For most of my life, I've managed to get by with a fairly minimalistic bodycare routine. While I spend ages layering toners, serums, and creams into my face morning and night, my bodycare routine has typically consisted of body wash, a weekly body scrub, and body lotion (when I can be bothered).
In 2024 however, I've noticed patches of rough skin creeping up on the backs of my arms. Known as keratosis pilaris, this rough, bumpy skin can appear everywhere from the arms to the thighs. It's totally harmless, really common, and whether you have it or not is largely determined by genetics. As well as keeping skin well moisturised (I've committed to daily body lotion from head to toe), regular exfoliation is one of the best ways to buff this rough skin smooth and soft. However, after a few weeks of using my body scrub daily, I realised it wasn't really making a difference, so I decided to experiment with body brushing. My (incredibly dry-skinned) husband body brushes daily and swears by the simple technique for removing patches of rough, dry skin, and convinced me to put it to the test.
Now I'll give you a heads up, this is not the most relaxing or enjoyable of beauty rituals. Body brushes are designed to be used on dry skin (they're often referred to as dry brushes), so can feel quite rough and scratchy. However the rougher and scratchier they are, the more likely they are to have an impact when it comes to dealing with patches of rough skin. I was ready to give up after a week, but by the time that point came round, the bumpy patches on the backs of my arms had totally disappeared, replaced by silky smooth skin. For real.
So, scroll on to discover the best body brushes for smooth, glowing skin, as well as all you need to know about what body brushing is and what the benefits of body brushing are, all from a beauty editor who has tried it herself. Enjoy!
What Is Body Brushing?
Body brushing is a form of exfoliation performed on dry skin using a bristled brush in short, firm circular strokes. You can body brush literally anywhere on your body, from your feet to your neck—just avoid the face.
What Are the Benefits of Body Brushing?
Like any form of exfoliation, body brushing works to remove dead skin, so it can help to smooth skin texture, reduce clogged pores, and revitalise skin. In addition, because the technique is a form of massage, it also helps to boost circulation and stimulate the lymphatic system. Some people find that regular body brushing can help to address areas of cellulite and stretch marks, and to reduce water retention.
Shop the Best Body Brushes:
1. Best Overall Body Brush: ESPA Skin Stimulating Body Brush
2. Best Affordable Body Brush: The Body Shop Cactus Long Handle Brush
3. Best Body Brush for Stretch Marks: Mama Mio Body Brush
4. Best Body Brush for Sensitive Skin: Dr. Barbara Sturm Body Brush Soft
5. Best Drugstore Body Brush: Kitsch Exfoliating Dry Body Brush
6. Best Luxury Body Brush: Higherdose Supercharge Copper Body Brush
7. Best Body Brush for Dry Skin: Aromatherapy Associates Polishing Body Brush
1. Best Overall: ESPA Skin Stimulating Body Brush
I find this brush to be the perfect balance—it's rough enough to give a good exfoliation, but isn't so scratchy that it hurts to use it. Even after several weeks of rigorous use, the bristles haven't bent out of place.
2. The Body Shop Cactus Long Handle Brush
This long-handled body brush is perfect for hard-to-reach areas like the back, neck, and shoulders.
3. Mama Mio Body Brush
Amongst the bristles you'll find soft plastic points which help to provide additional massage benefits.
4. Dr. Barbara Sturm Body Brush Soft
This is one of the softer body brushes I've tried. Ideal if you have sensitive skin or simply want a more gentle dry brushing experience.
5. Kitsch Exfoliating Dry Body Brush
This affordable pick can easily be sourced in Boots stores and online. So if you fancy trying out body brushing ASAP, you'll find it easy to get your hands on.
6. Higherdose Supercharge Copper Body Brush
This luxury option features ion-charged copper bristles, which claim to accelerate lymphatic drainage and restore electromagnetic balance—in addition to exfoliating skin.
7. Aromatherapy Associates Polishing Body Brush
Made with soft but firm natural cactus sisal bristles, this may not be the cheapest option out there, but it certainly comes well reviewed. "I have tried many body brushes in the past, but this one truly stands out from the rest. The bristles are just the right firmness, providing a gentle yet invigorating exfoliation experience. Not only does it effectively remove dead skin cells, but it also improves circulation and leaves my skin feeling incredibly smooth and radiant," says one reviewer.
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