If you’re experiencing skin dryness, the best body washes can help rehydrate and replenish. Whether you’re parched from being in the sun all day or the temperature is freezing from too much AC, a hydrating cleanser with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides help keep your body moisturized and prevent that tight, stripped feeling that leads to itchiness and flaking.
Don’t know where to start your search? We’ve got you covered (with suds). Our top pick is the Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash because it gives us a major lather, smells phenomenal, will layer nicely with your favorite perfume, and leaves skin feeling buttery smooth (without drying you out post-shower). We also found options for sensitive skin types, picks that are body-acne friendly, plus options for aging skin. Ahead, see everything you need to know about choosing the best option for your skin type, according to dermatologists and editors who put them to the test.
The best body washes, at a glance
Featured in this articleBest for Dry Skin
La Roche Posay Lipikar Wash AP+ Gentle Foaming Moisturizing Wash
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How we tested body washes
We tested body washes for a duration from one week up to six months, and even included picks that some of our editors have used as part of their body care routine for years. We looked at how well they lathered, how our skin felt after application (was it dry, or stripped, or did it feel fresh and moisturized?), and paid attention to the fragrance and long-lasting smell.
Best Overall: Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash
Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash
Original video from Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash
- Pros: Suitable for all skin types
- Cons: Won’t combat body acne
Board-certified dermatologists Dhaval G. Bhanusali, MD, and Marisa Garshick, MD, both highly recommend Dove’s nourishing formula. “It’s simple, has a great ingredient profile, and is tolerated by all skin types,” says Dr. Bhanusali. Dr. Garshick agrees. “This body wash is a great option for all skin types, especially those with dry skin, as it not only provides a gentle cleanse, leaving the skin feeling clean, but it’s now also formulated with moisturizing MicroMoisture Droplets to nourish the skin and improve the moisture barrier for a full 24 hours,” she says. This one made the top overall pick on our list because it couldn’t come more recommended by dermatologists, has a really clean, refreshing scent, and is one of the most affordable picks on this list.
Best Drugstore: Cerave Hydrating Body Wash
Cerave Hydrating Body Wash
Original video from Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing Cerave Hydrating Body Wash
- Pros: Hydrating; formulated for dry skin
- Cons: No exfoliation
If you’re looking for another dermatologist favorite, Dr. Bhanusali recommends this drugstore option to his patients at Hudson Dermatology and Laser Surgery in NYC; it features essential ingredients like glycerine, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides. Lauren Penzi, MD, especially loves the hydrating properties of this pick. “A fantastic choice for those with dry skin, this wash contains powerful humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin that help retain water and moisture inside the skin, leaving your skin hydrated and ready to soak in whatever moisturizer you choose to apply after the shower,” she says.
Best Splurge: Nécessaire The Body Wash
Nécessaire The Body Wash
Original video from Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing Necessaire The Body Wash
- Pros: Great for sensitive skin; hypoallergenic; sulfate-free; available in other scents like invigorating eucalyptus, bergamot, and smoky sandalwood
- Cons: On the pricey side
You’ve likely seen the Nécessaire body wash all over Tiktok. But could something so trendy really be worth the hype? According to Dr. Shirazi it is. “Formulated with niacinamide, vitamin B3, and plant-based surfactants, it’s gentle and effective without overstripping the skin,” she says. “It also uses multiple oils, such as marula, meadowfoam, and cacay oils rich in vitamins A, C, and E, and omega-6 and omega-9, to support the skin barrier. It’s also free of sulfates and parabens.”
Glamour’s Alanna Martine Kilkeary says: “This pick is a body wash I always find myself going back to over the years. It’s silky smooth and lathers gloriously, and I’m a huge fan of all the scents. It’s a little pricey but well worth it, since it’s a luxury wash in a bottle that simply makes your shower feel like a spa, not to mention it also has salicylic and glycolic acids to help slough off dead skin cells and make your skin look bright and smooth. I reach for it every time I shower before a special occasion to make me feel nourished and fancy.”
Best for Dry Skin: La Roche Posay Lipikar Wash AP+ Gentle Foaming Moisturizing Wash
La Roche Posay Lipikar Wash AP+ Gentle Foaming Moisturizing Wash
Original video from Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing Necessaire The Body Wash
- Pros: Good for sensitive skin
- Cons: Won’t combat body acne
Both Blair Murphy-Rose, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in NYC, and Dr. Garshick recommend this gentle cleanser to people with sensitive skin. “This moisturizing wash can be used on the face and body and is designed for those with extra-dry or sensitive skin,” says Dr. Garshick. “It’s accepted by the National Eczema Association and can be used for babies through adults, as well as individuals undergoing chemotherapy. It incorporates La Roche-Posay’s prebiotic thermal water, shea butter to help support the skin barrier, glycerin to draw moisture in, and niacinamide, which is soothing on the skin. Together this helps to gently cleanse while also protecting the skin and providing 24-hour hydration.”
Best Cleansing Oil: Naturium The Glow Getter Multi-Oil Body Wash
Naturium The Glow Getter Multi-Oil Body Wash
Original video from Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing Naturium The Glow Getter Multi-Oil Body Wash
- Pros: Suitable for sensitive skin; hydrating
- Cons: Does not exfoliate
