If you have dull or troubled skin, it may be time to replace your worn-out washcloths and loofahs with a bath brush. Making the switch may improve your bathing routine and provide unique benefits such as improved circulation and relief from body acne.
There are many kinds of bath brushes with different bristle and handle types to suit the needs of all users. If you want a bath brush that offers both the sudzing capabilities of a soft loofah on one side and the gentle exfoliation of a brush on the other, then the Hedume Shower Body Brush would be a good choice for you.
What to know before you buy a bath brush
What is a bath brush?
Bath brushes can be used all over the body in the shower and bath. Depending on the brush, it can also be used on dry skin for extra exfoliation. Often fixed on a longer handle or easily held in the palm of your hand, bath brushes can be used with soap or on their own. The benefits of using a bath brush include:
Exfoliation as the brush can loosen and remove dead skin cells.
Assistance in treating acne by effectively unblocking pores and removing dirt and oil.
Increase of blood circulation to promote better lymphatic drainage.
Brush type
Because there are different brush varieties made with different bristles, it may be useful to know what kinds of brushes are more compatible with your intended use.
Loofah: Loofah brushes can be the soft nylon puffs that are ideal for creating soap suds. These can also be natural sponge loofahs that resemble a tubular shape, although these are less common and not good for sensitive skin. Loofahs should be used with water.
Silicone: These are typically shorter nubbed brushes that are meant only for wet use. Silicone brushes are good to use with soap and a suitable option for individuals with body acne because of their antimicrobial properties.
Bristle: Bristle brushes are made from natural hairs or fiber as well as nylon. Natural bristles tend to be softer on the skin and better for more frequent use. These brushes can be used both wet and dry and are best for exfoliation.
How to use a bath brush
The correct way to use your bath brush will depend on whether you are using it wet or dry since not all bath brushes are suitable for use on dry skin. For more brush options specifically for dry use, refer to the dry brush buying guide from BestReviews.
Wet use: With light pressure, rub your skin in circular motions. You can apply soap directly on the brush or on the skin. Be careful not to miss soles of the feet and tops of hands for better circulation. It’s also important to use lukewarm water as hot water can strip the skin of the natural oils and cause dryness.
Dry use: Prior to bathing and with gentle short strokes, use the brush on dry skin. Stroking the dry brush towards the direction of your heart promotes normal lymphatic drainage flow throughout your body. Avoid using the dry brush on your face as this could cause superficial scratching.
Bath brush features
Handle options
Most bath brushes will come with ergonomic handles that are longer and curved to accommodate as many levels of mobility as possible. There are also bath brush options that have smaller handles or straps that fit over the hand so the brush is secured and can be used without slipping.
Electronic options
Electronic bath brushes that vibrate or rotate automatically may be useful for individuals that are unable to achieve the mechanical motion of brushing on their own. Additionally, they can offer a deeper and more penetrative massage for sore, tired muscles. Most mechanized bath brushes will come with interchangeable heads to customize their use.
Bath brush care
Because bath brushes are used in water, they can run the risk of developing mold or bacteria if not cared for properly. After use, hang the brush upside down so the bristles can dry properly and the water won’t stay pooled up in the crevices of the brush face.
If your bath brush is made from wood or some other natural material, you may consider using linseed oil to preserve the wood as best as possible.
Bath brush cost
The cost of a bath brush will depend on if you choose a manual or electronic option or if there are multiple brushes offered in a set. For this reason, prices can range from $6-$160. However, most choices land in the mid-range price point of $8-$13.
Bath brush FAQ
How long do bath brushes last?
A. Depending on the brush, most bath brushes should be replaced after two months to reduce the risk of developing bacteria. On the other hand, silicone options can last for much longer as they are more durable and less susceptible to carrying bacteria.
Is it possible to overuse a bath brush?
A. Yes. With bristle brushes in particular you can run the risk of over-exfoliating and potentially irritating your skin. To avoid this, use a bath brush with bristles only four to five times a week.
Which bath brush should I get?
Best of the best bath brush
Hedume Shower Body Brush: available on Amazon
Our take: A good dual functioning brush that can offer exfoliating benefits from the brush side and everyday washing from the loofah side.
What we like: The long no-slip handle makes this bath brush easy to use and effective for getting difficult-to-reach places. The bristles are soft and delicate and can be used on wet or dry skin.
What we dislike: Some users said the loofah didn’t stay attached.
Best bang for the buck bath brush
HMPLL Body Brush Set: available on Amazon
Our take: A three-piece set of natural body brushes that directly targets dry skin and significantly improves circulation.
What we like: The set comes with a long-handled brush for hard-to-reach areas and two handheld body brushes for exfoliation. The natural boar bristles promote the healthy growth of new skin cells. One of the handheld brushes contains soft rubber nodules to massage and promote lymphatic drainage.
What we dislike: Some users claim the handle doesn’t have the best grip and can slip out of your hands during use.
Honorable mention bath brush
PMD Clean Body Smart Cleansing Device: available on Amazon and Ulta
Our take: A luxurious and rechargeable electric bath brush that can achieve all your bathing needs from deep massage to daily exfoliation.
What we like: The PMD Clean Body Brush comes with three different attachable heads that include a silver-infused loofah, aluminum oxide exfoliator and body massager. The Sonic Glow technology offers 7,000 vibrations a minute to exfoliate and firm the skin. The ultra-hygienic silicone is long-lasting and resistant to bacteria and odor.
What we dislike: This brush is expensive but has many capabilities and a one-year warranty.
Tessa Flores is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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