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Vogue
21 hours ago
- Health
- Vogue
10 Best Exfoliating Body Washes for Super Smooth Skin
The best exfoliating body washes do more than just cleanse—they're essential in elevating your entire body care ritual. Of course, the power of these miracle-working products lies within their potent formulas. 'Exfoliating body washes are highly effective when made with active components like fruit enzymes, AHAs, and BHAs. These active ingredients help with uneven skin textures and unclogging pores,' says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Dara Spearman. By gently sweeping away dead skin cells and impurities, they reveal a smoother, more radiant surface that feels polished to perfection. But the benefits don't stop there. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Azadeh Shirazi adds that body washes not only promote cellular renewal but enhance the absorption of other skincare products. By removing dead skin acts as an unwanted barrier, moisturizers, oils, and treatments sink deeper into the epidermis, amplifying their results. Vogue's Favorite Exfoliating Body Washes In This Story So there you have it—incorporating an exfoliating wash into your routine is like prepping a canvas, creating the perfect base for the total body glow-up that follows. Scroll on to shop 10 of favorite exfoliating body wash formulas that renew skin texture while hydrating it—with favorites from experts and Vogue editors alike. Best AHA Blend: Naturium The Smoother Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Body Wash Naturium The Smoother Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Body Wash $16 AMAZON Why We Love It : 'Naturium's wash is a great choice for exfoliation because it is formulated with a blend of alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), including glycolic, lactic, and tartaric acids that it sloughs off dead skin cells,' says Dr. Shirazi. Double board-certified dermatologist Dr. Brendan Camp adds that regular use reveals softer, smoother skin over time. With a cocktail of clinically backed acids and a sensorial, non-stripping formula, it transforms your daily shower into a moment of derm-grade renewal. : 'Naturium's wash is a great choice for exfoliation because it is formulated with a blend of alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), including glycolic, lactic, and tartaric acids that it sloughs off dead skin cells,' says Dr. Shirazi. Double board-certified dermatologist Dr. Brendan Camp adds that regular use reveals softer, smoother skin over time. With a cocktail of clinically backed acids and a sensorial, non-stripping formula, it transforms your daily shower into a moment of derm-grade renewal. Key Ingredients: Glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, glycerin Glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, glycerin Size: 8.4 fl oz 8.4 fl oz Fragrance: No No Cruelty-Free: Yes Best Spa-Like: Nécessaire The Body Wash Hinoki Nécessaire The Body Wash $28 AMAZON Why We Love It : 'The combination of gentle exfoliating acids smooth and soften uneven skin, resveratrol soothes inflammation, and niacinamide support the skin's protective barrier in this exfoliating body wash,' says Dr. Camp. Not to mention, Dr. Shirazi notes the relaxing aroma is naturally-derived from botanic oils (cue the hinoki!) that adds to a spa-like experience from the comfort of your own shower. : 'The combination of gentle exfoliating acids smooth and soften uneven skin, resveratrol soothes inflammation, and niacinamide support the skin's protective barrier in this exfoliating body wash,' says Dr. Camp. Not to mention, Dr. Shirazi notes the relaxing aroma is naturally-derived from botanic oils (cue the hinoki!) that adds to a spa-like experience from the comfort of your own shower. Key Ingredients : Niacinamide, glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid, salicylic acid, resveratrol, glycerin, hinoki wood oil : Niacinamide, glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid, salicylic acid, resveratrol, glycerin, hinoki wood oil Size : 16.9 fl oz : 16.9 fl oz Fragrance : Yes, naturally derived : Yes, naturally derived Cruelty-Free: Yes Best with Ceramides: CeraVe Body Wash with Salicylic Acid CeraVe Body Wash with Salicylic Acid $14 AMAZON Why We Love It : This dermatologist-developed formula pulls double duty by exfoliating and hydrating simultaneously. 'Affordable and accessible, CeraVe's wash features salicylic acid, which is excellent for treating acne-prone skin. Meanwhile, ceramides help with hydration of the skin's moisture barrier,' says Dr. Shirazi. Ceramides round out the formula to restore the skin's natural barrier, while hyaluronic acid attracts moisture, and niacinamide soothes and calms the skin. Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, this body wash is ideal for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin seeking a gentle yet effective cleansing experience. : This dermatologist-developed formula pulls double duty by exfoliating and hydrating simultaneously. 'Affordable and accessible, CeraVe's wash features salicylic acid, which is excellent for treating acne-prone skin. Meanwhile, ceramides help with hydration of the skin's moisture barrier,' says Dr. Shirazi. Ceramides round out the formula to restore the skin's natural barrier, while hyaluronic acid attracts moisture, and niacinamide soothes and calms the skin. Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, this body wash is ideal for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin seeking a gentle yet effective cleansing experience. Key Ingredients : Salicylic acid, ceramides, niacinamide, hyaluronic : Salicylic acid, ceramides, niacinamide, hyaluronic Size : 10 fl oz : 10 fl oz Fragrance : No : No Cruelty-Free: Yes Best with Bakuchiol: Sidia The Body Exfoliant Sidia The Body Exfoliant $46 AMAZON Why We Love It : Powered by bakuchiol (a gentle, plant-based retinol alternative), plus skin-refining niacinamide and finely-milled rice powder, this formula smooths brightens, and restores without disrupting the skin's natural barrier. The texture is luxe, the scent grounding, and the result is silky-soft skin that looks as polished as it feels. : Powered by bakuchiol (a gentle, plant-based retinol alternative), plus skin-refining niacinamide and finely-milled rice powder, this formula smooths brightens, and restores without disrupting the skin's natural barrier. The texture is luxe, the scent grounding, and the result is silky-soft skin that looks as polished as it feels. Key Ingredients : Bakuchiol, niacinamide, rice germ powder : Bakuchiol, niacinamide, rice germ powder Size : 12 fl oz : 12 fl oz Fragrance : Yes : Yes Cruelty-Free: Yes Best for Ingrown Hairs: Soft Services Exfoliating Bar Why We Love It : This Soft Services buffing soap bar is a game-changer for those dealing with keratosis pilaris, ingrown hairs, or rough, bumpy skin. Crafted with superfine magnesium oxide and alumina crystals, it offers a more intense physical exfoliation, effectively sloughing off dead skin cells and smoothing out uneven texture. The non-irritating formula, enriched with shea butter, aloe leaf juice, and jojoba esters, ensures skin remains hydrated and soothed post-exfoliation. Not to mention, it's a more sustainable choice thanks to no plastic packaging and a low carbon foot print. : This Soft Services buffing soap bar is a game-changer for those dealing with keratosis pilaris, ingrown hairs, or rough, bumpy skin. Crafted with superfine magnesium oxide and alumina crystals, it offers a more intense physical exfoliation, effectively sloughing off dead skin cells and smoothing out uneven texture. The non-irritating formula, enriched with shea butter, aloe leaf juice, and jojoba esters, ensures skin remains hydrated and soothed post-exfoliation. Not to mention, it's a more sustainable choice thanks to no plastic packaging and a low carbon foot print. Key Ingredients : Magnesium oxide, glycerin, shea butter, aloe vera, jojoba esters : Magnesium oxide, glycerin, shea butter, aloe vera, jojoba esters Size : 3.75 oz (2) : 3.75 oz (2) Fragrance : Yes : Yes Cruelty-Free: Yes Best for Body Acne: Cetaphil Acne Relief Body Wash Why We Love It : Another dermatologist-tested drugstore formula, Cetaphil offers an affordable solution for acne-prone skin. It combines the maximum over-the-counter concentration of 2% salicylic acid with a nourishing blend of glycerin, shea butter, and soybean oil to counteract any drying effects. Its creamy formula is specifically designed for sensitive skin to maintain a balance between acne treatment and skin hydration. : Another dermatologist-tested drugstore formula, Cetaphil offers an affordable solution for acne-prone skin. It combines the maximum over-the-counter concentration of 2% salicylic acid with a nourishing blend of glycerin, shea butter, and soybean oil to counteract any drying effects. Its creamy formula is specifically designed for sensitive skin to maintain a balance between acne treatment and skin hydration. Key Ingredients : Salicylic acid 2%, glycerin, shea butter, soybean oil : Salicylic acid 2%, glycerin, shea butter, soybean oil Size : 20 fl oz : 20 fl oz Fragrance : No : No Cruelty-Free: Yes Best with Fruit Enzymes: Kosas Good Body Skin Why We Love It : Dr. Camp notes that Kosas's exfoliating formula is made without microbeads, synthetic fragrance, silicones, parabens, sulfates, and phthalates—ideal for sensitive skin types. Instead of physical exfoliants, Dr. Shirazi explains the formula leans on natural enzymes from fruit, plus a blend of AHAs like glycolic, lactic, and mandelic acids. To temper the exfoliation with restorative moisturizing, count on humectants like glycerin and allatoin to add back in hydration. You can indulge in either the crisp freshness of tropical fruit or the nostalgic sweetness of an orange creamsicle with a choice of two naturally-derived scents. : Dr. Camp notes that Kosas's exfoliating formula is made without microbeads, synthetic fragrance, silicones, parabens, sulfates, and phthalates—ideal for sensitive skin types. Instead of physical exfoliants, Dr. Shirazi explains the formula leans on natural enzymes from fruit, plus a blend of AHAs like glycolic, lactic, and mandelic acids. To temper the exfoliation with restorative moisturizing, count on humectants like glycerin and allatoin to add back in hydration. You can indulge in either the crisp freshness of tropical fruit or the nostalgic sweetness of an orange creamsicle with a choice of two naturally-derived scents. Key Ingredients : Glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid, papaya enzyme, pineapple enzyme, glycerin, allatoin : Glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid, papaya enzyme, pineapple enzyme, glycerin, allatoin Size : 9 fl oz : 9 fl oz Fragrance : Yes, naturally derived : Yes, naturally derived Cruelty-Free: Yes Best for Sensitive Skin: Medicube Red Body Wash Why We Love It : Medicube has gone viral several times over for its Age-R Booster Pro (did we mention the tool is a favorite of Hailey Bieber?)—but the K-Beauty brand deserves as much credit for its line of high-performing skin and body care. The brands' shower gel aims to address a multitude of skin-care concerns—think: acne, keratosis pilaris, and flaky skin. Infused with a potent blend of salicylic acid, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and lactic acid, it offers gentle exfoliation, hydration, and soothing relief for sensitive skin. Plus, the fragrance in this body wash is composed of a blend of five natural herbs with antioxidant benefits. The pros add, the formula boasts a low pH which matches skin's natural acidity, ensuring a mild yet effective cleansing experience, safe for daily use. : Medicube has gone viral several times over for its Age-R Booster Pro (did we mention the tool is a favorite of Hailey Bieber?)—but the K-Beauty brand deserves as much credit for its line of high-performing skin and body care. The brands' shower gel aims to address a multitude of skin-care concerns—think: acne, keratosis pilaris, and flaky skin. Infused with a potent blend of salicylic acid, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and lactic acid, it offers gentle exfoliation, hydration, and soothing relief for sensitive skin. Plus, the fragrance in this body wash is composed of a blend of five natural herbs with antioxidant benefits. The pros add, the formula boasts a low pH which matches skin's natural acidity, ensuring a mild yet effective cleansing experience, safe for daily use. Key Ingredients : Salicylic acid, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, lactic acid : Salicylic acid, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, lactic acid Size : 14.52 fl oz : 14.52 fl oz Fragrance : Yes, naturally derived : Yes, naturally derived Cruelty-Free: Yes Best for Strawberry Skin: First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub $29 AMAZON $30 NORDSTROM Why We Love It : First Aid Beauty's KP Bump Eraser is a cult-favorite for a reason. Its dual-action formula combines 10% AHA (glycolic and lactic acids) with finely milled pumice beads, offering both chemical and physical exfoliation to target keratosis pilaris and rough patches. Plus, it's enriched with colloidal oatmeal, licorice root extract, and bisabolol, which soothes skin after a good buff. Vogue's beauty commerce writer Conçetta Ciarlo turns this beauty favorite as part of a weekly exfoliation. 'As someone with thick hair, I'm no stranger to strawberry skin. In tandem with my laser hair removal journey, I exfoliate my legs before shaving to ensure smooth skin (sans the strawberry seed look),' says Ciarlo. : First Aid Beauty's KP Bump Eraser is a cult-favorite for a reason. Its dual-action formula combines 10% AHA (glycolic and lactic acids) with finely milled pumice beads, offering both chemical and physical exfoliation to target keratosis pilaris and rough patches. Plus, it's enriched with colloidal oatmeal, licorice root extract, and bisabolol, which soothes skin after a good buff. Vogue's beauty commerce writer Conçetta Ciarlo turns this beauty favorite as part of a weekly exfoliation. 'As someone with thick hair, I'm no stranger to strawberry skin. In tandem with my laser hair removal journey, I exfoliate my legs before shaving to ensure smooth skin (sans the strawberry seed look),' says Ciarlo. Key Ingredients : Glycolic acid, lactic acid, pumice beads : Glycolic acid, lactic acid, pumice beads Size : 8 oz : 8 oz Fragrance : No : No Cruelty-Free: Yes Best Prebiotic Wash: Oui the People Clean Slate Lactic Acid Body Wash Oui The People Clean Slate Lactic Acid Body Wash $30 AMAZON Why We Love It : Oui the People's body wash is packed with lactic acid —a gentle AHA that smooths your skin and helps fade dark spots without messing with your skin's natural barrier. On top of that, purple sea moss and fermented purple rice bring antioxidant-rich, prebiotic goodness to keep your skin healthy and balanced. : Oui the People's body wash is packed with lactic acid —a gentle AHA that smooths your skin and helps fade dark spots without messing with your skin's natural barrier. On top of that, purple sea moss and fermented purple rice bring antioxidant-rich, prebiotic goodness to keep your skin healthy and balanced. Key Ingredients : Lactic acid, purple rice fermentation, purple sea moss, aloe vera : Lactic acid, purple rice fermentation, purple sea moss, aloe vera Size : 250 ml : 250 ml Fragrance : Yes : Yes Cruelty-Free: Yes Everything You Need to Know
Health Line
27-05-2025
- General
- Health Line
7 Ways to Remove Dead Skin from Your Feet
Exfoliating can help remove dead skin from your feet. You can try methods like scrubbing, soaking, or applying paraffin wax. Dead skin on the bottom of your foot may appear dry, cracked, loose, or hanging. It's usually not painful unless it's caused by a condition or infection. If you suspect that's the case, see your doctor for treatment. Otherwise, you may want to remove dead skin for cosmetic reasons or because it's more comfortable. Here are some options for removing dead skin. 1. Pumice stone A pumice stone is a natural lava stone that can help remove dead skin and calluses from your feet. Dip the pumice stone in warm water. You can also soak your feet in warm water for 10 minutes to soften them. Gently move the stone in a circular or sideways motion around your foot to remove dead skin. Focus on removing the top layer of the skin and not the entire area of dead skin, which will help promote healthy cell turnover. Apply lotion or oil afterward to help soften your feet. Never use a pumice stone on injured or sore areas. Doing so could cause further inflammation, sensitivity, and skin pigmentation changes. 2. Paraffin wax Many nail salons offer paraffin wax as an add-on for a pedicure treatment. Paraffin wax is a soft wax that's melted at a medium temperature of around 125°F (51°C). The wax shouldn't be hot enough to burn or irritate your skin. You can also do a paraffin wax treatment at home using an at-home paraffin wax bath, or you can melt the wax in a saucepan and then transfer it to a bowl for dipping your feet. During a paraffin wax treatment, you'll dip your feet in the wax several times. After several layers of wax are applied, wrap your feet in plastic. After the wax hardens, you can remove it. Any dead skin on your feet will be removed along with the wax. Your feet should feel soft afterward. Do not use paraffin wax if: you have poor blood circulation you have a rash or open sore on your feet you've lost feeling in your feet, such as from diabetic neuropathy If you use paraffin wax at home, be very cautious and monitor the temperature of the wax with a candy thermometer. 3. Foot scrub Most pharmacies and drug stores sell different foot scrubs over the counter. Look for one with granules that will help scrub away dead skin. You can even make your own by diluting 2 tablespoons of sea salt into equal amounts of baby oil and lemon juice. To use a foot scrub, apply it directly to your foot and rub gently with your palm. You can also use a foot scrub brush or sponge to remove dead skin. It's important to properly dilute the lemon juice as it can change the natural pH of your acid mantle, potentially causing skin irritation, hyperpigmentation and sensitivity to the sun. Rinse scrub thoroughly with warm water after use. 4. Oatmeal scrub You can use oatmeal to make an at-home exfoliator to remove dead skin. To make the scrub, mix equal parts oatmeal with rose water or milk to make a paste. To use: Apply the scrub to your feet and let it sit for up to 20 to 30 minutes. Use a foot brush to exfoliate your feet. Rinse with cold water and let your feet dry. Apply a foot cream. Perform this treatment every other day for best results. 5. Epsom salt soak or scrub Epsom salt is a crystal form of magnesium sulfate. Magnesium sulfate is a mineral compound. You can soak your feet in Epsom salt that's dissolved in water. It can help exfoliate and smooth dry, cracked feet. This, in turn, may help remove dead skin. To use: Create an Epsom salt soak by pouring 1/2 cup of salt into a footbath or a full cup into a bathtub full of warm water. Relax and soak for up to 20 minutes. You may use a pumice stone or foot brush afterward to help remove dry skin. To create an Epsom salt scrub for your feet, in the shower or bath, mix a handful of Epsom salt with a tablespoon of bath or olive oil in your hand or on a bath sponge. Rub gently over wet skin to exfoliate, soften, and remove dead skin before rinsing off with water. 6. Vinegar soak Vinegar soaks may help soften feet and allow you to remove dead, dry, or cracked skin. You can use almost any type of vinegar. Apple cider vinegar or white vinegar are popular options, and you may already have them in your kitchen. Use cool water to create the soak, as hot water may dry out the skin more. As a general guideline, use 1 part vinegar to 2 parts water. Soak feet for 5 to 10 minutes to start. If desired, follow the soak by using a pumice stone to remove dry or loose skin using the guidelines above. Apply moisturizer, petroleum jelly, or coconut oil before putting on socks to seal in moisture after doing a vinegar soak. Only do this treatment a few times a week, as it can be further drying on the skin. 7. Foot peels Foot peels are a popular at-home treatment to remove dead skin and smooth your feet. To use, you'll typically apply provided plastic 'booties' to your feet for up to around 1 hour. They usually contain a gel solution of fruit acid or other moisturizers that may help dead skin 'shed' from your feet. Make sure to follow all instructions for use on the package. You'll generally need to wet your feet daily in order for peeling to occur over the next 3 to 7 days. While no scientific studies have supported the benefits or effectiveness of this treatment, many people use these peels to soften their feet. Methods to use with caution Baking soda soak Baking soda is a popular at-home treatment for the removal of dead skin from the feet. But some dermatologists warn that baking soda can be irritating, cause redness, and dry out the skin further. That's because it may disrupt the skin's natural pH balance. Don't use baking soda on your feet if you have any skin sensitivities or allergies. Always check with your doctor or podiatrist before trying a new treatment. If you decide to use baking soda, only a small amount (2 to 3 tablespoons) should be used in a full footbath of warm water for 10 to 20 minutes. After your soak, gently use a pumice stone or foot brush, using the method mentioned above, to remove dead skin. Then, apply plenty of moisturizer. If you experience any redness or other signs of irritation while soaking your feet, immediately remove them from the solution. Lemon water soak The acidity in lemon may help remove dead skin cells from your feet. However, similarly to baking soda, using lemon on your feet may interfere with the skin's natural pH balance and lead to more dryness and dead skin. Avoid lemon if you: have any cuts or open sores on your foot have sensitive skin experience redness or other skin color changes Check with a podiatrist or dermatologist before using lemon, or if you have any questions or concerns. If you decide to use this method: Prepare a footbath with warm water. Squeeze in lemon juice from one lemon. You can also leave pieces of lemon peel in the water. Soak your feet for up to 15 minutes. Use a foot brush to scrub dead skin off your feet. Wash and dry your feet completely. Apply a moisturizer or coconut oil, if desired. Razor or scraper Only allow a podiatrist or other trained medical professional to remove a callous or dead skin from your foot with a razor or scraper. Do not use razors or scrapers on your feet at home. Doing so could cause damage to your foot or introduce germs into your skin. For example, if you accidentally cut yourself, you may risk a bacterial infection. If you're concerned about removing dry or dead skin, see your doctor for alternative medication or at-home treatments.
