Top 12 Body Washes: Expertly Tested and Reviewed

While a standard body wash can cleanse your skin, many people seek additional benefits—whether it's deep hydration, combating acne, or gentle exfoliation during the cleansing process.

To identify the top body washes, we rigorously tested 50 products over six weeks, assessing their performance, key ingredients, fragrances, and affordability. Additionally, we consulted four dermatologists to gather their expert recommendations for maintaining the health of your skin.

Meet Our Expert Contributors

Top Pick

For those seeking an exceptionally mild body wash, Aveeno Skin Relief delivers on all fronts. Its star ingredient, a triple oat blend, deeply hydrates and calms irritated skin, effectively addressing dryness and itchiness. In our experience, it also reduced flakiness and redness. A small amount of this product creates a rich lather, ensuring even coverage.

This body wash thoroughly cleanses without stripping away natural oils, leaving skin feeling soft, refreshed, and free of any residue. While it’s labeled as fragrance-free, it does have a faint, pleasant scent that’s barely noticeable.

Key Ingredients: Triple oat blend (oat flour, oat extract, oat oil) | Size: 18 ounces | Scent: None

Top Affordable Pick

For a spa-like shower experience without breaking the bank, Method Body Wash is an excellent choice. Its floral aroma adds a touch of luxury, making it feel more premium than its affordable price suggests. However, the strong fragrance may not suit those with sensitive skin.

This body wash creates a rich lather, leaving skin feeling soft and clean without any residue. However, it doesn’t provide extra hydration, so skin remains at its baseline moisture level. For individuals with dry skin, pairing it with a moisturizer or opting for a more hydrating option like Soap & Glory's Clean on Me is advisable.

Key Ingredients: Peony, rose water, pink sea salt | Size: 18 ounces | Scent: Floral

Top Exfoliating Choice

Packed with alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), this body wash acts as a gentle chemical exfoliant, smoothing and softening the skin without causing irritation. It effectively cleanses while maintaining the skin’s natural moisture, leaving it feeling hydrated and refreshed.

We were particularly fond of the Juicy Clean variant’s sweet, cereal-like aroma—though its strong fragrance may not appeal to everyone (they also offer Beachy Clean, a tropical, fresh alternative).

This product is ideal for those dealing with body acne, though it’s best suited for spot treatment rather than full-body use in every shower. During testing, we found that it requires more product for complete coverage, as it doesn’t lather as generously as other body washes.

Key Ingredients: AHA blend, tropical fruit enzymes, allantoin | Size: 9 ounces | Scent: Juicy creamsicle

Top Oil-Based Pick

Oil-based body washes are known for their deep hydration, and Naturium The Glow Getter Multi-Oil Hydrating Body Wash lives up to this reputation. While our skin felt smooth right after the first use, this effect faded as the day progressed.

However, with continued use, we observed a significant improvement in skin softness, to the point where we no longer needed a body scrub to exfoliate. Although our skin felt well-moisturized, it didn’t achieve the glowing effect suggested by the product’s name.

Key Ingredients: Glycerin, a blend of linoleic-rich oils, plant-derived squalane | Size: 16.9 ounces | Scent: None

Top Premium Choice

Le Labo products are often found in luxury hotels and upscale gyms, and now you can bring that same sophistication home with their Hinoki shower gel. During testing, we were impressed by its opulent feel—the thicker gel texture and the refined blend of subtle spices and musk create a truly indulgent experience.

This body wash cleans effectively with just a small amount, but the compact bottle size means it may not last long. While it didn’t strip our skin of natural oils, it also didn’t significantly enhance moisture levels, which might be expected from a premium product. However, if you prioritize a luxurious, high-end fragrance in your shower routine, this is a worthwhile choice.

Key Ingredients: Rosemary leaf, sunflower oil | Size: 8.5 ounces | Scent: Hinoki

Top Multipurpose Option

While multipurpose bath products often fall short, Philosophy’s three-in-one gel is a standout. It deeply hydrates the skin, leaving it luminous and refreshed. Its delightful fragrance, blending bergamot, lily of the valley, and musk, adds to the luxurious experience.

We didn’t evaluate its shampoo or bubble bath functionalities, so their performance remains untested. However, as a body wash, it creates a rich lather, cleanses effectively, and rinses off cleanly without leaving any residue.

Key Ingredients: Water, sodium laureth sulfate, lauryl betaine | Size: 16 ounces | Scent: Feminine

Top Hydrating Pick

This body wash doubles as a cleanser and moisturizer, thanks to its built-in lotion. During testing, it effectively prevented dryness even in harsh winter conditions, eliminating the need for additional moisturizers. While it didn’t impart a radiant glow, it left our skin feeling exceptionally soft and smooth.

We also appreciated the floral scent—it’s light and refreshing, avoiding the overpowering perfume-like quality of some products. Additionally, the fragrance didn’t linger excessively after use. However, if floral scents aren’t your preference, this might not be the best choice for you.

Key Ingredients: Tangerine peel, sodium laureth sulfate, cocamidopropyl betaine | Size: 16.9 ounces | Scent: Rose bergamot

Top Fragrance Pick

If you want to leave the shower smelling divine, the Santal Bloom Body Wash from Saltair is an excellent choice. Its scent is reminiscent of Le Labo Santal 33, featuring warm, woody notes that are noticeable yet not overpowering.

The Saltair body wash also boasts floral and sweet undertones, creating a refreshing and invigorating experience. While we adored the fragrance, we wished it lingered longer on the skin post-shower. Additionally, its hydrating finish and chic packaging were standout features.

Key Ingredients: Monoi oil, cupuaçu butter, and kukui oil | Size: 17 ounces | Scent: Creamy sandalwood

Top Fragrance-Free Option

If you’re tired of liquid body washes that slip through your fingers and down the drain, the Maude Wash pH-Balanced Body Wash is here to save the day. Its rich, luxurious texture stays put, ensuring minimal waste. While it requires a bit more effort to dispense, a small amount creates a generous lather that covers your entire body.

We also appreciate the No. 0 scent, which is completely fragrance-free, and its pH-balanced formula. For those with fragrance sensitivities, Maude’s body wash offers a rich, scent-free experience perfect for showers or bubble baths.

Key Ingredients: Omega-3, -6, and -9, and Vitamins B3, B5, C, and E | Size: 12 ounces | Scent: None

Top Choice for Sensitive Skin

For a mild yet powerful body wash, this fragrance-free option from La Roche-Posay is deeply hydrating. After just four uses, we saw a noticeable improvement in dry patches. It rinses clean without leaving residue, clogging pores, or stripping the skin of its natural oils.

We were particularly impressed by its rich lather, as a small amount easily covers the entire body. While the absence of fragrance is perfect for sensitive skin, it doesn’t address body odor, though it leaves the skin feeling thoroughly clean.

Key Ingredients: Prebiotic thermal water, shea butter, niacinamide | Size: 1 ounces | Scent: None

Top Choice for Melanated Skin

This blend of cocoa butter and shea butter feels luxuriously creamy, effectively cleansing while deeply nourishing the skin. Its hydrating properties are so impressive that we skipped moisturizing after showering.

After using this body wash, our skin felt smooth, clean, and even slightly radiant. Despite its intense moisturizing properties, it left no residue or film behind. We found the blend of floral, vanilla, and musk fragrances delightful, though it may not appeal to everyone.

Key Ingredients: African cocoa butter, shea butter, multi-vitamin extracts | Size: 10 ounces | Scent: Pharaoh’s Love

Top Choice for Body Acne

For those looking to combat body acne, a salicylic acid-based body wash like this one from Frank Body can help clear breakouts by unclogging pores and reducing inflammation and redness. We particularly appreciate its gentle formula, which cleanses without stripping the skin’s natural oils.

That said, it effectively removed dead, dry skin as we lathered, leaving our skin feeling clean, soft, and hydrated. The only drawback is its strong citrus scent, though it fades quickly after use.

Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid | Size: 12.17 ounces | Scent: Mandarin and cedarwood

Final Verdict

The Aveeno Skin Relief Body Wash for Sensitive Skin is our top pick for everyday use—it cleanses while deeply moisturizing the skin. For a budget-friendly alternative, the Method Body Wash offers a luxurious formula that rivals higher-end options.

Our Testing Process

Over six weeks, we tested 50 body washes in real-world conditions, evaluating both standard and dry-skin formulations. Each product was used daily as part of our shower routine. We assessed factors like consistency, hydration, cleansing power, lather quality, scent, and packaging.

How to Shop for Body Wash Like a Pro

Ingredients

Dr. Kung suggests opting for body wash ingredients that repair and strengthen the skin barrier. Key components include hydrogenated vegetable oil (glycerin), sunflower seed oil, soybean oil, colloidal oatmeal, vitamin B3 (panthenol), and vitamin E. A healthy skin barrier shields against external threats like toxins, viruses, and chemicals. "Moisturizing agents such as hyaluronic acid and ceramides are also essential," adds Dr. Garcia.

Dr. Friedler advises choosing a body wash based on your specific needs.

• For a hydrating body wash, seek ingredients like dimethicone, glycerin, petroleum, or plant oils.
• If you have oily skin, consider a body wash with salicylic acid.
• For body acne or keratosis pilaris, look for exfoliants like AHAs, BHAs, urea, or lactic acid, which gently remove dead skin cells, according to Dr. Garcia.
• For sensitive skin, choose a fragrance-free formula free of irritants.

Keep in mind that switching body washes to address specific concerns requires patience. "Consistency is crucial," Dr. Garcia emphasizes. "Stick with your chosen body wash for at least four to six weeks to see noticeable results."

Scent

Dr. Friedler notes that fragrances and scents can be harsh on the skin. "Some individuals have fragrance allergies," she explains. "Those with sensitive skin or eczema may also react negatively to fragranced body washes, as they are more prone to allergens."

If you have highly sensitive skin or eczema, it’s best to avoid scented products. "Pay attention to your skin’s reactions," advises Dr. Garcia. "If you notice redness, stinging, or increased dryness, discontinue use and consult a dermatologist."

More Body Washes to Consider

Dove Hydration Boost Serum Body Wash: We appreciated its mild, fresh scent and the fact that a small amount goes a long way (one pump sufficed for the entire body). However, despite its affordable price, we didn’t see significant skin improvements and encountered issues with the pump mechanism.

Isle of Paradise Confidently Clear Body Cleansing Wash Lactic & Salicylic Acids: This body wash left our skin feeling refreshed, clean, and smooth. However, we wished it came with a pump instead of a flip cap. Its fruity scent may not suit everyone’s preferences.

Questions You Might Ask

What’s the Difference Between Body Wash, Shower Gel, and Soap?

In this article, we evaluated both body washes and shower gels, but for those with dry skin, the distinction matters. Dr. Kung explains that body washes typically have a thin, creamy texture similar to liquid soap, while shower gels are thicker and gel-like. They also address different skin concerns.

"Body washes are generally better at moisturizing and hydrating the skin, whereas shower gels can feel drying for those with dry skin," she explains. Your choice depends on your skin type and environment—opt for a body wash in dry climates, but if you have oily skin or live in humid areas, a gel or soap formula may be more suitable.

Should You Use a Loofah To Apply Body Wash?

Dr. Kung advises against using loofahs, exfoliating gloves, or shower brushes. "There’s no need to scrub the skin or disrupt its natural exfoliation cycle," she says, noting that skin cells naturally shed every four to six weeks. "These tools can harbor bacteria and mold, and daily scrubbing may lead to discoloration or skin thickening."

Should You Use Body Wash Every Day?

While frequent handwashing with soap is widely encouraged, the use of body wash in daily showers raises different considerations.

"The debate over whether daily showers are healthy remains surprisingly contentious," says Dr. Mraz. "Concerns about skin dryness often stem from traditional soaps that strip natural lipids, worsening eczema or dry skin." Thankfully, many body washes are designed to protect the skin barrier, making them safe for daily use.

Can You Use Body Wash on Your Face?

While some body washes are gentle enough for facial use, others are better reserved for the body. Facial cleansers are typically non-comedogenic and milder, whereas body washes may cause irritation or dryness on the face. If a body wash specifies it’s safe for facial use, it’s fine to proceed. Otherwise, stick to a dedicated facial cleanser.

Take Our Word for It

This article was written by Stefanie Waldek, a seasoned writer with a decade of experience in lifestyle, home, and travel. To identify the best body washes, we tested 50 products in real-world conditions, assessing effectiveness, active ingredients, scents, and pricing. We also sought expert advice from Suzanne Friedler, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist at Advanced Dermatology PC, Elaine Kung, M.D., founder of Future Bright Dermatology, Serena Mraz, M.D., of Solano Dermatology and Associates, and Annabelle Garcia, M.D., of Sonterra Dermatology.