Exfoliating Body Scrub
Exfoliating Body Scrub
Product Description
Dove Exfoliating Body Scrub in Pomegranate Seeds & Shea Butter is a creamy, whipped physical scrub formulated with ΒΌ moisturizing cream. Beach-sand-sized particles from hydrated silica and real pomegranate seed powder gently buff away dull, dry skin, while glycerin and shea butter nourish as you exfoliate β leaving skin silky smooth without feeling stripped.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Dual Exfoliation
Combines hydrated silica with real pomegranate seed powder to physically buff away dead, flaky skin for a smoother surface.
ΒΌ Moisturizing Cream
Built on Dove's signature nourishing cream so skin feels cared for, not stripped, after scrubbing.
Glycerin Hydration
A high level of glycerin draws moisture into skin, helping it stay supple even after rinsing.
Sustainable & Kind
No plastic microbeads, delivered in a jar made from 100% recycled plastic, and PETA cruelty-free.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
No retinoids, hydroquinone, BHA actives, or chemical sunscreens. The "salicylate" present is benzyl salicylate (a fragrance ester), not a BHA. Generally considered safe β confirm with your doctor.
Contains fatty acids and esters (stearic acid, lauric acid, cetearyl alcohol, jojoba esters, shea butter) that can feed malassezia. Not recommended if you are prone to fungal acne.
Contains parfum plus EU-listed allergens linalool, hexyl cinnamal and benzyl salicylate. Sensitive or reactive skin should patch test first.
Uses gritty particles rather than acids. Use a gentle hand and avoid broken or sunburned skin to prevent micro-tears.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π Hydrated Silica ~3β5% Proven
The primary physical exfoliant. Hydrated silica is a mineral abrasive that mechanically lifts away dead surface cells, giving the scrub its "beach-sand-sized" buffing action and helping to smooth rough, dull patches.
- Function: Mineral abrasive and absorbent that provides controlled physical exfoliation.
- Texture role: Delivers the moderate grit without sharp edges, so it's gentler than nut shells or salt.
π Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Seed Powder <1% Promising
Ground real pomegranate seeds act as a secondary, biodegradable exfoliant β a natural alternative to plastic microbeads β while reinforcing the fruity theme of the scrub.
- Function: Natural exfoliating particle that buffs alongside hydrated silica.
- Eco note: Plant-based and biodegradable, unlike banned plastic microbeads.
π§ Glycerin ~8β12% Proven
Second on the ingredient list, glycerin is a powerful humectant that pulls water into the skin. It offsets the potential dryness of physical scrubbing, so skin feels hydrated rather than tight after rinsing.
- Source: A 2016 study found glycerin to be a more effective humectant than AHAs and hyaluronic acid.
- Barrier: Helps maintain hydration that supports a healthy skin barrier.
π§ Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter <1% Proven
Shea butter is a rich emollient packed with fatty acids and antioxidants. It forms a soft protective film that softens skin and helps lock in moisture as part of the "ΒΌ moisturizing cream" claim.
- Function: Emollient that softens and conditions while trapping moisture.
- Bonus: Naturally rich in antioxidants and skin-replenishing fatty acids.
𫧠Sodium Lauroyl Isethionate ~3β6% Proven
A mild, coconut-derived cleansing agent ("SLI") that gives the scrub a soft, creamy lather. It cleanses gently without the stripping feel of harsh sulfates like SLS.
- Function: Gentle surfactant for a creamy, low-stripping cleanse.
- Why it matters: Lets the product double as a light wash while you exfoliate.
π° Jojoba Esters <1% Promising
Derived from jojoba oil, these esters mimic skin's natural sebum to soften and smooth. They add slip and a conditioned after-feel to the formula.
- Function: Emollient and film-former with high oxidative stability.
- Feel: Helps the scrub glide and leaves skin feeling soft, not squeaky.
29 ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Hydrated Silica, Sodium Lauroyl Isethionate, Stearic Acid, Sodium Stearate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Parfum, Sodium Palmitate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Lauric Acid, Sodium Isethionate, Jojoba Esters, Phenoxyethanol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Palm Kernelate, Tetrasodium EDTA, Sodium Benzoate, Zinc Oxide, Punica Granatum Seed Powder, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter, Sodium Hydroxide, Benzyl Salicylate, Hexyl Cinnamal, Linalool, CI 77491, CI 77891, CI 17200.
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use 3β4 times per week. Massage onto wet skin in the shower before cleansing with your usual body wash, then follow with lotion to lock in softness.
π How to Use
Wet skin in the shower
Step into a warm shower and let your skin soften under the water for a minute before exfoliating.
Scoop a generous amount
Take a generous scoop from the jar (do this before getting your hands fully wet to avoid water getting inside).
Massage in circles
Massage all over your body in gentle circular motions, focusing on rough areas like elbows, knees and feet.
Rinse & moisturize
Rinse away to reveal silky-smooth skin, then seal in hydration with a body lotion or oil.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You want an affordable, everyday body scrub from a trusted drugstore brand
- You have dry, dull, or "strawberry skin" / keratosis pilaris bumps
- You like a creamy, nourishing scrub rather than a dry, gritty one
- You prefer cruelty-free formulas without plastic microbeads
- You enjoy a sweet, fruity pomegranate scent
β Consider alternatives if:
- You are prone to fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You need a fragrance-free formula for very reactive skin
- You prefer chemical (AHA/BHA) exfoliation over physical scrubbing
- You dislike scooping product from a jar in the shower
- You have active eczema, wounds, or sunburn
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Glycerin and shea butter buffer the scrubbing so flaky, dry skin is smoothed and left soft, not tight.
A reliable weekly polish that keeps body skin smooth and even without over-drying.
Many reviewers report it helps with back and body acne, but avoid if your breakouts are fungal in nature.
Fragrance and physical grit may irritate reactive skin. Use a light hand and patch test first.
Multiple fatty acids and esters can feed malassezia β not recommended for this concern.
π Results Timeline
Instantly smoother, softer skin
Right after rinsing, dead surface cells are buffed away and skin feels noticeably silkier, with a light lingering pomegranate scent.
~85% noticedLess rough texture & bumps
With 3β4 uses per week, rough patches on elbows, knees and "strawberry skin" / KP bumps appear visibly smoother.
~70% noticedBrighter, more even-looking skin
Consistent exfoliation paired with moisturizing leaves skin looking more radiant and feeling continuously soft.
~60% noticedβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Leaves skin genuinely silky-smooth and soft
- Creamy, non-harsh texture that doubles as a light wash
- Lovely, long-lasting fruity pomegranate scent
- Very affordable and widely available
- Helps with body acne, KP and "strawberry skin"
- Cruelty-free, no microbeads, recycled jar
β Criticized
- Jar packaging is awkward and lets water in during showers
- Fragrance + allergens unsuitable for very sensitive skin
- Not fungal-acne safe
- Physical scrubbing can feel rough/drying if overused
- Travel size feels small for the price
- No high-tech actives β exfoliation is purely mechanical
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Larger 18 oz size with sugar + shea butter. Oilier, more moisturizing finish but messier; uses sugar instead of silica beads for exfoliation.
19 oz of sugar-based scrub with shea butter and essential oils. Highly rated and cheaper per ounce, but more oil-residue feel than Dove's creamy rinse-off.
Big 21 oz tub with added "actives" like retinol or hyaluronic acid versions. Cheapest per ounce, but simpler, more basic formula and texture.
π Comparison with Competitors
Dove Exfoliating Body Scrub (This Product)
$7.97Tree Hut Shea Sugar Scrub
$7.97Dr Teal's Shea Sugar Scrub
$6.98SheaMoisture SuperFruit Scrub
$11.99π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight; keep the lid closed and avoid letting excess water into the jar.
Wide-mouth screw-top jar made from 100% recycled, recyclable plastic.
The 15 oz jar is over the 100 ml carry-on limit; choose the 3.5 oz travel size for cabin bags.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Generally, yes. It contains no retinoids, hydroquinone, BHA/salicylic acid actives, or chemical sunscreen filters. The benzyl salicylate listed is a fragrance ester, not a BHA exfoliant. As with any product, fragrance can be a sensitivity for some during pregnancy, so confirm with your doctor or midwife if you have concerns.
No. The formula contains several fatty acids and esters β stearic acid, lauric acid, cetearyl alcohol, jojoba esters and shea butter β that can feed malassezia yeast. If you are prone to fungal acne / malassezia folliculitis, this is not the best choice.
Yes, with care. This is a rinse-off physical body scrub, so it doesn't layer or chemically clash with leave-on actives. Just avoid using it on the same day you apply strong body AHAs/BHAs or retinoids, since combining chemical and physical exfoliation can over-irritate skin. Space them out and listen to your skin.
It's best for dry, normal and combination body skin, and for those dealing with rough texture, keratosis pilaris ("strawberry skin") or general dullness. Sensitive skin should patch test due to fragrance, and fungal-acne-prone skin should look elsewhere.
Skin feels smoother and softer immediately after the first use. Used 3β4 times a week, most people notice reduced roughness and smoother bumps within 1β2 weeks, and brighter, more even-looking skin after about a month of consistent use.
Use it in the shower on wet skin before your body wash. Massage in circular motions, rinse, then towel dry and follow with a body lotion or oil to seal in moisture. In the morning, finish exposed skin with sunscreen.
Low risk. As a rinse-off scrub, it has limited contact time with skin, so pore-clogging potential is modest (around 2/5). It does contain shea butter and fatty acids, so if you're very breakout-prone on the body, rinse thoroughly and monitor how your skin responds.
Approximately 12 months after opening (12M PAO). To keep it fresh, store it in a cool, dry spot, keep the lid sealed, and avoid scooping with wet hands or letting shower water collect inside the jar.
Verdict: The Dove Pomegranate & Shea Butter Exfoliating Body Scrub is a reliable, budget-friendly physical exfoliator that punches above its price. Its creamy ΒΌ-moisturizing-cream base, glycerin and shea butter keep skin soft rather than stripped, and shoppers consistently praise the smooth results and irresistible fruity scent. It loses points for the splash-prone jar, a fragrance load that doesn't suit very sensitive or fungal-acne-prone skin, and purely mechanical exfoliation with no advanced actives. For most people wanting smoother, softer body skin on a drugstore budget, it's an easy, cruelty-free win.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skinβs own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging Β«promisesΒ» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Hydrated Silica
Absorbent, Abrasive
|
|
|
| 0 |
Sodium Lauroyl Isethionate
Cleansing, Foaming, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Stearic Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Emulsion Stabilising, Emulsifying, Sufactant, Refatting, Cleansing
|
|