Most guys don’t give their body wash much thought. But if you’re still using a basic shower gel and wondering why your skin feels dull, rough, or prone to breakouts, it might be time to level up. Enter exfoliating body washes. These are multitasking grooming essentials designed to remove dead skin, unclog pores, and leave the skin smoother, clearer, and more resilient.
What Makes Exfoliating Body Washes Better?
Exfoliating body washes go deeper than the surface. They contain chemical exfoliants (like AHAs and BHAs) or physical exfoliants (like gentle beads or botanical extracts) that help slough off dead skin cells, give radiant skin, unclog pores, take care of tanning and breakouts.
Smoother, clearer skin
Exfoliating helps reveal fresh skin underneath, preventing that dry, ashy look that clings to unexfoliated skin.
Help Absorb Skincare Better
Your lotion gets absorbed better and doesn’t feel greasy on the skin.
Fewer body breakouts
If you deal with backne (back acne), chest pimples, or clogged pores, exfoliating washes with ingredients like salicylic acid help keep bacteria and oil buildup in check.
Even skin tone
Regular exfoliation fades hyperpigmentation, sun spots, or patchy rough areas—especially on knees, elbows, and shoulders.
The MVPs: Exfoliating Body Washes Worth Trying
Looking for the best products to add to your grooming shelf? These six exfoliating body washes deliver performance and skin perks—no fluff, just results.
Aminu A-HA Body Wash
A luxe, skin-reviving wash that blends fruit-derviced AHAs, charcoal, licorice and peppermint, for a gentle but effective exfoliation. It’s exfoliates without dryness, supports skin barrier, brightens the skin and detoxifies it.
Dot & Key Cica + 1% Salicylic Acid Exfoliating Shower Gel
This formula is a breakout-fighting beast. With salicylic acid (BHA) to dive deep into pores and cica to soothe irritation, it’s a great pick for men battling backne or oily skin.
Foxtale Exfoliating Body Wash
A balanced, skin-friendly formula that combines exfoliating acids with hydrating ingredients. Think of it as a face-worthy formula for your whole body. Smooth, clear skin in one bottle.
Dove Exfoliate Away Serum Body Wash
From a trusted classic, this is a moisturising exfoliator with a creamy lather and micro-exfoliating particles. It smooths without stripping the natural oil from the skin and is ideal for sensitive or dry skin types.
Mario Badescu A.H.A Botanical Body Soap
Don’t let the word 'soap' fool you; it is a powerful AHA cleanser with grapefruit and glycolic acid. It’s especially good at brightening uneven skin and fighting congestion on your back and shoulders.
Ras Luxury Oils Brighten Exfoliating Body Wash
Natural meets effective. This one’s loaded with fruit enzymes and botanical extracts to brighten, gently exfoliate, and hydrate—all without harsh chemicals.