The 9 Best Butt Scrubs To Fight Pesky Buttne, Keratosis Pilaris, and Beyond

Even though our booties can be prone to roughness, dryness and pimples, our backsides don’t often get the same high priority treatment as, say, our faces. For those suffering from butt acne or keratosis pilaris (those tiny inflamed bumps which are super common, but can be annoying nonetheless), using a butt scrub can help smooth things over. If you really want to keep your derriere as smooth, hydrated and blemish-free as possible, exfoliating with a butt scrub every now and then can work wonders to clear your skin and give you a softer bum.

The benefits of exfoliating your bum

For those unfamiliar or who need a little fresher, exfoliation refers to the process of removing dead cells from the surface of the skin. This can increase skin radiance, even out texture, and unclog pores, according to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Joshua Zeichner, MD. Additionally, it helps promote cellular turnover so that newer and healthy skin sits at the surface. 

The two kinds of exfoliators to choose from—for any surface

FYI, there are are two type of exfoliants that you can use in your skin-care routine: Chemical and manual. Chemical exfoliants (aka, peels and tonics) work by breaking down the bonds that hold cells together and manual exfoliants (these usually come in scrub form you apply and massage into the skin) use friction to slough off dead skin. In choosing a butt scrub, it’s better to select products that are gentle and contain alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), which are known for their ability to break down dead skin without causing damage to the skin.

“When looking for an exfoliator for the backside, I recommend looking for a product with glycolic or lactic acid, which helps to gently exfoliate without irritation,” according to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD. She later added that sticking with chemical exfoliants and products that contain urea (a type of humectant), are often better to use on the buttocks than physical exfoliants because they are less likely to irritate the skin. 

Whether you want a smooth bottom or a pimple-free derriere, here are some of the best butt scrubs and solutions to help your bum look (and feel) its best.

The best scrubs and solutions for your butt

DERMAdoctor KP Duty Dermatologist Formulated Body Scrub — $50.00

This DERMAdoctor KP Duty body scrub is no joke when it comes to giving your buttocks a smooth new surface. It uses both chemical and manual exfoliation to help zap away buttne and bumps, thanks to keratosis pilaris. The formula contains glycolic acid and lactic acid, as well as several different plant extracts like to really amp up the exfoliation. But just FYI: The scrub should not be used on super sensitive skin. Just take a small amount, rub it in, rinse, and you’re good to go.

Peach and Lily KP Bump Boss Microderm Body Scrub — $28.00

If an ingrown hair on your bum has been killing your vibe, this Peach and Lily Peach and Lily KP Bump Boss Microderm Body Scrub is here to help. The glycolic and lactic acids inside help break down layers of dead skin around the hair follicles, while mineral crystals gently buff and polish your derriere. And thanks to skin-care-friendly ingredients like hyaluronic acid (a moisturizing agent) and squalane (a type of compound that draws in moisture and water), the skin on your bum will stay smooth and hydrated. 

True Botanicals Body Love Bum Scrub — $42.00

Unlike other manual exfoliators that can sometimes irritate the skin and cause micro tears, this True Botanicals Body Love Bum Scrub is very  gentle. Mainly because it  uses black willow bark,  a natural and physical exfoliant that helps calm the skin and target redness. Additionally, the scrub uses coconut husks, bamboo powder and jojoba beads to help smooth the surface of your butt.

Skinfix Resurface+ Glycolic and Lactic Acid Renewing Body Scrub — $32.00

If the skin on your backside is looking a bit dull and uneven from past breakouts, consider this Skinfix Resurface+ Glycolic and Lactic Acid Renewing Body Scrub a way to give it the glow-up it needs. The creamy formula has 13 percent glycolic and lactic acid, and a bit of willow bark extract to help unclog your pores and prevent future blemishes. It’s also a body scrub, so you can also use it on other areas prone to bumps and uneven-ness, such as your chest and legs. Just be sure to apply it to dry skin and rinse once finished. 

Sol De Janeiro Bum Bum Body Scrub — $10.00

Just like the brand’s famous Bum Bum Cream, the Bum Bum Body Scrub smells like a tropical paradise and gives you a baby-soft bottom. However, we really love it for its exfoliating powers. The scrub uses a unique blend of cupuaçu seeds, sugar crystals, and guaraná (a plant extract with antimicrobial properties) to help buff and polish your backside. Together these ingredients work as a natural exfoliant to remove dead skin. Plus, your cheeks will get some extra hydration, thanks to the emollient properties from the coconut oil.

Dermalogica Thermafoliant Body Scrub — $44.00

For those looking to smooth out their skin all over their body, this formula from Dermologica may be for you.  Its key ingredients include lactic acid malic acid, as well as a bit of olive oil to give your bum a radiant glow. Plus, it helps protect your skin against radical damage through the presence of different antioxidants. Apply it to wet skin two to three times weekly. 

Anese That Booty Tho Walnut Shell Booty Scrub — $29.00

This scrub is a major fan-favorite, with over 3,000 people singing its praises. A lot of the hype has to do with its natural ingredients and ability to help tighten and moisturize the skin on your booty. Its formula includes a combination of hydrating shea butter, aloe vera, and crushed walnut.

Dove Exfoliating Body Polish — $6.00

While we know this isn’t exactly a scrub (rather, it’s a “polish”), it can be used just like one. Inside, it has tiny exfoliating particles to help transform your skin from rough and dry to silky smooth. The formula is also made with moisturizing cream, so your bum gets A+ hydration as you exfoliate.

Bliss Clear Genius Clarifying Gel Cleanser — $11.00

Originally $15, now $11

A personal fave of Dr. Zeichner is this Bliss Clear Genius Clarifying Gel Cleanser. Although this may not be a scrub, it does contain salicylic acid (a type of beta hydroxy acid that helps unclog your pores and promotes exfoliation) and willow bark extract to help remove dirt from your skin. Use by itself or pair with a scrub when you shower—you’ll have a silky-soft booty in days.