7 best body scrubs and chemical exfoliators for dry skin, tested by 250 women

Are body scrubs actually good for your skin?

Every skin cycle (around 28 to 30 days long), we shed dead cells. These gather on the skin’s surface and clog pores, causing blemishes, roughness and dryness that leave it looking dull and ashy.

Not only does resurfacing the top layer of skin remove these dead cells and lift dirt, but it also allows for better absorption of nourishing moisturisers and body oils deeper into the epidermis.

However, like most things, exfoliating is only healthy in moderation – most skincare experts agree that once or twice a week is the sweet spot for smoother skin without any irritation.

What’s the difference between physical and chemical exfoliators?

We asked Dr Grace Hula, an aesthetic doctor, to explain the difference between chemical and physical exfoliation and the benefits of both.

‘Physical exfoliation involves the use of abrasives, such as scrubs or brushes, to physically remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin,’ she explains. ‘Chemical exfoliation uses chemical compounds, such as alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs), to dissolve the intercellular glue that holds dead skin cells together.’

Dr Hula recommends physical scrubs for immediately removing dead skin cells and instantly improving your skin’s texture and tone – helpful if you’re going on holiday the next day – but advises against harsh exfoliators.

‘Physically exfoliating can stimulate circulation and increase your skin’s natural radiance,’ she says. ‘However, it’s important to use gentle physical exfoliants, such as soft bristle brushes and finely ground scrubs, as harsh abrasives (such as those plastic netted shower polishers or hard bristle brushes) can cause micro-tears in the epidermis, especially if your skin is sensitive.’

For a gentler, yet still effective, alternative, Dr Hula suggests chemical exfoliation, which reaches deeper into your skin to improve its overall health.

‘Look for AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids), such as glycolic acid and lactic acid, which exfoliate the top layers of your skin and help to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and hyperpigmentation,’ she advises. ‘BHAs (beta hydroxy acids), such as salicylic acid, are oil-soluble and can penetrate further into pores to unclog them and prevent breakouts.’

If you’re eager to start fake tanning to top up your summer glow, you’ll need to resurface the top layers of skin for an even tan, whatever your skin type.

Chemical exfoliants tend to be milder and less disruptive to sensitive skin than physical ones, as explained by Dr Hula above, but many of our recommended products actually contain a clever combination of the two. Some have had their rough, chunky textures softened by oils or honey; some feel more like smooth moisturiser to apply; and others sit somewhere in between – think small beads swimming through silky creams.

Given that chemical exfoliants dissolve dead skin cells, rather than sloughing them away, they are often less likely to irritate sensitive skin than scrubs. That said, there are plenty of physical exfoliators that feature finer, softer abrasives to relieve dryness gently. If in doubt, or if you have an inflammatory skin condition, always consult a dermatologist or doctor.

What does a body scrub actually do?

A body scrub does exactly what it says on the tin; they give your skin a good scrub. They're made with either physical exfoliators, such as sugar, or chemical ones, such as glycolic acid. Both work to lift rough, dead skin cells, and leave behind smooth, soft skin.

How often should you use a body scrub?

You probably don’t want to use a body scrub every single day, as exfoliating too frequently can irritate the skin. A couple of times a week is more than enough, or whenever you feel like your skin needs a bit of extra TLC.

If physical scrubs leave you feeling more satisfied, then our winner, the Sol De Janeiro Bom Dia Body Scrub is a great option. Plus, we love the iconic, summer fragrance.

If you’re after a bargain, we recommend the Dove Exfoliating Body Scrub.

And you have sensitive skin and want a gentler product, try the Clinique Sparkle Skin Body Exfoliating Cream, which combines physical exfoliants with salicylic acid.