The Best Body Wash

Buying Guide

A relaxing shower provides many benefits. It can help wake you up in the early hours and get you ready for a busy day ahead. If you’re a nighttime shower fan, then you know the warm water is soothing and can help you wind down after a long day. Regardless of whether you prefer hot or cold showers, early or late showers, it’s important to get the right body wash.

Your body wash not only cleans your skin, but it also can moisturize and nourish your skin. In addition, scented body washes offer the benefits of aromatherapy while you get clean. When you’re looking for a great body wash, start by considering the ingredients. It’s important to avoid body washes that contain harsh chemicals, as they can leave your skin feeling dry and irritated because they take away the skin’s natural moisture.

Some ingredients to watch out for include Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES, Sodium Myreth Sulfate) and Ammonium Laureth Sulfate (ALES). They contain high amounts of alcohol which can irritate your eyes and your scalp. Also avoid Alpha Olefin Sulfonate (AOS, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate), which contains a toxin that is harmful to your skin. Do not choose body washes that have castor oil if you have sensitive skin, because it can cause skin irritation and allergies. Another ingredient to be aware of is Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), which is known to severely damage hair follicles over time. If you use your body wash on your hair, you may experience hair loss if it contains SLS.

• Do you have dry or sensitive skin? Go with a body wash that contains ingredients that bring moisture to the skin. Look for shea butter or aloe vera extracts in your body wash as they will help to hydrate your parched skin and ensure it feels soft and smooth.
• Some body washes contain silicone as an ingredient. It can actually clog up your pores as it leaves a thin residue on the skin. This prevents your skin and hair from breathing and can cause skin irritation.
• Can you use body wash on your face? That is a good question. While your face is technically part of your body, the skin on your face is more sensitive than the rest of your body. Your body wash can dry out the skin on your face and leave it feeling itchy and uncomfortable. Save the body wash for the rest of you and avoid using it on your face.
• When it comes to scents for your body wash, you have a lot of options. It all depends on what you want to achieve with your shower. For example, if you shower in the early morning and want it to energize you, go with a body wash with a bright citrusy smell. If you shower at night as a means to get ready for bed, choose a more relaxing scent like lavender and chamomile.
• Do you suffer from eczema or similar skin conditions? A body wash that contains ceramide will help keep your skin healthy. Keep in mind that having short showers is better if you have eczema as longer ones can further dry out your skin.