I won’t waste time burying the lede here: I love exfoliating bar soaps! Few things in my life are as satisfying as physically scrubbing away dead skin cells (is that sad?), which reveals smoother skin and makes for a great base for all my lotions and potions. As someone who takes anywhere from two to four showers per day, dryness is practically guaranteed. I’m not afraid to admit that my legs have been known to resemble dragon scales. Thankfully, the best exfoliating soaps have made a huge improvement. Despite their polishing abilities, some formulas are even gentle enough to use daily, which I happily oblige.
If you’ve never heard of exfoliating soaps, also known as buffing soaps or buffing bars, it helps to think of them the same way you might approach exfoliation in your facial skin-care or scalp-care regimen. Basically, they’re an apt solution for clearing away dry, rough patches and helping skin retain moisture. That way, body skin remains softer, smoother, and more luminous.
Vogue’s Favorite Exfoliating Bar Soaps
Best for All Skin Types
Nécessaire The Body Exfoliant Bar
Read moreBest Indulgent
Flamingo Estate Jasmine Damask Rose Soap Brick
Jump to reviewBest Moisturizing
Curie Coconut Nectar Body Wash Bar
Read moreBest for Keratosis Pilaris
Topicals Exfoliating & Smoothing Bar
Jump to review
Unlike traditional exfoliating body scrubs, which can sometimes feel overly abrasive, exfoliating soaps suspend their buffing particles within a cleansing bar that often contains nourishing oils or mild chemical exfoliants. The result is a two-in-one cleanse and exfoliation step that resurfaces skin while helping maintain the skin barrier. Some soaps are even formulated to help address texture concerns, such as keratosis pilaris or psoriasis.
At Vogue, we’re big fans of bar soap and appreciate that the pendulum is swinging in its favor. The category has grown to feature an array of indulgently chic offerings across price points, skin needs, and ingredient compositions. Think botanical-infused bars that double as bathroom decor, sometimes priced north of $50, and fragrance-house collaborations like those from D.S. & Durga. For those interested in buffing away their worries, behold our edit of the exfoliating bar soaps to know in 2026, plus their benefits, what sets them apart, and how to choose the one for you. Everything you need to know, below.