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The best body exfoliator tools might seem like an optional accessory in your beauty routine, but rest assured that they pull their weight. Not only do body exfoliating tools help slough away dead skin cells to make the skin appear smoother and brighter (a key step with summer approaching), but they can also assist with seamless self tanner application, improved skin care absorption, lymphatic drainage, and help to address blemishes and skin discoloration associated with acne and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
There are a variety of body exfoliating tools on the market, including dry brushes (an age-old beauty technique that has had a modern resurgence), loofahs, body planes, massage tools, exfoliation mitts, and silicone body scrubbers —with wide popularity racking up to over 60 million views on TikTok. While you can also use washcloths and towels to gently exfoliate the skin, it’s best to purchase one specifically designed for body exfoliation, as others may be too soft (proving ineffective) or too abrasive and cause dreadful irritation.
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Loofahs in particular face a bit of controversy on the internet, with some suggesting they may be too abrasive or become a breeding ground for germs when stored incorrectly. However, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Kseniya Kobets says, “Loofahs are a nice way of physically exfoliating or buffing the skin, but one should be cautious of overdoing it and make sure to moisturize right after toweling off.” Also, make sure to replace your loofah every month to keep everything hygienic.
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To narrow down the top 10 best body exfoliating tools, we conducted thorough research to select the tools below and answer top-asked questions like “How to exfoliate your body?” and “How often should you exfoliate your body?” So, if you’ve been on the hunt for some time, your search has come to an end.
Top Body Exfoliator Tools of 2024
- Editors’ Choice: Ecotools Dry Body Brush
- Editors’ Choice: Dolce Glow By Isabel Alysa Exfoliation Mitt
- Editors’ Choice: Aquis Double-Sided Exfoliating and Cleansing Back Scrubber
- Goop G.Tox Ultimate Dry Brush
- Esker Beauty Body Plane Tool
- Dr. Barbara Sturm The Body Brush
- Elemis Body Detox Skin Brush
- Pmd Clean Body Cleansing Device
- Nurse Jamie Exfoliband Silicone Loofah
- Skin Gym Lymphatic Drainage Body Massage Tool
Editors’ Choice: Best Body Exfoliating Tools of 2024
Maybe you’re exfoliating your body to prep for a spray tan, tackle keratosis pilaris, handle ingrown hairs, or you’re just indulging in the practice for lymphatic drainage benefits — because of these factors and more, there’s no one-size-fits-all body exfoliating tool. Our editors assessed the devices available to select the top three options for different uses and outcomes, also considering factors like materials for sensitive skin, ease of use, and the targeted area you’re aiming to exfoliate. After extensive testing and expert input, we’ve narrowed down the three best body exfoliator tools for different routines and outcomes.
- Ecotools Dry Body Brush: We rate Ecotools’ body exfoliator tool as the best dry brush on the market for its affordable price point, high-quality materials, and comfortable feel in the hand. Our editors loved that the bristles maintain their firm feel after many uses without making skin feel scratched-up or irritated after use.
- Dolce Glow By Isabel Alysa Exfoliation Mitt: If you’re looking to incorporate a body exfoliating tool as part of a self-tanning routine, then there’s no better choice than Dolce Glow’s exfoliating mitt. It has a gritty texture that smooths away any dead skin cells for a smoother tan application, but better yet, it also dissolves any leftover tanner on the elbows and knees when you’re ready for a clean slate.
- Aquis Double-Sided Exfoliating and Cleansing Back Scrubber: Body exfoliator tools are particularly handy for summertime, when you’re baring more skin and loading up on sunscreen. Aquis’ back scrubber comes in handy for full-body prep before a beach day — and to remove built-up SPF, sweat, and sand after. Just wrap it around your back and shimmy it back and forth to get your skin radiant and squeaky clean.
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Editors’ Choice
Ecotools Dry Body Brush
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google:4.5/5 stars
Ulta Top-Quality Store Badge on Google:4.8/5 stars
$5.98$6.9914% off
Buy Now at amazon
$5.99
Buy Now at Ulta
For dry brushing beginners that aren’t quite ready to invest in something that may end up collecting dust, look to the EcoTools Dry Body Brush as a great under-$10 option. Unlike bulkier dry brushes, this one is super lightweight, making it convenient for travel. It’s so affordable that you can also consider getting more than one to keep at your partner’s house, parents’ house, or any other place you frequent. It’s crafted with synthetic bristles and bamboo, designed to fit easily into the palm of your hand for effortless exfoliation, leaving your skin so smooth that you’ll find yourself bragging about how baby-soft you are.
Editor testing and review notes: “I’ve tested a handful of dry brushes, and I’m so impressed by the quality of this affordable option— the bristles are firm but don’t leave you scratched up. It feels lightweight but not in a cheap way, as fits squarely in my hand with a comfortable strap that makes it easy to brush the backs of legs and other tricky-to-get areas.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $5.98
Editors’ choice
Dolce Glow By Isabel Alysa Exfoliation Mitt
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google:4.8/5 stars
$9
Buy Now at Nordstrom
The best exfoliating mitts are some of our favorite exfoliating tools due to their affordability and ease of use. The key is to take a hot shower for around five minutes to open up your pores before scrubbing your body with the mitt (soap is optional). You’ll be shocked (and perhaps a little grossed out) at how much dead skin comes off. The Dolce Glow Exfoliation Mitt is especially helpful for removing self tanners and preparing the skin for self tanner application. Make sure to apply a body oil, body lotion, body butter, or a combination of all three immediately after you hop out of the shower.
Editor testing and review notes: “I use some form of self tanner at least once a week, so I’m always looking for ways to get the most even, believable application I can. This mitt has become an essential part of my self tan routine: It removes dead skin so well that any tanning foam I apply after goes on like butter. And the best part is that it also removes self tanner like a magic eraser, allowing me to reset my canvas when needed (it’s particularly great for areas like elbows and knees where the self tanner tends to linger).”
Price upon publish date of this article: $9
Editors’ choice
Aquis Double-Sided Exfoliating and Cleansing Back Scrubber
Amazon’s Choice
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google:4.5/5 stars
$10$13.9929% off
Buy Now at amazon
If you appreciate the look and feel of a cloth scrubber, you’re not alone. However, oftentimes they’re challenging to use, unless you’re flexible enough to reach every inch of you back — in which case, feel free to keep scrolling. The Aquis Double-Sided Back Scrubber addresses this issue by being specifically designed for the back. Measuring 31 inches with soft rope handles, this fast-drying microfiber scrubber is super easy to glide across the body. It’s two-sided — one with a loofah-like texture for massaging the skin and another softer side to cleanse and polish. When you’re done using it, hang the scrubber to dry using the handles or throw it into the wash as it’s machine washable.
Editor testing and review notes: “For a full-body exfoliation, Aquis’ back scrubber is the only tool I’ll use for the job. It’s double sided with a soft and rough option to cover any level of dead skin build up I need to tackle. I love it during the summer to make sure all my sunscreen and sweat is gone after a beach day. It’s quick to dry and easy to wash, too.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $10
Goop G.Tox Ultimate Dry Brush
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google:4.5/5 stars
Sephora Top-Quality Store Badge on Google:4.8/5 stars
$25
Buy Now at Amazon
$25
Buy Now at Sephora
Gwyneth Paltrow disciples ought to be familiar with dry brushing, the Ayurvedic ritual of exfoliating and stimulating the skin. She’s a regular, which is why we are confident that the Goop G.Tox Ultimate Dry Brush is one of the best dry brushes out there. Some dry brushes can be a bit too rough, but this one is crafted from biodegradable bristles produced from sisal cacti, so there’s no rubbing or redness as you use it. There’s also a contoured wooden handle that’s easy to maneuver, which matters because it’s ideal to dry brush for three to five minutes — just remember to stroke upwards toward the heart.
What testers say: “I love this dry brush! This specific brand is great because the handle makes it easy to use. My skin feels so soft after I use it, and the practice of dry brushing is relaxing.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $25
Esker Beauty Body Plane Tool
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google:4.5/5 stars
$44
Buy Now at Amazon
Looking to add an ancient skin-smoothing practice to your daily routine? Look no further than the Esker Beauty Body Plane Tool. Inspired by the rituals of ancient Greek and Roman bathhouses, this easy-to-use tool is reimagined for the modern age. Think teak wood, stainless steel, and colloidal starlight silver, known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Simply slather yourself in body oil and glide the tool upward with long, slow strokes to remove any excess dirt, sebum, and residue.
What testers say: “It’s a work of art and I love it very much. I use to used Japanese and South Korean exfoliation washcloths. The body plane is an amazing investment for the health and beauty of my skin.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $44
Best Dry Body Brush
Dr. Barbara Sturm The Body Brush
Sephora Top-Quality Store Badge on Google:4.8/5 stars
Revolve Top-Quality Store Badge on Google:4.8/5 stars
$45
Buy Now at Sephora
$45
Buy Now at Revolve
For body brush enthusiasts seeking a more elevated option that fits in the palm of their hand, we recommend The Body Brush from Dr. Barbara Sturm. The bristles are Goldilocks-approved — soft but not too flimsy, with just the right firmness to promote blood circulation and lymph flow. It’s particularly effective in addressing cellulite formation in areas like the thighs, abs, and booty, and also targets ingrown hairs particularly well when you use it with your bikini trimmer or electric razor.
What testers say: “So good. I use this with coconut oil on my legs to help with cellulite and make my legs look and feel sooo smooth!! Also this one is the best quality dry brush I’ve found that doesn’t overly exfoliate or hurt when using!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $45
Best Body Exfoliator Tool to Remove Dead Skin
Elemis Body Detox Skin Brush
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google:4.5/5 stars
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google:4.8/5 stars
$45
Buy Now at amazon
$45
Buy Now at Nordstrom
When exfoliating the body, it’s so easy to forget about the back. You can’t see it, let alone reach it — that is unless you have the Body Detox Skin Brush from Elemis. The long wooden handle allows you to tackle hard-to-reach places like the back, but if you’re in favor of a small brush, the handle and the brush can be separated, making it super easy to pack with you on vacation (good habits don’t need time off). The bristles are made from incredibly firm cactus fiber, so it may take your skin some getting used to if you’ve never used a dry brush before.
What testers say: “What a difference in my skin, softer & smoother! Worth every penny best I’ve used so far. Improves circulation makes skin have much better appearance.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $45
Best Electric Body Scrubber
Pmd Clean Body Cleansing Device
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google:4.5/5 stars
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google:4.8/5 stars
$159
Buy Now at amazon
$159
Buy Now at Nordstrom
If you’re a loofah lover but are concerned about built-up bacteria, try switching to a silicone alternative like the Pmd Clean Body Cleansing Device. Crafted from hygienic silicone, it’s designed to be odor-resistant, antibacterial, hypoallergenic, and, most importantly, waterproof. Unlike your traditional loofah, this tool vibrates up to 7,000 times a minute to break down dirt and oil while helping to firm and tone the skin. It comes with different attachments to toggle between — one for cleansing, one for buffing away calluses, and one for massaging away any stiffness and soreness.
What testers say: “I have bacne and chestne and this is a godsend. You can use it as a massager as well which is an amazing perk. I love to work in my acne body wash with this and in the week that I’ve had it, the inflammation on my chest and back has decreased significantly.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $159
Skin Gym Lymphatic Drainage Body Massage Tool
Revolve Top-Quality Store Badge on Google:4.8/5 stars
Walmart Top-Quality Store Badge on Google:4.5/5 stars
$24
Buy Now at Skin GYm
Buy Now at Walmart $25.15
$24
Buy Now at revolve
Lymphatic drainage massage is great for the body, but you may not have the time or funds to go in for treatment regularly. This Lymphatic Drainage Body Massage Tool from SkinGym turns you into your own masseuse, allowing you to perform a full-body massage from the comfort of your own home. It’s made from 100 percent natural wood, and with continued use, you’ll notice a significant difference in the look and feel of your skin. Goodbye puffiness! Just remember, as with anything, consistency is key.
What testers say: “Great for lymphatic drainage, I see a huge difference.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $24
Best Silicone Body Scrubber
Nurse Jamie Exfoliband Silicone Loofah
$18
Buy Now at Revolve
Ignorance may be bliss, but we wouldn’t be doing our job right if we didn’t warn you about how much bacteria your loofah has been accumulating. Fortunately, antimicrobial silicone loofahs exist, allowing you to enjoy a deep, exfoliating cleanse without worry. You can use this one from Nurse Jamie on both your face and body, making it a two-in-one solution. Just slip it through your fingers, pair it with your favorite cleanser, and massage in the product. This loofah has two sides; a more abrasive side and a softer side for sensitive to dry skin.
What testers say: “I really like this tool. It is easy to use and leaves my skin feeling and looking clean.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $18
How to Exfoliate Your Body
According to Dr. Kobets, there are multiple ways to exfoliate the skin and body. There’s physical exfoliation, which involves buffing the skin with a loofah or using a body scrub that contains small particles that exfoliate the dead skin on the top surface of the skin. Then there’s chemical exfoliation, which involves using products containing alpha hydroxy or beta hydroxy acids that help dead cells detach from the fresh skin just below them. You can also use long-term topical retinoids that increase the cell turnover of the skin and decrease the dead skin cell layer.
While Dr. Kobets has nothing against using loofahs as gentle exfoliation tool, she recommends using a body cleanser first to ensure that the skin is clean and then using a hydrating hypoallergenic body cleanser. “It is important to moisturize immediately after toweling off after a shower if you have just exfoliated, as the skin barrier becomes more compromised,” she adds.
How Often Should You Exfoliate Your Body?
“The frequency of exfoliation depends on how sensitive and thick the skin is,” explains Dr. Kobets. For sensitive skin, she recommends exfoliating once a month, and for others, it may be close to once a week. However, it all depends on how roughly one exfoliates. She recommends having some hydrocortisone around in case you overdo it with exfoliation and the skin gets irritated or turns red.
“It is definitely not a good idea to exfoliate your body during an active eczema or psoriasis flare or over irritated skin or a rash,” she warns. While it may be tempting to exfoliate dry skin, sometimes dry skin can be associated with eczema and contact dermatitis, and exfoliating and irritating the skin can exacerbate the issue.“For sensitive skin conditions like eczema or keratosis pilaris, it’s important to maintain or restore the skin barrier with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and other moisturizing factors before considering exfoliation,” she explains.
How We Chose the Best Body Exfoliators
Since 1910, WWD — often referred to as “the fashion bible” — has been the leading industry voice of authority for senior executives in the global women’s and men’s fashion, retail and beauty communities, while also informing the consumer media that cover the market. Today, WWD’s breaking news and trend coverage continues to be a trustworthy resource for both fashion insiders and consumers alike. Our shopping editors continue to uphold WWD’s editorial standards and values with quality, expert-backed product selections.
In order to select the best body exfoliating tools, we cross-checked customer reviews, researched products and new releases, and narrowed down a list of the 10 best body exfoliating tools on the market. We also interviewed experts, and tested the products on our own to ensure our list caters to different skin types and skin concerns. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Expert
Dr. Kseniya Kobets is a Yale graduate and a board-certified and cosmetic fellowship-trained dermatologist, proudly serving the communities of New York City. Currently, she is the Director of Cosmetic Dermatology at Montefiore Einstein Advanced Care.
Meet the Author
Iman Balagam is a freelance writer with over five years of experience covering the beauty industry. Her work has been featured in outlets like Teen Vogue, Cosmopolitan, Byrdie, and Harper’s Bazaar. To write this story on the best body exfoliating tools, Balagam interviewed experts, tested products, and researched the market to select top options for different skin types and skin concerns.