If your limbs are looking a little lacklustre, a good body scrub can often be the quickest route to smoother, glowier skin. While they might seem like the most basic of bathroom staples, not all scrubs are created equal. Some rely on common skincare acids (glycolic, lactic and salicylic are the usual suspects) to gently dissolve dead cells and unclog pores with minimal effort. While others take a more traditional, hands-on approach, using ingredients such as sugar, salt or occasionally finely ground pumice that work by physically sloughing away any rough patches.
However, it’s always worth considering your skin type before diving in. If you’re somebody who sits on the more sensitive side, or if you’re prone to keratosis pilaris (which is also often referred to as ‘chicken skin’), then acid-based scrubs can provide a more gentle, more even exfoliation without damaging skin. Meanwhile, those with very dry, even flaky skin, might prefer a richer, oil-based formula that harnesses the power of sugar or salt, melting as you massage them in and leaving behind soft, nourished skin. But if you’re looking for something a bit more invigorating, pumice blends deliver a satisfying, thorough scrub – but remember to go easy and don’t overdo it. The goal is smoother, brighter skin, not red, raw and irritated.
But whichever camp you fall into, the right formula really can make a huge difference to how your skin looks and feels. Used regularly, they can help tackle everything from annoying ingrown hairs to dullness, leaving skin noticeably smoother and more hydrated (some scrubs will even replace the need for body moisturiser). Keep reading to discover some of the formulas that’ll make finding your perfect match even easier. Soft, nourished skin awaits.
The best body scrubs for 2026 are:
- Best body scrub overall – Neom real luxury body scrub: Amazon.co.uk
- Best budget body scrub – Imperial Leather ultimate moisture foaming body scrub: Boots.com
- Best scented body scrub – L’Occitane almond shower scrub: Amazon.co.uk
- Best body scrub for intense exfoliation – Verden herbanum body polish: W-wellness.co.uk
Read more: Best body moisturisers for hydrated skin
How I tested
Each one of these body scrubs was incorporated into my usual shower routine. For context, I’m prone to dry elbows and dry knees, so they were areas that I focused on and took note of. When testing, I considered formula and ease of use, ingredients, feel on the skin, results, as well as overall value for money. You can find out more about my meticulous testing criteria at the end of this review.
