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Body Care

Body care guides covering everything from body acne and keratosis pilaris to building a moisturizing routine that gives you genuinely soft, healthy skin from the neck down.

Quick Answer

What's a basic body care routine?

A complete body care routine has four steps: gentle cleanse with a non-stripping body wash, weekly chemical exfoliation with AHA or BHA on rough areas, daily moisturization within 3 minutes of showering, and SPF on any exposed skin. For specific concerns (acne, KP, stretch marks), add targeted treatments at night.

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Frequently asked questions about body care

Is body skin different from face skin?
Yes. Body skin is generally thicker, less sensitive, and has fewer oil glands than facial skin (except for chest and back, which are more like face skin). Body skin can typically tolerate stronger exfoliants and richer moisturizers, but the same actives that work on the face — niacinamide, retinol, AHAs — also work on the body.
How often should I exfoliate my body?
Chemical exfoliants (lactic acid, glycolic acid, salicylic acid) can be used 2–3 times per week. Physical scrubs should be limited to 1–2 times per week to avoid micro-tears. Sensitive areas (chest, inner arms) need less frequent exfoliation than rougher areas (knees, elbows, heels). Always moisturize after.
Can I use face products on my body?
Yes, but it's expensive. Face actives (retinol, vitamin C, exfoliating acids) work effectively on body skin, but body-formulated versions deliver the same benefits at a lower price point per ounce. Reserve face products for the face; use body-specific formulations for arms, legs, and torso.
Does drinking water actually improve skin?
Indirectly. Severe dehydration shows on skin, but drinking extra water beyond your normal needs doesn't significantly hydrate the skin — that's controlled by the moisture barrier and topical hydration. Topical moisturizers and humectants like glycerin and hyaluronic acid have a much bigger visible effect on skin hydration than additional water intake.
Why is my body skin different on different parts of my body?
Skin thickness, oil gland density, and sun exposure vary across the body. Hands and feet have the thickest skin; eyelids the thinnest. The chest and back have more oil glands (similar to face). Sun-exposed areas show more aging and texture changes. A targeted routine addresses each area's specific needs rather than treating all body skin the same.
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