27 Sephora Items That'll Give You A Degree In Skincare
Promising review: "This is my holy grail for my extremely dry lips. I love the feeling, and it stays on for a long time." —relax4lfePrice: $24 (available in nine shades)
The Inkey List's Salicylic Acid Acne + Blackhead Cleanser so you can say goodbye to comedones once and for all. This is perfect for anyone who is looking to minimize oil production in their T-zone (thanks to salicylic acid 2%) while soothing the skin (hi, allantoin 0.5%).
Promising review: "I love this product so much! I'm already on my third bottle, and my skin has cleared up so much." —izzy6760Price: $13
Nécessaire's The Body Wash, aka everything you need to turn your showers into a spa-like experience. This body wash contains AHAs, BHAs, *and* PHAs to gently exfoliate, and calming hinoki oil to ensure skin feels nourished after every wash — not tight!
Promising review: "I've been using the eucalyptus one for years and thought I loved it, but after this, I'm never going back. The scent is divine. I've already tried to find perfume and candles with hinoki. It also works. I had some uneven skin on my chest that's totally cleared up. New holy grail for me." —meesh22Price: $28
Biodance's Bio Collagen Real Deep Mask that'll seriously up the ante on your morning shed. This mask is infused with collagen and grips onto your skin to allow ingredients to penetrate deeper. Most people sleep with this on (it does stay put — I can attest!) and remove it in the morning for a smooth, glowy complexion.
Tata Harper's Clarifying Mask because it's what I rely on whenever I need a facial-like glow in an instant — and I'll never stop recommending it to anyone willing to listen. With AHAs and BHAs, this mask helps to calm acne, whisk away dead skin cells, and help radiate the skin.
Promising reviews: "This mask has always given me results compatible to paying for a facial at a spa. I've been using it since 2015 I believe. Almost 10 years." —gardeniasunrise"I have hormonal fluctuation breakouts and use this mask once/week to keep my skin clear throughout the month. It hydrates and exfoliates at the same time, smells beautiful and skin is noticeably brighter, smoother immediately. Any pimple that manages to try and come up is snuffed out." —michimichi33Price: $75
Merit's Great Skin Instant Glow Serum chock full of niacinamide and hyaluronic acid to help brighten and hydrate the skin in a few swipes. It's the perfect prep product for your five-minute makeup routine.
Promising review: "I decided to try this based on the reviews, and I am so impressed. What a great find! I am so pleased with the results and the difference in how my skin looks. This serum leaves skin soft, smooth, and supple. It goes on easily and has no scent. I can use this with other products or alone. It truly does what it says. Love it!" —frangerinePrice: $18+ (available in two sizes)
Shiseido's Ultimate Sun Protector Face and Body Lotion SPF 60+ Sunscreen because protecting your skin from the sun doesn't always have to mean slathering it in a white cast and gritty texture. This sunscreen glides on clear and soaks into the skin, leaving behind a radiant glow.
Promising review: "I love this sunscreen! Goes on beautifully and blends in without a white cast. Tried cheaper ones, but nothing compares! Amazing to combat Florida sun and my sensitive Tretinoin skin." —vanillakissesPrice: $25+ (available in two sizes)
Dieux's Instant Angel Lipid-Rich Barrier Repair Cream has ceramides to plump all skin types — even sensitive skin! This cream is one of my go-tos for when my thirsty, redness-prone skin is in desperate need of a surge of moisture.
Promising review: "This is my first review ever because this product is just that amazing! I have extremely dry skin, so it's hard to find a moisturizer that works for me. This lotion is AMAZING!! And I can feel the difference!" —nx6791Price: $45+ (available in two sizes)
Drunk Elephant's D-Bronzi Bronzing Drops with Peptides, because TikTokers can't stop raving about the otherworldly radiance they get from this product. If you want the look of a bronzy glow without the sun damage, this is the product for you.
Promising review: "Babes, honestly buy it. Love the bronze look, and it blends perfectly with a moisturizer. Also, if you're debating over the price, it's worth it. Mine has lasted over a year I still have product left. Like, it's shocking me!" —LadyLondon4Price: $39
The Ordinary's Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner, which contains glycolic acid, one of the most popular alpha-hydroxy acids to help melt away dullness and dead skin cells. It also helps offset irritation and soothe the skin with the Tasmanian pepperberry derivative and aloe vera formula.
Promising review: "I love using The Ordinary Glycolic Acid Toner! It's been a game changer for my skincare routine, especially with helping to fade my post-acne marks. After consistent use, my skin feels smoother and more even, and the dark spots have noticeably lightened. It's gentle enough for regular use, yet effective enough to make a visible difference. Highly recommend it if you're dealing with post-acne pigmentation or just want brighter, clearer skin!" —alimka14Price: $8.70+ (available in two sizes)
Olehenriksen's Pout Preserve Peptide Lip Treatment that, like a lip gloss, creates a mirror-like shine you'll want to pair with every lip liner in your arsenal. But! This isn't a lip gloss, it's a lip treatment packed with smoothing peptides and moisturizing kokum butter.
Promising review: "Amazing!!!!! I have fuller lips but fine lines, so they can look dull. This almost immediately fills those lines. This is a balm, and that can be a different feeling if you're looking for a gloss with a 'slip' feeling. The gloss effect for me lasts about 2-3 hours, but the benefits, like hydration, last all day. I'm excited to see how continued use of this product works given the peptides." —Sephora CustomerPrice: $22 (available in four high shine shades and four shimmer shades)
Laneige's Bouncy + Firm Sleeping Mask just in case slugging with Vaseline may be too much for you, but you still want something thicc to soak into your skin overnight. This mask contains a proprietary peony and collagen complex to help increase skin firmness, hydro-melt glow capsules to help support the lipid barrier, and hyaluronic acid for a boost in hydration.
Promising review: "I struggle with keeping up with a skincare routine, so I was looking for a product to 'do it all.' I just use one other serum and this sleeping mask at night, and I wake up the next morning with soft, glowy skin. Definitely will repurchase." —tcmchelenPrice: $36
Tower 28's SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray to help relieve redness while hydrating the skin deeply. This has hypochlorous acid, an ingredient well-known to help soothe irritation in even the most sensitive skin types.
Promising review: "I LOVE THIS SPRAY. I have eczema and rosacea along with dry skin in general, and this spray is a godsend. It keeps my redness toned down and has really transformed my skin." —AliciaaaaaaaaPrice: $12+ (available in three sizes)
Dr. Jart+'s Ceramidin Skin Barrier Moisturizing Mask, because using a mask doesn't always have to mean getting your fingers messy with a goopy formula. This sheet mask comes pre-soaked with ingredients like ceramide NP, glycerin, and panthenol to help nourish the skin barrier and calm the skin.
Promising review: "This is honestly the best mask I've tried. My skin was irritated, red, and dry after trying a new exfoliator, but after this mask, my skin was instantly hydrated and glowing. This mask repaired my skin barrier within a couple of hours, and I am SO impressed with how great it improved my skin. One hundred percent a need for a compromised skin barrier." —TeynikaPrice: $10
Saie's Glowy Super Gel to bring the pearl skin trend to the forefront of your beauty routine. This water-based gel is full of hydrating glycerin and squalane to plump the skin, while its reflective properties add a radiant glow to the complexion. Plus, it's super lightweight and multiuse — you can mix it into your moisturizer or foundation, use it as a primer, or quickly apply it to the body for an all-over glow!
Promising review: "This is the best glowy primer and base! Great for my dry skin and keeps me looking healthy and glowy all day long. Highly recommend." —cs1211Price: $16+ (available in two sizes and four shades)
Drunk Elephant's Protini Polypeptide Cream, which has a whopping NINE different signal peptides that all do different jobs on your skin, like plumping, brightening, and, of course, moisturizing. It comes in airless packaging to keep your skinvestment fresh, and its pump is the perfect surface for mixing in your foundations or glow serums, if that's your thing!
Tatcha's Rice Wash that gets wayyyyy down into your pores to help get rid of gunk. While this soft cream-to-foam works to buff the skin clean, hyaluronic acid and red algae work over time to moisturize the skin for a nonstripping feel.
Promising review: "Every time my friends or family come over, they use this. And every time they are like?? OK, wow that's amazing. It's just the best. I didn't know a cleanser that's on your face for like max 60 seconds could make such a difference, but it does." —KaityLauzPrice: $18+ (available in two sizes)
Glow Recipe's Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dewy Flush, which is more of a skincare serum than it is makeup! This serum blush contains jojoba-coated pigments that, yes, add a cute flush to the skin — but also help moisturize the skin for a dewy, bouncy effect.
Promising review: "LOVE LOVE LOOOOVE!! I was literally STALKING this product and got it as soon as it was early access. If you're a natural/light makeup girlie this is definitely worth it for you. I want the other color, too, lol!!! It's so glowy and gorgeous; it's definitely worth it. I have never been a Glow Recipe girl, but this is def a worth-it product." —skitty21Price: $25 (available in two shades)
Summer Friday's Jet Lag Overnight Eye Serum to bring the hydration of the brand's iconic Jet Lag Mask to your peepers. Glycerin traps moisture to help create a plump effect while gentle retinol helps to smooth and firm the delicate skin around the eyes.
Promising review: "Best eye cream!!! I just have to share how amazing this eye cream is! It's honestly the best I've ever used. If you're looking for something to keep your under-eye area hydrated and help with wrinkles, I highly recommend giving it a try. You won't be disappointed!" —OzidagPrice: $46
Sunday Riley's C.E.O. Glow Face Oil that's all about brightness, baby! While vitamin C helps to brighten and protect the skin from environmental stressors, turmeric helps create a radiance you thought was only available after a good facial.
Promising review: "I have very acne-prone, sensitive skin, with eczema and other allergy issues. This product has changed my skin barrier and has helped my products seep into my skin. I use it after my moisturizer and it really helps everything lock in. This doesn't bother my sensitive skin and the scent doesn't bother me. I've come back to this product time after time for the past two years." —LoughlyPrice: $40+ (available in two sizes)
Topicals' Brightening & Clearing Serum, which uses tranexamic acid to gently help smooth the skin, brighten the complexion, and fade dark spots! *And* it comes in a cute metal tube that you'll want to show off in your #Shelfies.
Promising review: "This serum has noticeably faded my hyperpigmentation and evened out my skin tone, giving me a brighter and more radiant complexion. I appreciate that it's unscented, making it perfect for my sensitive skin. The texture is lightweight and absorbs quickly, making it easy to incorporate into my daily skincare routine. Overall, I'm thoroughly impressed with this product and would highly recommend it to anyone looking to address hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone!" —beautykait Price: $28
Laneige's Lip Sleeping Mask wraps your lips in a buttery, balmy dream. This is arguably the product that put lip sleeping masks on the map for creating a smooth, crack-free, and hydrated lip canvas by morning.
Ouai's St. Barts Scalp & Body Scrub so you can experience some great exfoliation from your head down to your toes. While sugar granules buff away dead skin on the scalp and body, panthenol, glycerin, and coconut oil help nourish the skin barrier and replenish moisture. Oh, and it smells like a warm, tropical sunset on the most luxurious pink sand beach — seriously, I am so happy to know that the saying "I can bathe in this stuff" is a reality with this scrub.
Promising review: "I started off by buying the smaller option to see if I would like it, but I've just purchased the bigger one. I love this sugar scrub. It leaves my skin feeling so soft and exfoliated. The smell is amazing." —SarahNLIPrice: $40 (also available in a mini size)
Sol De Janeiro's Delícia Drench Body Butter, because your body skin needs some love, too! I have this and love its light texture yet deep hydration. It soaks into the skin almost immediately, leaving behind only a happy glow!
Promising review: "STOP READING and BUY THIS!!!!! Why are you still reading??!! But seriously speaking I love this body butter. I am super picky with my skincare products because I search for intense moisture, alluring smell, and quality. This butter has it ALL." —JessicaFnPrice: $48 (also available in a mini size)
Peace Out's 2% Salicylic Acid Early Stage Acne Dots will help you say buh-bye to breakouts in a flash. Pimple patches are great for keeping your fingers from picking at pimples (which leads to scarring... so don't do it!). What's more, these patches actually contain salicylic acid to help dissolve clogged pores and fade scars quicker.
Promising review: "I tried these on a cystic flare-up, and it worked wonders!! I usually break out around my period, so I put them on a couple of spots I could feel forming. They cleared up areas that would've been around for a week." —Michelina R.Price: $20 for an eight-pack
Farmacy's Green Clean makeup melting balm that'll whisk every last trace of your day away! This balm helps melt anything from waterproof mascara and sunscreen to pollutants trapped on the skin. It's also a super sustainable product — the moringa inside is upcycled, and the jar and lid are 100% crafted with post-consumer recycled materials!
Promising review: "I've tried other makeup balms, and most leave an annoying film on my skin. Not this one! It dissolves into a milky liquid that's easy to wash away, leaving no residue. A great makeup remover on its own or as the first step in a double cleanse." —ThruhikerPrice: $18+ (available in two sizes and a fragrance-free option)
And Caudalie's Vinoperfect Brightening Dark Spot Serum, which also happens to be a vitamin C alternative! This is great for anyone looking to diminish the appearance of hyperpigmentation while veiling their skin with antioxidant protection.
Promising review: "I don't write reviews very often, but I have to write one for this product. I have struggled with dark red spots caused by hormonal and cystic acne — meaning, those deep pimples that don't scar, but the redness and color don't go away. I have used this serum for A WEEK, and these dark spots have already FADED. And I mean, FADED. I am THRILLED with this product, and it will be a regular in my routine forever. I love anything by Caudalie, but this stuff is magic." —PeytonSheaPrice: $82
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Elle
5 days ago
- Elle
I Tried Dozens of Body Scrubs for Soft Skin—These Are the Only Ones Worth Buying
No matter how streamlined your 'everything shower' routine may be, there's one essential step that often gets overlooked: body exfoliation. Although it takes a little extra time, a few circular swipes of a good body scrub can seriously transform the look and feel of your skin. Why? Because the best ones don't just slough away dead skin cells—they soften rough patches, boost glow, and make everything you layer on afterward (think: moisturizers, self-tanners, serums) work better. In other words, they're the shortcut to smoother, glowier skin with surprisingly little effort. According to board-certified dermatologist and co-creator of Keys Soulcare, Dr. Renee Snyder, the older we get, the more important it is to use these powerful products. 'As we age, our skin's natural desquamation process—the shedding of dead skin cells—begins to slow down. This means old, dull cells linger on the surface longer than they should,' she explains. 'Add that to the buildup of everyday products like sunscreen, bronzers, or self-tanners, and you develop clogged pores, rough texture, and ingrown hairs.' By gently removing that layer, you not only reveal smoother, more radiant skin, but also help prevent trapped hairs and congestion. Whether you're looking for a gritty physical exfoliant or a chemical formula powered by AHAs, adding a scrub to your full-body care routine is one of the simplest ways to keep your skin fresh, balanced, and genuinely healthy. To determine which scrubs are worth making room for in your shower, I tested top picks, consulted Dr. Snyder for her go-tos, and scoured dozens of reviews. Scroll ahead for the 13 best body scrubs. Nécessaire's The Body Exfoliator checks every box: physical exfoliation, chemical exfoliation, keratosis pilaris (KP) prevention, and a hypoallergenic, yet fragranced formula. Volcanic pumice provides the grit, while AHAs, BHAs, and PHAs work to smooth textured skin, treat KP, and prevent ingrown hairs. Key ingredients: Salicylic acid, lactic acid, glycolic acid, volcanic pumice When to use: In the shower Amazon rating: 4.4/5 An Amazon reviewer says: 'I've repurchased this about 3 or 4 times at this point. Such a good product, it smells great, a great physical and chemical exfoliant. My skin is immediately softer after using this. The charcoal exfoliation is not too harsh but enough as someone who has very mild ingrown hairs/bumps on the back of my lower arm/near my elbow. Great product to use all over before shaving. You don't need to use a lot to be able to get a good amount of exfoliation.' This body scrub is essentially a spa experience in a jar. Designed for application on dry skin, the Tata Harper Smoothing Body Scrub utilizes five sources of exfoliation to gently micro-polish your skin. It's also packed with organic ingredients sourced straight from the brand's farm that hydrate your skin and promote a silky-smooth and ultra-glowy finish. Key ingredients: Organic raw sugar, Himalayan pink salt, Hawaiian salt, cranberry seed fibers, argan oil When to use: Outside the shower Tata Harper rating: 4.9/5 A Tata Harper reviewer says: 'Love the way this feels without leaving an oily residue as many scrubs do—just makes your skin feel really clean and soft.' When it comes to body care, the scalp is often forgotten. But the truth is, the skin on your head deserves just as much attention as the rest of your body. Ouai makes it easy with their sugar scrub formulated for both the scalp and body. It's color-safe, deep-cleansing, and sulfate-free—ideal for all hair and skin types. Key ingredients: Sugar crystals, glycerin, panthenol, coconut oil Sephora rating: 4.5/5 A Sephora reviewer says: 'This scrub feels like a facial for the scalp and body! I have an oily scalp and skin and I easily get product buildup on both, and this scrub delivers an intense deep cleanse without stripping my hair or skin! My scalp and body feel squeaky clean and healthy! It also smells like a spa in a jar, which just enhances the experience soooo much! Definitely recommend!' 'The Be Luminous Exfoliator from Keys Soulcare is by far my favorite exfoliator,' says Dr. Snyder. 'I love how it transforms with water into a gentle, effervescent polish.' A blend of hojicha powder, green tea antioxidants, and soothing oats delivers a boost of hydration and protection, leaving skin radiant and refreshed. Key ingredients: Lactic acid, kaolin, hojicha powder, mung bean When to use: Inside or outside the shower Amazon rating: 4.6/5 An Amazon reviewer says: 'This is a superb product. It works wonders on your skin and, unlike other exfoliators, this will not break you out. It's very gentle and does not strip all of the natural oils out of your skin, but it will leave you squeaky clean. I highly recommend this.' Another favorite of Dr. Snyder's, the Osea Salts of the Earth Body Scrub uses mineral-rich salts to buff away dry patches, while gigartina seaweed and shea butter nourish and moisturize. After just one use, your skin will feel baby-smooth. Key ingredients: Mineral salt blend, gigartina seaweed, shea butter, lavender oil Amazon rating: 4.3/5 An Amazon reviewer says: 'My absolute favorite body scrub. This is the first body scrub I've used that leaves my skin noticeably softer immediately after use. It smells amazing and reminds me of that spa-like scent. 100 percent recommend.' Keratosis pilaris—those pesky little bumps often found on arms—can be quite tricky to treat. That's why First Aid Beauty's KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub has a loyal following. Even Dr. Snyder uses it, sharing, 'I reach for it whenever my arms need it. Key ingredients: Pumice beads, glycolic acid, lactic acid, bisabolol Sephora rating: 4.3/5 An ELLE editor says: 'I may not struggle with KP, but I do face eczema on my arms every now and then. I can always count on the First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub to buff out my rough patches for smooth, soft arms.'—Emma Aerin Becker, associate beauty e-commerce writer When you slough off dead, dry skin with a body scrub, the fresh layer underneath often craves moisture. The Josie Maran Sugar and Argan Oil Body Scrub ensures your skin is both smooth and bright, thanks to its exfoliating sugar crystals and nourishing argan oil. Key ingredients: Sugar crystals, argan oil, shea butter When to use: Post-shower on damp skin Sephora rating: 4.6/5A Sephora reviewer says: 'This gentle exfoliador makes my skin feel super soft and moisturized. I particularly enjoy how the argan oil makes my skin feel after I rinse off the scrub. I highly recommend this product for anyone looking for small luxuries' If you want silky-smooth skin and to smell like a freshly baked cookie, let me introduce you to the Dove Brown Sugar and Coconut Butter Body Scrub. The recently-released product has a unique whipped texture that exfoliates and moisturizes as you scrub. And if coconut isn't your favorite fragrance, there's seven more delicious scents available. Key ingredients: Brown sugar, coconut oil, ¼ moisturizing cream Amazon rating: 4.7/5 An Amazon reviewer says: 'I recently tried the Dove Brown Sugar and Coconut Butter Body Scrub and it's quickly become one of my favorite skincare products! The texture is rich and creamy with just the right amount of exfoliation—it's not too harsh, but it leaves my skin feeling incredibly smooth and refreshed. The scent is amazing—sweet, warm, and comforting, like a tropical dessert. It lingers on the skin without being overpowering. After using it, my skin feels deeply nourished, soft to the touch, and has a healthy glow. I also love that it doesn't leave a greasy residue in the shower like some other scrubs do. A little goes a long way' Powered by powdered bamboo stem, apricot seed, and essential oils, the Yonka Gommage Doux Silhouette is a creamy exfoliator that easily erases dead skin cells. Simultaneously, it hydrates with sesame seed oil, mango seed butter, and glycerin. However, it has unique cellulite control that helps firm and lift the skin. Key ingredients: Sesame seed oil, mango seed butter, vegetal glycerin, powdered bamboo stem, apricot seed When to use: Outside shower on damp or dry skin Yonka rating: 4.8/5 A Yonka reviewer says: 'I have used this a hand full of times now and I think it's a great product! I use it twice a week, a little goes a long way. It smells great and leaves my skin feeling smooth!' Even those with sensitive skin can benefit from a body scrub. The Nopalera Cactus Flower Exfoliant stands out mainly because it's grittier than others on this list and melts quickly into the skin for gentle exfoliation. Key ingredients: Safflower seed oil, shea butter, jojoba oil, nopal, tangerine oil When to use: Outside shower Nordstrom rating: 4.7/5 A Nordstrom reviewer says: 'Heard lots about Nopalera and the founder Sandra Velasquez so I could not wait to try it. Truly amazing product. I applied it from head to toe and was pleasantly surprised on how moisturizing it was and how well it penetrated even after drying off and no need to apply lotion. The glow was a bonus as my collar bone, shoulders and arms felt and looked amazing! It truly felt like a spa experience in a jar! The tangerine scent is mild and perfection for those of us who don't like heavy scents. This is a keeper!!' Formulated with physical exfoliators like pumice and jojoba esters, as well as AHA, BHA, and PHA chemical exfoliants, Naturium's KP Body Scrub & Mask instantly eliminates bumpy, dry, rough, and dull skin. When applied as a mask, your skin will not only feel smoother but also look brighter and more even. Key ingredients: Pumice, Glycerin, Jojoba Seed Oil, Squalane, Glycolic Acid, Stearic Acid Ulta rating: 4.5/5 An Ulta reviewer says: 'New holy grail. After spending $30+ on other 8oz KP scrubs for years, I bought this on a whim due to the price point. Glad I did because I love it. It really doesn't have a scent and is gentle enough to use on my legs, without compromising the effectiveness of physical exfoliation & KP treatment. I also love that I can let it sit on my skin as a mask in the shower.' If you're a fan of Sol de Janero's iconic Bum Bum Cream, then you have to try the brand's Bum Bum Body Scrub. It's an ultra-fine body scrub that uses a blend of cupuaçu seeds, sugar crystals, and caffeine-rich guaraná to gently exfoliate. Meanwhile, coconut oil provides deep hydration, and the beloved Cheirosa 62 fragrance leaves you smelling fresh all day long. Key ingredients: Cupuaçu seeds, sugar crystals, caffeine-rich guaraná, coconut oil Sephora rating: 4.1/5 A Sephora reviewer says: 'Love it! The smell is so good and it's just the right amount of scrubby. Plus, it doesn't leave the floor of the shower feeling slimy and slippery like some other scrubs.' Dr. Renee Snyder is a board-certified dermatologist and the co-creator of Keys Soulcare. How often you exfoliate depends on your skin type, according to Dr. Snyder. For most, once or twice a week is the sweet spot—frequent enough to keep skin smooth without compromising your barrier. If you have sensitive skin, start with once every 10 days and adjust based on how your skin responds. Those with thicker or oilier skin, or rougher areas like elbows and knees, can benefit from exfoliating two to three times a week. Dr. Snyder adds that the 'most critical step' is to 'immediately replenish your skin's barrier and infuse it with antioxidants using a body lotion.' She recommends Keys Soulcare's Sacred Body Lotion because it's enriched with chia seed oil, allantoin, and shea butter to deliver silky, fast-absorbing hydration and lock in essential moisture. As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, Emma Aerin Becker consulted a board-certified dermatologist to learn about the best body scrubs. She also tested them out, read through countless customer reviews, and evaluated each product based on its unique features. The Best Cellulite Creams for Smooth Skin The Best SPF Body Lotions for Head-to-Toe Sun Protection The Best Retinol Body Lotions for Firmer Skin The Best Acne Body Washes to Clear Bacne
Refinery29
04-07-2025
- Refinery29
I Used The Ordinary's Body Lotion Down To The Last Drop, It's That Good
All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission. Until recently, I didn't have a body care routine. I know. That's odd for someone whose job requires testing the latest scrubs, serums and lotions. But laziness (and the thought of having to pull on my clothes with Olympian-level dexterity as not to get my sticky limbs trapped in them) always got the better of me. Save for shower gel, of course, I've been more happy to ditch body care entirely. This summer, though, two of my favourite affordable skincare brands have made their first proper foray into the body category, and they've managed to convince me otherwise. The first is The Inkey List. Its Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Stick, $32, (particularly excellent on dry, cracked feet) has become so popular that the brand has fought to keep it in stock. Now, though, it's The Ordinary' s time in the spotlight and I tried three products: a body emulsion, body serum and a body lotion. Just like the brand's collection of serums and moisturisers, the price points are accessible, and these three products boast the same ingredients that make its facial skincare so effective. Think exfoliating salicylic acid, hydration-boosting niacinamide and natural moisturising factors like urea, which is great for dry skin. In a bid to give the same level of care to my body as I do my face, I put all three products through their paces for just over two months. Here's everything you need to know if you want to step up your body routine this summer and beyond. First up, the Natural Moisturising Factors + Inulin Body Lotion. I'll start by saying that if you want your body care to smell like a tropical beach holiday and to look cute on your dressing table, this isn't for you. But if you want something that's fragrance free, effective and easy to use (the pump is a saviour for slippery hands) you'll love this. I'm in the latter camp. In fact, I've gone from using hardly any body lotion at all to draining this for the last few drops — it's that good. The star ingredients inside this body lotion are natural moisturising factors, often referred to as NMFs. Without sounding like a biology lecturer, NMFs are substances that are already found in our skin, like moisturising ceramides and repairing peptides. Changes in weather or using harsh soaps and detergents, for example, often mean that our NMF reserves can run low — but that's where skincare comes in. In this body lotion, there are a number of NMFs, but the two that stand out are allantoin (you'll often find this in lots of Korean skincare products for its ability to lock in moisture and make skin appear plump and glowy), and urea, which softens and smoothes dry skin — perfect for scaly legs like mine. Alongside those natural moisturising factors is a lesser known ingredient called inulin. To better understand its skincare benefits, I spoke to Dr Ellie Rashid, consultant dermatologist and pro medical director of Klira. 'Inulin is a natural prebiotic found in plants like chicory root,' she explained. 'It's a humectant [so it draws in moisture] that boosts the skin's tolerance and maintains its natural defences.' Dr Rashid said that by feeding our microbiome (the 'good' bacteria on the skin's surface) inulin helps maintain healthy, hydrated and balanced skin. Because of how it protects the skin's microbiome, it could also help keep acne at bay, said Dr Rashid. So, does it work? I love how moisturising this is without being sticky or greasy. The main reason why I've avoided body care in the past is because creams take so long to rub in and absorb, but this lotion is milky and lightweight; it takes all of a minute for me to moisturise my legs and I can pull on my clothes quickly. One pump alleviates the itchy, dry skin on my shins instantly but I've noticed the most difference on my thighs, which used to erupt in spots and ingrown hairs after shaving. I can only assume that keeping my microbiome in check is helping to stave them off. I judge a good product by what I do with it when it's on its last legs, and this one is perched upside down on my bathroom sink so that I can get every last bit out. If you consider buying one thing from The Ordinary range, make it this. Next up, the Niacinamide 5% Face and Body Emulsion. I've seen niacinamide in countless face serums and moisturisers, but rarely body care. That said, the skin on our bodies is simply an extension of the skin on our faces, so niacinamide just makes sense — and there are multiple body benefits. 'Niacinamide, otherwise known as nicotinamide, is a form of vitamin B3,' said Dr Rashid. It's an antioxidant, so it protects skin against environmental aggressors such as pollution. 'Niacinamide is important for cell repair and supports the skin's overall health,' added Dr Rashid. 'By improving the skin barrier, enhancing moisture retention, and reducing inflammation, niacinamide helps to improve the texture of skin.' This does exactly that. I've found that it's most beneficial on my neck and chest, where I tend to get clusters of painful breakouts, particularly in hot weather when I'm sweating more and I've upped my sunscreen application. Mostly, though, I use it as a hand serum; it has a featherlight texture that's a little thinner than the body lotion. I'm never patient enough for hand creams to absorb properly, which leaves greasy fingerprints all over my laptop and phone screen. This? It sinks in quickly and makes my dry, rough hands feel brand new. So much so it has become a staple on my desk and I use it multiple times a day — even on my lips when I don't have a lip balm to hand, considering that it's multi-use. The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 0.5% Body Serum, $24.20 Lastly, I tested The Ordinary's exfoliating body serum, and the top ingredient is a very gentle concentration of 0.5% salicylic acid. Dr Rashid told me that salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (or BHA), which can penetrate the lipid layers of the skin, allowing it to unclog pores. This makes salicylic acid effective for targeting acne, especially blackheads and whiteheads. 'Once inside the pores, it can dissolve skin debris and helps reduce red, inflamed bumps on the skin,' said Dr Rashid. As someone with hormonal acne, I'm a huge fan of salicylic acid in skincare, but my exfoliating toners and serums all feature a larger percentage of the stuff — usually 2%. Dermatologists have told me that this is an effective concentration for treating breakouts, so I was sceptical that 0.5% would make much of a difference. In all honesty, I've not seen a significant enough change in my body breakouts, but I have noticed that the rough skin just above my elbows — also known as keratosis pilaris or KP — has lessened since using this daily. I do have another gripe, though: It's very watery. I'd say this is more like a body toner than a serum, and I have to apply it while leaning over my bath mat to avoid spillage. For this reason, I find it easier to splash the product onto a cotton pad and to swipe it all over my arms, chest and back, but I can't shake the feeling that this is wasteful. If The Ordinary is listening, I'd love for this formula to be just a tad thicker — and stronger. For me, it's clear: The $23.90 body lotion is the real star of the show, and when I'm done with it, I'll certainly stock up on another. You can shop this — and the rest of the body care — at The Ordinary's website.
Elle
03-07-2025
- Elle
Death to Strawberry Makeup—Guava Girl Summer Is Officially Here
When happy hour beckons, my go-to cocktail almost always stars a fruit—passionfruit, to be precise—shaken with a dash of gin. But during a recent post-work outing with a friend, a new contender stole the spotlight: a fizzy spritz bursting with a playful tug-of-war between guava and mint. I've always known guava as a tart yet sweet delight, compressed into a juice so addictive that it demands encore sips until surrender. I assumed my guava affair would end in that quaint Lower East Side hideaway where we laughed over drinks. However, as it turns out, the beauty world had other plans: bottling the fruit's juicy essence into kissable balms, lather-worthy washes and butters, and spritzable potions ripe for summer indulgence. Folks have already dubbed the upcoming warm season Guava Girl Summer—and fittingly so. Cut the fruit open and you'll be greeted by its glossy pink heart, the same finish that informed the season's buzziest lip glosses and blush launches. My aversion to food-themed beauty turned me away from joining the 'strawberry makeup' or 'brownie glazed lips' bandwagon. However, upon researching guava's benefits, the fruit goes beyond its aesthetic appeal—guava actually boasts impressive benefits for the skin and hair. 'For skin, guava is loaded with antioxidants like vitamin C, which helps brighten the complexion, fade dark spots, and boost collagen production,' says Paula Brezavscek, PA-C, board-certified physician's associate and the founder of AZALA SkinClinic in Miami, Florida. Guava is also packed with another antioxidant named lycopene that 'protects the skin against environmental stressors and signs of aging. I especially love guava for its dual-action benefits: It protects and perfects. Plus, it has natural anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, a great option for acne-prone or sensitive skin,' Brezavscek adds. The powerhouse vitamins harnessed from the fruit offer additional strengthening and protection benefits to the hair. 'I've even seen guava leaf extract used to calm dandruff and soothe irritated scalps. It's one of those ingredients that supports both the health of the hair and the skin underneath it. To me, guava isn't just a seasonal ingredient, it's a fruit-forward glow-up that actually delivers,' Brezavscek says. Enticed by more than just the taste of the tropical fruit? Allow these guava-infused and guava-themed beauty picks to satisfy your craving. These days, the supple, glossy sheen you notice on most lips comes courtesy of Summer Fridays' cult-favorite lip balms. The brand's latest iteration of its viral formula has an even pinker hue than, say, Pink Sugar or Birthday Cake, to mimic the color of the fruit's core. Rahua's curl cream is formulated with fortifying and strengthening ingredients, including biotin, African shea butter, and oils, among others, with guava as the standout. 'Think less damage, more shine. It hydrates and smoothes the hair cuticle, which results in softer texture and a natural, healthy glow, all with that fresh, fruity scent lingering behind,' Anna Ayers, founder of Rahua, explains. Vacation starts as soon as you spritz on a Kopari fan-favorite SPF formula. However, in this case, your real respite begins in-shower. Beyond the guava scent, the Hydrating Body Wash caresses the skin with calming aloe, hydrating coconut water, and antioxidant-rich sea kelp to prep your skin for a day of fun. This lightweight leave-in conditioner will help your hair achieve its silkiest, softest form. Guava extract conditions and adds sheen to every strand, while aloe vera juice and plum extract lock in hydration. You get the best of many worlds from this one spray. Ceremonia's Guava Rescue Spray serves as a detangler and nourisher, while guava offers heat protection up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Whether worn alone or paired with a lip liner, this YSL formula glides effortlessly onto the lips for a comfortable, soft-sheen finish in a light pink shade. One scoop of this body cream is enough to give your skin a vacation-like glow, and its delicious scent is the cherry, uh, guava on top. As the moisturizing formula imparts a subtle sheen and softness to the skin, your body is wrapped in the scent of guava, coconut water, and gardenia. Ayesha Curry's Sweet July offerings are love letters to her Caribbean upbringing, and the Pava cleanser utilizes the tropic island's star ingredients to address a bevy of skin concerns. Papaya, guava, and glycolic acid work together to gently exfoliate dead skin cells, revealing a refreshed, smoother, and more refined complexion. Florals and fruits fight for the spotlight in this fragrance, which features a medley of creamy florals ylang-ylang and osmanthus, and vibrant banana and guava for a fruity touch. This toner is powered by Dezi Skin's patented Guavazyme technology, comprised of guava and pear extracts, aimed at reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation and scarring. Ere Perez's tan drops allow you to achieve a sun-kissed glow without a sunny escape. Made with vitamin C from guava and aloe vera, these drops can be mixed into your favorite serum and moisturizer, so you can wake up feeling like you're in the tropics—without leaving home. As its name suggests, Tropical by Arquiste smells like a summer cocktail waiting to be indulged. Ginger anchors the juicy tang of ripe guava and lime upon first spritz, and as it settles, guava continues mingling with the notes.
