I’m pretty big on exfoliation, whether it involves using chemical exfoliants like AHAs and BHAs or just a physical scrub. What I hadn’t really considered adding to my routine, however, was an exfoliating glove. I know what you’re thinking. It sounds totally weird and unnecessary, right? Well, maybe to some, but I asked a dermatologist, who thinks otherwise.
Board-certified dermatologist Brendan Camp, MD, breaks down what this random product is and the benefits offered when you give it a go. “Exfoliating gloves are mitts made of a rough-textured yarn or [other] material that is typically used in the shower with a cleanser to polish and buff the skin,” says Camp. “Exfoliating gloves aid in the natural process of exfoliation, or removal of dead skin cells. The benefits of [using] exfoliating gloves include smoother and more radiant skin, improved penetration of skincare products, prevention of ingrown hairs, treatment of keratosis pilaris, and prevention of acne breakouts.”
The best part? Most exfoliating gloves are dirt cheap—I’m talking $5 cheap. There is, however, an important note Camp has before he can fully give you the green light to try for yourself. “Because over-exfoliation can cause dry, irritated, red, or sensitive skin, exfoliating gloves are best used only once or twice a week,” he explains. This is important if you have sensitive skin, but there are also glove options on this list that are gentle enough to be used daily. For a few of Camp’s favorite exfoliating gloves and some of our own recs, keep reading below.
“This exfoliating mitt, which comes in a variety of colors, is made of a unique crepe fabric to gently exfoliate skin and remove excess oil and impurities.” — Camp
“These gloves come in different textures, each of which offers a different degree of roughness so that you can fine-tune your exfoliation to your needs. There are also fingerless options to protect your manicure.” — Camp
“This mitt is designed especially for use on the face to gently exfoliate dead skin, remove makeup residue, and prepare the skin for the application of serums and moisturizers.” — Camp
Featuring natural bamboo fiber, this bath-and-shower mitt is extra gentle and great for those who have sensitive skin. This set comes with two gloves and exfoliates things like blackheads and rough skin away in record time.
Ameliorate’s Exfoliating Body Mitt buffs away dead skin cells with an innovative fabric that is designed to be gentler than a traditional loofah. This one works well for those who have dry, bumpy skin or keratosis pilaris.
Give yourself the spa treatment at home with Dermasuri’s Deep Exfoliating Mitt. Some like to use a bodywash or polish with an exfoliating glove, but this mitt works wonders with just water. It’s made of a unique silicone-free viscose blended material to leave skin extra radiant, soft, and glowing after use. It can also extend the life of any sunless tan.
This set of exfoliating gloves can be used in the shower and provide mild microdermabrasion to the skin. This set can also be used to buff out self-tanner without being overly harsh.
Fundrem Exfoliating Gloves provide rough, itchy, bumpy, and dry skin with deep yet gentle exfoliation. The texture of the gloves is rough enough to scrub away dead skin cells and clear blocked pores yet soft enough to leave skin ultra smooth and buffed without dryness.
If you’re feeling extra bougie, why not go for a silk option? Âme Pure’s 100% pure cocoon silk glove will transform your skin in seconds without damaging or scratching your skin.
EcoTools offers another great in-shower pair of gloves that can be used with your favorite scrub, bodywash, or just water.
Natural Elephant’s glove is made of a soft microfiber material and can be used on both your face and body. It can also help improve blood circulation and promote skin regeneration.
These medium-level exfoliating gloves aren’t too light or too heavy—they’re just right. They’re gentle enough to be used daily, and your skin will appear brighter and smoother overall. Another great option for those with KP.
