When Is the Best Time To Use a Body Scrub

What Is Body Scrub Used For?

Body scrubs are a type of physical exfoliant used to help remove dead skin cells and surface debris. They’re primarily used to help soften and smooth the skin to promote a more even, radiant skin tone. Exfoliating with a body scrub can also help prep the skin for serums and moisturizers or create an even, uniform canvas prior to the application of self-tanner.

Usually, body scrubs are made with abrasive particles that help slough off dead skin. Salt and sugar are popular exfoliating ingredients, but some formulas may contain finely ground seed powders, rice, or even coffee grounds as their primary exfoliant. The Youth to the People 10% AHA + Yerba Mate Smoothing Energy Body Scrub, for example, contains upcycled olive seed powder and jojoba beads in its formula. The finely milled polish (which also contains alpha hydroxy acids, caffeine, and yerba mate) helps buff away buildup, reduces bumps and roughness, and leaves the skin silky and radiant-looking.

When To Use Body Scrub

Now let’s get into when to use a body scrub—before or after body wash. Some prefer to use a body scrub before cleansing, while others believe exfoliating after washing up yields better results. Ultimately, both approaches are valid. It all comes down to your personal preferences. Keep reading for more insight and help determining whether you should exfoliate before or after body wash.

The benefits of using a body scrub after body wash

If you’re hoping to achieve a deep, thorough exfoliation, consider washing your body with a traditional cleanser before reaching for your body scrub. The cleansing step will help remove dirt and debris from your skin’s surface, allowing your body scrub to exfoliate your top layer of skin more effectively.

Additionally, many body scrubs are designed to help moisturize your skin as they exfoliate. Using one of these formulas after washing your body may help to keep your skin feeling smooth and nourished.

If you opt for this approach, start by lathering up with a gentle body wash, like the Kiehl’s Made for All Gentle Body Cleanser. After rinsing away the lather, apply the Kiehl’s Gently Exfoliating Body Scrub to damp skin and gently rub it onto your body in circular motions. The aloe vera and cocoa butter-infused scrub will help to remove dead surface skin cells without over-drying your skin, leaving it smooth, soft, and primed for moisturizer.

The benefits of using a body scrub before body wash

Exfoliating before washing your body with a traditional cleanser is a great way to help ensure a thorough, complete clean. The exfoliation step will help remove dirt, dead skin, and surface debris, allowing your cleanser to really “get in there” and lift away any lingering impurities. Washing up after using a body scrub also helps ensure that all of the particles from the scrub are thoroughly rinsed off.

This approach can be particularly beneficial for those with oily skin. As we mentioned, many body scrubs contain richer ingredients (such as oils) to help nourish the skin. While these formulas can be great for those with dry skin, they can sometimes feel too heavy on oilier skin types. Cleansing after exfoliating can help remove any of those heavier moisturizing ingredients to leave your skin feeling balanced rather than weighed down.

How Often Should You Use a Body Scrub?

Knowing how to use a body scrub is only part of the equation—equally important is knowing how often to exfoliate to achieve your desired results. Ultimately, there’s no one-size-fits-all recommendation here, but generally speaking, it’s a good idea to err on the side of caution. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), the more aggressive the exfoliation, the less frequently it should be done. Your skin type can also influence how often you should exfoliate—generally, those with oilier skin can handle slightly more frequent exfoliation than those with dry or sensitive skin.

We suggest reading the instructions on your chosen body scrub and following them for the best results. If your skin feels dry or tight, dial it back and exfoliate less frequently (and remember to always follow with a moisturizer to help hydrate your skin). As always, consult a dermatologist if you have specific questions about when, how, or how often to use your skincare products—they’ll be able to provide tailored guidance based on your skin type and concerns.

If you’re ready to get scrubbing, we have some recommendations worth checking out. The Aēsop Geranium Leaf Body Scrub is among our favorite body scrubs for a luxurious shower experience. The refreshing gel formula with bamboo stem and pumice easily sloughs away dead skin, leaving the skin feeling clean, fresh, and smooth. The fresh citrusy scent, meanwhile, leaves the skin gorgeously fragranced.

We also love the DedCool Body Scrub Xtra Milk, which contains rice powder and Kakadu plum. The brand recommends using it once to twice weekly to help reveal brighter-looking skin.

Finally, remember to always moisturize your skin after exfoliating to help replenish much-needed moisture and keep your skin soft. There are plenty of body lotions out there, but the Youth to the People Superfood Hand + Body Lotion with Plant Butters is one of our favorites. It’s suitable for all skin types and boasts a lightweight texture that sinks into the skin quickly without leaving it feeling slick or greasy.

Next Up: What Causes Dead Skin Cells To Build Up? Plus, How To Get Rid of Them