The only thing worse than dry skin on your face is dry skin all over. That uncomfortable tightness and itchiness is the worst, which is why I have perfected my pre- and post-shower routines to make sure I never experience it. I like to rotate between dry brushing, in-shower exfoliating tools, and body scrubs to keep my skin soft, smooth, and hydrated all year round and prevent ingrown hairs.
Below are the body-exfoliating tools I use on a weekly basis — including dry brushes that help boost circulation and promote lymphatic drainage, exfoliating mitts that buff away dead skin and improve texture, and even two body brushes with copper bristles that release mood-boosting negative ions when they come in contact with the skin.
So you're looking for the best body-exfoliator tools?
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Our Top Picks
The Overall Best
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This tool can be used on wet or dry skin, as an in-shower body-exfoliator tool or a dry brush, making it the most convenient option on the list. It helps buff away dead skin, improve texture, increase circulation, and stimulate the lymphatic system. The wood back is so smooth and high quality, especially considering this tool is under $30.
The Dry Brush That’s Easy to Use
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The flexible, densely packed bristles on this cult-favorite dry brush are softer than those on the Dr. Barbara Sturm brush, below, and the U Beauty brush, making it ideal for people with sensitive skin prone to redness and irritation. The long handle is extremely convenient; it makes the dry-brushing process so much easier and relaxing because I don’t have to do acrobatics to reach the back of my ankles. If you’re not very flexible, this is the tool for you.
The Best for Gentle Exfoliation
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If your skin is already in great shape and you just want a tool to provide relaxation and daily maintenance, look no further than this gentle Kate McLeod body mitt. The 100 percent natural bamboo fibers buff away dead skin, remove dirt and impurities, and help prevent ingrown hairs.
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More Tried-and-True Options
The Best for Lymphatic Drainage
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This brush is designed for dry brushing, not in-shower exfoliation. The natural bristles are quite firm, but that’s what makes them so effective at boosting circulation, increasing blood flow, and promoting lymphatic drainage. If your skin can handle a harsher exfoliation, I think this brush is worth it. I always feel invigorated and energized after using it — similar to how I feel after a great workout. Those who are worried about the bristles being too firm will be happy to know this brush is available in two versions: soft and medium. I recommend the soft if you’re new to dry brushing or have sensitive skin.
The Best for Travel
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Nerra sells its exfoliating gloves as a set that includes a beige glove for gentle exfoliation and a black one for deep exfoliation. Both are made from 100 percent biodegradable plant fabric and won’t disrupt the skin barrier. The gloves are nice and thin, making them perfect for travel and storage. I have way too many products in my shower, so I like that these take up virtually no space when I roll them up.
The High-Tech Dry Brush
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The Cut’s beauty editor, Asia Milia Ware, uses this advanced dry brush on a regular basis. It features ion-charged copper bristles that “naturally generate negative ions through gentle friction during use,” according to Tronque. Negative ions can boost serotonin, energy levels, and alertness while aiding in relaxation. And, of course, this brush also exfoliates.
The Modern Loofah
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If you love a good old-fashioned loofah but want something a little more elevated, you’ll love this 100 percent nylon exfoliator. Appropriately named, this product is basically a loofah the size of a large hand towel. You can wrap it around your body (like a scarf) to exfoliate even the most hard-to-reach areas. I find it easy to customize the amount of pressure I apply when I use this tool. Plus I love that it comes in Mutha’s signature purple; it looks so pretty in my bathroom.
Another Plant-Based Brush
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This all-natural dry brush is made with plant-based sisal fibers. It’s not too hard, either. If you already use Osea’s best-selling body oil (we love it too — so much so it earned a spot in the Cut Beauty Closet), using this tool before application will take your moisturizing routine to the next level. It preps the skin for hydration by buffing away dead skin cells, allowing the oil to penetrate deeper.
The Other Ion-Charged Brush
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HigherDOSE is known for launching wellness innovations that actually work, so it’s no surprise the brand makes a great body brush. It’s unique in having copper bristles, which create friction when rubbed against the skin and release negative ions that reduce acidity in the body. The science is confusing, but all you need to know is the energizing effects are immediate. Reviewers say it boosts their circulation and mood every time they use it.
The Super-Hygienic Tool
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Foreo Luna 4 Body
Foreo, the brand behind one of my favorite facial-cleansing brushes, also makes a massaging body brush that exfoliates, promotes blood flow, and reduces clogged pores and breakouts. If you struggle with back acne or keratosis pilaris, this tool is a must. The silicone bristles are hygienic and bacteria resistant, says Dr. Jenna Queller, board-certified dermatologist and founder of DermWorks, a boutique dermatology office in Boca Raton, Florida.
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FAQs
Who can benefit most from a body-exfoliator tool? Are there any skin types or concerns that should avoid one altogether?
“Most skin types can benefit from smoother, softer skin, particularly rough, dry, or bumpy areas like elbows, knees, and thighs. Those prone to keratosis pilaris, ingrown hairs, or dull skin may see visible improvements,” Queller says. “People with eczema, psoriasis, open wounds, or highly sensitive or reactive skin should be cautious as abrasive exfoliation can worsen irritation or trigger flare-ups.”
Are there any cons to using body-exfoliator tools?
If a tool is too abrasive or applied with too much pressure, it can cause irritation, sensitivity, redness, and microtears. To avoid overexfoliating and damaging the skin barrier, Queller says it’s important to use a light hand and choose the right tool for your skin type (more on that below).
How often should I exfoliate my body?
One to two times per week is sufficient for most people. Start small, Queller says, then gradually increase frequency — but only if your skin tolerates it.
What are the benefits of dry brushing?
Dry brushing is a form of physical exfoliation that buffs away dead skin, dirt, and excess oils to help smooth, soften, and brighten the skin. “Over time, exfoliation can speed up cell turnover and help minimize some of the effects of aging,” says New York City dermatologist Dr. Hadley King. Despite users reporting a boost in energy, relaxation, and overall mood, there is no scientific data to support claims that dry brushing helps stimulate the lymphatic system and increase blood circulation, which reduces swelling and eliminates toxins from the body. “There are no proven lymphatic benefits,” King says.
What is the best way to do it?
Start at your feet and move upward, always toward the heart. Use long, sweeping motions for about 30 seconds per area. When you get to your stomach, dry brush in a circular, clockwise motion to help with digestion. Make sure to use light pressure on areas where skin is thinner and more delicate, like the chest. Repeat this routine two to three times per week. “Then, depending on how your skin is reacting, slowly increase to up to three minutes per area, once daily,” King says. “Immediately follow with a moisturizer.”
How often should I switch out my body-exfoliator tool?
Replace brushes and loofahs every three to four months. “Exfoliator tools can accumulate dead skin, moisture, and bacteria over time, which may increase the risk of irritation or infection,” Queller says. “The key is to choose a tool that can dry quickly, be cleaned easily, and be replaced regularly to maintain healthy skin and minimize irritation.”
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Our Experts
- Hanna Flanagan, Cut Shop writer and editor.
- Dr. Hadley King, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Dr. Hadley King Dermatology in New York City.
- Dr. Jenna Queller, board-certified dermatologist and founder of DermWorks, a boutique dermatology office in Boca Raton, Florida.
- Asia Milia Ware, Cut beauty editor.
