12 Best Scrubs for Legs That Do More Than Just Exfoliation

Written by Anoushka Sinha, Skincare Coach & Writer
Updated on Feb 19, 2024
Scrubs for Legs That Do More Than Just Exfoliation
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Whether it is about flaunting the little black dress or a pair of ripped jeans, the best scrubs for legs always act as a knight in shining armor to arrest your crush’s attention. Scrubbing may be a blessing before a movie date, a concert, or to flaunt your summer shopping haul. And committing to the process of scrubbing twice a week can indeed lead to miraculous transformational results. 

Although scrubbing and exfoliation may be seen as interchangeable terms, there is an underlying difference between the two. Scrubbing works superficially to remove visible layers of oil, dirt, and grime, whereas exfoliators work at the cellular level to initiate new cell turnover and promote better generation of the skin’s natural oils. However, purchasing an exfoliator or scrub may not be economically feasible for all and overburden an individual's skincare essentials unnecessarily. Hence, after a lot of extensive research through online portals and offline market surveys, We have curated a list of the best scrubs for legs that help tighten sagging skin, boost collagen production, and conceal signs of aging. Our legs are the most prone to mechanical stressors and extrinsic pollutants and have the highest portion of skin covering them hence, need more exfoliants, humectants, and occlusives to ensure supple, youthful, and smooth thighs and calves. 

Scroll down to take a look at our top recommendations for leg scrubs!

12 Best Scrubs for Legs

Getting silky smooth skin just got easier with ELEMIS's salt scrub. The luxe packaging offers complete exfoliation without damaging your skin. Rich in lime, and ginger salt, this body scrub is enriched with bergamot, coconut, and sweet almond oil. This scrub moisturizes your skin, smoothens the texture, and adds softness to it. The hydrating ingredients further lock in the moisture which prevents your skin from getting dry. Use this scrub in your PM routine followed by a dense moisturizer, and wake up to silky smooth skin. 

Pros
  • Rich texture
  • Doesn't tingle sensitive skin
  • Hydrating ingredients
  • Soothing fragrance
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Best for Dry Skin

    Mario Badescu Coconut Body Scrub

    Mario Badescu Coconut Body Scrub
  • Soften and smoothen your textured skin with this coconut scrub by Mario Badescu. Suitable for all skin types, this body scrub is formulated with nourishing ingredients like niacinamide, and salicylic acid. It aids in cleaning your pores, shrinking the size of pores, and instant hydration. Moreover, this scrub also reduces the appearance of bumps and ingrown hair. The scrub is extremely gentle on the skin and effectively removes dead skin cells. 

    Pros
    • Value for money
    • Moisturizes the skin
    • Removes dead skin cells
    • Hydrating ingredients
    Cons
    • Some may not like the fragrance
  • Best Overall

    TREE HUT Shea Sugar Scrub

    TREE HUT Shea Sugar Scrub
  • Get Sharon Stone-like Met Gala or Cannes-ready legs with the Tree Hut Shea Sugar leg exfoliator. The product consists of a nourishing blend of natural ingredients like safflower seed oil, sweet almond oil, avocado oil, and macadamia seed oil along with shea butter that help to repair cracked skin and prevent moisture loss and wrinkling of the skin cells. To add on, it increases skin elasticity and promotes blood circulation to the skin cells, thereby providing better cell rate turnover. Lastly, it effectively buffs away dead skin cells without leaving signs of redness or causing any discomfort.

    Pros
    • Non-messy application
    • Tropical mango scent
    • Revives intrinsic glow
    • Softens flaky skin
    Cons
    • Tends to cause rashes in rare cases
  • Best for Ingrowth

    FIRST AID BEAUTY Body Scrub

    FIRST AID BEAUTY Body Scrub
  • Our in-house skincare experts believe that to scrub legs effectively, we do not always need harsh abrasives. A balanced formulation of skincare actives can do the job well, like the First Aid beauty exfoliator for legs. Why? Because after using the product for a few days, our skincare experts saw an improvement in areas prone to scaling. They also felt their skin feeling more nourished and softer and did not feel the need to apply a moisturizer. To add on, they noticed reduced signs of itching and inflammation along with an improvement in skin luster. Thus, after conducting tests with the product, our experts concluded it is one of the best choices for all skin types.

    Cons
    • Some products are empty
  • Best for Dry Skin

    DOVE EXFOLIATING Body Polish

    DOVE EXFOLIATING Body Polish
  • A brainchild of Unilever Limited, “Dove” has been a loved choice among women in the category of soaps, shampoos, and hair washes because of its lathering and pampering texture. This polishing scrub, like its siblings, is no different. It is one of the best exfoliating scrubs for legs, as per our skincare experts, because it contains the best ingredients like macadamia and rice milk that provide instant softness. After our experts tried the product for a few weeks, they felt their skin radiance improving and the extrinsic texture softening with every application. Furthermore, they also stated that the product comes with an alluring hypoallergenic herbal and floral fragrance, and thus is one of the most compatible choices for sensitive skin.

    Pros
    • Exfoliates gently
    • Allergen-free
    • pH-balanced formulation
    • Cruelty-free
    Cons
    • Seal missing in some products
  • Best for Full Body

    BROOKLYN BOTANY Brown Sugar Scrub

    BROOKLYN BOTANY Brown Sugar  Scrub
  • Gentle on sensitive skin and harsh on accumulated dead skin is the Brooklyn Botany brown sugar scrub for legs. The product helps unclog congested pores on the calves and thighs and also helps keep the skin moisturized after exfoliation. The best part? It helps to reduce the appearance of visible zits, blind pimples, acne, and bacne, which makes it a compatible choice for use all over the body. Moreover, the product helps to protect the newly emerged skin cells against UV damage and free radicals. Lastly, it helps curb inflammation and reduces visible signs of redness, and thus is a compatible choice for allergy-prone skin.

    Pros
    • Reduces blackheads
    • Softens feet
    • Evens out skin tone
    • Seal moisture within skin cells
    Cons
    • Tends to leave an oily residue behind
  • Best for Ashy Elbows

    pureSCRUBS Dead Sea Salt Body Scrub

    pureSCRUBS Dead Sea Salt Body Scrub
  • Those constantly bothered by the question of “what to use to exfoliate legs” should allow us to introduce them to this magical leg exfoliation product by Pure Scrub. This scrub consists of dead sea salt, skin softeners, organic essential oils, and nutrients that help to reduce stretch marks, acne scars, and dark spots. Moreover, the product comes with an eco-friendly wooden spoon and an exfoliation pad which makes its application hassle-free. To add on, it contains carrot seed oil, coconut oil, and germanium oil that help seal moisture within skin shafts and prevent dehydration of keratin pigment in skin cells.

    Pros
    • Boosts radiance
    • Cleanses clogged skin
    • Great for gifting
    • Works for ashy elbows and knees
    Cons
    • Overpowering smell
  • Best for Freckles

    BARE BOTANICS LEMON ORANGE Body Scrub

    BARE BOTANICS LEMON ORANGE Body Scrub
  • Say Goodbye to dry and embarrassing itching with the Bare Botanics body scrub for legs. Our skincare experts believe it is one of the most compatible picks for dry skin because it contains a scrumptious blend of nature's best emollients like jojoba oil, argan oil, and aloe vera that help to restore skin elasticity and prevent water loss due to excessive exposure to mechanical stressors. Moreover, it helps fade away evident signs of hyperpigmentation and soothe dry skin. To add on, it provides the skin with a healthy glow without making it look too oily or shiny.

    Pros
    • Balances skin pH
    • Promotes skin healing
    • Treats stubborn freckles
    • Robust packaging
    Cons
    • The texture is a little hard
  • Best for Uneven Tone

    ASUTRA Exfoliating Body Scrub

    ASUTRA Exfoliating Body Scrub
  • A product that is great for your skin and is a potent aid in aromatherapy is this exfoliating scrub for legs by Asutra. The product is infused with sea salt, lavender, coconut, and bergamot oils that help to make the skin ultra-soft, smooth, and beautiful. Moreover, it also helps to decongest blocked pores and treat stubborn blemishes, thereby improving skin texture. To add on, it hydrates and moisturizes dry patches on the skin without making it prone to bacterial invasion, making it an ideal pick for combination, oily, and normal skin.

    Pros
    • Paraben-free
    • Reduces itchiness
    • Removes blackheads
    • Curbs ingrown hair growth
    Cons
    • Faulty packaging in some products
  • Best for Bumpy Skin

    GiGi No Bump Body Scrub

    GiGi No Bump Body Scrub
  • The Gigi leg exfoliating scrub is a gentle and irritant-free indulgence for all skin types. It removes deep ingrained dirt and prevents the formation of blackheads, whiteheads, and blind pimples. To add on, it helps weaken the deeply ingrained layers of dirt and improves blood circulation to the skin cells. Moreover, it does not cause any skin scarring and itching, which makes it safe for regular use. Furthermore, it prevents the formation of in-grown hair and is gentle on razor burns and bumps, and thus is considered suitable for post-shave and post-wax use.

    Pros
    • Great for underarms and back
    • Amplifies hydration levels
    • Reduces zit size
    • Robust packaging
    Cons
    • Takes time to show results
  • frank body Original Coffee Scrub

    frank body Original Coffee Scrub
  • For all those who feel psychedelically high by the intoxicating smell of caffeine, this Frank body exfoliating leg scrub is a sinful indulgence. Why? Because it contains coffee and cold-pressed sweet almond oil that promotes cell turnover and accelerates fading and healing of visible scars. Moreover, it contains vitamin E, which helps to prevent the skin cells from withering and shrinking and strengthens the skin barrier. To add on, it does not contain any artificial fragrances and colors and thus is a compatible choice for aging and mature skin. To conclude, it is one of the best exfoliating body scrubs because it prevents the appearance of breakouts and is non-irritating in nature.

    Pros
    • Promotes collagen synthesis
    • Tightens visible cellulite
    • Enhances blood circulation
    • Great for flaky skin
    Cons
    • Tends to cause hives in rare cases
  • Majestic Pure cosmeceuticals Mango Butter Scrub

    Majestic Pure cosmeceuticals Mango Butter Scrub
  • Reduce muscle cramping, visible cellulite, and stretch marks with the Majestic Pure mango butter scrub for the legs. The pure salt present in the product gently buffs away dead skin cells and toxins without depriving the skin of its natural oils. Moreover, the product also helps to strengthen the skin barrier, promote collagen production, and protect the skin from sunlight, pollution, and UV damage. To add on, it helps tighten visible pores and exfoliate visible bumps, thereby helping the user flaunt red carpet-worthy legs that resemble Hollywood elites.

    Pros
    • Firms saggy skin
    • Protects against blue light damage
    • Activates collagen synthesis
    • Eases skin surface tension
    Cons
    • Causes a slight tingling sensation

    For those who wish to get rid of the dullness, cracks, and flakiness on your calves and inner thighs, choosing the best scrub for legs as per your skin type can be a brainstorming task. Hence, after having spoken to people with varying skin textures and conducting experiments with the most purchased options in the market, we bring to you a few factors that can make your buying a hassle-free process.

    How to Choose the Best Body Scrub for Legs?

    Here are a few factors that can serve as a road map in your purchasing journey -

    1. Composition of Ingredients: As the skin on the legs tends to be tougher than the skin on the face and lips, the product should be composed of AHAs like glycolic acid and lactic acid that gently decongest skin pores and prevent the occurrence of chicken skin. Moreover, it should be free from sulfates, phthalates, and parabens as they may cause allergies in people with sensitive skin and make the skin more susceptible to the stress caused by mechanical stressors or environmental pollutants. 

    2. Texture And Longevity: The scrubs for legs should have an easy blending, lightweight texture, and an easy spreading ability to facilitate proper oxygenation of the uppermost skin layer. Moreover, they should not get too clumpy very soon or be very runny as it would affect the overall functioning of the product. 

    3. Skin Type of Individual: The skin type of an individual plays an important role in selecting the best scrub for the legs that suit the individual. In the case of oily skin, it should contain actives like salicylic acid and tea tree oil to ease out accumulated dirt and prevent the invasion of bacteria and skin-infecting fungi. Whereas in the case of dry skin, it should contain more humectants, emollients, and occlusives to prevent moisture loss and improve skin elasticity. 

    For those who are new to the concept of ‘self-love,” there may be innumerable doubts about the right way of using a leg scrub hence, given below are a few steps that are easy to follow as a YouTube tutorial.

    How to Apply a Leg Scrub Properly?

    Here are a few easy steps to apply a leg scrub properly - 

    1. First, gently wash the surface of the skin with a soap or body wash. 
    2. Take a quarter-sized amount of the product. 
    3. Start applying the product and then gently rub it on the skin in circular motions. 
    4. Keep it for a while on your skin surface. 
    5. Rinse it with warm water. 
    6. Follow up with a moisturizer that best suits your skin.

    The hesitation to wear skirts, little dresses, and ripped jeans only comes when we are well aware that we do not take proper care of our legs, the only organs that support the entire weight of our bodies, and facilitate body balance. Although the skin on our legs is tougher than the skin on our face, exfoliating them once a week can indeed help get rid of tan, and dullness. To add on, scrubs help promote better absorption of body lotions and moisturizers, and prevent the growth of in-grown hairs.

    Given above are a few tried and tested recommendations of the best scrubs for legs that are non-abrasive, gentle, and immensely pampering in nature. Do go through our buying guide before making a purchase.

    FAQ's

    Do I use body scrub before or after soap?
    Although body scrub can be used both before and after using soap, it is best recommended to use it after the process of cleaning as it facilitates easier and better penetration of the product within the skin cells.
    Which is better, sugar or salt scrub?
    Both sugar and salt scrubs have potent exfoliating properties that help to improve texture, ward off dullness, and boost blood circulation, thereby enhancing overall skin health.
    How many minutes should I scrub my body?
    Scrubbing your legs for too long can lead to inflammation and skin redness, and make the skin prone to extrinsic stress. It is therefore advised not to scrub your skin for more than 30 minutes.
    Is it better to exfoliate in the morning or evening?
    Exfoliation can be done during any time of the day depending on the routine of an individual. However, it is always important to top the skin with a moisturizer to ensure restoration of skin hydration levels.
    Which is the best scrub to get rid of strawberry legs?
    One such product that works miraculously for strawberry legs and keratosis pilaris is the First Aid Beauty Kp Bump Eraser Body Scrub.
    How many times a week should you scrub your legs?
    To initiate cell turnover and promote better growth of new cells, it is important to exfoliate your skin twice a week.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Anoushka, our in-house skincare expert, believes that harsh abrasives can not just damage the epidermal layer of the skin but also affect the overall oxygenation of the skin, hence she strongly resists compositions that have abrasive beady textures. She is of the opinion that irrespective of age and gender, all skin types need gentle, pampering, tingling scrubs. This is why, when asked about her recommendations for natural exfoliants, she always ensures there is an element of moisture-retaining powers in the composition. However, this time when asked to prepare an overall list, she explored the best sellers in the market, conducted tests with the same, and then curated a list of the best available options that are useful for all people regardless of age and skin type. 

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health and fitness on board to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons.

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Anoushka Sinha
    Skincare Coach & Writer

    Anoushka is certified in Professional Skincare and is a Mass Media (Journalism) graduate from Mumbai University. As a More