4 Editors Tested This Internet-Loved Bodycare Brand That Made the Cult-Fave Buffing Bar
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If you know us (as in the editors and writers of StyleCaster) well, you know we’re passionate about finding good skincare. We’re constantly testing products from popular and emerging brands like Laneige and Naturium, so when Soft Services came into the conversation, we were definitely curious about it. People familiar with the brand will know it has a cult-like following, with people on social media raving about how its products have transformed their skin.
Our Favorite Soft Services Products at a Glance
- Theraplush Overnight Repair Treatment, $62
- Clearing Mist Medicated Breakout Tonic, $26
- Carea Cream, $40
- Speed Soak Skin Rehydrating Gel, $28
- Buffing Bar Microcrystal Exfoliant, $28
- Smoothing Solution Calming Gel Exfoliant, $30
- Comfort Cleanse Ultra Soothing Shower Gel, $32
- Theraplush “Hold” Overnight Repair Treatment, $62
We spent the last few weeks testing the most popular products from the brand, and it’s safe to say that we understand the hype. TL;DR: Soft Services consistently delivers results that exceed expectations, and we’re here to tell you exactly how. Keep reading to discover why we’re obsessed with eight of their standout products and why we’re all in when it comes to this body care powerhouse.
What is Soft Services?
Known for its innovative approach to self-care and its luxurious yet effective products, Soft Services combines high-performance ingredients with sleek, modern designs to deliver results that not only enhance your skin but also make you feel like you are using something of the utmost luxury—but for a lot less. Founded by Annie Kreighbaum and Rebecca Zhou in 2021, the duo has launched tons of body care since the brand’s inauguration. Crafted to tackle specific skin concerns like dryness and back acne, they’ve got fans by the boatload.
Benefits of Using Soft Services Products, According to an Expert
“I love Soft Services for its commitment to creating effective, science-backed skincare solutions that address some of the most persistent skin concerns, like keratosis pilaris and dryness. Their formulations are meticulously crafted, prioritizing skin health without compromising on the luxury feel. The thoughtful approach to every product ensures that users receive the care their skin truly deserves,” says Dr. Marisa Garshick.
“During a facial with a celebrity-loved facialist, she told me that skincare should be nipples up—that’s when I realized I don’t self-care the rest of my body as I do my face,” says Anthonino Olimpio, Global Brand Strategist at Estee Lauder. “So I turn to Soft Services to help treat my body. I stocked up on the Smoothing Set, which groups a chemical and physical exfoliant that I work in two to three times a week, plus the Carea Cream as my daily body hydrator. As a Latino, I’m prone to ingrown hairs so this works easily to treat and prevent them.”
How We Tested Soft Services
To give you a thorough review, we put each Soft Services product to the test over a period of a few weeks—here’s what we think of each one.
“As a decor piece, YES. The product itself, to be frank, pretty sticky. I was excited to hear of the cuticle-softening powers and was hoping for a buttery, pillowy application but as soon as I went to rub it in, I was taken aback by the friction. Perhaps the product was old or nearing expiration? For $62, I wouldn’t recommend based off my experience. I had fun decorating it into my space, though, and will be using it as decor.” —Kaili JiMei, Social Media Editor
Pros: Beautiful packaging (looks super luxurious), provides intense hydration
Cons: Can feel very rich, might be too much for some
Pros: Stunning packaging, easy to spray on, works wonders on body acne and preventing new blemishes from arising
Cons: Can take a minute to dry, making it something that takes a while to apply
Pros: Easy application for large areas of skin
Cons: Can be slippery at times
Pros: Dries super quickly (perfect for oily skin), provides deep hydration with no leftover residue, like you might get with a lotion or cream
Cons: Can be too light for dry skin, not enough of a moisture boost for this skin type
Pros: Effective skin exfoliator, comes with two buffing bars
Cons: If not stored properly, the bar erodes (like a standard bar of soap)
Pros: Gently exfoliates the skin, leaving it soft and smooth and it’s non-irritating (perfect for even the most sensitive of skin)
Cons: Can take a few weeks to notice results and packaging can get a little messy
Pros: Lathers quickly, has a hydrating formula, and has aesthetic packaging
Cons: Costs more than other shower gels
Pros: Nourishing formula, smells good
Cons: Color isn’t as pictured
Our Overall Thoughts on Soft Services
When it comes to body care, Soft Services delivers on its promise of luxury and effectiveness. You can scan the entire line and find a product for your unique body care concern. From hydration and clarity to smoothness and relaxation, there’s something for everyone. While some of the products come with a higher price tag, the quality and performance make them worthwhile for us.
