The 10 Best Exfoliating Body Washes to Shop in 2025
“Exfoliating washes and cleansers help get rid of dead skin cells, which makes your skin look more polished and can help with rough and bumpy skin,” dermatologist Karan Lal tells Bazaar. “It will help your other skin care products penetrate the skin better.” Right now, there are several top-rated exfoliating washes on the market, which can tackle everything from body acne to ingrown hairs.
Whether you’re on the hunt for a brightening skin treatment to fade hyperpigmentation or a mood-boosting option that lingers on the skin long after you bathe, keep scrolling for the best exfoliating body washes that deliver smoother, softer skin and more.
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Sol de Janeiro cornered the market on delectably-scented, softening body products. Their clarifying cleanser contains fruit-derived chemical exfoliants, such as salicylic acid and lactic acid, to help unclog pores and brighten the skin. As dead skin cells are sloughed off in the shower, fresh, smooth skin will be revealed.
- Key ingredients: Salicylic acid, lactic acid
Customer review: “This body wash is honestly one of the best ones I’ve ever used. It smells SO good and does a great job. I definitely recommend!”
Pros
- Under $15
Don’t let the term “facial” deter you from using this cleanser from head to toe. “This is a great cleanser,” says Lal. “It’s meant for the face can be used on the body. This can be used daily and is very hydrating.” Along with moisturizing hyaluronic acid, this product contains small amounts of lactic and glycolic acids, which can help smooth and soften the skin.
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid
Customer review: “I love this facial scrub, leaves my skin feeling so clean, soft, and refreshed. The fragrance is light, and the 3-pack is a better value than in any store.” —Rosanna
Pros
- Helps reduce and soothe acne
- Dermatologist-recommended
Cons
- Should not be used every day
PanOxyl is one of the go-to brands for acne-prone skin, and this gentle option can even be used to combat stubborn breakouts on the body. “This is another great low percentage salicylic acid exfoliating cleanser that can be used one to two times a week, especially for those with acne-prone skin,” explains Lal. While exfoliating, this cleanser also helps soothe the skin with red algae extract to reduce redness and inflammation.
- Key ingredients: Salicylic acid, red algae extract, chamomile extract
Customer review: “I’ve been using PanOxyl Salicylic Acid for a few weeks and it’s helped keep breakouts under control. It’s gentle on my skin and doesn’t cause dryness or irritation. The only downside is that it can be a bit drying if used too often, so I stick to once a day and follow with a moisturizer.” —Ann
Pros
- Works for most skin types
- Reduces KP, acne, and ingrown hairs
Cons
- May be strong for every day use
If the amount of information out there is beginning to feel overwhelming, this do-it-all body cleanser can tackle everything from KP, ingrown hairs, body acne, and can even be used on the face. It also contains refreshing peppermint oil, which feels refreshing and cooling on irritated skin.
- Key ingredients: Glycolic acid, salicylic acid, lactic acid
Customer review: “This stuff is magnificent! I’ve had some bumps along my sternum for years that are gone, and this isn’t my first AHA/BHA body wash. It doesn’t say it in big letters on the bottle, but there’s salicylic acid in here, too. Great formulation that lathers well and rinses out of the bath puff easily, which is rare. It’s thick and a little goes a long way. Definitely going to buy again!” —DF
FAQs
Meet the Experts
- Dr. Karan Lal is a double-board-certified cosmetic and pediatric dermatologist based in Scottsdale and New York City.
What Are the Best Ingredients for Exfoliation?
There are so many different types of exfoliating ingredients out there, so how do you know which ones are best for your skin type? “One of my favorite ingredients is mandelic acid in addition to salicylic acid,” notes Lal. “These are gentle acids that can be used at low concentrations to help chemically exfoliate the skin. Glycolic acid is another good ingredient that also has hydrating properties for the skin. Glycolic acid is great for conditions like keratosis pilaris.”
What’s the Best Way to Use Exfoliating Body Washes?
Learning how to properly exfoliate your skin is essential. “Some leading cleansers can be used daily while stronger ones can be used twice a week,” adds Lal. “I personally recommend people exfoliate their bodies twice a week. The most important thing after washing in general is using a moisturizer. A hydrating moisturizer with hyaluronic acid can really soothe the skin.” It’s also important to know which areas to avoid during your shower routine. “I would not recommend using an exploding wash in sensitive locations like the genital area or the groin,” says the professional. “This can lead to further irritation, which can propagate hyperpigmentation.”
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