What Makes the Best Body Wash for Men?
Not all body washes are created equal. The best body wash for men combines three core elements.
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Cleaning power without stripping the skin - you want to remove sweat, oil and dirt — but not your skin's natural moisture barrier.
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Skin-friendly ingredients - you want to look for gentle ingredients that calm rather than irritate.
- A scent or finish you enjoy - whilst some people prefer fragrance-free, you can get ones with natural scents from oils. You want to find one that invigorates or relaxes you, allowing you to take a moment for yourself.
You also want to avoid body washes with excessive harsh sulphates (for dry and sensitive skin), drying alcohols or lots of fragrance if your skin is sensitive/reactive.
Types of Men's Body Wash to Consider
Everyday workhorse
- A no-fuss men’s liquid body soap that’s lightweight and effective.
- Perhaps foaming and balanced for normal to oily skin.
- Effective and non-expensive
- Tooletries or Charles & Lee pump body wash are good everyday washes.
Hydrating/for dry skin
- Creamer textures
- Added emollients (such as glycerin, lanolin, shea butter)
- Great for the cooler months or for guys who shave their chest, neck and need extra moisture and protection.
Sensitive or fragrance-free
- Usually with minimal ingredients, soothing agents, and no synthetic fragrances
- Ideal for eczema-prone or irritated skin
- QV Gentle Body Wash is a good body wash for men with sensitive skin
Premium
- Higher-end liquid body wash for men with formulas that improve skin
- Quality ingredients and luxury fragrances
- The Groomed Man Co is an ideal choice for men who want more from their body wash
Ingredients to Look For and Which Ones to Avoid
Look for: Glycerin, squalene, shea butter, panthenol, aloe, niacinamide, sodium cocoyl isethionate, Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid, ceramides, salicylic acid.
Avoid: Sodium Lauryl sulphate, long fragrance lists, and some alcohols near the top of the ingredient list (they are listed in quantity order)
Best Body Wash for Men Based on Needs
Best daily all-rounder - a body shower gel for men or foaming gel that rinses well and doesn't leave a residue film on the skin, suitable for most skin types.
Best for the gym bag - an antibacterial or charcoal-infused formula that removes dirt and odour without being harsh.
Best for dry skin - a creamy balm-like wash with squalene or shea; leaves skin supple without stickiness.
Best for sensitive skin - a fragrance-free, minimal-ingredient wash with aloe or colloidal oat. This helps reduce irritation after shaving or workouts.
Best premium for added benefits - a refined botanical gel with a silky finish that elevates your daily shower ritual.
Shower Tips - How to Get the Most Out of Your Body Wash
Don't over scrub - Aggressive scrubbing strips oils. Use a gentle washcloth or loofah, but let the formula of the body wash do the work.
Temperature matters - Hot showers feel good, but can dry the skin. They can also cause capillaries on the face if hot water hits directly from the shower. Warm or cool water is your friend.
Follow up with moisturiser - the best time to moisturise your skin is straight out of the shower when it's been patted dry. You lock in moisture and soothe the skin.
Add a men's body scrub to your routine to help remove dead skin cells and allow the moisturiser to protect the skin.
Choosing by Scent
Scent is personal, but here's a rundown depending on what you want to get out of your scent.
Citrus
- Fresh and energising
- Good for daytime or after gym use
Woodsy/amber
- Warm, mature, and grounding
- Great for evenings or if you want a cologne-like body wash.
Unscented
- Best for sensitive skin or those wanting their cologne to be prominent.
Herbal/ spicy
- If you want something different, cooling menthol, or eucalyptus or pepper notes
- Also has undertones of sensuality
Vanilla
- Comforting and calming with a hint of sweetness
- Great for relaxation
Fruity
- Gives a youthful energy, sweetness, fun, and tropical vibes
Shop Like A Pro
When choosing a men's body wash, think about what you want the product to do first. Do you want it to control sweat, soothe, hydrate or invigorate with its scent?
Then match the texture and ingredient profile to your skin type. Buying a body wash that suits your skin is smarter than grabbing whatever is on sale.
As a men's beauty retailer, it's my job to cut through the noise. The best body wash isn't always the flashiest bottle. It's the one that fits your skin, your routine, and your lifestyle.
