Whether you’re looking for the best soap or the best body wash for men, it’s really just a matter of preference. They both use the same key ingredients to cleanse, nourish and refresh the skin. When it comes to the best way to exfoliate, you need to find the method that matches your skin’s needs and variables.
Skin variables include sensitivity, acne, dryness, oiliness, and even body odor. A quality body lotion will respect these variables without damaging the skin’s barrier functions. Skin needs this barrier to lock in moisture and keep it soft, and if it’s compromised, you’ll know it by redness, itching, dryness, or cracking. This may mean finding a body wash that contains specific, targeted active ingredients, or simply choosing a product that does not contain any harmful ingredients.
Our favorite body wash for men
Are you looking for something specific?
Finding the perfect formula may take some trial and error: “The effectiveness of a body wash can vary from person to person depending on factors such as skin type, lifestyle, and personal preference,” says the board-certified dermatologist. James Collier From Seattle Modern dermatology. “It’s always best to try a few options to see what works best.” We hope our own experience with body wash gives you a shortcut to a solution. We also asked for advice on how to shop smarter for body wash from a board-certified dermatologist Dr. Robin Gemeric to UnionDerm And a board-certified dermatologist Kiran Mian to Hudson Dermatology and Laser Surgery In New York City.
Read to FeverqueenPicks for the best body wash for men across different needs and budgets.
Best body wash overall: Wonder Valley Hinoki Body Wash
Our experience
What makes the best body wash overall? Although there is no uniform solution for foam volume, Wonder Valley can take the crown for most men. Multitasking cleanses, moisturizes, and Supports your skin’s microbiome? Checks. Suitable for all skin types? Checks. Stylish and sustainable aluminum packaging? Checks. Silky but sticky formula? Checks. Free of parabens, phthalates, sulfates or artificial dyes? Check – you get the idea. Wonder Valley keeps it simple and effective while focusing on key natural ingredients: willow bark, an antioxidant humectant that hydrates and improves skin tone; Ashwagandha, which promotes collagen production; Aloe vera to soothe. and Wonder Valley California’s own extra virgin olive oil for moisturizing and antioxidant benefits. The result? Exceptional cleansing foam combined with a subtle woody citrus and balsamic scent. It all comes in a stylish container that adds some standalone style to your bathtub. Wonder Valley proves that the niche personal care movement isn’t going anywhere, it’s only expanding with great products, like this natural, effective, and wonderful body wash.
Best body wash to soften skin: Sachajuan Body Wash
Our experience
While proprietary technology in personal care products can sometimes seem like a gimmick, Sachajuan’s Earthen Silk Tech proof is in the pudding. Given the cult-favorite brand’s roots in hair care, it’s no surprise that its body washes also leave your skin silky smooth. At the heart of their Earth Silk technology is oat beta-glucan – a soothing and softening ingredient derived from oats grown in Scandinavia (the Swedes know skincare). Soluble oat fiber penetrates deep into the skin, giving you some good hydration that you can feel. The gel lathers beautifully, and although there are a lot of skin-softening body washes out there, this one stands out. After showering, my skin felt softer for most of the day. As for the scents, the wonderful blend of lavender with vanilla, musk and tonka bean adds a layer of calm to an already soothing experience.
Best Hybrid Exfoliating Body Wash: Malin + Goetz Eucalyptus Hand + Body Scrub
Our experience
Exfoliating once or twice a week is essential to get rid of dead skin cells and keep your skin fresh and healthy. Some people prefer chemical exfoliants, such as glycolic or lactic acids, which dissolve dead cells for easy removal, while others prefer the physical exfoliation resulting from granular and particle exfoliants. But why choose? Malin+Goetz’s new Eucalyptus Body, Hand and Body Scrub offers the best of both. The combination of AHAs (lactic and mandelic acids) brightens and exfoliates the skin, while pumice – a natural mineral-based exfoliant – softens, resurfaces and removes dirt and dead skin. Add niacinamide, vitamins, and antioxidants to brighten and soothe skin, and you’ve got cleansing and rejuvenating power. It’s both a cleanser and a lather, and true to the Malin + Goetz format, the eucalyptus scent is a literal herbal scent. Bonus: It can be used as a hand scrub. Win, win.
Best unscented body wash: Saltaire Fragrance Free Body Wash
Our experience
Founded by model Iskra Lawrence in 2022, Saltair champions inclusivity and affordability without compromising on quality. Honestly, a brand can charge a lot more for what you get, but that’s the goal: to make luxury accessible to everyone, and we’re all for that. Saltaire Body Washes come in a stunning array of vibrant colors that reflect their scents, all housed in massive, sustainable aluminum pumps that feel satisfyingly large. But our top pick? Unscented option. Great for sensitive or easily irritated skin, it looks anything but basic with a luxurious, understated touch that indulges in its simplicity. True to the brand’s spirit, the formula relies on natural powerhouse ingredients: Saltaire Coconut Water and a fermented oil complex to leave skin silky smooth, as well as skincare standards like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to hydrate and tone the skin.
BEST LONGEST LASTING PUMP/BODY WASH DESIGN: Dove Men + Care Relax Body Wash
Our experience
I fully realize that “best pump design” may seem like an odd category for a body wash list, but hear me out: Of the many things I love about Dove Men+Care Body Wash, the one that stands out is its longevity — except that it skips the bulk. – Store sentiments and looks perfectly functional next to your bathtub. The pump is easy to dispense in the middle of the shower without awkwardly picking it up (it’s larger), and is long-lasting. Forever. I’ve been a fan of Dove Men+Care for years because it blends science-backed ingredients with natural ones, creating essential men’s care products that are accessible, simple, and effective and available in most places. This body wash provides a fuss-free daily cleanser and is infused with some essential oils for good measure. My skin felt clean, refreshed and soft after cleansing with this. Oh, and the cedarwood and eucalyptus is an aromatic upgrade from the usual options at this price.
Best body wash for frequent showers: Soft comfort cleansing services
Our experience
Most of us shower no more than once a day, but sometimes life (or vigorous exercise) calls for a second rinse. Downside? Frequent showering can damage your skin, especially if you use a body wash that strips essential oils. Soft Services Comfort Cleanse is a hydrating cleanser that’s gentle on your skin during that extra shower time, even if your water bill takes a hit. Designed specifically for everyday use, it features a generous dose of glycerin to lock in moisture and protect your skin barrier while its watery and oily texture binds to surface dirt, cleansing without rubbing. Instead of excess foam, it turns into a soft, silky lather. Bonus: Its soft formula can be used as shaving cream in the shower, making it perfect for multitasking.
Best luxury body wash:
Flamingo Estate Body Wash with Rosemary and Sage
Our experience
Flamingo Estate is having a well-deserved moment in the spotlight, and it’s likely to stay here. Known for its coveted olive oils, this apothecary-inspired brand has expanded to include luxurious hand washes, candles, and, of course, premium aromatherapy body washes. Imagine a farm-to-table restaurant owned by a dedicated perfumer and personal care expert creating this formula, and you’ll get the vibe. True to its roots, this cleanser is made with nourishing oils like olive and babassu and infused with natural sea salt for a honey-like texture. Available in different scents, each evocative of an estate garden, the rosemary and sage blend is herbaceous and evocative, like bathing among lush greenery. While lab-grown luxury has its place, Flamingo Estate celebrates the gifts of Mother Earth—and it’s hard to imagine a more indulgent (and appropriately scented) upgrade to your body wash collection.
Best 2-in-1 Body Wash: Jack Black Jack’s Rejuvenating Cleanser for Body and Hair
Our experience
Even the less hair-care-savvy among us might treat this 2-in-1 body wash and shampoo with a pinch of salt. But some of these multitaskers have shed the stigma with newer formulas, including ambitious 3-in-1 formulas (yes, even for your face). For our money, Jack Black delivers the goods with its JackZen lotion, packaged in the brand’s signature cobalt blue color that has come a long way since the advent of lip balm. The lather is enhanced with skin-soothing aloe vera and hydrating glycerin, but the real highlight is Pro-Vitamin B5, which provides lightweight hydration to leave hair soft and smooth – impressive for a 2-in-1. Although these products are not a substitute for a full care routine (they can Sometimes dry hair or lack targeted follicle care), JackZen is great for travel or busy mornings. Plus, its aromatic scent—a blend of cardamom, bamboo, sage, and patchouli—elevates your shower into a ritual that may rival your cologne.
Best eco-friendly/refillable body wash: Bath Culture, Body and Mind Wash – Cathedral Grove
Our experience: Bath Culture isn’t just our pick for the most eco-friendly body wash, it’s also the cool kid on the body wash spectrum. Other brands here boast sleek, elevated packaging that leaves the plastic triviality of body washes in the dust, but it’s the bath’s cultural standing and craftsmanship that really shines. These pop art-style refillable glass bottles add a stylish touch to your bathtub, and are built to last – you can get gallon bottles to reduce waste. The soap feels natural and refreshing with moisturizing and soothing botanical ingredients like aloe vera, shea butter and olive oil. You won’t find synthetic fragrances here; The scents blend over 10 essential oils and extracts into fragrance-grade creations. My favorite fragrance, Cathedral Grove, captures the essence of a misty redwood forest with lush undergrowth and a subtle oceanic undertone. If eco-friendly, effective and hip products could be combined in a body wash, shower culture would be it.
Best smelling body wash (or best perfume):
Body wash with salt and stone
Our experience
Salt & Stone has earned its place as a premium hair care brand synonymous with amazing scents. Their deodorants look more like high-end colognes, with top, heart, and base notes. And body wash? Honestly addictive. Each is a sensory experience so fragrant and perfectly balanced that you might even skip cologne that day. Case in point: This Santal and Vetiver lotion leaves a royal, green-amber scent that lingers in your bathroom for hours—think luxury spa meets perfumery. A wash of saffron and cedar balances warm, spicy gourmand notes with the depth of jasmine flowers, while bergamot and hinoki blend bright citrus with the sweet, earthy notes of Japanese hinoki. Black Rose and Oud offers a deep, mysterious scent for the colder months. In addition to their wonderful scents, these washes shine in their skincare performance too, containing hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and antioxidants like blueberry extract and vitamin C for a nourishing cleanse.
Best body wash for dry skin: Cetaphil Moisturizing Body Wash for dry and sensitive skin
Sometimes when I make these “best of” lists, I find myself thinking, “Oh, how unique, another pick from Cetaphil…” But there’s a very good reason why this skin-favorite brand pleases so many people — especially those Those who suffer from dehydration and dehydration. Sensitive skin. This lotion-like body wash lacks any fragrance and coats skin with its generous base of glycerin and shea butter. I’ve also used it as a hand wash in the height of winter, when my gloves are really cracked but I need to wash them several times a day. Pair that with some short, light showers (leave the cream on the skin for a good 30 seconds before rinsing), and you’ll leave the shower feeling like you’ve actually lathered up some body wash. (I still suggest using body lotion as well for ongoing defense, but at least this leaves skin looking great.)
Best body wash for sensitive skin: Nécessaire Fragrance-free body wash
Nécessaire is a master of the craft of nourishing the body, and besides that, he’s gorgeous Unscented body washFragrance-free body wash is ideal for sensitive skin. It’s all about those active ingredients too: This omega- and glycerin-enriched shower gel contains Niacinamide and Vitamin E, for soft and soothed skin. Every time this brand sends anything to my doorstep, I grumble something along the lines of, “Oh my God, yes…”, and then have to come up with some way to… no Share it with my partner. I feel very good and It’s so great when I use their products, and it’s the body wash I generally put at the top of their list because of its universality, gentleness, and effectiveness. I can skip the fragrance, I just want nourishing and refreshing results, and I get that with Nécessaire.
Best exfoliating body wash: Baxter of California Exfoliating Body Wash
Oh, I can put my hair on this product for a while. It’s more gentle than most exfoliating body washes I recommend (since I’m a fan of chemical exfoliants rather than physical exfoliants). But, as a barrier for dry skin, this pumice-infused formula also packs a punch. I wouldn’t recommend using it every day, especially since it’s smaller than most other options and won’t last you as long. Use it when you need that extra effort, like dry elbows, crusty ankles, cracked heels, or even just targeting your pits and groin to promote better hygiene. But here’s my favorite part of all: This thing smells amazing. It’s a remix of the brand’s best-selling (and best-smelling) Body exfoliation barwith a wonderful essence of oakmoss and cedar that has also made its way in recently Baxter deodorants Also – and him too, for what it’s worth Feverqueen-Chart tops the best deodorant).
The best body wash from pharmacies: Harry’s Body Wash
There’s nothing compromising about this best cheap body wash, which currently comes in six different scents. While this type of scent continues to grow, my favorite remains one of Harry’s original choices, the crisp, mineral-hued Stone. This product creates great lather, and I’ve probably used it as a light bubble bath base more than once. Despite its big-batch synthetic formula, it follows Dr. Mian’s script for pH-balancing citric acid, and is a perfect example of why drugstore options are often as good (if not better) than top-shelf options. Also, they just released a 30 fl. ounce. version, in case you even want more Bang for your buck.
Best acne body wash for men (and oily skin too): Differin Acne Removal Body Wash
While there are two main ingredients used in body washes to target acne — salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide — I generally recommend this salicylic acid option to readers sooner. Benzoyl options (common in Differin’s face wash formulas) are best for treating bacterial acne, while salicylic acid seeps into pores to release any trapped skin cells and oily buildup. For me, I use benzoyl more reactively, as I find it dries out my skin (and risks staining my towels), whereas this body wash works better for me day to day – primarily as an acne reliever. As an extraordinarily sweaty person, I also find that it helps loosen clogged pores all over the body, not just the chest, back, shoulders, and neck as advertised.
The best body wash for men recommended by dermatologists: The original sulfate-free body wash
Why do dermatologists love it?
“Native uses citric acid, a great pH balancer to maintain the skin barrier, along with plant oil derivatives that add hydration,” says Dr. Mian of Native Moisturizing Body Wash, which she readily recommends to her patients. – Phthalate-free formula. “It also smells lovely without overdoing it with any artificial fragrances. Its texture is foamy but luxurious at the same time, and instead of leaving you with that tight, clean feeling, it leaves you soft and clean.”
How to find the best body wash for you
Finding the best body wash solution for your skin starts with choosing targeted active ingredients. Here are doctors’ orders on some ideal ingredients to consider for your basic skin care needs.
“Look for a body wash that contains benzoyl peroxide and/or salicylic acid,” says Dr. Mian. “Benzoyl peroxide is antibacterial (so it neutralizes blemish-causing bacteria). It also reduces sebum and sweat. Salicylic acid helps remove impurities from pores, eliminating the starting point for acne formation.
“Choose a body wash that contains glycerin and ceramides,” says Mian. “Think of your skin as a brick wall. Ceramides form the cement between the bricks. Without proper ceramides, the skin barrier will not be as strong, which increases transepidermal water loss. A strong skin barrier will help maintain hydration in very dry skin. If you want to dehydrate For dry skin, there are many body washes that contain physical exfoliants, as well as those that contain chemical exfoliants such as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), including glycolic acid and lactic acid, advises Dr. Gemeric. “If you have dry skin, look for a low-lathering body wash that contains gentle cleansing agents or surfactants, also known as cream or oil-based cleansers. Look for glycerin, shea butter, and sunflower seed oil to help lock in moisture. And nourish the skin.” Additionally, “non-foaming washes cleanse more gently without removing oils from the skin. So, if you have dry skin, choose washes that lather less and moisturize more.”
Even though your body probably isn’t quite as oily as your face, it can still be a problem below the neck, especially if you want to prevent acne and relieve sweat buildup. Collier says to use oil-balancing formulas, like those that include salicylic acid, for an all-over deep cleansing finish. They’ll double as great anti-breakout options too, thanks to deep cleaning of everything. “For oily skin, I recommend a foaming body wash, which is more effective in removing some of the oils from the skin,” advises Dr. Gemeric. “Washes that contain salicylic acid or glycolic acid can also help remove excess oil and dead skin cells. In addition, they help Ingredients such as niacinamide and ceramides help regulate sebum or oil production and maintain a healthy skin barrier.
“Body odor can be caused by a variety of causes, including bacterial or fungal overgrowth, hormones, and hygiene routines,” says Dr. Collier. Mian adds that the most common odor occurs “when the natural flora of bacteria on our skin breaks down sweat, releasing the byproducts that lead to the odor.” So, the best body wash for BO will reduce the number of bacteria as well as keep the skin clean and exfoliated, she says. “A combination of gentle exfoliating acids like mandelic acid or salicylic acid, antibacterial salts like benzalkonium chloride, and even gentle fragrances can help neutralize body odor.”
Depending on how sensitive your skin is, Dr. Gemeric advises you to try to avoid ingredients known to be irritants, like sulfates and dyes, and look for soothing ingredients like colloidal oatmeal and ceramides and moisturizing agents like glycerin. “Choose an unscented body wash because it’s free of dyes, and many fragrances — even natural ones — can irritate people with allergies,” she adds. Also, prioritize hypoallergenic lotion to reduce the risk of irritation or allergic reactions. Priority should be given to anti-inflammatory agents, such as chamomile, aloe vera, and allantoin, which “can all help soothe the skin and reduce inflammation,” Collier says.
In addition to the target ingredients, it’s also important to consider the base ingredients — those ingredients besides water that appear at the top of the ingredient list, like glycerin and shea butter. Sometimes these are the main main ingredient in a body wash recipe, which is totally fine; Just because the formula lacks any buzzy ingredient like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide doesn’t make it inferior. (You can always apply this load to your body lotion, too.)
Frequently asked questions about body wash, answered
What is the best body wash for men? After a decade of testing the best body washes, we’ve selected the best body wash overall Wonder Valley Hinoki Body Wash.
What are some key ingredients to look for?
Dr. Jemeric recommends a few ingredients to support your skin’s health and moisture levels, also known as body wash 101. “Look for ceramides, which strengthen the skin’s barrier, lock in moisture, and protect against environmental stressors. Plant oils such as jojoba, shea butter, coconut and sunflower oil are excellent for soothing and moisturizing dry or irritated skin, while squalane and glycerin draw in moisture, repair cracks and leave skin soft and supple.
What should you look for in terms of hydration?
Dr. Gemeric breaks it down into three main moisturizing ingredients. refreshment Attract water from the environment or from deep within the skin to increase the water content of the skin. Common examples include hyaluronic acid, glycerin, lactic acid, and squalane. Emollients Helps restore the skin barrier and smooth its surface with ceramides, shea butter, glycerin and dimethicone. finally, Blockages Seal moisture and prevent water loss. They include waxes, lanolin, argan oil, petroleum jelly and coconut oil. “For maximum hydration, look for a body wash that contains two or three moisturizing ingredients. Some ingredients, such as glycerin and ceramides, offer multiple benefits.
What is exfoliation, and how often should I do it?
Exfoliation is important for maintaining healthy, smooth skin, but it’s not something you should do every day. Aim to exfoliate once or twice a week to get the benefits without irritation. There are two main types of exfoliators. “Chemical exfoliants, such as alpha hydroxy acids such as glycolic, lactic, and mandelic acids, and beta hydroxy acids such as salicylic acid, dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to slough off the skin while enzymatically softening and brightening the skin,” says Dr. Gemeric. Physical exfoliants Exfoliants that contain granular materials, such as walnut shells, coconut shells, oatmeal, or pumice, to remove skin cells mechanically removing dead skin from the surface of the skin.” Hybrid exfoliating washes (like the Malin+Goetz wash above) combine physical and chemical exfoliants for a dual-action approach.
Why is everything “vegan” nowadays?
Natural ingredients like shea butter, almond oil, jojoba oil, sunflower oil, and safflower oil are excellent for replenishing the skin’s natural oils, explains Dr. Jmiric. However, not everything labeled as vegetarian is actually vegetarian or vegan. While these products may contain plant-derived ingredients, they can also include animal-derived ingredients such as emu oil or lanolin. Additionally, being vegan or “organic” does not necessarily mean it is free of chemicals. “Everything is a chemical – natural or synthetic – and many ‘natural’ ingredients, such as essential oils, can still irritate the skin.” In short, plant-based ingredients sound great, and there are many reasons to use said ingredients, but you have to approach them with a little health knowledge.
“Antioxidants fight free radicals, slow cell damage and prevent the breakdown of collagen and elastin,” says Dr. Gmirek. “While antioxidants in body washes can be beneficial, their short contact time with the skin limits their effectiveness compared to leave-on products like serums.” And creams.” The best approach is to use antioxidant body wash as a supporting step in your routine, but pair it with leave-on products for maximum effect.
Should we — or can we — really avoid sulfates?
“Not all sulfates are inherently bad,” says Dr. Gemeric. “Many body washes, including popular mass-market options, use sulfates because they are effective at lathering and removing dirt, oil, and sweat. However, sulfates can strip the skin.” of their natural oils if used excessively or in high concentrations, leading to dryness or irritation, especially for sensitive or dry skin types.” Look for a lotion that balances sulfates with moisturizing ingredients like glycerin, ceramides, or natural oils to counter potential dryness. She also stresses But less is more: “Don’t overuse (your lotion), make sure you wash it well and follow up with moisturizer.”
Is synthetic body lotion bad?
Adam says: We don’t have any harsh criticisms to make of mass-produced body washes. Many of the best body washes for men on our list lack specific targeted ingredients (and even all-natural ingredients), in favor of tried-and-true synthetic surfactants. Probably not worth diving So It’s so deep that we debate whether an ingredient like cocamidopropyl betaine would ruin your skin forever if it was included in a well-respected recipe.
Let’s leave it like this: Read the reviews. Go for reputable brands. When curious, He does That research into eccentric ingredients. We’re not even 100% negative about sulfates here because it’s… no Love lather? (But that’s because some formulas containing sulfates are well-researched and will respect many skin types.) So, keep that in mind as you shop. Sometimes the best choice is one of the more affordable body washes sold in drugstores, because it’s probably also been tested on most people, with leading scientists and researchers writing the script, no less.
Dermatologists we consulted
Dr. Robin Gemeric He is a board-certified dermatologist UnionDerm.
James Collier He is a board-certified dermatologist Modern dermatology In Seattle.
Kiran Mian He is a board-certified dermatologist Hudson Dermatology and Laser Surgery In New York City.
How we tested
Reviewed and tested by Michael Stefanov and Adam Hurley.
Michael Stefanov: In addition to writing to gq, I’ve covered topics ranging from grooming, menswear, fragrances and watches Inside Hook, Rob Report, Men’s Magazine, Respectedand Men’s health. I worked as a market editor at Respected For years, we’ve scoured the industry for the best apparel and merchandise worth investing in and crafted compelling stories and good advice for our readers. I have also conceptualized and written several fragrance stories Respected And a large portion of the grooming pages. Whether it’s coats, cologne, or body wash, people know I’ve done the work. When testing these body washes, I found that each excelled in its own category. I also consulted with friends with different skin types to get their feedback, as well as a renowned dermatologist.
Adam Hurley: As with any review I’ve written, product selections are based on experience: I’ve been an editor and writer since 2013, and have been with Feverqueen Since 2016. I receive and test thousands of products a year – often with the help of my partner, since that’s a thing a lot of products. The ones that cut through the noise are the ones you see here. I always revise my opinion through general reviews of these brands and products as well. While I stand by everything I believe in, I want to acknowledge that my experience is unique, so it’s helpful to see that others share my love of these products as well.
