Sure, using a body wash is one way to feel clean, but for me to reach squeaky levels, I need a body scrub that sloughs away the dirt, sweat, and city grime that inevitably builds up throughout the week. The best body scrubs and exfoliators also create a smoother base so that all of my potions absorb more easily and more deeply afterward. While there are mild exfoliators that can be used daily, I prefer to slot them into my routine a few times a week—usually on everything-shower Sundays or anytime I want that deeper, just-buffed feeling.
Vogue’s Favorite Body Scrubs
_0006_Screenshot%25202024-08-28%2520at%252012.33.42.jpg)
A good body scrub should work with the rest of your routine, not against it. When you factor in skin concerns like dryness, keratosis pilaris, and eczema, the ideal exfoliator should slip seamlessly between your favorite body wash and lotion, revealing smooth, even-toned skin year-round. You might have heard that physical exfoliation is too harsh, but it truly comes down to the formula. Some scrubs with large, scratchy granules can cause micro-tears, yet there are plenty of well-designed options that are safe to use and leave the skin feeling refined rather than irritated. Many newer formulas even pair physical and chemical exfoliants, similar to what you might already rely on in your facial routine, for a more even and effective polish.
As board-certified dermatologist Shereene Idriss, MD, explains, body scrubs “help shed dead skin cells on the superficial layer of the skin to reveal a fresher and brighter base.” Certain formulas can even help clear congested pores, allowing your products to penetrate more deeply. “The best part? They work better with other products such as moisturizers to keep your skin baby-smooth and hydrated,” she says.
Below, we curated an edit of the best body scrubs to consider, all vetted by Vogue editors and dermatologists.
In This Story
Best Overall: Nécessaire the Body Exfoliator
- Why We Love It: As one of the more renowned body scrubs in the market, Nécessaire’s option proves efficacious time and time again. The treatment pairs physical exfoliants like volcanic pumice and charcoal bamboo with chemical exfoliation from niacinamide to resurface the skin and help even skin tone. Dr. Spearman notes that this combination can also help treat ingrown hairs and rough bumps. “Although there are two mechanisms of exfoliation, which can be more irritating, this formula is gentle enough for regular use in the shower one to two times weekly. Overuse can lead to irritation, so care must be taken to avoid using it more than one to two times weekly.” And of course, its minimalist packaging screams “they know things!”
- Editor’s Experience: “My every-time recommendation when someone wants to try a good body scrub, Nécessaire’s formula is easy to love. I find that part of the draw to an exfoliating treatment is the accompanying scent, and these are spa-like and comforting. Excellent for an everything shower or skin maintenance.” —Kiana Murden, beauty shopping writer
- Key Ingredients: Bamboo charcoal, glycolic acid, salicylic acid.
- Best For: Evening out rough skin texture with the help of physical and chemical exfoliators.
- Fragrance: Yes
- Size: 180 ml