Body scrubs: how to choose the one your skin needs before summer

You've been moisturizing your body for weeks, but it still doesn't look the way you want. The cream absorbs, but something just isn't working.

In many cases, the problem isn't hydration; it's that the skin has a surface layer that prevents any product from penetrating properly. That's where body scrub comes in—one of the most effective steps to achieve smoother, more even, and radiant skin before summer.

What exactly does a body scrub do, and how does it differ from a peel?

The skin renews itself naturally, but this process slows down with age, stress, and temperature changes. When dead cells accumulate, the result is dull, rough skin that tends to become dry even with daily moisturizing.

A body scrub removes the surface layer of dead skin, leaving it more receptive, smoother, and with a healthier complexion. A body peel , on the other hand, works on deeper layers using higher concentrations of acids or enzymes, usually with the help of a professional. It requires stricter aftercare, such as full sun protection, and isn't used as frequently. For everyday use at home, a scrub is the right tool.

Types of body scrubs and their benefits

Before choosing, it is necessary to understand the difference between the two main approaches:

• Mechanical or physical exfoliation : uses abrasive particles such as salt, sugar, or coffee to remove dead skin cells through friction. The results are noticeable immediately.
• Chemical body scrub : uses acids such as AHAs (lactic, glycolic) or BHAs (salicylic) to dissolve dead skin cells without friction. Gentler to use, yet very effective.
• Combined formulas : many current products mix both approaches for a more complete and balanced exfoliation.

Cerave

SA SMOOTHING CREAM for dry, rough, bumpy skin

Face moisturizer

From 13.68 €

WATCH NOW

Somatoline Cosmetic

SCRUB SEA SALT reducing supplement

Slimming cream & treatments - Body exfoliator

From 14.05 €

WATCH NOW

How to choose the ideal exfoliant for your skin?

Not all exfoliants work the same for all skin types, and choosing the wrong one can irritate instead of improving your skin. Before buying, identify your skin type:

Dry or very sensitive skin

Opt for creamy textures with fine particles and hydrating ingredients like argan oil , shea butter , or aloe vera . Sugar scrubs are often a good option because they dissolve in water and are less harsh.

Normal or combination skin

Medium-grain sea salt scrubs or those combined with lactic acid work very well to keep skin even and luminous without excess.

Oily skin or skin prone to folliculitis

Exfoliants with salicylic acid are the most recommended: in addition to exfoliating, they have a sebum-normalizing action and help to unclog pores.

Mature skin

Regular exfoliation is necessary to activate cell renewal. Enzymatic exfoliants or those with low concentrations of glycolic acid are a gentle and highly effective option.

Payot

RITUEL DOUCEUR body exfoliating granita

Body exfoliator

From 20.16 €

WATCH NOW

Biotherm

BIOCORPS anti-roughness body scrub

Body exfoliator

From 23.49 €

WATCH NOW

How to use a body scrub correctly

Technique is just as important as the product. These are the key points:

1. Always apply it to damp skin , in the shower, using gentle circular motions from bottom to top.
2. Pay attention to your elbows, knees, heels, and the back of your thighs, where the skin accumulates more keratin.
3. Rinse well and apply immediately after a body moisturizer : the skin is at its optimal absorption time.
4. Avoid exfoliating skin with wounds, sunburn, active eczema, or irritations.

Tree Hut

Peach sorbet sugar scrub

Body exfoliator

From 12.14 €

WATCH NOW

Biotherm

LAIT CORPOREL anti-drying body milk

Body moisturiser

From 17.81 €

WATCH NOW

How often should you exfoliate your skin?

Normal skin can be exfoliated twice a week. Dry or sensitive skin benefits more from a weekly session with a gentle product. Oily skin can tolerate up to three times a week if using a formula containing acids.

And always, regardless of your skin type, apply sunscreen the day after exfoliating if the area will be exposed to the sun. Remember that freshly exfoliated skin is more vulnerable to UV radiation.

What you should never do with a body scrub

• Rubbing with too much pressure : the key is consistency, not force.
• Overuse : Over-exfoliation damages the skin barrier and has the opposite effect. You'll know it's happened when your skin becomes red, inflamed, itchy, or breaks out. If this occurs, stop using it until it recovers and then resume gradually.
• Apply it to dry skin : always in the shower, with the skin previously moistened.
• Forgetting to moisturize afterwards : exfoliation without subsequent hydration leaves the skin unprotected.

Renewed skin starts with the step you always skip

Body exfoliation isn't a luxury or a spa extra. It's the step that makes all the difference between skin that absorbs product and skin that simply accumulates it. If you haven't seen results from your body care routine in a while, before changing your moisturizer, try incorporating a good body scrub once or twice a week.

Changes in texture, radiance, and smoothness are usually noticeable within a few days. And once you notice the difference, it's hard to go back to using it.