I must admit, I don’t take care of the skin on my body the same way I do my face. I’m making a change, though, introducing glycolic acid body washes into my routine and keeping a body lotion on my nightstand.

I do occasionally use a body scrub (though I’m not a huge fan of the mess), as well as an African net sponge (I thank TikTok for introducing me to this one!). Adding an exfoliating wash in my routine, rather than a scrub, has been a great body shower hack. It reduces ingrown hair, leaves my skin smoother, and minimises any spots, bumps or dry areas (on knees and elbows).

Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy-acid (AHA), it’s an acid suitable for the face, neck and body. Glycolic acid has a smaller molecular size than other AHAs, so it can penetrate the skin more.

“Glycolic acid is excellent for resurfacing, brightening and smoothing the skin. It helps improve radiance, texture, pigmentation and fine lines, making it a very effective all-round exfoliating ingredient,” said Dr. Ahmed El Muntasar, The Aesthetics Doctor.

“The way glycolic acid acts is primarily on the stratum corneum (the uppermost layer of skin), by weakening the bonds that hold dead skin cells together in this layer. This allows the cells to shed more evenly and efficiently, leading to smoother texture and a brighter appearance,” said Dr. Alicia Gonzalez-Fernandez, aesthetic doctor in Knightsbridge and GP.

“In addition to exfoliation, glycolic acid can help unclog pores and enhance the skin’s ability to absorb other skincare products. With consistent, appropriate use, it supports clearer-looking, more radiant skin,” added Dr. Alicia Gonzalez-Fernandez.

Meet the experts

How I tested

I tested each product for about a week, focusing on one specific part of my body. I did this to ensure I could see how each product works individually. I used each glycolic body wash once per day, or less, depending on the brand’s usage guidelines.

Although this isn’t the best practice, for the purposes of testing, I decided to skip body lotion altogether, while using the glycolic acid body washes, to see how my skin would feel after, without the addition of other products that would interfere with the results. However, I’d recommend after using any sort of acid, whether on the face or body, to follow with a moisturising lotion or cream that will further support the skin’s barrier.

Why you can trust me

I’m a beauty journalist and qualified facialist with over a decade of experience in the field. I love testing out products and reviewing them, authentically and honestly. I’ve thoroughly reviewed beauty tech, skincare and makeup for publications like Glamour, IndyBest, Cosmopolitan, HuffPost US and others.

As someone who has had acne since my teens, I know the journey to skin health isn’t linear nor easy. I focus on long-term results rather than “quick” fixes or TikTok beauty hacks.

Ahead, the best glycolic acid washes, tried and tested.