The best exfoliating body washes do more than cleanse—they smooth out rough skin using a blend of chemical or physical exfoliants and barrier-supporting ingredients. Whether you’re dealing with keratosis pilaris (a.k.a. strawberry skin), body breakouts, ingrown hairs, or general dryness, the right formula can make a major difference.

Our Top Exfoliating Body Washes

Many exfoliating body washes use chemical ingredients, like glycolic, lactic, or salicylic acid, to break down dead skin cells and clear out clogged pores. These acids (often labeled as AHAs, BHAs, or PHAs) do the heavy lifting when it comes to maintaining even skin texture and controlling breakouts. Others may include physical exfoliants, such as fine scrub particles, to manually remove dead cells from the skin.

Before you brace yourself for a rough, red, irritated aftermath, know this: You’ll often find these paired with soothing ingredients like aloe, ceramides, or niacinamide to calm and protect the skin barrier. Ahead, we’ve rounded up the best exfoliating body washes for every skin concern, whether you’re looking for a heavy-duty polish for a weekly reset or body care that’s gentle enough for daily use.

Best Overall: Nécessaire The Body Wash in Hinoki

Why it’s worth it: Since we crowned the fragrance-free version as the best body wash for sensitive skin, it doesn’t surprise us that dermatologists also love the exfoliating, scented version. Nécessaire The Body Wash in Hinoki is a skin-care treatment disguised as a cleanser. “This formula is incredibly well-balanced,” says Dendy Engelman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Shafer Clinic in New York City. “It exfoliates with a gentle blend of glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acids, while also nourishing the skin with niacinamide and glycerin.” She recommends it for body breakouts, dullness, and dryness, noting that it “supports the skin barrier instead of stripping it.” The woodsy Hinoki scent, inspired by Japanese cypress, instantly evokes a mountain spa vibe, and honestly, who wouldn’t want that in their shower routine?

Best for Hyperpigmentation: Sol de Janeiro Bom Dia Bright Clarifying AHA BHA Body Wash

Why it’s worth it: Some people (raises hand) might pick up this exfoliating body wash simply because it says Sol de Janeiro on the bottle, but when it comes to clarifying skin, it actually works, too. The Bom Dia Bright Clarifying AHA BHA Body Wash is packed with lactic and salicylic acids to gently exfoliate dull or acne-prone skin, while glycerin and papaya extract keep skin soft, smooth, and hydrated. The creamy texture creates a luxe lather, and the warm, fruity-floral scent lingers just enough to feel indulgent. Even if you’re not battling body breakouts or dark spots, trust us—this is the kind of body wash that makes you want to shower, just for the chance to smooth and soften your skin from head to toe.

Best for Acne: Curology Acne Body Wash

Why it’s worth it: You don’t need a prescription to get results with Curology Acne Body Wash, which brings the brand’s derm-backed approach to an over-the-counter formula. While Curology is best known for its custom Rx treatments, its over-the-counter line features tried-and-true ingredients that make effective skincare easy and accessible. It contains 2% salicylic acid to help unclog pores, exfoliate dead skin, and prevent breakouts in hard-to-treat areas like the back, chest, and shoulders. It also includes zinc pyrithione to help calm inflamed skin and tea tree oil for its antibacterial properties. Although it effectively fights blemishes, this formula is also gentle and moisturizing, thanks to glycerin and its soft, non-drying gel texture.

Best for Dryness: Ameliorate Nourishing Body Wash

Why it’s worth it: Ameliorate Nourishing Body Wash is a gentle yet effective solution for rough, bumpy skin. “This rich wash was designed with rough, bumpy skin in mind, particularly for those with keratosis pilaris,” says Dr. Engelman. “It uses lactic acid, which is both exfoliating and hydrating, and a proprietary LaH6 complex that reinforces moisture.” And great news for those with dry or dehydrated skin: Despite its exfoliating power, the formula is non-stripping and deeply moisturizing, leaving the skin hydrated for up to eight hours. It’s suitable for all skin types (even kids as young as three) and especially great for anyone dealing with texture on the arms, legs, or back who wants smoother skin, fast.

Best Drugstore: CeraVe SA Body Wash for Rough & Bumpy Skin

Why it’s worth it: When it comes to skin care, CeraVe is one of the best-known drugstore brands around, and their SA Body Wash for Rough & Bumpy Skin is a derm go-to for smoothing and restoring rough skin. “It cleanses and exfoliates while simultaneously helping to restore the skin barrier with three essential ceramides,” says Y. Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm based in New York City. In addition to barrier-repairing ceramides, the formula includes salicylic acid to clear pores and gently exfoliate, as well as hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to deeply hydrate, soothe, and strengthen the skin. It’s fragrance-free and non-stripping, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin.

Best Physical Exfoliator: Skinfix Resurface+ Glycolic and Lactic Acid Renewing Body Scrub

Why it’s worth it: If you’re looking to improve skin texture fast, Skinfix Resurface+ Glycolic and Lactic Acid Renewing Body Scrub combines both chemical and physical exfoliants to get the job done. “It’s a clinical-grade formula that combines willow bark extract, glycolic and lactic acids with soothing aloe and skin-conditioning ingredients,” says Dr. Engelman. “It’s great for targeting roughness, uneven tone, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation on the body.” While it does contain physical exfoliant particles, the super-milled texture is ultra-fine and gentle, so it won’t scratch or irritate sensitive skin. “I especially like this for patients with more advanced sun damage or those prepping for body treatments like lasers or peels,” she says.

Best Chemical Exfoliator: Naturium The Smoother Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Body Wash

Why it’s worth it: Naturium The Smoother Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Body Wash is a creamy, fragrance-free formula that helps reveal smoother, more radiant skin without irritation. “It effectively exfoliates the skin with a blend of AHAs—glycolic acid, lactic acid, pyruvic acid, tartaric acid—to smooth skin texture and brighten the skin,” says Dr. Chang. The addition of red algae and glycerin helps replenish moisture and support the skin barrier, making it gentle enough for daily use. Whether you’re dealing with keratosis pilaris, post-shave bumps, or overall dullness, this body wash helps refine skin over time.

Best for Keratosis Pilaris: Dermadoctor KP Duty Body Scrub

Why it’s worth it: Lactobionic acid doesn’t get as much hype as salicylic, glycolic, or lactic acid, but it’s one of the key ingredients that makes DERMAdoctor KP Duty Body Scrub stand out. As a polyhydroxy acid (PHA), lactobionic acid offers gentle exfoliation with added hydrating and antioxidant benefits, making it ideal for sensitive or compromised skin. “It’s one of my top recommendations for those with keratosis pilaris or rough, bumpy skin,” says Dr. Chang. “It also contains 10% AHAs and PHAs to lift away dead skin cells and leave smoother, brighter skin. It also contains gentle physical exfoliants and green tea to calm the skin.” The creamy, dual-action formula works to unclog keratin plugs without irritation, leaving areas such as the backs of the arms and thighs feeling noticeably softer.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is it okay to use an exfoliating body wash daily?

Using an exfoliating body wash every day isn’t always the best idea, especially if you have sensitive or dry skin. “I do not typically recommend using an exfoliating body wash every day, as this can dry out the skin and cause irritation, especially in those with sensitive skin,” says Dr. Chang. “I recommend using exfoliating body washes two or three times per week as tolerated, and alternate with a gentle hydrating body wash.” If your skin starts to feel tight, itchy, or irritated, it’s a sign to scale back and focus on replenishing your barrier with more moisturizing formulas in between.

What is the best exfoliating body wash for sensitive skin?

The best exfoliating body wash for sensitive skin is one that uses gentle chemical exfoliants and includes barrier-supporting ingredients. “For those with sensitive skin, I recommend gentle exfoliants like lactic acid and PHA, both of which are unique in that they exfoliate and hydrate at the same time,” says Dr. Chang. She adds that low concentrations of salicylic acid and glycolic acid may also be tolerated, but higher concentrations can be too harsh. “I also typically prefer chemical exfoliants over physical exfoliants, which may cause excessive irritation and inflammation of the skin.” Look for formulas with added hydrators, such as ceramides, aloe, or hyaluronic acid, to keep the skin calm and balanced.

Meet the experts

• Dendy Engelman, MD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Shafer Clinic based in New York City
• Y. Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm based in New York City

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.

For our list of the best exfoliating body washes, we considered each product’s performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.

Using one of the best face exfoliators is a key step in any skin-care routine. These formulas work hard to slough away dead skin cells, unclog pores, minimize the look of fine lines, and boost overall radiance—and can make the rest of your products work even better. Whether you prefer chemical or physical exfoliants, regular use can help reveal a smoother, more hydrated complexion throughout the year.

When paired with the moisturizing products your skin craves, exfoliation can also help your serums and moisturizers absorb more effectively, maximizing their benefits. From serum-like alpha and beta hydroxy acids that gently dissolve buildup, to gritty yet delicate scrubs that polish your skin, these are the exfoliators our editors actually use, and yes, we’ve got the receipts (a.k.a. selfies). Scroll on for our tried-and-loved picks, plus pro tips from board-certified derms to keep your skin smooth and clear.

Our Top Face Exfoliators

Best Overall: Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant

Why it’s worth it: First and foremost, Allure editors adore Dermalogica’s Daily Microfoliant for its cushiony, powder-to-cream formula. Unlike chunkier facial scrubs with that trademark gritty feel, this ultra-fine, rice-based exfoliating powder gently buffs the skin without causing micro-tears, irritation, or redness in the process (no wonder this exfoliator won both our Best of Beauty and Readers’ Choice Awards). This formula is also spiked with salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid known for its pore-unclogging properties.

Best Peel: Shani Darden Triple Acid Signature Peel

Why it’s worth it: Have a wedding in your future, or just want to give your skin a reboot? Shani Darden’s Best of Beauty-winning Triple Acid Signature Peel delivers almost immediate radiance and softness, thanks to a two-step process that deep cleans skin. The first step uses a blend of lactic, glycolic, and mandelic acids to slough away dead skin cells. That makes it all the easier for the clay mask—your second step—to clear oil and gunk from pores. (The mask contains glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and allantoin, so it won’t leave skin painfully tight, but you should still follow up with a nourishing moisturizer after.) It’s potent, so you only need to use it every other week.

Best Cleanser: SkinMedica AHA + BHA Exfoliating Cleanser

Why it’s worth it: Large pores, meet your match. Along with other dermatologists, Joyce Park, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, is a fan of SkinMedica’s AHA + BHA Exfoliating Cleanser because it contains a host of good-for-you ingredients. This face wash has “a blend of AHAs (lactic, glycolic, citric, and malic), BHA (salicylic), and jojoba spheres to gently exfoliate and polish, while lavender helps to soothe the skin,” Dr. Park notes. “BHA is lipid-soluble, so it can really get deeper into the pores for a good clean,” making it an ideal choice for oily and combination skin types. Tiffany J. Libby, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Rhode Island and Mohs surgeon at Brown Dermatology, adds that the blend helps “to mildly exfoliate skin and improve skin’s texture and complexion.”

Best Scrub: Ole Henriksen 10% AHA Strawberry Lemonade Smoothing Scrub

Why it’s worth it: Besides the fact that it’s simply delightful to slather a strawberry lemonade slushy texture on your face, Ole Henriksen’s 10% AHA Strawberry Lemonade Smoothing Scrub is a sweet spin-off of the brand’s OG Lemonade Scrub. It’s the same glow-boosting formula we’ve always loved—10% alpha hydroxy acids (glycolic and lactic) plus ultra-fine sugar and lemon peel powder for a double dose of exfoliation, while adding a juicy burst of citrus. Sure, some situations call for fragrance-free, but we can get down with an exfoliating scrub that smells like summer in a jar.

Best Peel Pads: Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel

Why it’s worth it: If the word “peel” makes you nervous, don’t worry—Dr. Dennis Gross’s Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peels are way more gentle than they sound. The two-step system is designed to exfoliate and nourish without irritation, so even sensitive skin types can get in on the glow. Step one clears away dead skin and gunk; step two adds in soothing, anti-aging ingredients. “These peel pads contain both alpha hydroxy and beta hydroxy acids to improve the appearance of pores, radiance, fine lines, texture, and tone,” Brendan Camp, MD, a New York-based double board-certified dermatologist, previously told Allure. You know what they say: Just a few swipes a day keeps the dullness at bay.

Best for Sensitive Skin: Medik8 Press & Glow Daily Exfoliating PHA Tonic

Why it’s worth it: Sometimes used interchangeably with toners, tonics like Medik8 Press & Glow Exfoliating PHA Tonic put a higher prioritization on hydration and moisture—while still providing the gentle resurfacing you might want and expect. “Press & Glow is a daily exfoliating PHA tonic that gently removes dead surface cells to reveal more radiant skin,” Dendy Engelman, MD, a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist, previously told Allure. The key player here is gluconolactone, a moisture-locking polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that gently exfoliates. With calming ingredients like aloe vera, acai, and prickly pear extract, it’s even safe for sensitive skin.

Best for Dry Skin: Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment

Why it’s worth it: Michelle Henry, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City and founder of Skin & Aesthetic Surgery of Manhattan, only has good things to say about Kate Somerville’s iconic ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment. “With papaya and pumpkin enzymes working as natural AHAs, as well as salicylic acid, this is a great option for all skin types,” she says. While some initial tingling is normal, rest assured that aloe vera, honey, and vitamin E are at work to soothe and moisturize skin. Remember, this pick isn’t meant for daily use—instead, stick to once or twice a week.

Best for Uneven Texture: Tata Harper Regenerating Cleanser

Why it’s worth it: We totally get that skin-care can be a self-care ritual, but some nights you just want to wash your face and get into bed ASAP. Enter: Tata Harper’s Regenerating Cleanser, which is a two-in-one gem that cleanses and exfoliates in a single, time-saving step. This hybrid exfoliating cleansing uses apricot microspheres, phytic acid salt, and BHA from willow bark to gently polish away dead skin while removing dirt, oil, and makeup. The creamy formula feels luxe (and smells like a fancy facial), but works fast so that you can glow and go.

Best for Large Pores: Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

Why it’s worth it: There are skin-care products that live up to the hype, and then there’s Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, which lives well beyond a viral moment. This is partly due to the 2% concentration of salicylic acid, the highest amount in over-the-counter products. “Salicylic acid is an oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid (or BHA) that goes deep into the pores to clear out dirt, oil, and other impurities,” Claire Chang, MD, a New York City-based dermatologist, told Allure. “It exfoliates and reduces clogged pores, leading to clearer and brighter skin.” What’s more, antioxidant-rich green tea counters irritation typically experienced with harsh exfoliators.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are chemical exfoliators?

Chemical exfoliators are active ingredients that help loosen the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to shed and reveal newer and healthier cells beneath, according to Tiffany J. Libby, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Rhode Island and Mohs surgeon at Brown Dermatology. “They also help unclog pores and exfoliate away surface skin cells; they also brighten skin, improve skin cell turnover and renewal, and some may even help stimulate collagen production within the skin,” she explains.” Resurfaced skin can also allow subsequent skin-care products to absorb more effectively.

Choosing a formula that contains the best exfoliant ingredients for your skin type is also critical. Michelle Henry, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City and founder of Skin & Aesthetic Surgery of Manhattan, suggests initially avoiding mechanical exfoliation if you have sensitive skin and instead choosing alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid. “They exfoliate the upper layers of the skin while also hydrating and helping your skin retain moisture,” she says. Dr. Libby echoes this advice: “If you have sensitive skin, start with polyhydroxy acids, or lactic acid and mandelic acid, which are larger alpha hydroxy acid molecules [that] do not penetrate as deeply into the skin and are least likely to cause irritation.” For people with more resilient skin who require an intensive acne-fighting treatment, we recommend using salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid with a small molecular weight, allowing it to penetrate pores more effectively than other exfoliating actives.

What are physical exfoliators?

Dr. Henry says physical exfoliation is key for oily skin since it helps remove any layers of oil buildup. “When you have oily skin, your dead skin cells are more adherent and don’t flake off as quickly, which can contribute to breakouts,” Dr. Henry explains. She recommends using an exfoliating face scrub with salicylic acid, which “gently speeds up skin turnover and better penetrates oil and oily follicles” to keep skin clean and clear of blemishes. Dr. Libby suggests salicylic acid, too, which she says “is excellent at targeting oil and unclogging pores.”

Can you over-exfoliate?

Despite the benefits of using an exfoliator, overuse can cause redness, irritation, breakouts, and damage to your moisture barrier. Additionally, using an exfoliator that’s either too harsh or too gentle for your skin type can rob you of that luminous finish you’re seeking. To strike an optimal balance, first, make sure you’re not exfoliating too often—no more than three times a week, or look into the dermatologist-approved skin-cycling trend, a regimen that alternates between using active ingredients and letting the skin rest.

One to two times a week should be enough for dry or sensitive skin. Dr. Henry recommends exfoliating with a physical exfoliator for about 30 seconds (or less) using small, gentle, circular motions. She recommends following the instructions printed on the packaging for chemical exfoliators, as they can vary by product.

Meet the experts

• Joyce Park, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of virtual dermatology clinic Skin Refinery.
• Tiffany J. Libby, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Brown Dermatology.
• Michelle Henry, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City and founder of Skin & Aesthetic Surgery of Manhattan.
• Claire Chang, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City.
• Elizabeth Geddes-Bruce, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology in Austin.
• Brendan Camp, MD, is a double board-certified dermatologist in dermatology and dermatopathology at MDCS Dermatology in the tri-state area.
• Dendy Engelman, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Shafer Clinic based in New York City, and a member of Medik8’s Global Panel of Experts.

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.

For our list of the best face exfoliators, we considered each product’s performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from board-certified dermatologists and cosmetic chemists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.

After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the “best” for people over 50 if the only testers we’ve solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it’s never been tested on curls? We’re proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.

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