If you have dry, rough skin that won’t go away, even though you’re exfoliating, the problem might not be consistency. It might be your exfoliant. Not all exfoliants are created equal. Some mainly lather soap. Some take weeks to show results. Others deliver visible smoothness after one use. We tested five of the most popular exfoliation methods to see which one is actually worth your time, effort, and money!
What Is Exfoliation (And Why Does It Matter)?
Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells, dirt, and buildup from the surface of your skin. When dead skin isn’t removed, it can cause:
- Rough and dry texture
- Dull appearance
- Clogged pores and acne
- Ingrown hairs
Proper exfoliation helps:
- Improve skin tone and texture
- Remove dead skin and build-up
- Boost blood circulation
- Enhance natural glow and smoothness
-
Allow moisturizers to penetrate better
But the type of exfoliant you use makes a big difference.
The 5 Most Popular Types of Exfoliants
1. Dry Brushing: Used on dry skin before showering. A firm brush is swept across the body to remove dead skin and stimulate circulation.
Pros:
- Boosts circulation
- Provides noticeable physical exfoliation
Cons:
- Can feel very scratchy
- Dead skin flakes off everywhere
- Not ideal for sensitive skin
2. Loofah: A textured sponge used in the shower to lather soap.
Pros:
- Easy to use
-
Convenient for daily cleansing
Cons:
- Minimal exfoliation
- Can trap bacteria easily
-
Often mistaken for deeper exfoliation
3. Chemical Exfoliants (AHAs & BHAs): Use acids like AHAs or BHAs to dissolve dead skin cells instead of physically scrubbing them away.
Pros:
- No friction required
- Helpful for certain skin concerns
Cons:
- Can take weeks to see visible results
- Some formulas contain harsh ingredients
- Not always ideal for full-body use
4. Body Scrubs: Use sugar, salt, or beads to physically buff away dead skin.
Pros:
- Smell great
- Satisfying texture
-
Feels good on skin
Cons:
- Often need frequent use (2–3 times weekly for weeks)
- Can require a lot of product to cover the entire body
- Messy shower floors
-
Micro-beads (in some scrubs) are harmful to the environment
5. Exfoliating Body Glove: A textured glove used with just water in the shower to manually remove dead skin.
Pros:
- Immediate visible results of smooth skin
- Deep exfoliation to remove dead skin and build-up without harsh scratching
- Boosts blood circulation
Cons:
- Requires proper technique
An Exfoliating Body Glove works on damp skin, which makes it feel effective without being painfully scratchy. Many people notice smoother skin after just one use. You only have to use the glove once a week to help reduce buildup, improve skin texture, and prevent ingrown hairs. Just make sure to rinse the glove thoroughly after each use and hang it to dry so it can last for months.
Post-Exfoliation Care: The Step Most People Skip
Exfoliating removes dead skin, but it can also temporarily increase moisture loss, which is why moisturizing right after is so important. While your skin is still slightly damp, apply a nourishing body oil or body butter to lock moisture in for up to 24 hours. This helps give your skin a natural glow and enhances smoothness instead of leaving you with dryness or irritation.
So… Which Exfoliant Is Actually Worth It?
Some exfoliants look cute and smell amazing. Others focus more on giving you a deeper exfoliation. It really depends on what your skin needs. If your skin still feels rough after exfoliating, it might be worth reassessing your method. Not all exfoliants are equal and choosing the right one can completely change your routine. You have to do whatever is best for your skin.
If you think the Exfoliating Body Glove will be best for your and your skin needs you can find out more in our youtube video. Watch to the end for a special discount!