The Best Clean & Fresh Body Washes -- Here’s What Every Skin Type Needs According to a Dermatologist

Entertainment Manager 28/10/2024

We interviewed Dr. Sheila Farhang because we think you'll like her picks at these prices. E! has affiliate relationships, so we may get a commission if you purchase something through our links. Items are sold by the retailer, not E!. Prices are accurate as of publish time.

Growing up, my shower routine involved a loofah, bar soap, and water. And I wondered why I always had dry skin and never smelled good. Little did I know back then, that a soothing body wash for my specific skin type would have saved me a lot of flaking (and maybe scored me more friends). To get to the top and bottom of this topic, I consulted with board certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon Dr. Sheila Farhang, to bring you the best body washes for all skin types – from oily skin to dry skin, sensitive skin to acne prone skin, and even ones for odor control.

Why Is It Important to Find a Body Wash for Your Skin Type?

According to Dr. Farhang, each skin type has specific needs, so using a formula that's not suited for you can exacerbate issues like dryness, irritation, or breakouts and not address your skin concern (like acne or other skin condition).

So, scroll down to check out Dr. Farhang’s skin care picks, as well as a body cleanser or two that we love. They’ll keep your skin feeling and looking fresh, clean, and moisturized. The perfect body wash for your skin type awaits.

The Best Body Wash for Sensitive Skin

Dr. Farhang recommends that sensitive skin types keep it simple:

look for hypoallergenic products or those designed for “sensitive skin” or those with skin sensitivity
look for “dermatology recommended” as those products generally work towards repairing the skin barrier
keep an eye on “fragrance-free” rather than “unscented," as they may still contain masking fragrance
shop for gentle ingredients that repair the skin barrier and provide moisture, like ceramides which help with skin barrier integrity, soothing colloidal oatmeal, and glycerin to lock in moisture

Expert Picks:

Soothing and hydrating, you can use this moisturizing wash on your face and your body. Plus, it's packed with shea butter and water that's rich with antioxidants.

Size: 13.52 fl. oz.
Why Dr. Farhang likes it: “formulated with prebiotic thermal water + shea butter"
Shoppers say: “This wash does not irritate sensitive skin. I’m using this with their moisturizer and my skin is happy and looks younger! The wash doesn’t lather as well as other body wash products but it is gentle and keeps my skin from flaring up. Healthy skin is priceless."

Calming, soothing, and cleansing, this body wash is designed for sensitive and eczema prone skin. There are no parabens, dyes, or soap, so you can safely use it every day.

Size: 17.9 fl. oz.
Why Dr. Farhang likes it: “formulated with oat extract which helps soothe the skin and vitamin B3 which improves the skin"
Shoppers say: "tried sooooo very many different body wash products, that are suppose to relieve itchy- very dry, and very sensitive skin. This is the best I’ve used, definitely satisfied. I will be purchasing more of this body wash."

The Best Body Wash for Dry Skin

“For those with dry skin, maintaining a healthy skin barrier and moisturizing is a priority," Dr. Farhang writes, and products will be “similar to those with sensitive skin as the ingredients that moisturize the skin typically help decrease inflammation.” Adding:

look for hydrating ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and glycerin to replenish moisture and prevent dehydration
avoid a body wash with sulfates (those can strip the skin of its natural oils)

Expert Picks:

Whenever I smell Bliss body wash it gives me spa day vibes. The lemon and sage scent is so luxe, plus the cleanser has all the good stuff that Dr. Farhang recommends (and none of the bad).

Size: 17 fl. oz.
Why Dr. Farhang likes it: “formulated with aloe leaf juice which hydrates, soothes and softens, glycerin which hydrates the skin, and Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium"
Shoppers say: "Smells delightful! Doesn't dry out my skin. LOVE IT!"

With over 19,000 5-star Amazon reviews, this shower oil isn't just beloved by Dr. Farhang. There's vitamin B3 to restore the skin barrier, plus it's gentle enough for the whole family to use.

Size: 33.8 fl. oz.
Why Dr. Farhang likes it: “formulated with chloride, a natural derivative of cluster bean gum that conditions as it cleanses. Love the fragrance"
Shoppers say: "I love this for my dry skin! I just ordered more to make sure I don’t run out! I always have to put so much lotion or oil on my skin but with this I just use it instead of body wash & now my skin is soft after showering! Love it!"

The Best Body Wash for Oily Skin

According to Dr. Farhang, those with oily skin should “look for a balancing body wash that helps to remove excess oil without completely stripping the skin.” She adds:

look for ingredients like salicylic acid or tea tree oil which can help to control oil production and prevent clogged pores
avoid overly thick or oily formulas, as these may leave a residue that can make oily skin feel greasy (and lead to breakouts)

Expert Pick:

Whether you're using this formula as a body wash or as a facial cleanser, it will help purify your pores and deliver satin-like skin without dryness or irritation.

Size: 16.9 fl. oz.
Why Dr. Farhang likes it: “formulated with salicylic acid which helps decrease the oil production and potential breakouts"
Shoppers say: "I've used this for a little over a year now and it has helped so much. I use it on my back and shoulders and almost never break out like I used to.

The Best Body Wash for Acne Prone Skin

“For acne prone skin, the right body wash should target both bacteria and excess oil without being too harsh,” Dr. Farhang advises. Adding:

look for ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which help clear pores and reduce breakouts

Expert Pick:

Backed by over 49,500 5-star Amazon reviews, this foaming wash is beloved by fans. According to the brand, it's the highest over-the-counter Benzoyl peroxide wash -- which means it's great for fighting acne and preventing future breakouts.

Size: 5.5 fl. oz.
Why Dr. Farhang likes it: "simple/affordable and treats folliculitis aka body acne well"
Shoppers say: "This is a really good product. It has been part of my skin care routine size is good , easy to use leave skin clean , no skin irritation. This product kill all acnes in one wash."

The Best Body Wash for Body Odor

If you're looking to combat body odor, Dr. Farhang recommends “a body wash that offers antibacterial properties.” Plus:

look for formulas containing benzoyl peroxide which can help decrease odor-causing bacteria

Expert Pick:

You're not seeing double, Dr. Farhang has recommended this top-rated, foaming wash twice. It's not only great for acne, it can also help your body odor. Tons of reviewers reported that after using PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash, they didn't have to use deodorant anymore.

Size: 5.5 fl. oz.
Why Dr. Farhang likes it: "simple/affordable and treats folliculitis aka body acne well"
Shoppers say: "I tried this after hearing it worked at fighting body odor. I used it for a week straight washing my under arms. I literally had no smell after being outside all day and working out and sweating. Run don’t walk and buy this. I can now not use deodorant and be fine."

What to Consider When Choosing a Body Wash

Dr. Farhang reports that “the body skin is a little thicker and generally more resilient." For example, “I personally wouldn’t apply fragranced products on my face because I’m sensitive and acne prone but I will indulge in a fragranced body moisturizer or body wash as part of my self-care.”

Meet the Expert

Dr. Sheila Farhang is a board-certified dermatologist and double-fellowship trained cosmetic surgeon, as well as a reconstructive Mohs micrographic (skin cancer) surgeon. She's known for her integrative approach to skin and has been named a top derm influencer by Women’s Health and Forbes.

Looking for more E! editor favorites? Check out our list of the best sunscreen face sprays.

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