The very idea of exfoliation used to make me nervous. As someone with dry skin that protests the second temperatures drop, slathering on a gritty scrub felt like a unique form of torture. But over nearly a decade as a beauty editor, I’ve learned that even the richest body lotion can’t do much if dead skin cells are blocking the way. The right body exfoliator, however, changes everything.
Below, find fast answers to your biggest body exfoliation questions. Then, scroll on for the best body exfoliators of 2026 to help you achieve your smoothest skin yet.
What Does a Body Exfoliator Do?
The best body exfoliators don’t just leave your skin smooth, but boost radiance, improve product absorption and help keep ingrown hairs at bay. There are two different types: physical and chemical. “Physical exfoliation physically sloughs off buildup sitting on the surface of the skin,” says New York dermatologist Dendy Engelman, MD, “while chemical body exfoliation, such as acids or enzymes like alphahydroxy acids (AHAs), betahydroxy acids (BHAs) and polyhydroxy acids (PHAs), dissolves the ‘glue’ holding dead skin cells together.”
How Often Should You Exfoliate Your Body?
Dr. Engelman is partial to chemical exfoliators, which, though they may sound harsher, tend to be the gentler option. “Physical exfoliants are more likely to cause irritation,” she says.
That said, either approach can disrupt the skin if overused. “Start with exfoliation once or twice a week and monitor how your skin responds. For extremely dry or sensitive skin, closer to once a week or even every other week could be best, depending on your skin’s tolerance,” she suggests.
Can Over-Exfoliating Damage Your Skin Barrier?
“A common misconception is that rough texture (like on arms or legs) means you need more exfoliation,” says Dr. Engelman. “Stick to one to two times per week for most exfoliation. If skin feels reactive, pause exfoliation and focus on hydration for one to two weeks. Exfoliation should improve texture and glow, not create inflammation.” She warns that “if your skin feels ‘raw,’” you’ve taken things too far.
Is Exfoliating Safe for Sensitive or Eczema-Prone Skin?
“Body exfoliation can be safe for sensitive or eczema-prone skin, but it has to be approached very carefully, and sometimes it’s best avoided altogether during flares,” Dr. Engelman explains. “For severe eczema cases, simply using a gentle washcloth with mild pressure (instead of a scrub or acid) is sufficient for maintenance.”
The Best Body Exfoliators of 2026
1 / 10
As a reminder, not all body exfoliators have to be traditional gritty scrubs. These single-use pads are proof; just swipe them across textured areas (like keratosis pilaris, also known as KP, or rough patches) or use them before or after shaving to help prevent ingrowns. Formulated with azelaic, salicylic and glycolic acids, they work to clear pores and reveal fresher, smoother-looking skin.
2 / 10
Naturium’s Glow Getter Multi-Oil Body Wash came first in 2022 and quickly went viral for how well it hydrated, cleansed and softened dry skin. To the delight of fans like myself, the brand released this gritty body scrub at the end of 2025. The combination of satisfying exfoliating grit and nourishing oils makes it feel like a scrub-and-lotion hybrid in one.
3 / 10
“Keratosis pilaris is caused by keratin buildup blocking hair follicles, so you want gentle exfoliation and hydration,” explains Dr. Engelman. “Glycolic Acid, as found in the Skinfix Glycolic Renewing Scrub, is a great option to gently smooth skin.” It gives you that satisfying scrub moment without leaving skin dry or overworked. The grit smooths things out right away, while glycolic acid works a little deeper, especially helpful for those stubborn bumps on arms and thighs.
4 / 10
This sugar scrub has held the top spot among Amazon’s body scrub offerings for as long as I’ve been paying attention (which is saying something), amassing more than 100,000 five-star reviews and maintaining a near-perfect rating. And the hype isn’t exaggerated. If you want a classic, satisfyingly gritty scrub that physically exfoliates while hydrating dry skin, you’re in good company.
It also comes in a lineup of indulgent scents, though they may not be ideal for the fragrance-averse or those with very sensitive skin.
5 / 10
Consider this your reminder not to sleep on the classics. This drugstore body wash from Neutrogena is a no-brainer for body acne because it contains 2 percent salicylic acid (the highest strength of the over-the-counter acne-fighting exfoliant you can get without a prescription).
Since the ingredient works to unclog pores, it’s also great to use before and after shaving to help prevent ingrown hairs.
6 / 10
The reality is that few body scrubs are actually suited for sensitive skin, which is part of why you won’t find any with the National Eczema Association’s seal of acceptance. While you should always check with your dermatologist before introducing an exfoliant, this one comes closest for sensitive types. It’s fragrance-free, pairs gentle chemical exfoliation with a mild physical buff, and cushions with hydrators and barrier-supporting ingredients to help minimize the risk of irritation.
7 / 10
If you like getting the most out of your products, this one delivers. What sets it apart from the other body scrubs on our list is that it doubles as a clarifying shampoo, so you don’t need a separate formula for your scalp and body. And as its St. Barts name suggests, the scent is transportive (like the perfume you’d pack for vacation) with notes of dragon fruit, orange blossom, tuberose and Baltic amber.
8 / 10
While fragranced body scrubs can feel indulgent—myself included—most dermatologists agree skin is better off without added scent. This SKU is fragrance-free (though scented versions exist, if that’s your preference) and pairs glycolic and salicylic acids with fine, evenly milled granules in a gentle gel formula that polishes smoothly without that sandpaper feel.
9 / 10
I recently hit the bottom of this scrub, and my shower routine hasn’t felt the same without it. It leans more indulgent than corrective; there’s no chemical exfoliation, so it won’t target texture, but it does leave skin incredibly smooth and perfectly prepped for shaving. Think of it as the ultimate classic sugar scrub in an oversized tub, with a sweet, nostalgic scent reminiscent of Pez candy (which I happen to love).
10 / 10
If you love the smoothing payoff of a scrub but hate the mess, Soft Services’ popular Buffing Bar duo is worth reaching for. It uses fine physical exfoliants to gently polish skin, making it the perfect prep step before moisturizing post-shower.
