<p>Still, even if you whittle down the options to suit your skin’s needs, there are many body washes to choose from. So, how do you decide? To help, we culled the market for the very best body washes for women. From pro-approved picks to insider favorites, here’s your sign to upgrade your shower. </p><hr>”/>
MOST VERSATILE
Nécessaire The Body Wash
MOST VERSATILE
Nécessaire The Body Wash
Pros
- Available in a range of scents
- Works with an array of skin types
- Available in various sizes as well as refillable offers
Cons
- Larger formats aren’t available in all scents
If you’re looking for a body wash that works with a myriad of skin types and concerns, reach for Nécessaire’s signature body wash. Dermatologist-tested, hypoallergenic, and non-comedogenic, this oil-in-gel formula is suitable for all skin types from depleted to mature. The secret: A mix of ingredients like hydrating niacinamide as well as oh-so soothing Vitamin A and Omega-6, among others. In addition to serving a thorough cleanse without stripping your skin of its natural oils, Nécessaire sells this wash in a bevy of sizes, refills, and four scent offerings: Fragrance-free, eucalyptus, bergamot, and sandalwood.
What shoppers are saying:
“Love how simple this is. Lots of great suds and cleans well without leaving my skin feeling tight.” —Amber H.
| Size | 250 ml |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Niacinamide, Vitamin A, Omega-6, and Omega-9, amother others. |
| Skin Type | All Skin Types |
BEST BUDGET
CeraVe Hydrating Body Wash
BEST BUDGET
CeraVe Hydrating Body Wash
Pros
- Affordable
- Cleanses and hydrates the skin
- Fragrance-free offering can be great for those with sensitive skin
Cons
- Some people don’t like the thick consistency
If you’re looking for a top-shelf body wash without paying top dollar, CeraVe has you covered with its Hydrating Body Wash. “It’s free from sulfates and parabens and is ideal for normal to dry skin,” explains Dr. Anna Chacon, a broad-certified dermatologist in Miami. Hyaluronic acid helps retain the skin’s natural moisture, while a dose of glycerin promises to add a little more hydration. There’s also three ceramides that make up 50 of the lipids in the skin barrier to keep that in check, too.
What shoppers are saying:
“I can’t find another word to describe how good this is …just wow! Absolutely love it. Keeps my skin moisturized [and] takes away fine lines from my hand, which I thought were permanent wrinkles but apparently not.”—Aga
| Size | 10 oz. |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Hyaluronic Acid and Glycerin |
| Skin Types | Normal to Dry Skin |
BEST SPLURGE
Dr. Barbara Sturm Body Wash
BEST SPLURGE
Dr. Barbara Sturm Body Wash
Pros
- Made with gentle, hydrating ingredients
- Lathers and rinses nicely
Cons
- Expensive
- Many shoppers wish it came in a larger size
At $70, Dr. Barbara Sturm’s body wash is an expense; however, it’s packed with skin-enhancing ingredients that offer a head-to-toe glow. Gentle enough to take on sensitive skin, this formula employs hyaluronic acid and prickly pear extract to moisturize and soothe the skin. Plus, a jolt of purslane keeps irritation and visible signs of aging. Oh, and did we mention it’s sulfate- and color-free? In other words, it has everything your skin needs, and no harsh ingredients.
What shoppers are saying:
“I don’t like body wash that leaves residue or has a kid fragrance or that strips my skin. This is the right one for me. It cleans while feeling really nice and rinses like a dream. My only complaint is I like to use more than I should so I will go through it faster than I would like, but it is worth it. I am ready for a jumbo in this.”—Kat L.
BEST FOR DRY SKIN
La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+ Gentle Foaming Moisturizing Wash
BEST FOR DRY SKIN
La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+ Gentle Foaming Moisturizing Wash
Now 17% Off
Pros
- Cleanses dry skin without stripping it of its natural oils
- Offers 24-hour hydration
Cons
- Some people say the bottle’s pump breaks easily
Creams and lotions might be great ways to remedy dry, flaky skin; however, the right body wash like this one from La Roche-Posay can create a hydrating foundation. Built for dry and extra-dry skin—and approved by the National Ezcema Association—this body wash can combat rough patches and flakes with a moisturizing mix of shea butter and La Roche-Posay’s Prebiotic Thermal Water. (Don’t worry: The brand says this formula is non-comedogenic, so you won’t have to worry about clogging pores.) In fact, this body wash promises to lock in moisture for 24 hours so that you can enjoy all-day hydration.
What shoppers are saying:
“I was on the hunt for a moisturizing cleanser for my dry, sensitive skin. This cleanser has been amazing. The bottle is huge and lasted several months for me after using it daily. I am now on my second bottle and don’t see myself stopping!”—Caroline
| Size | 13.52 fl. oz. |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Shea Butter and Prebiotic Thermal Water |
| Skin Types | Dry and Extra Dry Skin |
BEST FOR NORMAL SKIN
Native Body Wash
BEST FOR NORMAL SKIN
Native Body Wash
Have skin that’s not quite oily, but not quite dry? King says Native’s Body Wash is a sound option for normal skin types. “Gentle surfactants thoroughly clean the skin without stripping it of moisture while triglycerides support the skin barrier,” she says. The body wash also boasts a hydrating coconut oil as well as citric acid, which helps maintain the skin’s pH level. While Dr. King favors Native’s Lavender and Rose scent, the formula comes in other aromas such as Cucumber and Mint; Lilac and White Tea; and Citrus and Herbal Musk.
What shoppers are saying:
“Love this! Smell so good and I love how native lathers and leave your skin feeling and smelling so good.”—Sherrill D.
| Key Ingredients | Coconut Oil, Cleansing Salt, Citric Acid |
|---|---|
| Skin Types | Normal |
BEST HYDRATING
Aveeno Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Body Wash
BEST HYDRATING
Aveeno Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Body Wash
Pros
- Hydrates dry skin
- Affordable
- Free of sulfates, parabens, and dyes
Cons
- Shoppers say this formula does not lather or rinse off easily
Looking for a jolt of moisture? Meet Aveeno’s Daily Moisturizing Body Wash. “This body wash is formulated with soothing oatmeal and rich emollients to provide relief to dry skin,” Chacon says. “It’s also hypoallergenic and soap-free, making it a great choice for sensitive skin,” In fact, according to a trial, 92 percent of users found that this wash left their skin nourished.
What shoppers are saying:
“I’ve tried other body washes but Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Body Wash is my favorite because it gets you clean and moisturizes your skin without leaving an oily residue. Skin stays moisturized for a day.”—Barbara S.
BEST FOR SENSITIVE SKIN
Dove Sensitive Skin Body Wash
BEST FOR SENSITIVE SKIN
Dove Sensitive Skin Body Wash
Pros
- Affordable
- Uses mild, gentle ingredients
- Moisturizing
Cons
- Some shoppers say this wash doesn’t lather well
Anyone who struggles to find a body wash that doesn’t irritate their skin later will find a lot to love about Dove’s budget-friendly body wash, which was created with sensitive skin in mind. “This is a mild and hypoallergenic body wash that’s free from soap and dyes,” says Chacon. “It’s enriched with Dove’s moisture technology which replenishes the skin’s natural nutrients.” Not only is this body wash made with plant-based moisturizers—and without harsh sulfates—it’s also designed to leave your skin looking healthy and oh-so-radiant for up to 24 hours.
What shoppers are saying:
“My dermatologist recommended that I use this for my skin and I have to say this is great stuff. It takes so little and does so much. Great value for the money!”—Meredith G.
| Size | 22 fl. oz. |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Sodium Lauroyl Isethionate |
| Skin Type | Sensitive Skin |
Editor Favorite
Naturium The Perfector Salicylic Acid Body Wash
Editor Favorite
Naturium The Perfector Salicylic Acid Body Wash
Now 25% Off
Pros
- Great for body acne
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Some users reported issues with the pump
This fragrance-free formula from the beloved brand Naturium is packed with time-released salicylic acid to gently exfoliate skin and minimize the appearance of pimples without dryness or irritation. The addition of glycerin and skin-friendly plant oils keeps skin soft and supple. If you have dry, combination, or oily skin, this body wash is safe to use.
What our editors are saying:
“I am obsessed with every single one of Naturium’s body washes. This one in particular is great for warmer months when you need a little more exfoliation and protection against unwanted body pimples. I also love the giant bottle size and easy-to-use pump.” – Jenna Rosenstein, beauty director
BEST FOR EXFOLIATING
Beauty Pie AcidEnzyme Exfoliating Face & Body Cleanser
BEST FOR EXFOLIATING
Beauty Pie AcidEnzyme Exfoliating Face & Body Cleanser
Gently buff away dead skin flakes and rough patches with the help of Beauty Pie’s AcidEnzyme Cleanser, which you can use from head to toe. Here, a hint of salicylic acid and papaya enzymes work together to gently exfoliate the skin, while ingredients like glycerin and oat kernel extract hydrate and support the skin’s barrier, respectively. Not only does King say this option is “great for acne as well as for smoothing keratosis pilaris,” but a trial featuring independent beauty panelists also found that 85 percent of participants noticed clearer, less congested skin after using.
What shoppers are saying:
“Magic in a bottle. [Keratosis pilaris] gone from arms and skin looks brighter. Lasts for ages.”—Kara
| Size | 13.42 fl. oz. |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredient | Salicylic Acid and Papaya Enzymes |
| Skin Type | Acne and Blemish-Prone Skin, Oily Skin, Congested Skin |
BEST FOR KERATOSIS PILARIS
Isle of Paradise Confidently Clear Body Cleansing Wash
BEST FOR KERATOSIS PILARIS
Isle of Paradise Confidently Clear Body Cleansing Wash
Pros
- Delightful, tropical scent
- Made with clean ingredients
- Use of acids can help unclog pores
Cons
- Some people say it’s not super hydrating
Speaking of keratosis pilaris, anyone who wants to kick that skin condition to the curb might benefit from Isle of Paradise’s Confidently Clear Body Cleansing Wash. Keratosis pilaris
happens when your body produces too much keratin, which blocks hair follicles and leaves small bumps behind. Fortunately, a mix of lactic acid, salicylic acid, and polyglutamic acid work together to unclog pores and smoothen the skin. “This gentle formulation is great for smoothing rough or bumpy skin,” adds King.
What shoppers are saying:
“Isle of Paradise’s Confidently Clear Body Cleanser has helped my body acne improve tremendously while still giving me an invigorating scent. I’ve seen less bumps and breakouts since transitioning to using it daily.”—MakeupIsMyBF
| Size | 11.15 oz. |
|---|---|
| Ingredients | Lactic Acid, Salicylic Acid, and Polyglutamic Acid |
| Skin Type | Dry, Acne-Prone Skin |
BEST SCENTED
Salt & Stone Body Wash
BEST SCENTED
Salt & Stone Body Wash
Now 62% Off
Pros
- Available in three nuanced scents
- Formula built to hydrate, strengthen and smooth the skin
Cons
- The scents can be polarizing
- Some shoppers cited irritation
Packed with an all-star roster of ingredients—think hydrating hyaluronic acid, strengthening niacinamide, and antioxidant-rich botanicals—Salt & Stone’s body wash is built to take on dry, dull skin. However, where this formula really shines is in its nuanced aromas that smell like a jaunt to an upscale perfumer.
Floral fans will find a lot to love about Black Rose and Oud, a warmer on the typical petals. Meanwhile, the brand’s mix of santal, vetiver, and amber offers a musky aroma that’s not overpowering. Torn between the two? Salt & Stone’s Bergamot and Hinoki scent is laced with orange blossom to offer the best of both worlds.
What shoppers are saying:
“Love the scent, lather, and doesn’t trigger any allergies despite being scented. The best body wash I’ve used in recent memory!”—Su L.
| Size | 15.2 fl. oz. |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C,
Seaweed Extracts, Spirulina, Probiotics |
| Skin Type | Dry and Dull Skin |
BEST FOR MATURE SKIN
Olay Age Defying Body Wash with Vitamin E
BEST FOR MATURE SKIN
Olay Age Defying Body Wash with Vitamin E
Now 17% Off
Pros
- Great value
- Leaves skin feeling hydrated and soft
Cons
- Some shoppers dislike the odor
Just like you, your skin ages, so it’s important to find a body wash that can cater to your body’s specific needs. Enter Olay’s Age Defying Body Wash. The beloved beauty brand has culled 60 years of beauty science to create a special blend of Vitamin B3 complex and Vitamin E. While the former is known to help with cell turnover, regeneration, and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, a jolt of Vitamin E can leave skin feeling soothed and moisturized.
What shoppers are saying:
“I love the body wash it leaves my skin smooth and soft definitely going to buy this again , my skin doesn’t feel dried out like all of the other body washes that I have tried.”—Gwendolyn
| Size | 30 fl. oz. |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Vitamin B3 Complex and Vitamin E |
| Skin Type | Dry, Mature Skin |
BEST MULTIPURPOSE
Philosophy Pure Grace Shampoo Shower Gel & Bubble Bath
BEST MULTIPURPOSE
Philosophy Pure Grace Shampoo Shower Gel & Bubble Bath
If you’re looking for one formula that can do it all, Philosophy has you covered. Not only does the use of sodium laureth sulfate and sunflower seed oil make this a great body wash, but it can also be used as shampoo and bubble bath. (Translation: Its $30 price tag is totally worth it.)
While Philosophy’s 3-in-1 formula comes in a bunch of delicious scents—ranging from bergamot to jasmine—Pure Grace offers a clean aroma with water lily, leafy greens, and musk.
What shoppers are saying:
“Get this. very creamy, smells incredible. Not filmy or greasy. A little goes a long ways! Has a fresh clean soap smell and lasts! Can be pricey but great quality!”—Sandy S.
BEST FOR DISCOLORATION
Youth To The People Superfood + Niacinamide Body Cleanser
BEST FOR DISCOLORATION
Youth To The People Superfood + Niacinamide Body Cleanser
Pros
- Nice, musky scent
- Formula helps even skin tone
Cons
- Expensive
Tackle discoloration and hyperpigmentation head-on with the help of Youth To The People’s body cleanser. With its star ingredient niacinamide, this wash is formulated to support your skin barrier and create an even complexion. Meanwhile, antioxidant-rich kale and green tea extracts reduce the appearance of fine line and leave the skin absolutely glowing. The perfect finishing touch? A woodsy scent with notes of fresh greens, black pepper, and cedarwood.
What shoppers are saying:
“This body cleanser was very moisturizing. Refreshing to my skin. It left my skin feeling clean and not dry. I love that it has all the essential skincare elements in it.”—TTLannister
| Size | 16.4 oz. |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Niacinamide, Kale Extract, Green Tea Extracts |
| Skin Types | Oily, Combination, and Normal Skin |
BEST FOR ECZEMA
Eucerin Eucerin Eczema Relief Cream & Body Wash
BEST FOR ECZEMA
Eucerin Eucerin Eczema Relief Cream & Body Wash
Pros
- Specifically designed to combat signs of eczema
- Helps moisturize the skin without lotion
Cons
- This formula is non-foaming, so lathering and rinsing might require a learning curve
There’s dry skin and then there’s eczema, which makes your skin very dry, irritated, and often inflamed. Soothe any signs of eczema with the help of Eucerin’s cream and body wash. Not only has the brand been making dermatologist-approved cosmetics since 1900—so you they’re doing something right—but this gentle formula is made without dyes, fragrances, or harsh parabens. Instead, this non-foaming wash uses colloidal oatmeal to protect the skin barrier and keep potential irritants to a minimum.
What shoppers are saying:
“Skin showed massive improvement after only one use. Used on both lower legs—not much needed and was able to see all the rough skin come off during use. Skin was nice and smooth after use. A truly great product.”—Trish
| Size | 13.5 fl. oz. |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredient | Colloidal Oatmeal |
| Skin Type | Sensitive and Dry Skin |
BEST FRAGRANCE-FREE
Iota Supervitamin Body Wash+ Soothing
BEST FRAGRANCE-FREE
Iota Supervitamin Body Wash+ Soothing
Pros
- Lathers nicely
- Packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to hydrate, soothe, and repair the skin
- Fragrance free formula is nice for those with sensitive skin
Cons
- Some people have said it left their skin feeling itchy
We love a great scent as much as the next person, but fragrances in cosmetics can be polarizing—not mention irritating. That where Iota’s Supervitamin Body Wash comes in. A rockstar lineup of ingredients like omegas 3 and 6-infused blackcurrant as well as anti-inflammatory aloe work hard to soften and soothe the skin mid-cleanse. While Vitamins A, C, and E help repair the skin’s barrier and texture, a mix of prebiotics and probiotics supports its microbiome. (Yes, all while using zero artificial fragrances.)
What shoppers are saying:
“My holy grail body wash, I love how it lathers unlike many other clean body washes.”—Julianna L.
| Size | 10 oz. |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Vitamin A, C, E and Provitamin D |
| Skin Types | Dry, Sensitive, and Acne-Prone Skin |
BEST ORGANIC
Bathing Culture Cathedral Grove Mind and Body Wash
BEST ORGANIC
Bathing Culture Cathedral Grove Mind and Body Wash
For a body wash that’s skin- and environment-approved, Bathing Culture has you covered. As a certified organic wash, this pick uses natural ingredients like aloe, shea and guar to soothe and cleanse the skin. (The formula itself is super concentrated so a little goes a long way.) Bathing Culture’s body wash also comes in a glass container with refillable sizes so you can also eliminate your waste. The perfect finishing touch? A woodsy fragrance made with natural notes of vetiver, balsam, and frankincense.
What shoppers are saying:
“I love the smell of this body wash. It lathers well and is non drying. If you are concerned about the price, I must say it lasts a very long time. Two pumps per shower is enough!”—L.F.
| Size | 16 oz. |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Aloe, Shea and Guar |
| Skin Types | All Skin Types |
BEST FOR ACNE
Neutrogena Body Clear Acne Body Wash
BEST FOR ACNE
Neutrogena Body Clear Acne Body Wash
Pros
- Available in a three-pack, so you can have this formula on hand
- Dose of salicylic acid can help alleviate current acne and prevent future breakouts
Cons
- Some shoppers don’t like the grapefruit smell
Banish body blemishes with the help of Neutrogena’s Body Clear Acne Body Wash, which Cachon recommends. The magic lies in the two percent salicylic acid, which promises to clear up current breakouts and stop new ones from happening. (Don’t worry, the salicylic acid isn’t so tough that it’ll dry out your skin.) Currently, this wash is available in an unscented and light grapefruit option, the latter of which Dr. Cachon has “is enriched with Vitamin C to promote healthier, clearer skin.”
What shoppers are saying:
“Love this product, one of my favorite body washes, I feel clean and fresh always.” —Michelle Y.
| Size | 8.5 fl. oz. |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredient | 2% Salicylic Acid |
| Skin Tyoe | Acne-Prone Skin |
BEST FOR PROTECTION
Uni Skin Shield Body Wash
BEST FOR PROTECTION
Uni Skin Shield Body Wash
When it comes to protecting your skin from pollution, choosing the right body wash might seem like the last arsenal in your kit. However, Uni’s Skin Shield Body Wash proved otherwise. With the help of ingredients like Australian caviar lime, aloe vera, Tasmanian sea kelp, and Australian kakadu plum, this pick cleanses the skin without stripping it of its natural oils. Plus, the plant-based formula creates a “shield” to protect the skin from photoaging and dehydration.
What shoppers are saying:
“Probably the best body wash I’ve ever used. Lightly scented and very moisturizing. Love the ingredients and packaging.” —Andrea J.
| Size | 12.5 oz. |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Australian Caviar Lime, Aloe Vera, Tasmanian Sea Kelp, and Australian Kakadu Plum |
| Skin Types | All Skin Types |
BEST FOR DARK SKIN TONES
Buttah Skin Egyptian CocoShea Body Wash
BEST FOR DARK SKIN TONES
Buttah Skin Egyptian CocoShea Body Wash
Pros
- Cleanses and hydrates the skin
- Made with clean ingredients
- Specifically tailored for darker skin tones
Cons
- Some shoppers say this option doesn’t lather well
While body washes are seldom categorized by skin tone, Buttah Skin’s Egyptian CocoShea Body Wash is specifically designed for those with melanin-rich complexions in mind. You might buy this one to score a deep cleanse, but you’ll love it for the surge of moisture it brings. Not only does this pick feature nourishing African cocoa butter and shea butter, but its Buttah’s SP Duraquench complex promises to keep your skin hydrated for up to 72 hours.
What shoppers are saying:
“This is definitely the most moisturizing body wash I’ve ever tried. Didn’t need lotion after I showered, and as a bonus it smells amazing. Found my new favorite!”—Dri
| Size | 10 oz. |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | African Cocoa Butter and Shea Butter |
| Skin Types | Darker Complexions |
Kelsey Mulvey is a freelance lifestyle journalist, who covers shopping and deals for Good Housekeeping, Women’s Health, and ELLE Decor, among others. Her hobbies include themed spinning classes, Netflix, and nachos.
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