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While we all may be dialed in and focused on our skincare when it comes to the things we put on our face, taking care of your skin extends far beyond that. Going the extra mile to find the proper body wash for your needs can be just the ticket to ensure that you’re walking around looking, feeling and (importantly) smelling your best.
The best body washes are ones that are suited toward you and your skin’s specific needs the most. That’s why we compiled a long of products to glide across the spectrum of unique skin types.
So what does this mean? Well, according to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Shasa Hu, “Body wash should be customized based on skin type. In general, dry and eczema-prone skin would benefit from body wash that helps to maintain and restore skin barrier: e.g. fragrance-free, pH balanced and containing ceramides. On the other hand, people with acne-prone skin can consider body wash with ingredients that help to exfoliate and prevent pore clogging, such as benzoyl peroxide, AHA and BHA.”
Using this advice and our own research, we specifically focused on a few different factors when seeking out the best body washes. In particular, we honed in on ingredients, price, and peoples’ particular skin sensitivities.
What is a “good” body wash?
We’ve mentioned the subjective factors and the ones that simply vary from one person’s skin to another’s. But it’s important to realize that some brands maintain a higher quality than others in terms of effectiveness at cleaning your skin, offering a scent and in their ingredient lists. The best brands use healthy, ethical practices that are good for your skin and good for the planet.
One thing to note is that while “natural” ingredients can be great, they don’t necessarily make or break a product. They certainly have their place, but it’s wise to not just assume that “synthetic” means bad. As Dr. Hu tells us, “Consumers should also know that almost all over-the-counter skin care products will have a combination of natural and synthetic ingredients, and most of the synthetic ingredients are safe and inert.”
So, a “good” body wash is one that keeps you clean and irritation-free, caters to your specific needs and is enjoyable to use. Read on to see our top picks and get ready to find your new go-to formula.
Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Liquid Soap
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Don’t take it from Us . . . take it from the more than 45,000 people who give this liquid soap five stars! The formula has 18 different uses, so don’t be afraid to lather it anywhere — and we mean everywhere.
Neutrogena Body Clear Body Wash
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Having acne-prone skin is no fun, but this body clear wash uses salicylic acid to both treat and prevent breakouts. It deeply cleanses pores without drying the skin, thanks to the ultra-hydrating glycerin.
Mario Badescu AHA Botanical Body Soap
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If you struggle with dullness, an uneven skin tone or clogged pores, you need to know about this body wash that uses AHAs and grapefruit extract to exfoliate. The soap is completely vegan, too!
Nécessaire The Body Wash
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The name says it all. This oil-in-gel cleansing wash is absolutely necessary for all skin types!
Niacinamide, plant oils and plant extracts are just a few things to look forward to.
Blu Atlas Body Wash
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Don’t just take a shower. Have a spa day!
You’ll look and feel like you just spent hours in a boutique hotel spa when you step out of the shower. A healthy glow is guaranteed!
CeraVe Hydrating Body Wash
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You can’t go wrong with a classic. CeraVe products are ultra-gentle and this foaming body wash is no exception.
It cleanses and moisturizes with essential ceramides and hyaluronic acid, ingredients that improve skin barrier function.
Patrick’s BW1 Multi-Action Body Wash
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Don’t let a hefty (ish) price tag scare you away! This multipurpose body wash is designed to cleanse, hydrate, nourish and protect the skin using a slew of multivitamins, anti-inflammatory ingredients and antioxidants.
It also stimulates collagen production!
Puracy Awake Body Wash
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You don’t have to grab the citrus and sea salt scent, but you’ll be invigorated after your a.m. shower if you do! This formula leans on natural ingredients to clean and smooth the skin — even sensitive skin.
Drunk Elephant Sugared Koffie Almond Milk Body Scrub
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This decadent almond milk scrub looks yummy enough to eat! Nourishing plant oils combined with coffee beans and brown sugar crystals exfoliate the skin, yielding a flake-free complexion that quite literally glows.
Pure Fiji Coconut Milk Shower Gel
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You don’t have to worry about this cooling gel disrupting your delicate skin barrier. Coconut oil, macadamia oil, passionflower and pineapple extract deliver essential nourishment and a swoon-worthy scent.
Dr. Brandt Body Polishing Exfoliator
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It’s not a scrub — it’s a polish. In a clinical study, 100% of study participants presented an immediate increase in hydration while another whopping 100% reported successful exfoliation.
You’ll have baby-soft skin that’s smooth, radiant and even!
Lubriderm Daily Moisture Body + Face Wash
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If the thought of using the same product for your face and body scares you, don’t knock it before you try it. This soothing daily wash is designed to be gentle enough for your face without sacrificing quality, diligently cleaning the pores and moisturizing with shea butter.
Kiehl’s Bath and Shower Liquid Body Cleanser
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What a lineup! This grapefruit body cleanser is loaded with powerhouses aloe vera, wheat protein and sodium PCA.
When combined, these ingredients deep condition the skin and leave it ultra-smooth!
Aveeno Stress Relief Body Wash
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Your skin needs stress relief, too! This calming formula has a lavender scent that will quiet your mind as well, so get ready for a wellness day — every day.
The clean formula removes even the most stubborn dirt and oil!
