The $7 Exfoliating ‘Body Polish’ a Dermatologist Uses To Keep Her Skin Smooth All Summer

On any given summer day, you’re likely sweating more, layering on sunscreen and insect repellent, and spending more time in nature with dirt and sand. To get all that off—and to make sure your skin stays soft and smooth for the entirety of sundress season–you want to make sure you’re treating your body to a regular exfoliation practice. To do this on her own skin, Marisa Garshick, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, swears by Dove Exfoliating Body Polish ($7).

Exfoliation is important, particularly during the summer months, because it helps to slough away the dead skin cells on the surface of your skin. The buildup of skin cells can lead to dullness and clogged pores, and getting rid of them helps you stave off these concerns.  It also clears the path to allow your moisturizing to fully penetrate your skin for deeper hydration.

Choosing the right body exfoliant means striking a delicate balance between something that’s effective enough to work, but not so aggressive that it will strip your skin. According to Dr. Garshick, that’s exactly what Dove’s body polish does.

“What’s nice about the Dove body polish is essentially it’s going to get rid of the dead skin cells,” says Dr. Garshick. “It’s a gentle formulation that uses mechanical exfoliation to physically lift away the dead skin cells, but it’s also formulated with nourishing and hydrating and moisturizing ingredients so it’s not going to leave your skin feeling irritated. It’s a great option this time of year, just because you’re going to get the dual benefit.”

The formula’s texture feels almost like a lotion—it’s very creamy—with teeny, tiny granules sprinkled throughout. These granules are made from naturally-derived ingredients, like brown sugar, crushed almonds, pomegranate seeds, and crushed macadamia nuts, and paired with skin-nourishing butters like coconut, mango, and shea.

“It has lots of different scent variations, so a lot of people in the summer months may opt for a nice fruity fragrance or what not,” says Dr. Garshick. “It’s a nice indulgence that just helps the skin overall feel better and look better.”

Shop the Dove Exfoliating Body Polish

Dove Exfoliating Body Polish Crushed Macadamia & Rice Milk — $7.00

Dove Exfoliating Body Polish Crushed Almond & Mango Butter — $7.00

Dove Exfoliating Body Polish Brown Sugar & Coconut Butter — $7.00

Dove Exfoliating Body Polish Pomegranate Seeds & Shea Butter — $7.00

Want to be the first to hear about the latest (and greatest) SHOP product drops, custom collections, discounts, and more? Sign up to have the intel delivered straight to your inbox.