A Luxurious Self-Care Routine Starts With These Expert-Approved Exfoliating Gloves

• Microbiome-friendly

• May not be best for super dry skin

According to Touati, Nerrā’s exfoliating gloves are the first certified microbiome-friendly exfoliating gloves in the world. Made of biodegradable plant fabric, the gloves come in a set with one beige glove for gentle exfoliation and one black glove for deeper exfoliation. While the gloves can be purchased separately, they are also available as part of the luxe Bathhouse Ritual Set, which is stocked with the brand’s Pre-Exfoliating Foam, body wash, and jasmine-wood body oil. Samantha Susca, lead esthetician at The Spa at Casa Cipriani in New York City, says the brand is “phenomenal,” especially the Ritual Set, which “has all the products needed for the best exfoliation results and a spa-at-home experience.”

Material: 100 percent biodegradable plant fabric

Nordstrom rating:

• Eco-friendly

• Some say the texture feels too soft for proper exfoliation

Designed for dry skin, EcoTools’ Exfoliating Bath & Shower Gloves “are like a glow-boosting polish for your body,” says celebrity esthetician Ian Michael Crumm. The gloves are made from recycled fabric that has a loofah-like texture and provides a moderate level of exfoliation. “Use it one to two times per week after your skin’s been softened by warm water in the shower or bath,” Crumm says. “That’s your golden window, when the glove can do its job without being abrasive.”

Material: Loofah-like fabric

Ulta rating: 4.5/5 stars

Our expert says: “This exfoliating glove sweeps away dead skin, supports circulation, and helps your serums, lotions, and body oils absorb more effectively. Bonus: It can also help prevent ingrown hairs and a rough [skin] texture.”—Ian Michael Crumm

• Machine-washable

• The texture is too rough for some

“The benefits of exfoliating gloves have been known for thousands of years. Traditionally, a treatment called hammam, originating from Morocco and Turkey, uses these gloves as a weekly bathing ritual,” Susca says. This authentic Moroccan glove is one of her go-to picks for bringing the ancient ritual home. “The benefits of using it, besides the removal of dead skin, include increased product absorption following the use of the glove, lymphatic and detox support of the entire body, and improved circulation, as well as prevention and temporary improvement of cellulite,” she says.

Material: 100 percent natural viscose fiber

Amazon rating: 4.3/5 stars

Our expert says: “This is an authentic kessa glove from Morocco. It’s high quality and works well. It’s also the best in durability and lasts a long time.”—Samantha Susca

• Stimulates circulation

• May not be best for everyday use

Inspired by French holistic beauty techniques, Bityospa’s exfoliating glove is made of durable Kessa fabric. When moved across wet, damp skin in circular motions, the glove sloughs off dead skin cells, stimulates circulation, and improves lymphatic flow. You can buy the glove on its own, or up the ante with the brand’s new Body Spa Kit. The latter comes with an exfoliating shower gel, a glove, and a hydrating lotion to smooth on post-exfoliation.

Material: Durable Kessa fabric with microfibers

Credo rating: 4.9/5 stars

Our expert says: “This is a great exfoliating glove for stimulating circulation and lymphatic flow, which is super beneficial as it helps direct toxins out of your body. It will also remove dead skin cells and leave your skin feeling smooth and refreshed. As an added benefit, this one has an elastic around the wrist area which will help secure the mitt to your hand and give you more control.” —Anna Chacon, MD, board-certified dermatologist in Miami, Florida

• Minimizes razor bumps

• Softer than most exfoliators

As opposed to its mitt-shaped counterparts, “This one has actual finger slots, which is unique and an option some people prefer,” Dr. Chacon says. “This is a great, luxurious-feeling product that removes dead skin, promotes lymph movement, and increases circulation. It will leave you with soft, radiant, and silky skin.” This is also a good glove for those seeking a more streamlined exfoliating experience. While some should not be used with products, as they could create a residue that gets in the way of the gloves’ exfoliating properties, you’re free to squeeze some body wash into Agent Nateur’s set—the gloves will actually help the product lather.

Material: Not disclosed

Socialite Beauty & Wellness rating: 5/5 stars

Our expert says: “Agent Nateur Body Scrub Gloves are the perfect option for those looking to exfoliate away dead skin cells, unclog pores, prevent ingrown hairs, and promote circulation. It will also help minimize razor bumps. You can use this mitt with body wash in the shower.”—Anna Chacon, MD

• Revives dull or dry skin, prevents ingrown hairs

• Doesn’t always stay snug on the hand

“This body mitt is perfect for buffing away dead skin cells,” says Dr. Chacon. “After treatment, your skin will look more radiant and smooth.” With a gentler texture than some of the other exfoliating gloves, this one is also ideal for those prone to ingrown hairs. When smoothed across the skin in a circular motion, it helps unblock hair follicles to prevent pesky growths.

Material: 100 percent viscose fabric

Dermstore rating: 4.17/2 stars

Our expert says: “​This glove is gentle, which I love, but it gets the job done and will not leave your skin feeling tight. It's also a great solution for those with ingrown hairs, which makes it an especially good choice for those who wax, [since waxing can cause ingrown hairs].”—Anna Chacon, MD

• Good value, multipurpose

• Covers just the fingers

Fur’s fan-favorite finger mittens were initially sold with the brand’s Ingrown Concentrate, but due to popular demand, they’re now sold on their own. They are available in packs of three, and each one is double-sided. The softer side is ideal for polishing sensitive skin, while the more textured side is suitable for buffing rough areas. Also ace at whisking away dirt and debris, the mittens can be paired with a face wash and used to cleanse the face.

Material: 50 percent cotton, 50 percent nylon

Ulta rating: 4.9/5 stars

Our expert says: “If you wax your hair, this is a great product to use because you can use the softer side on freshly waxed skin without creating irritation.”—Anna Chacon, MD

• Removes makeup

• Not designed for full-body use

“This mitt is a cult favorite for a reason,” says esthetician and Eddy Skin founder Ariana Roque. The Magcic Mitt is made of microfibers specially knitted to exfoliate the skin while breaking down oils that keep makeup stuck on the face. “It effortlessly removes makeup with just water,” Roque notes. “It’s a great option for anyone who wants a minimalist, skin-friendly cleansing routine that doesn’t strip the barrier.”

Material: Knitted microfiber cloth

Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars

Our expert says: “The Jane Iredale Magic Mitt is incredibly gentle, making it a great option for patients with sensitive or rosacea-prone skin. It works primarily as a makeup remover with very light exfoliation.”—Dr. Hannah Kopelman, dermatologist at Kopelman Aesthetic Surgery in New York City

• Affordable

• The gloves don’t have a loop for hanging dry

“Earth Therapeutics Exfoliating Hydro Gloves are a solid option for regular, all-over exfoliation,” says Nikki Bruce, medical esthetician at Seaside Skincare in San Clemente, California. “The texture strikes a nice balance—not too rough, not too soft—and the gloves pair well with your favorite body wash.”

Material: 100 percent nylon

Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars

Our expert says: “These are durable, affordable, and easy to use in the shower for consistent results.”—Nikki Bruce

• Provides deep exfoliation

• May be too harsh for sensitive skin

Those with sensitive skin should use this K-beauty mitt with caution. However, for those who can tolerate its rough texture, the viscose cloth offers numerous benefits, including exfoliating dead or dry skin cells and clarifying the pores. Designed for use on post-shower (or post-bath) skin, the body scrubber works best without shower gel or soap. “The Goldsanga Songwol washcloth is traditional and very effective for deep exfoliation,” says Dr. Kopelman. “I usually recommend it for thicker or oilier skin types that can tolerate a stronger exfoliating experience.”

Material: 100 percent viscose rayon

Amazon rating: 4.1/5 stars

Our expert says: “This is a deep exfoliator that works, but it's not for the faint of skin. It's a traditional Korean-style mitt that delivers dramatic, visible results, especially when used on damp skin.” —Nikki Bruce

• Prevents ingrown hairs

• Exfoliation could be stronger

An Amazon favorite for erasing all traces of self-tanner, Seraphic Skincare’s exfoliating mitt is made of plant-based fabric that shrinks to fit the hand when wet. To use it, soften the skin in the shower or bath for about 15 minutes, then use circular motions to gently whisk the glove over any rough (or still faux-tanned) areas. The treatment also helps unclog pores and prevent ingrown hairs. As a bonus, the glove comes with a loop that makes it easy to hang and dry. “The Seraphic mitt offers a great at-home spa experience, lifting away dead skin visibly after just one use,” says Dr. Kopelman. “I remind patients to moisturize thoroughly afterward to lock in hydration.”

Material: 100% vegan viscose

Amazon rating: 4.3/5 stars

Our expert says: “This is a top-tier recommendation for at-home spa results. It provides satisfying, visible exfoliation and leaves skin noticeably softer and smoother after just one use. It’s excellent for treating keratosis pilaris, prepping for self-tanner, or simply refreshing dull skin.”—Nikki Bruce

• Treats keratosis pilaris

• Tends to wear out after about a month

Amazon’s top-selling exfoliating glove is “one of the most effective mittens on the market,” says Bruce. Ideal for those with keratosis pilaris, the product visibly lifts dry skin to reveal smooth, radiant limbs underneath. Bruce adds that it’s well-known for effectively improving skin texture. “I highly recommend this for deep-exfoliating enthusiasts,” she says.

Material: Silicone-free viscose

Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars

Our expert says: “Dermasuri’s mitt is a favorite for achieving that ‘baby soft’ skin feel. It's excellent for prepping the skin before self-tanning or special events—but it should be used carefully to avoid over-exfoliation.”—Dr. Hannah Kopelman

Anna Chacon, MD is a board-certified dermatologist in Miami, Florida.

Ian Michael Crumm is a celebrity esthetician.

Dr. Hannah Kopelman is a dermatologist at Kopelman Aesthetic Surgery in New York City

Ariana Roque is an esthetician and the founder of Eddy Skin.

Samantha Susca is the lead esthetician at The Spa at Casa Cipriani in New York City.

Teyma Touati is a certified cosmetic formulator and the founder of Nerrā.

Too much of anything isn’t ideal. “If you overdo it with an exfoliating—or use too much pressure—you risk irritation, redness, or even micro-tears in the skin,” Crumm says. “And if you’re not cleaning and drying the glove properly? Bacteria can build up, which is the opposite of what we want for healthy, radiant skin.”

“Most skin types can benefit from using an exfoliating glove, especially those with dry patches or concerns like keratosis pilaris,” Crumm says. “If your skin is on the sensitive side, opt for a gentler texture and don’t overdo it—again, less is more when it comes to exfoliation.”

“[At Nerrā], we recommend replacing your exfoliating glove every three to four months, depending on how often you use it,” Touati says. “Like a toothbrush or razor, it’s a personal care item that naturally wears down over time. Regular replacement ensures both hygiene and optimal performance, so you’re always exfoliating with a clean, effective tool.” Different brands have different recommendations for replacement—for example, EcoTools products should be replaced monthly, while Dermasuri’s last four to six months, so be sure to study up on how long your exfoliating glove is meant to last.

As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com 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, ELLE.com contributor Jenny Berg consulted skin experts to find the best exfoliating gloves for all skin types.