Ditch the Basic Soap: Fundamentals Skincare Brings Facial Actives to Body Care

Skincare no longer stops at the jawline. Globally, the body care category is evolving from basic moisturising to active-driven treatment.

Industry reports show accelerated growth in the body skincare sector, with consumers increasingly searching for terms like “body acne,” “KP treatment,” and “salicylic acid body wash.” The rise of ingredient transparency and clinical claims in facial skincare has created a spillover effect, and South African consumers are following suit.

As local shoppers become more ingredient-literate and results-driven, Fundamentals Skincare is responding with science-led body formulations designed to treat, not just hydrate.

While facial routines often include exfoliating acids and barrier repair, the body is frequently overlooked, despite behaving differently.

The rate of cell turnover on the body is slower than on the face, meaning dead skin cells accumulate more easily. Combined with friction from clothing, shaving, heat, and sun exposure, all common in the

South African climates and this can result in:

• ·       Keratosis Pilaris (KP)
• ·       Ingrown hairs
• ·       Body acne (particularly back and chest)
• ·       Uneven tone and hyperpigmentation
• ·       Rough texture and dullness

“Many customers come to us with concerns they’ve been trying to solve for years,” says Kamia Soobramoney, Customer Service Manager at Fundamentals Skincare. “They’re exfoliating their faces but using basic washes on their bodies. Once they switch to active-based cleansers, the difference is significant.”

Keratosis Pilaris, often referred to as ‘chicken skin’ is caused by keratin buildup blocking hair follicles. Ingrown hairs occur when hair becomes trapped beneath the surface, commonly after shaving or waxing.

Both concerns respond best to:

• ·       Consistent chemical exfoliation (BHAs and PHAs)
• ·       Oil regulation
• ·       Barrier-supportive hydration
• ·       Avoiding aggressive physical scrubs

“Over-scrubbing is one of the biggest mistakes we see,” explains Soobramoney. “Targeted chemical exfoliation clears buildup without damaging the barrier which is essential for long-term improvement.”

Fundamentals Skincare introduces two treatment cleansers designed to transform daily shower routines into active skincare steps.

2% Niacinamide + 2% Aloe Vera Hydrating Body Wash: Ideal for uneven tone, sensitivity, and barrier repair, this gentle daily cleanser combines:

• ·       2% Niacinamide to brighten dull areas, reduce hyperpigmentation, and strengthen the barrier
• ·       2% Aloe Vera to soothe irritation and deliver immediate hydration

Designed for daily use, it supports post-shave comfort, reduces dryness, and promotes visibly smoother skin over 4–8 weeks.

“This is for the customer who wants brighter, calmer body skin without irritation,” says Soobramoney.

“Niacinamide is one of the most researched ingredients in skincare, and it’s just as effective below the neck.”

2% Salicylic Acid + 5% Gluconolactone + 1% Zinc PCA Exfoliating Body Wash: Created for body acne, KP, and congestion-prone skin, this formula combines:

• ·       2% Salicylic Acid (BHA) to penetrate pores and dissolve excess oil
• ·       5% Gluconolactone (PHA) for gentle resurfacing and antioxidant support
• ·       1% Zinc PCA to regulate sebum and reduce inflammation

Clinical research shows salicylic acid can significantly reduce acne lesions with consistent use, while zinc-based formulations help decrease oil-related breakouts.

“This formula is particularly relevant in South Africa, where heat and humidity contribute to congestion,” says Soobramoney. “It delivers treatment without the dryness people fear from acne products.”

The shift toward ingredient-driven body care reflects a broader consumer demand for efficacy and transparency. South African beauty buyers, particularly in the premium and dermocosmetic space, are increasingly prioritising performance over fragrance or trend.

“Body care is no longer secondary,” concludes Soobramoney. “Consumers want visible results everywhere, and that requires the same intentional approach they already apply to their facial routines.”

With these new launches, the brand positions body care as an essential extension of advanced skincare and not an afterthought.

Supplied by: Fundamentals Skincare.

Guzzle Media