Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, green algae, sugar | Who it’s for: people who want both exfoliation and hydration | Fragrance-free: no
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of body scrubs?
Body scrubs have tremendous benefits, especially for people with drier skin. “The good ones that aren’t too rough or harsh on the skin will help make the skin feel nice and smooth by helping remove a dead layer of the skin,” says Dr. Kim.
As you can expect from their name, body scrubs tend to contain physical exfoliators, which polish the top layer of skin to remove dead skin buildup. Most body scrubs have sugar- or salt-based granules that dissolve as you massage them onto your skin, minimizing the chances of micro-tears and irritation. With that being said, you can also find non-dissolving options made with skin-polishing bases like coffee grounds, plant seeds, and even ultra-fine rice powder. Gary Goldfaden, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Hollywood, FL, previously told Allure to keep your physical exfoliant’s base in mind when looking for a new body scrub in order to prevent issues like irritation. “People with oilier complexions have larger sebaceous glands, which makes their skin thicker and better able to tolerate more abrasive particles,” he explained.
Are body scrubs safe for sensitive skin?
If you struggle with body acne or sensitive skin, it’s understandable that you might be hesitant to put anything rough-feeling on your skin. Still, Dr. Kim explains to Allure that it’s perfectly safe when used sparingly and gently. “I would recommend [body scrubs] only once or twice a month for people with sensitive skin,” he says. “It’s also important to moisturize the skin immediately after showering when it’s slightly damp.”
Dr. Goldfaden also had some exfoliating advice for sensitive skin: Generally use products with smaller granules, which are less likely to irritate, cut, or rub your skin. As always, if you start using a product that gives you an adverse reaction, stop using it immediately and consider speaking to your dermatologist or exploring other body scrub options.
Meet the experts
- Heidi Prather, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology in Austin, Texas
- Jeannette Graf, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City
- Caroline Robinson, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in Chicago
- David Kim, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Idriss Dermatology in New York City
- Gary Goldfaden, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in Hollywood, Florida, and founder of Goldfaden MD
How we test and review products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.
