Body scrubs are a quick and effective way to achieve silky smooth skin, especially during the summer months when dry patches and dullness become more noticeable. As a beauty journalist who uses a body scrub religiously twice a week, I've tested countless formulas to find the ones that truly deliver. Here are my top picks, from affordable high-street options to luxurious treatments worth the splurge.
Why Body Scrubs Are Essential for Summer Skin
Regular exfoliation helps buff away dead skin cells, sunscreen, and deodorant residue, leaving your skin feeling fresh and glowing. This is particularly important in hot weather when sweating can leave skin sticky and clammy. Additionally, if you use self-tanner, exfoliating ensures an even application by preventing the product from clinging to drier areas.
Top-Rated Body Scrubs for Every Need
Naturium KP Scrub & Mask
This transformative product is a thick paste that you spread all over, leave for a few minutes, then rinse off. It contains jojoba esters, pumice, and AHA, BHA, and PHA chemical exfoliants, and is fragrance-free. One use leaves skin noticeably smoother and softer, making it a standout choice. Priced at £21.
Q+A AHA Exfoliator Body Scrub
This affordable option from Q+A has a delicious coconut, amber, and vanilla scent that smells like a luxurious perfume. The blend of AHAs, lactic acid, glycolic acid, and upcycled corn is formulated in a creamy base that is easy to spread and rinse off. It provides enough abrasiveness to polish limbs without being scratchy. Priced at £8.
Alpha-H Smoothing AHA Face and Body Scrub
This dual-purpose scrub is gentle enough for both face and body, featuring very fine bamboo stem particles, glycolic acid, caffeine, and macadamia seed oil. It's suitable for sensitive, eczema-prone skin and has a refreshing peppermint scent. Priced at £31.99.
Joonbyrd Violet Haze Body Scrub
Created by consultant dermatologist Dr Alexis Granite, this scrub uses sugar and chia seeds in a base of plant-derived butters and oils. It has a thick, rich, creamy texture that lathers nicely and doesn't leave skin itchy. The creamy, chocolatey, floral fragrance is a bonus. Priced at £45.
Clarins Exfoliating Body Scrub
This long-standing favorite remains a regular part of my routine due to its creamy, skin-smoothing texture and fresh scent. It comes in a convenient tube, making it easy to use with wet hands. One use is enough to see a difference in skin texture. Priced at £36.
Grown Alchemist Smoothing Body Exfoliant
Despite its black gel appearance, this scrub is excellent for sensitive skin and doesn't stain the shower. It contains volcanic pumice particles, peppermint, bergamot, and kalin clay, which buffs skin to a smooth finish while absorbing excess oil and hydrating. Priced at £27.
How to Choose the Right Body Scrub
When selecting a body scrub, consider your skin type and concerns. For sensitive skin, look for gentle exfoliants like bamboo particles or sugar. For rough, bumpy skin, opt for stronger formulas with pumice or chemical exfoliants like AHAs and BHAs. Scent and texture also play a role in the overall experience.
Expert Tips for Exfoliating
Use a body scrub two to three times a week on damp skin, massaging in circular motions. Rinse thoroughly and follow with a moisturizer to lock in hydration. Avoid over-exfoliating, which can irritate the skin.
