All products featured on Vogue are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.
Prioritizing self-care can be as simple as incorporating the best body wash into a 10-minute shower routine. Whether the time is most valuable as a moment away from the kids or a soothing space to calm your body before work, it’s well-accompanied by the newest crop of formulas. There’s a ceramide-packed cream for extra dry skin, a coconut oil solution that transforms into a milky cleanser when lathered with water, and a heavenly-scented option infused with rose petals, cardamom and black pepper.
Vogue’s Guide to the Best Body Washes:
- Best Hydrating Cleanser: Naturium The Glow Getter Multi-Oil Hydrating Body Wash, $16
- Best Hypoallergenic: Nécessaire the body wash, $25
- Best Fragrance-Free: Aveeno skin relief daily cleanser, $18
- Best Scent: Youth To The People superfood and niacinamide body cleanser, $39
- Editors’ Pick: Aesop A Rose by Any Other Name body cleanser, $50
- Best for Body Acne: CeraVe body wash, $14
- Best for Sensitive Skin: La Roche-Posay gentle foaming moisturizing wash, $17
- Best For Eczema: Eucerin Eczema Relief Cream Body Wash, $12
- Best Exfoliating Cleanser: Tatcha Hinoki Gentle Exfoliating Body Wash, $34
- Best Cleansing Oil: Bioderma Atoderm shower oil, $30
In This Article:
- What is a body wash?
- What to Look for in a Body Wash
- How to Choose a Body Wash for Your Skin Type
- How often should you use an exfoliating body wash?
- What’s the best way to wash in the shower?
- How should you lock in hydration after a shower?
- Meet the Experts
“Hydrating and nourishing ingredients are what set a high-quality body wash apart from a regular bar of soap,” explains New York City-based dermatologist Michele Green, MD “Many body washes contain ingredients that can strip the skin of essential oils and are too drying, leading to skin irritation. Some of the best ingredients to look for in a body wash include shea butter, coconut oil, argan oil, and avocado oil.”
Below, the best body washes to help you transform your at-home routine into a spa-like experience.
Editors’ Pick: Aesop A Rose by Any Other Name Body Cleanser
- Why we love it: Aesop’s lightweight body cleanser will leave skin feeling ultra-soft and hydrated. While rose is one of the key notes, there are also hints of cardamom and black pepper, making it spicier and warmer than your grandmother’s rose-scented perfume.
- Key ingredients: Rose Petal, Cardamom, Black Pepper
- Fragrance: Floral, Spicy, Warm
- Size: 3.4 OZ, 16.9 OZ
- More to know: Vegan, paraben-free, cruelty-free
Best Hydrating Cleanser: Naturium The Glow Getter Multi-Oil Body Wash
- Why we love it: Transforming from an oil into a gentle lather, this hydrating body wash cleanses without stripping the skin of its natural oils. Dr. Garshick explains, “It’s formulated with glycerin, a humectant to draw moisture in, as well as a blend of linoleic-rich oils and plant-derived squalane, to keep the skin feeling soft and smooth.”
- Key ingredients: Glycerin, Linoleic-Rich Oils, Plant-Derived Squalane
- Fragrance: Vanilla, Coconut
- Size: 16.9 OZ
- More to know: Vegan, paraben-free, cruelty-free
Best Bar Soap: Dove Beauty Bar
- Why we love it: If you’re looking to get squeaky clean and prefer a no-frills approach, bar soap works just fine. Dove’s is a classic formulated with gentle cleansers and the brand’s moisturizing cream to hydrate the skin while maintaining the natural moisture barrier.
- Key ingredients: ¼ moisturizing cream
- Fragrance: Fragrance-free
- Size: 3.75 OZ
- More to know: Sulfate-free, paraben-free, pH balanced
Best Hypoallergenic Cleanser: Nécessaire The Body Wash
- Why we love it: Nécessaire’s eucalyptus body wash is created with soothing oils and nonirritating natural exfoliants that gently cleanse the skin without stripping—plus the fresh scent can act as sinus relief for those suffering from seasonal allergies. Dr. Garshick is also a fan, explaining that it contains niacinamide, which helps to nourish the skin and is rich in vitamins and fatty acids to help balance it.
- Key ingredients: Plant Surfactants, Plain Oils, Niacinamide
- Fragrance: Eucalyptus
- Size: 3.4 OZ, 8.4 OZ, 16.9 OZ
- More to know: Hypoallergenic
Best Splurge: Augustinus Bader The Body Cleanser
- Why we love it: Formulated with the brand’s proprietary TFC8, Augustinus Bader’s body cleanser removes the day’s dirt and grime without stripping the skin or leaving it dehydrated. And for those who could really use some peace of mind, it has a strong eucalyptus scent to help you relax.
- Key ingredients: Pure Coconut Oil, Ceramides, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, Eucalyptus, Copaiba Resin, Niaouli Leaf
- Fragrance: Eucalyptus
- Size: 6.7 OZ
- More to know: Vegan, paraben-free, clinically-tested
Best for Body Acne: CeraVe SA Body Wash
- Why we love it: Baby got bacne? Not anymore, thanks to this exfoliating salicylic acid cleanser for rough and bumpy skin. It’s great for those with oily skin, as Dr. Garshick advises, “Those with oily skin should look for products containing ingredients like salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid that also works to unclog pores and remove excess oil.”
- Key ingredients: Ceramides, Salicylic Acid, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid
- Fragrance: Fragrance Free
- Size: 10 OZ
- More to know: MVE Delivery Technology
Best Scent: Youth To The People Superfood + Niacinamide Body Cleanser
- Why we love it: Let Youth To The People elevate your shower experience with its hydrating foaming gel cleanser. It’s like a superfood smoothie for your skin, with notes of fresh greens, cedarwood, and black pepper that linger pleasantly throughout the day.
- Key ingredients: Niacinamide, Kale and Green Tea Extracts, Gently Amino and Fatty Acid Surfactants
- Fragrance: Earthy, Woody, Fresh greens, Black pepper, Cedarwood
- Size: 16.4 OZ
- More to know: Clinically-tested
Best for Sensitive Skin: La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+ Gentle Foaming Moisturizing Wash
- Why we love it: A favorite of Dr. Garshick, this moisturizing wash can be used on the face and body and is designed for those with extra-dry or sensitive skin. It’s accepted by the National Eczema Association and can be used from babies to adults, as well as by individuals undergoing chemotherapy. “It incorporates La Roche-Posay’s prebiotic thermal water, shea butter to help support the skin barrier, glycerin to draw moisture in, and niacinamide, which is soothing on the skin. Together, this helps to gently cleanse while also protecting the skin and providing 24-hour hydration,” she adds.
- Key ingredients: La Roche-Posay Prebiotic Thermal Water, Shea Butter, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Aqua Posae Filiformis
- Fragrance: Fragrance Free
- Size: 13.52 OZ
- More to know: Accepted by National Eczema Association, allergy-tested
Best Fragrance-Free Cleanser: Aveeno Skin Relief Fragrance-Free Body Wash
- Why we love it: “Aveeno Restorative Skin Therapy body wash is a great option for those who have sensitive skin,” Green says. “It contains colloidal oatmeal, which has been known to reduce inflammation of the skin as well as stimulate the production of collagen. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of oatmeal make it a powerful ingredient for soothing and healing irritated skin.”
- Key ingredients: Oat Flour, Oat Extract, Oat Oil
- Fragrance: Fragrance Free
- Size: 18 OZ
- More to know: Allergy-tested, sulfate-free
Best For Eczema: Eucerin Eczema Relief Cream Body Wash
- Why we love it: “Somebody with sensitive skin, including conditions such as eczema or psoriasis, would want to lean towards something more nourishing that is milk or cream-based and fragrance-free,” says Boda. Thankfully, this non-foaming option from Eucerin fits the bill. Not only is it safe for sensitive skin, but it also helps to soothe with the addition of colloidal oatmeal.
- Key ingredients: Colloidal Oatmeal
- Fragrance: Fragrance Free
- Size: 13.5 OZ
- More to know: Soap-free, dye-free
Best Multi-Use Cleanser: L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil
- Why we love it: Fans of the “everything shower” are going to love this shower oil. Think of this as a multi-use product; not only is it a super hydrating body cleanser, but you can also use it as a shaving cream, add it to your bathwater, and as a moisturizer post-shower. You’ll smell faintly of almonds and vanilla—a scent that will cause others to stop and ask what you’re wearing.
- Key ingredients: Sweet Almond Oil
- Fragrance: Fresh Almonds, Warm Vanilla
- Size: 2.5 OZ, 8.4 OZ, 16.9 OZ
- More to know: Made of a 100% recycled second-life plastic bottle
Best Exfoliating Cleanser: Tatcha Hinoki Gentle Exfoliating Body Wash
- Why we love it: “If you struggle with keratosis pilaris or body acne, you want to look for exfoliating ingredients as you need to regulate your cell turnover,” says Boda. This body wash contains exfoliating cellulose, an eco-friendly alternative to microplastic beads. But not only is it great for gentle exfoliation, it also has a calming effect as it’s formulated with hinoki wood essential oils, scientifically proven to improve well-being (and it smells amazing!).
- Key ingredients: Forest Awakening Essential Oil Blend, Cellulose
- Fragrance: Citrus, Wood
- Size: 1.7 OZ, 6.8 OZ
- More to know: Sulfate-free, paraben-free
Best Cleansing Oil: Bioderma Atoderm Cleansing Oil
- Why we love it: One of the highlights of this cleansing oil is that you can use it on both the face and body. So whether you’re looking for a good deal or don’t have enough space in your home and need a two-in-one, this is the product for you. It’s gentle enough for sensitive skin and doesn’t leave you feeling greasy the way some oils might. It simply glides on and off the body, removing any dirt and grime, leaving it silky smooth in the process.
- Key ingredients: Vegetal Biolipids, Vitamin PP, Barrier Skin Therapy
- Fragrance: Light, Fresh
- Size: 6.76 OZ, 3.38 OZ, 33.81 OZ
- More to know: Provides skin barrier therapy
Best Plant-Based Body Wash: Sangre de Fruta Neroli Noir Botanical Body Wash
- Why we love it: “For someone with normal skin, the key is to find something that not only feels good and smells good but also doesn’t contain too many drying alcohols, which can lead to dry skin and accelerated aging on the body,” says Boda. Enter this spicy-sweet body wash formulated with essential oils to nourish and moisturize the skin.
- Key ingredients: Moisturizing Cacao Seed Butter, Cleansing Rosemary Extract, Soothing Chamomile Extract
- Fragrance: Spicy-Sweet Aroma, Refreshing
- Size: 16.9 OZ
- More to know: Plant-based, ocean-friendly ingredients
Best Drugstore: Olay Indulgent Moisture Body Wash
- Why we love it: Olay’s Indulgent Moisture body wash is the ultimate choice for those with dry skin. Formulated with a vitamin B3 complex, it comes in at just under $15. There are several delightful scents to choose from, including mango butter and vanilla orchid, guava and coconut, and rose and cherry cream.
- Key ingredients: Vitamin B3
- Fragrance: Many scents (rose/cherry, mango/vanilla, elderberry/almond, guava/coconut oil)
- Size: 20 OZ
- More to know: Delivers 24-hour moisture
Best Gel Cleanser: Salt Stone Santal Vetiver Body Wash
- Why we love it: For those in search of an elevated body wash, look no further than Salt Stone, whose washes look as chic as they smell. Who wouldn’t covet one, especially when it’s infused with a unisex scent grounded in sandalwood and vetiver?
- Key ingredients: Seaweed Extracts, Spirulina, Blueberry Extract, Vitamin C, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, Probiotics
- Fragrance: Santal, Vetiver
- Size: 15.2 OZ
- More to know: Naturally hydrating ingredients
Best Scent Range: Native Body Wash
- Why we love it: For a shower-time detox, consider washing with Native’s Body Wash, formulated without sulfated surfactants, parabens, phthalates, and dyes. A drugstore pick that doesn’t sacrifice scent quality, with many enticing options including lilac and white tea, sea salt and cedar, and cashmere and rain.
- Key ingredients: Plant-Based Ingredients
- Fragrance: Many fragrance options
- Size: 18 OZ
- More to know: Sulfate-free, paraben-free, vegan
Most Calming: Being Frenshe Body Wash Palo Santo Sage
- Why we love it: Infused with oat extract, niacinamide, and essential oils, this affordable body wash helps slough away dirt and oil while leaving skin soft to the touch. The best part is that it turns your shower into a spa experience with notes of cleansing palo santo, fresh crisp eucalyptus bark, and rosewood, helping you to unwind and let go of your worries.
- Key ingredients: Niacinamide, Oat Extract, Pro-Vitamin B5
- Fragrance: Woody, Sage, Ylang Ylang, Eucalyptus
- Size: 14 OZ
- More to know: Backed by MoodScience scent technology, dermatologist-tested formula
Best Packaging: Cyklar Sensorial Body Wash
- Why we love it: I’ll emphasize sensorial here, because every time I lather up with Cyklar’s Sensorial Body Wash, all my senses come alive. Instead of running through my never-ending to-do list, the experience reminds me to slow down and practice a bit of mindfulness in the shower, which is more than you can usually ask for from a body wash. But it’s not just the scent options or the aesthetic packaging that make it stand out. “This product is formulated with natural ingredients and emphasizes a balance of cleansing and hydration, making it great for maintaining skin integrity without over-drying,” says double board-certified dermatologist Dr. Ali Shahbaz.
- Key ingredients: Glycerin, Sodium PCA, Multi-oil Complex
- Fragrance: Many scents (santal/vanilla/bergamot/neroli/crescent)
- Size: 490 mL
- More to know: Vegan, cruelty-free, paraben-free, gluten-free, sustainable packaging
Best Oil-to-Foam Formula: Sol de Janeiro Delícia Drench Shower Oil
- Why we love it: There’s more to Sol de Janeiro than its cult-favorite Brazilian Bum Bum Cream, like this ultra-moisturizing shower oil infused with the same nourishing ingredients as its hero SKU. According to Dr. Shahbaz, these ingredients “help promote hydration while delivering a refreshing experience in the shower.” Its oil-to-foam formula guarantees a gentle cleanse without stripping the skin. Instead, you step out of the shower with moisturized, baby-soft skin that will leave others envious.
- Key ingredients: Bacuri Butter, Brazilian Oil Blend, Hibiscus
- Fragrance: Sugared violet, vanilla orchid, sandalwood
- Size: 90 mL, 385 mL
- More to know: Paraben-free, mineral oil-free, cruelty-free
Best Sustainable Option: Flamingo Estate Euphoria Body Wash
- Why we love it: I could wax poetic about this body wash because, time and time again, it reminds me that life is worth living. While many body washes have alluring scents, the blend of jasmine and damask rose feels truly unique, like the perfumer was given full creative freedom. The brand describes it as “bathing in the nectar of jasmine and rose,” and I couldn’t agree more. Beyond its intoxicating scent, it’s formulated with organic ingredients that thoroughly cleanse while keeping skin soft, supple, and hydrated. It also makes for a great gift, as you can include a handwritten note with your purchase.
- Key ingredients: Babassu oil, olive oil, jojoba oil
- Fragrance: Bergamot, Damask Rose, Pink Peppercorn, White Sandalwood
- Size: 500 mL
- More to know: Plant-based, cruelty-free, FSC certified, sustainable packaging
Best for Mature Skin: Nerrā The Body Wash
- Why we love it: Inspired by Mediterranean rituals, newcomer Nerra has quickly become a staple in our shower routine. Its scent is transportive, blending jasmine, freesia, rose, and peach with musky, woody base notes to keep it from being overly floral. Dr. Shahbaz notes, “This body wash incorporates high-quality, skin-loving ingredients that support skin elasticity and hydration, making it especially suitable for mature skin.” Unlike some body washes that can be drying, this one helps maintain the skin’s natural balance, delivering a gentle, nourishing cleanse every time, even if you shower multiple times a day.
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Vegan Collagen, Pink Clay
- Fragrance: Jasmine, freesia, rose
- Size: 9.3 oz.
- More to know: Cruelty-free, vegan, made in France
What is a body wash?
Think of body washes as a facial cleanser for your body. They not only eliminate dirt, buildup, and residue from the body using gentle surfactants but also help with body odor and improve overall skin health. According to board-certified dermatologist Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, some body washes may contain additional ingredients to target specific concerns—more on that later. “While some body washes may also be used on the face, others may be intended mainly for the body, so it is always important to check the label when considering a product,” she says.
What to Look for in a Body Wash
When choosing a body wash, aesthetician Savanna Boda emphasizes the importance of considering skin-supporting ingredients, texture, and a pleasant fragrance, as scent is often a deciding factor in whether one will like (and keep using) a product.
- Ingredients: “It is best to look for a body wash that uses gentle surfactants to effectively cleanse the skin, along with nourishing and moisturizing ingredients to retain moisture,” advises Dr. Garshick. She recommends body washes that contain ingredients such as ceramides, which support the skin barrier, as well as humectants like hyaluronic acid or glycerin, which help to attract moisture.
- Texture: There are two main camps of body washes: cream-based and gel-based. Dr. Garshick explains that individuals with dry or sensitive skin should opt for creamier washes as these nourish the skin and prevent dryness, while those with oily skin should opt for a lightweight, foaming body wash to effectively remove excess oil.
- Fragrance: IMO, the purpose of body wash is to leave you smelling better than before you hopped into the shower. However, many body washes contain fragrance to make the product smell appealing. “While it’s usually harmless in most skin types, those with dry or sensitive skin tend to be more susceptible to irritation or allergy to fragrance and should look for fragrance-free options,” cautions Dr. Garshick.
How to Choose a Body Wash for Your Skin Type
For Dry Skin: When choosing a body wash for dry skin, Dr. Shahbaz recommends looking for creamy, hydrating formulations. “Ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and natural oils (such as jojoba or almond oil) help retain moisture. Avoid harsh soaps with sulfates, which can strip the skin of its natural oils.” Exfoliation isn’t necessary daily—aim for one to two times a week with a gentle exfoliating wash, and consider using a moisturizing body wash or foaming body oil, as Dr. Zalka suggests, to maintain hydration while cleansing.
For Acne-Prone Skin: Dr. Shahbaz recommends opting for a body wash with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, as these ingredients help target acne by unclogging pores and reducing inflammation. “Choose gel or foam formulations that remove excess oil without overly drying the skin. Use an exfoliating body wash two to three times a week, but monitor your skin’s reaction to prevent irritation.”
For Mature Skin: “Mature skin benefits from body washes that provide hydration and nourishment,” says Dr. Shahbaz. He suggests looking for ceramides, peptides, and antioxidants like vitamin E or green tea extract. Dr. Zalka also recommends skin barrier-supporting ingredients such as glycerin, ceramides, and niacinamide. Creamy or oil-based formulas can help improve skin elasticity, while exfoliating a couple of times a week can promote cell turnover and enhance skin texture.
For Eczema: For eczema-prone skin, Dr. Shahbaz recommends choosing a gentle, soap-free body wash formulated specifically for sensitive skin. Ingredients like colloidal oatmeal and shea butter help soothe irritation and hydrate the skin. It’s important to avoid fragrances and harsh chemicals, as they can trigger flare-ups. “Exfoliation should be approached cautiously; gentle exfoliants can be used sparingly, depending on the individual’s sensitivity.”
For Sensitive Skin: When exfoliating sensitive skin, extra caution is key, says Dr. Shahbaz. He recommends choosing a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic body wash with soothing ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, or calendula. Creamy formulations add extra moisture while minimizing irritation. Exfoliation should be gentle and infrequent, ideally once a week, to avoid overstimulating the skin.
For Glowing Skin: To achieve glowing skin, Dr. Shahbaz recommends choosing a body wash with brightening ingredients like glycolic acid or vitamin C, which help improve skin tone and texture. A gentle scrub can also enhance radiance. “Exfoliating one to two times a week will help slough off dead skin cells for a brighter, more radiant appearance,” he adds.
How often should you use an exfoliating body wash?
For most skin types, Dr. Shahbaz recommends using an exfoliating body wash one to three times a week. “Always monitor your skin’s response and adjust the frequency as needed; over-exfoliation can lead to irritation and sensitivity.”
Dr. Zalka notes that the type of exfoliant matters. A gentle, pH-balanced exfoliating body wash without granules can be used daily, while a scrub cleanser with physical exfoliants should be limited to once or twice a week, or even less if it causes irritation.
What’s the best way to wash in the shower?
Getting older is realizing that loofahs, washcloths, mitts, and puffs can harbor bacteria when stored in a moist, dark place (i.e. your bathroom). While these tools can effectively remove dirt and dead skin, both Boda and Dr. Garshick recommend simply using your hands to apply your body wash. However, if you do choose to use a loofah to cleanse the skin, be sure to wash and replace it regularly to prevent the buildup of bacteria.
How should you lock in hydration after a shower?
To lock in hydration, Dr. Shahbaz suggests applying a moisturizer immediately after drying off while your skin is still slightly damp. Look for products containing occlusives (like petroleum jelly or dimethicone), humectants (like glycerin), or emollients (like shea butter) to effectively seal in moisture and keep skin soft.
Dr. Zalka suggest a similar, but slightly different approach. She recommends gently patting the skin dry or allowing it to air dry first so until it feels damp but not soaking wet. While the skin is still damp, she recommends applying a body moisturizer immediately, paying extra attention to drier areas like the arms and legs. To lock everything in, she finishes with a few drops of body oil, cautioning that things can get slippery.
Meet the Experts
- Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD is a board-certified dermatologist in Manhattan and Plainview, NY at MDCS Dermatology.
- Michele Green, MD, is New York City-based board-certified dermatologist.
- Savanna Boda is a licensed medical esthetician based in Dallas, TX and founder of Savanna Boda Aesthetics.
- Ali Shahbaz, MD, is a double board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology based in Austin, Texas.
- Alicia Zalka, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist, an associate clinical professor of dermatology at Yale University, and the founder of Surface Deep.
