Dry skin can be a curse. It is both ugly and uncomfortable. Often, it is also the root of other common skin problems, such as itchiness and roughness.
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If you have dry skin, the problem can even be worsened by the skincare products that you are using, including soaps and body washes. Most of them contain chemicals and other harsh ingredients that can dry out the skin.
Looking for the best body washes and soaps for dry skin? Our team spent hours of research to give you a definitive list of some of the top options that are worth considering.
Best Body Washes for Dry Sensitive Skin
If you have dry and sensitive skin, you need to choose natural ingredients over harsh chemicals, providing an assurance that your skin will not suffer from irritation.
Puracy Natural Body Wash
It harnesses the power of citrus and sea salt to effectively calm dry skin. It has a plant-powered formula, which is a great alternative to the products that contain artificial dyes, parabens, sulfates, triclosan, and alcohol.
The pink grapefruit fragrance is also a plus. It has a clean and refreshing scent, which a lot of people resembles the ocean breeze.
A lot of its users also love the zero risk with its purchase since the manufacturer is offering a money-back guarantee. If you are unhappy in any way, you can get a full refund.
There are also some people who used it not only as a body wash but also as a shampoo.
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
This body wash comes with an award-winning and non-irritating formula that makes it perfect for people with sensitive skin. It is non-foaming and does not strip the natural moisture of the skin while effectively providing a protective barrier against external factors that cause dryness.
You can use it not only for the body but also for the face. In fact, a lot of women use it as a makeup remover. It has ingredients that do not clog the pores, so this will be great for getting rid of acne.
CeraVe Eczema Body Wash
One of the distinct qualities of this product is that it has a special formula that makes it perfect for those with eczema. It uses essential ceramides that can help to soothe dry and irritated skin that results from eczema. There are also omega oils that can calm the skin.
It has a seal of acceptance from the National Eczema Society, so you can be confident that it will indeed be effective.
According to its users, this works not only for adults but also for babies. Some even shared that it can be effective for relief from excessive sweating under the breast.
CeraVe Hydrating Body Wash
A look at the ingredients will easily convince you that it will work against dryness, even if you have sensitive skin. It contains ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and emollients, which work together to provide moisturizing benefits.
When used, it has a gentle foaming action that will make bath time more relaxing. You will notice how soft it is.
For the best outcomes, the manufacturer recommends that you finish with their moisturizing cream, which has a non-greasy and fast-absorbing formula.
Dove Fragrance-Free Body Wash
Itchy and dry skin will not be a problem with the mild and hypoallergenic formula of this body wash. You can enjoy this without worrying about irritation. The manufacturer notes that it has 10 times more moisturizing benefits compared to a regular body wash.
Many of the people who used this product were happy with how it lathers well, creating a gentle foam that helps to lock the moisture in your skin.
To add, looking at the reviews, users were also all praises with regards to how it can be great even for people who have eczema or severe skin allergies.
Best Body Washes for Dry Acne Prone Skin
For those with dry and acne-prone skin, the best body washes will help in controlling the production of oil to minimize the likelihood of breakouts. Products that contain salicylic acid and labeled as non-comedogenic are some of the best choices.
TheraTree Tea Tree Oil Soap with Neem Oil
Free of chemical preservatives, detergents, thickeners, silicone, and synthetic dyes, among others, this is a great choice if you want your body wash to be free of harsh ingredients.
The concentrated formula of this product means that you will be able to save money. Just a small drop can already go a long way to produce a rich and thick lather.
Aside from fighting dryness and acne, it is also effective in terms of odor control. It has natural ingredients that provide the skin a refreshing scent that will last throughout the day. To add, it is also beneficial in improving the skin’s complexion.
Eucerin Skin Calming Dry Skin Body Wash
With the soap-free formula of this body wash, it can gently cleanse the skin without irritation. It is also free of dyes and fragrances. Plus, it is recommended even by dermatologists.
Instead of using chemicals that can do more harm than good, it also has omega oils and a variety of natural lipids, which can provide soothing and moisturizing benefits to the skin.
Some people might complain about the weird smell that comes from the body wash. Nonetheless, you should not worry as this is probably from the Vitamin E that is used in the product.
Neutrogena Body Clear Body Wash
One thing that makes this effective in fighting acne is the fact that it won’t clog the pores. The 2% salicylic acid in this wash is another thing that makes it great for acne relief. Plus, it has a gentle formula, so you can be sure that it won’t result in irritation.
Aside from back acne relief, a lot of its users also reported how it is great for clearing black spots in the body, making it great for improving complexion.
Best Moisturizing Body Washes for Dry Skin
For those that can deliver moisturizing benefits, they should keep the skin hydrated. This affects not only the appearance but also the softness of the skin.
Nivea Crème Moisture Moisturizing Body Wash
The thickness of this body wash is one of the first things that you will notice. It is almost as thick as a lotion, but it lathers smoothly upon application.
It will be a great choice for those who often tend to skip moisturizing after a shower. The cream already comes with moisturizing properties to effectively heal dryness.
The Pro-Vitamin B5 is one of the ingredients that make this an effective choice for dry skin. It locks in the moisture of the skin to keep it hydrated even long after taking a shower.
Everyone 3-in-1 Soap
This is a multiuse product that will make a good addition to your bath routine. It works not only as a body wash but also as a shampoo and bubble bath.
To effectively relieve dry skin, it contains natural essential oils that have been retrieved from aloe and lavender. Aside from skin hydration, it also has calming benefits. It is all-natural and organic.
Many of its users expressed how happy they are with the mild scent, which leaves them fragrant throughout the day but without having an overpowering smell.
Kiss My Face Fragrance-Free Moisturizing Shower Gel
This body gel is fragrance-free and perfect for people who have sensitive skin. The moisturizing benefits, meanwhile, can be attributed to the use of aloe and olive, among other natural ingredients. Like most of the products mentioned in this post, it is also free of parabens and phthalates.
In terms of its smell, it is very light but refreshing. It will remind you of the way coconut oil smells, but it is a bit sweeter. It is free of chemical fragrances but that does not mean that it does not smell of anything.
Bliss Lemon and Sage Soapy Suds Body Wash
Want to have skin that’s supremely soft and free of dryness? This is another body wash that should be on your radar. It has lemon and sage, which allow it to have a nice scent. To add, it contains aloe and glycerin, which are known for locking in moisture on the skin.
As a moisturizing body wash, you will love how it makes the skin feel softer right every wash and it stays that way throughout the day.
Aveeno Positively Nourishing Hydrating Body Wash
Fig and shea butter are the main ingredients of this body wash that are responsible for making it a moisturizing. It cleanses and smoothens the skin without the need to worry about irritation, making it the perfect alternative to those that are chemical-laden.
The users of this product were also happy with how smooth and soft it is. Upon application, it makes a rich lather that will make your bath soothing. Plus, it is easy to notice the light scent, which will also make your bath time more relaxing.
Dove Body Wash, Deep Moisture
Among others, this is a well-loved product because of the innovative Nutrium Moisture technology. Basically, this is the one that allows maintenance of the natural balance of the skin to keep it moisturized.
To provide deep skin nourishing, it utilizes the mildest ingredients that have been exclusively developed by Dove. This allows it to create a creamy lather but without leaving a soapy and sticky residue after a shower.
Dove Body Wash Pump, Deep Moisture
Technically, this is the same as the product that has been mentioned above. However, the difference is that it is packaged in a pump bottle. A lot of people actually loved this because it is non-messy, and it also helps them to prevent wastage as it pumps only exactly the amount that they need.
Right after your first shower, you will easily notice the difference in your skin with this body wash. Its smooth and creamy formula will make your skin feel the same way!
Bioderma Atoderm Shower Oil
This is not as thick as the products that have been mentioned above since this is technically a shower oil. It is not as viscous, yet it is equally effective in moisturizing and hydrating the skin for up to 24 hours.
With the vitamins that are loaded in this shower oil, it will effectively stimulate the skin and rebuild barrier to provide protective elements against external factors that can worsen the dryness.
Users of this product have also noted how this is good not only for the body but for the face as well. You can also use it as a makeup remover.
Best Body Washes for Dry and Combination Skin
When you have combination skin, it is dry in some parts and oily on some portions. With this, you need to choose a body wash that can target two problems at the same time.
Aspen Kay Naturals Dead Sea Mud Soap Bar
This soap is made purely of Dead Sea mineral mud all the way from Israel. It is hand-made by artisans, so you can be sure that each soap is reflective of nothing but the best quality.
To make it more effective in relieving dryness, it also contains essential oils from natural sources, including sunflower, olive, palm, and castor bean. It also contains shea butter for an additional moisturizing benefit.
The distinct scent of the soap, on the other hand, is derived from eucalyptus, peppermint, and lemongrass.
Unhappy with the soap? Your money does not have to be wasted. Let the manufacturer know and they will issue an unconditional refund.
Mario Badescu A.H.A Botanical Body Soap
One of the main ingredients that make this an impressive body wash is grapefruit, which provides rejuvenation to uneven and dull skin. Meanwhile, there is also ginseng, which provides an antioxidant boost. Lastly, with linden, it can soothe the skin.
A lot of its users have also specifically recommended this product for those who are struggling with back acne. It smoothens the skin without drying it out.
Eucerin Gentle Hydrating Foaming Cleanser
With the moisture-rich lather that is created with every application of this foaming cleanser, it will make the skin softer and cleaner. It will be able to do so without causing dryness. Even if you have sensitive skin, there is no need to worry.
This is also great for people who are suffering from severe eczema as it can successfully tame down the breakouts. Plus, it is also great for people who are allergic to fragrances.
Body Wash by Olay
This is an age-defying body wash that is also a potent source of Vitamin E. It is great for making the skin look and feel young even through the years.
One of the most innovative features of this body wash is the Lock-in Moisture Technology, which does exactly what is in the name. It infuses moisture to the skin throughout the day, which will make it great for providing relief from dryness. This moisture is infused at up to ten layers deep.
Cetaphil Marigold Extract Ultra Gentle Soothing Body Wash
As the name implies, this is an ultra-gentle product that cleanses the skin without leaving it dry. It also comes with a calming fragrance, which will make your shower more relaxing.
Like the products mentioned in this post, it also uses natural ingredients, which include marigold flower extract and aloe vera.
It is also hypoallergenic, so this will work for you even if you have sensitive skin.
Those who are suffering from acne have also praised this product because it is gentle and it does not clog the pores.
Causes for Dry Skin
Your skin is made up of three important layers. Dermis and hypodermis are the innermost skin layers while epidermis is the outermost. So I won’t blame you when you don’t know exactly when dryness occurs. But you can know why and how to prevent it.
Dry Season
A little bit of humidity is good for your skin. But when the humidity levels are extremely low, in the winter season, it might cause dryness. You need a hydrating enzyme to keep your skin healthy, plump, and glowing.
Harsh Chemicals
Harsh chemicals are present in soaps, cream, lotions, and basically everything in the form of fragrances, additives, and colorants. Some chemicals are added in creams to make them look prettier and more tempting.
Such chemicals strip away your skin’s moisture and natural oils, leaving nothing between the environment and your skin to shield. This causes skin irritation, dryness, itchiness, and aging.
Hard Water
Hard water contains minerals that aren’t good for sensitive skin. So it’s likely your dry skin is not healing because you’re using the same hard water every day. The solution is to install a water filtration system in your pipes.
Strong Scrubs/peels
While it’s good to use healthy face scrubs like aloe vera or apricot. Overdoing it can cause skin dryness. Even concentrated peels contain chemicals that aggravate your skin. Talk to your dermatologist about healthier alternatives such as home-made face scrubs.
What To Look For in Body Washes for Dry Skin
Before we start listing down the best choices, let us first discuss some of the must-haves in the skincare product that you should choose and use.
In terms of the ingredients, some that should be present include aloe vera, glycerin, glycolic acid, jojoba oil, coconut oil, chamomile, almond oil, avocado oil, and sunflower oil, among others. They have natural moisturizing properties.
Stay Out of These Ingredients
Basically, you have to stay out of harsh or toxic chemicals as they can do more harm than good to the skin. They will strip the natural oils and can also worsen the irritation.
To be specific, you should not use products that contain alcohols and sulfates. Products with a retinoid, although effective against acne and wrinkles, can also dry out the skin.
Other Tips to Manage Dry Skin
While the use of the products mentioned above can be a lot of help, there are other things that you can do to provide relief for dry skin, including the following:
- Avoid hot showers as they can worsen the dryness of the skin. Avoid hot baths. Instead, have a warm bath and keep it short. Often, five to ten minutes will be enough.
- Be careful when shaving. This can take off the natural oils in the skin. It is best to shave right after you shower as your hair will be softer, minimizing the likelihood of irritation.
- Right after hopping off the shower, apply a moisturizer immediately. This will help to lock in moisture and keep the skin hydrated.
- Moisture should also be present in the air. With this, the best thing you can do is to use a humidifier.
- Do not forget to cover up when you are out under the heat of the sun. Sunscreen is also non-negotiable.
Wrap Up
By now, we hope that you have already found the perfect product to take care of your dry skin. The options mentioned above are gentle enough but effective in getting rid of dryness and other associated problems.