All body washes and shower gels may seem the same, but they’re not all created equal. For women, it’s not enough for body wash to smell good and lather well; it should also leave your skin feeling supple and healthy.
It’s important to take your skin type and the formula into account when choosing a body wash. Some formulas are better suited for dry skin, while others are light enough for oily and acne-prone skin. Body washes are available in a wide variety of scents, so you can find an option that smells just right for you.
If you’re unsure how to choose a formula, our buying guide can help. We offer up a few specific product recommendations, including our top pick from Thymes, which has an uplifting eucalyptus scent and won’t dry out your skin.
Not every body wash is suitable for all skin types. Take your skin type into account when choosing a body wash.
If you have specific skin issues or conditions, you may want to choose a body wash with a targeted formula to address those concerns. Acne-prone skin can benefit from a formula with ingredients that treat breakouts. A body wash with salicylic acid can help soothe acne that results from clogged pores, while a formula with benzoyl peroxide can help inflamed acne that’s caused by bacteria.
Sensitive skin does well with a body wash that contains soothing ingredients like oatmeal, lavender, or chamomile. Avoid formulas with essential oils like tea tree oil, which can irritate the skin.
Psoriasis usually responds well to a body wash that contains salicylic acid to exfoliate the skin.
You can also find some body wash formulas that feature vitamins and minerals to nourish the skin. In particular, antioxidants like vitamins A, C, and E can provide anti-aging benefits.
Body washes for women are available in a huge array of scents. Choosing a scent is solely a matter of personal preference, but some fragrances may be more overpowering than others.
Some common scent options include:
Body washes with lower-quality moisturizers or other ingredients can sometimes leave a residue on the skin that feels thick or sticky. High-quality body wash typically rinses away clean, so there’s no residue left behind.
If you’re concerned about the effect your bathing habits have on the environment, choose an eco-friendly body wash. Eco-friendly formulas are biodegradable or all natural, so there aren’t any toxic ingredients that might wash back into the water supply after your shower.
These types of body wash are also suitable for camping because you don’t have to worry about polluting natural bodies of water.
You can pay $2 to over $20 for body wash for women. Lower-quality formulas that may irritate sensitive skin usually cost between $2-$5, but for $5-$15, you can get a higher-quality moisturizing formula. For $20 and up, you can find body washes from luxury brands.
A. You can use body wash anytime you wash your body, so it’s suitable for use in both the shower and bath. Some body washes can even double as a shampoo or bubble bath.
A. Some body washes are lightweight enough for use on the face, but most formulas are too rich and heavy. Their ingredients can clog the pores and cause breakouts, so acne-prone individuals should avoid using body wash on the face.
What you need to know: An invigorating but gentle body wash that cleans well and leaves no residue behind.
What you'll love : Has a fresh eucalyptus scent. Produces a rich lather. Cleans effectively without drying the skin.
What you should consider: Scent may be too strong for some.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Weleda’s Invigorating Creamy Citrus Body Wash
What you need to know: A refreshing, natural body wash that’s gentle on the skin and can also be used as shampoo.
What you'll love: Contains natural ingredients like chamomile and sweet almond oil. Has a rich, creamy texture. Doesn’t leave behind any residue.
What you should consider: Doesn’t lather as well as other body washes.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
JASON’s Invigorating Rosewater Body Wash
What you need to know: A cruelty-free body wash that’s high in nutrients and offers a fresh scent.
What you'll love: Contains vitamins E and B5 to nourish and soften. Doesn’t contain any parabens, sulfates, or petroleum. Only requires a small amount to wash the whole body.
What you should consider: Some users find the scent overpowering.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Jennifer Blair writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
