar crystals. Fear not, as it also does contain moisturizing coconut oil and glycerin to give skin lightweight, silky moisture. “This iconic body scrub is one of my top favorites because the scent is just so yummy, and the added caffeine and coconut oil leaves my skin feeling and looking more firm and glowy compared to other scrubs I’ve used,” says Pernas.

• Key Ingredients: Cupuaçu seeds, sugar, caffeine
• Scents: One option
• Who It’s Best For: Someone looking for a body scrub that both smells delicious and leaves skin radiant and taut
• Fragrance: Pistachio and salted caramel

Best Budget: Daise Beauty Exfoliating Body Scrub

If you want to spoil yourself with a sweet-smelling scrub that won’t break the bank, might we recommend this exfoliating pick that softens the skin and makes your shower smell like candy. Earley shares the sentiment, and loved the experience using this pick. “It’s hard not to love this packaging (except for the fact that the top is a little hard to screw off if your hands are wet), and talk about a delicious scent! The second you open this jar, you feel like you’re on a tropical vacation. And I’m pleased to say the scent lingered for some time after my shower. The scrub is on the more abrasive side and even skews a little bit sticky, so you need to mix it with plenty of water. It’s great for problem areas like the elbows, but some people with more sensitive skin may find it a little too rough for all-over use.”

• Key Ingredients: Glycerin, walnut shell powder
• Scents: Six options
• Who It’s Best For: The rookie body scrub user
• Fragrance: Vanilla, Coconut, Melon, Cherry

Best Face and Body Scrub: Lush Ocean Salt Face And Body Scrub

We’ll be the first to say that sometimes multitasking skin care products take the cake. This is certainly the case for this ocean-inspired salt scrub that can be used on both the body and face. It combines sea salt crystals with glycerin and avocado butter for a deliciously pleasant scrub that feels invigorating and refreshing.

“If you’ve ever had the pleasure of walking by a Lush store, you already know what the brand’s Ocean Salt scrub smells like: light and fresh with a bright citrus edge. It spreads easily onto my skin, and a little goes a surprisingly long way. This isn’t one of those body scrubs that disappears after a few rubs; the coarse salt holds its shape, meaning you can get as deep of a scrub as you want. (I could almost see going too far with it, so be careful if you have especially sensitive skin.) My skin immediately felt smoother, and not just from the exfoliation—the coconut oil and avocado butter also seemed to help soften the area I tested. I’d recommend this to anyone who wants a fragranced, plastic-free scrub, although I will note that it’s a little steeply priced for the amount in the pot,” says Glamour commerce editor Jake Henry Smith.

• Key Ingredients: Sea salt, mango butter, avocado butter
• Scents: One option
• Who It’s Best For: Someone looking for a multitasking scrub that you can use all over the body and on the face
• Fragrance: Ocean water and sand

Best for Legs and Feet: Youth To The People 10% AHA + Yerba Mate Smoothing Energy Body Scrub

“Daily exfoliation (if your skin can tolerate it) can improve radiance and texture, and it can also boost circulation which makes the skin brighter,” says Dr. Spearman. Ingredients like caffeine in a scrub can give the skin a boost in its appearance, making it look smoother, younger and glowing.

“Whenever I feel like my skin is looking dull and needs a bit of a boost, I always reach for this body scrub because it has yerba mate and 10% AHAs that actually make my skin look not only smoother, but noticeably brighter. The texture of this scrub is also fantastic, because it’s not ultra gritty. Instead, the exfoliating beads are suspended in a cloud-like gel that makes scrubbing more comfortable. I like to use this in the morning before body wash to really wake my skin up, just like you would when you drink your daily cup of coffee,” says Kilkeary.

• Key Ingredients: Yerba mate, olive seed powder, glycolic acid, caffeine
• Scents: One option
• Who It’s Best For: Those looking to brighten dull skin
• Fragrance: Black pepper, ginger and velvet woods

Best Natural Scrub: Kopari Beauty Coconut Exfoliant Crush Scrub

This scrub is packed full of natural ingredients to help nourish and protect the skin. “It’s made with an emulsion of crushed Tahitian coconut shells and grainy brown sugar that creates the perfect combination to both hydrate and revive dullness, leaving nothing but a sweet coconut scent and glowing skin after rinsing off,” says Gutierrez, who’s a huge fan of this pick. The natural particles in this scrub also dissolve in your shower, so you won’t be left with any residue that you need to clean.

• Key Ingredients: Coconut shells, brown sugar, aloe vera
• Scents: One option
• Who It’s Best For: Those looking for a natural exfoliator
• Fragrance: Sweet brown sugar

Best Scalp and Body Scrub: Ouai Scalp & Body Scrub

Scalp scrubs are a great way to help detox buildup and refresh the delicate skin in this area, and we love that this scrub does just that and more. It has sugar crystals that slough off dead skin, plus glycerin and coconut oil to moisturize. “After using this as a scalp scrub, I use it all over my skin for a full body exfoliation. I appreciate a two-in-one product that gets the job done. The scent of this scrub (bergamot, lychee, cedarwood and white musk) is amazing, too,” says Glamour senior commerce editor Jenifer Calle.

• Key Ingredients: Sugar crystals, coconut oil
• Scents: One option
• Who It’s Best For: Those looking for a scrub that can be used from head to toe (literally)
• Fragrance: Bergamot, lychee, white musk, champagne

Best Scrub for Glowing Skin: Fresh Brown Sugar Body Polish Exfoliator

This sugary scrub will not only make your skin look and feel brighter and smoother, it also polishes, making the skin look and feel like velvet. “No joke, I crave homemade cookies every time I swipe this Brown Sugar Body Polish from Fresh along my body. It melts into my skin after just a few motions, making it an irresistible choice when my body craves a little refresh,” says Gutierrez.

• Key Ingredients: Brown Sugar, apricot kernel oil
• Scents: One option
• Who It’s Best For: Dull, rough skin that could use something to smooth, soften and moisturize
• Fragrance: Sweet brown sugar

Best Luxury: Malin + Goetz Eucalyptus Hand and Body Scrub

If you already love a good body scrub but want to elevate your everything shower routine, let us point you to this sweet-smelling hand and body scrub that restores the skin with lactic acid, pumice and eucalyptus to help you rejuvenate.

“I like to use this scrub whenever I’m in the mood for turning my bathroom into a mini spa,” says Glamour’s Kilkeary. “It does a nice job of making the skin look and feel soft and radiant, but the fact that it also provides a moment of aromatherapy during your shower is what really makes it special. Will I be using this every time I need some extra TLC? Absolutely, and I think my skin will thank me for it, too.”

• Key Ingredients: Lactic acid, mandelic acid. pumice
• Scents: One option
• Who It’s Best For: Someone who wants to level up their everything shower routine
• Fragrance: Eucalyptus

Most Exfoliating: Versed AHA Buff It Out Body Scrub

To get the most out of your exfoliation routine, Dr. Engelman recommends adding a chemical exfoliant into the mix. “Chemical exfoliants (like AHAs and BHAs) sometimes pose less of a risk of damaging the skin, as they break down the bonds between dead skin cells without requiring any rubbing or scrubbing of the skin,” she says. But if you’re still looking for that ‘deep clean’ feeling that you get with a physical scrub, it’s best to look for one that has chemical exfoliants and very soft particle physical exfoliants. This body scrub does both, thanks to its microfine pumice stones that smooth out rough texture, plus lactic and glycolic acid to improve skin brightness and tone.