13 body scrubs that would make TLC reconsider the whole ‘no scrubs’ thing
I never realised how much I needed body scrubs until I made it a non-negotiable in my beauty routine. Not only does my skin feels impossibly soft, but regular exfoliating has helped erase that awkward stage between fake tanning sessions where my dry patches start to resemble tiger bread. After testing countless body scrubs, from coffee-crystal exfoliants to silky chemical polishers, I’ve discovered those dreamy formulas that truly transform texture, tackle dryness, dissolve dullness, and leave skin gleaming.
With so many options – from sugar scrubs, coffee blends, salt crystals, and even chemical exfoliators laced with AHAs and BHAs – it can be hard to know which formulas are genuinely worth your bathroom shelf space. That’s why we’ve put the most hyped exfoliators to the test and spoken to dermatologists and skin experts to find out what really works. Whether you’re chasing spa-worthy smoothness, banishing ingrown hairs, or prepping your body for that flawless fake tan, these are the best body scrubs the GLAMOUR team have personally tried and loved.
From the science behind sloughing away dead skin cells to the insider tricks for keeping your glow long after you’ve rinsed off, consider this your expert-approved guide to the very best body scrubs on the market right now.
Meet the experts
- Michaella Bolder, facialist and skin expert.
- Amanda Azzopardi, aesthetic nurse and founder of Amanda Azzopardi Aesthetics.
How we tested the best body scrubs
At GLAMOUR, we know that exfoliating can be deeply personal - what feels like a dreamy spa ritual for one person might feel overly abrasive for another. That’s why our beauty team put a wide range of scrubs to the test, trialling each formula over several weeks to see how they really performed on real skin. We considered everything: texture (is it grainy, creamy, or oil-rich?), how it spread and rinsed off in the shower, the scent experience, and most importantly, how skin felt afterwards.
We also kept a close eye on how scrubs worked alongside fake tan, whether they helped reduce ingrown hairs, and if the glow lasted beyond just one use. The result? An edit of body scrubs that genuinely deliver, from budget-friendly heroes to luxury jars you’ll want to display proudly on your bathroom shelf.
Why do we need a body scrub?
Technically, our body kind of scrubs itself – naturally, our skin turns over its cells regularly, shedding old dead cells to reveal shiny fresh new ones. But when dead cells hang about for longer than they're needed (a very normal occurence), it can lead to dull-looking skin, clogged pores – which can result in build-up and breakouts – and ingrown hairs.
What are the benefits of a body scrub?
“Body scrubs and exfoliators are a great way to help achieve soft silky skin," confirms facialist and skin expert, Michaella Bolder. “Using a body exfoliator will work to buff away dead skin cells, stimulate blood flow and aid lymphatic drainage leaving your skin feeling smooth, soft and with a more even-looking skin tone. They can also help to prevent ingrowing hairs and unclog pores to improve your overall skin condition," she adds.
Is a physical or chemical exfoliator better?
As with facial exfoliators, we have options when it comes to how to polish our bod. You can choose between physical or chemical exfoliators. “Physical exfoliators typically contain abrasive particles like sugar, salt, or ground seeds that physically scrub away dead skin cells. They can be effective but may be too harsh for sensitive or easily irritated skin,” explains Amanda Azzopardi, aesthetic nurse and founder of Amanda Azzopardi Aesthetics. “Chemical exfoliators contain ingredients like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) that dissolve dead skin cells and promote cell turnover without the need for scrubbing. They are often gentler and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Ultimately, the best exfoliator for you depends on your skin's needs and tolerance level,” she says.
“I advise clients with more sensitive or acne prone skin to opt for a chemical exfoliator as they will be less forceful,” says Michaella. This tends to mean body washes or moisturisers containing AHAs that lift away dead skin cells the same way a brightening face mask would. “I would typically choose my scrub depending on my desired result or my skin's needs,” she adds. “For example I would use a chemical exfoliator for weekly use or when I may be experiencing clogged pores (especially the back area) but then would look to use a physical scrub before shaving or tanning to really buff away dead skin cells and leave my skin feeling silky smooth,” she says.
What body exfoliators should I use?
Whether it’s the dermatologist-approved Sol de Janeiro’s Bum Bum Body Scrub (which has been formulated with Amazonian guarana seeds to buff away impurities) or Ameliorate’s trending Skin Smoothing Exfoliator (it uses lactic acid, a chemical exfoliant, to gently buff away dead cells), or a polishing exfoliating glove, we've rounded up the best body exfoliators to know below…
How and when should I use a body scrub?
Balance is key to avoid damaging or stripping your skin. “The frequency and method of using a body scrub depend on your skin type and preferences. For most people, using a body scrub once or twice a week is sufficient to maintain healthy, glowing skin,” says Amanda. “A body scrub isn't something you would use everyday as this would be of detriment to the skin's barrier function. I would recommend using a body scrub 2-3 times a week and particularly if you're planning on applying fake tan," agrees Michaella.
As for optimal conditions, “it's best to use a body scrub in the shower or bath when your skin is damp, as this helps to soften the skin and enhance the exfoliation process,” says Amanda. “Gently massage the scrub onto your skin using circular motions, focusing on areas that tend to be rough or dry, such as elbows, knees, and heels. Rinse off thoroughly with warm water after scrubbing to reveal smoother, refreshed skin," she says.
Scroll to shop GLAMOUR's edit of the best body scrubs for every skin type.
Sol de Janeiro Bum Bum Body Scrub
Why we love it: This body scrub is essentially summer, bottled. As well as smelling like a Brazilian sunrise, this formula is packed with Amazonian guarana seeds to scrub and firm your skin. It deserves all the peach emojis.
- Best for: Smoothing skin, enhancing circulation, and adding a touch of luxury to your routine.
- Key ingredients: Crushed cupuaçu seeds, sugar crystals, guaraná extract, coconut oil.
- Size of pot: 220g
- Scent: Sol de Janeiro's cult Cheirosa '62 fragrance - pistachio, salted caramel, jasmine
NEOM Wellbeing Real Luxury Body Scrub
Why we love it: I’ve tried a lot of body scrubs, but this one is the one that truly feels like a spa day in a jar. The sugar crystals are gentle yet effective, melting away dead skin while the blend of safflower and jojoba oils leaves my skin feeling nourished - not greasy. The scent? Lavender, jasmine, and sandalwood mingle to create a fragrance that lingers just enough to make you feel pampered. It’s the kind of product that turns a regular shower into a moment of indulgence.
- Best for: Calming the senses, smoothing skin, and adding a touch of luxury to your routine.
- Key ingredients: Organic sugar, safflower oil, jojoba oil, vitamin E, lavender, jasmine, sandalwood.
- Size of pot: 332g.
- Scent: A soothing blend of lavender, jasmine, and sandalwood.
Why we love it: This scrub feels like dessert for your skin. The brown sugar crystals feel satisfyingly grainy at first, but melt just enough to buff away flaky bits - without that post-scrub squeaky dryness. And the oils? They coat your skin with a blanket of moisture that leaves you polished, glow-ready, and craving your next fake tan moment. It had the kind of scent that makes you linger in the shower just a little longer.
- Best for: Smoothing away dullness, staying hydrated post-exfoliation, prepping skin for a flawless tan or luxe legs.
- Key ingredients: Brown sugar, apricot kernel oil, camelina (camellia) seed oil, ginseng extract.
- Size of pot: 490 g
- Scent: A soft, citrus-kissed sweetness—like brown sugar with a subtle lemony lift.
Coco & Eve Resurfacing Body Gel Scrub
Why we love it: I’ll be honest: I wasn’t expecting to fall for a gel scrub, but this one completely surprised me. It’s light and bouncy, but still gives that satisfying polish thanks to the coconut shell powder. The acids (AHAs, BHAs, PHAs - a proper trio) do the heavy lifting in the background, so while you’re rinsing, you know the glow is only getting better. What I love most is how soft it leaves my skin without any tightness - just smooth, even, tan-ready limbs that look like I’ve booked a body treatment in Bali, not just jumped out of my own shower.
- Best for: Smoothing texture, pre-tan prep, reducing ingrown hairs
- Key ingredients: AHAs, BHAs, PHAs, coconut shell powder, Balinese botanicals
- Size of pot: 170ml
- Scent: Tropical, fruity, coconut-kissed
Paula's Choice 2% BHA Body Spot Exfoliant
Why we love it: If you're experiencing bacne (that's back acne), bum spots or general body blemishes, this stuff is magic. Salicylic acid helps to un-plug pores and tackle under-the-skin bumps, smoothing while it goes. This works like a moisturiser, so apply it after you've showered to clean skin (and make sure to load up on spf after).
- Best for: Targeting body acne, keratosis pilaris (KP), and rough, bumpy skin.
- Key ingredients: Salicylic Acid (BHA), Chamomile Flower Extract, Vitamin E, Green Tea Leaf Extract, Willow Herb Extract.
- Size of pot: 210ml
- Scent: Fragrance-free
Ouai St Barts Scalp & Body Scrub
Why we love it: The smell gives pure tropical vacay vibes, which brings the sunshine through winter and gets us in the holiday mood in summer. It smells like pineapple and Um Bongo (iykyk). As for the scrub, soft sugar crystals gently but effectively buff skin smooth.
- Best for: Dual-action exfoliation for both scalp and body, removing buildup and dead skin while leaving a tropical scent.
- Key ingredients: Sugar, coconut oil, panthenol, glycerin.
- Size of pot: 250g
- Scent: Tropical blend of dragonfruit, orange blossom, tuberose, and Baltic amber.
Drunk Elephant Sugared Koffie Almond Milk Scrub
Why we love it: The ingredients of this luxurious body scrub read like a label for a nourishing (and delicious) dessert menu. Think almond milk, coffee bean extract, passionfruit and brown sugar crystals.
- Best for: Gently exfoliating dry, rough skin while delivering deep moisture, leaving your body soft, smooth, and nourished.
- Key ingredients: Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed Oil, Sucrose (Sugar), Almond Milk Blend, Marula Oil, Passionfruit Seed Oil, Jojoba Seed Oil, Coconut Oil.
- Size of pot: 270ml
- Scent: Sweet, nutty, and comforting - like an almond milk latte.
Why we love it: This combines gentle chemical and physical exfoliation to brighten skin. Pumice and perlite granules slough away pumps while PHAs de-gunk and de-glue dead skin cells. A prebiotic complex balances the microbiome and panthenol binds moisture to skin. Use it like an in-shower body wash, massaging it on, then rinsing away with warm water.
- Best for: Tackling rough, bumpy skin, exfoliating without stripping, and supporting skin barrier health.
- Key ingredients: Perlite, pumice, gluconolactone (PHA), panthenol, prebiotic complex.
- Size of pot: 300ml
- Scent: Fresh and clean, with a subtle floral note.
Frank Body Original Coffee Scrub
Why we love it: Sometimes the simple things are the best. This takes ingredients you'd find in your kitchen – coffee grinds and salt flakes – blends it with sweet almond oil and serves up a kind-to-skin scrub that smells like an espresso for the caffeine hit you need in the morning. Plus, it comes in several other flavours such as coconut and cocoa.
- Best for: Buffing away dry, flaky skin, targeting scars and stretch marks, and giving your shower routine a caffeine kick.
- Key ingredients: Robusta coffee grinds, sweet almond oil, sea salt, brown sugar, vitamin E, orange oil.
- Size of pot: 200g
- Scent: A rich, invigorating coffee aroma with a hint of sweetness.
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Ameliorate Skin Smoothing Exfoliator
Why we love it: This high-performance brand is heralded for its skin-smoothing abilities and this multi-tasking exfoliator is a must-have for anyone with dry, bumpy skin. It uses lactic acid, a chemical exfoliant, which gently buffs away dead cells while enhancing elasticity and resilience.
- Best for: Tackling rough, bumpy skin (hello, KP), exfoliating without stripping, and supporting skin barrier health.
- Key ingredients: Lactic Acid, Bamboo Granules, Shea Butter, Cocoa Butter, Coconut Oil, Glycerin, Urea, Allantoin.
- Size of pot: 150ml
- Scent: Light, fresh, and clean.
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Naturium The Smoother Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Wash
Why we love it: This chemical body exfoliator blends a super cocktail of AHAs including glycolic, pyruvic, lactic and tartaric acids. It smooths bumps and rough patches and it polishes away dark patches and scarring over time, too.
- Best for: Tackling rough, bumpy skin (hello, KP), exfoliating without stripping, and supporting skin barrier health.
- Key ingredients: Glycolic acid, lactic acid, pyruvic acid, tartaric acid, red algae.
- Size of pot: 500ml
- Scent: Fragrance-free
Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish Body Gentle Mitt Cleanser
Why we love it: Liz Earle took their best-selling Cleanse & Polish then served it up for our body. The body cleanser's exceptionally rich formula leaves your skin feeling hydrated, while exfoliation comes from the gentle mitt that helps buff away any dead skin cells.
- Best for: A luxurious, spa-like cleanse that exfoliates, hydrates, and leaves skin feeling soft and smooth.
- Key ingredients: Sunflower Seed Oil, Apricot Kernel Oil, Rice Bran Oil, Eucalyptus Oil.
- Size of pot: 200ml
- Scent: Uplifting eucalyptus fragrance.
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Dove Pomegranate Seeds & Shea Butter Body Scrub
Why we love it: The perfect balance of scrub and moisturiser, this polished away dead skin with pomegranate seeds before topping moisture levels back up with nourishing shea butter. It smells delicious and it costs less than a tenner.
- Best for: Gentle exfoliation, nourishing dry skin, and adding a touch of indulgence to your shower routine.
- Key ingredients: Shea butter, pomegranate seed powder, glycerin.
- Size of pot: 225ml
- Scent: Bright, fruity pomegranate with a creamy undertone.
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