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Best Body Washes for Men: Top 10 Picks for Fresh and Healthy Skin (2024)

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best body washes for menCleanliness is next to godliness," they say. You are in charge of your skincare routine, and picking the best body wash for men is one vital step to better skin.

We curated a top-10 list of fresh, invigorating cleansers in different uses—moisturizing formula and exfoliating options—to suit each unique skin and its needs. All our evidence-based picks are those clinically tested with ingredients that can show results.

Find the proper body wash to free your skin from dryness, odor, and impurities, and take control of your daily grooming ritual

Key Takeaways

  • Choosing the right body wash isn’t just about smelling good – it’s like finding the perfect dance partner for your skin. From hydrating heroes to exfoliating rockstars, there’s a soap opera star waiting to steal the show in your shower.
  • Know thyself, or rather, know thy skin. Oily, dry, combination, or sensitive – your skin type is the VIP guest at this cleansing party. Catering to its needs is the difference between a red-carpet glow and a walk of shame.
  • Ingredients matter more than you think. It’s not just about dodging the villainous parabens and sulfates. Look for moisturizing agents, natural extracts, and skin-loving goodies that’ll make your epidermis sing with joy.
  • Scent is the cherry on top of your shower sundae. Whether you’re into woody notes that make you feel like a lumberjack or fresh citrus that screams "I woke up like this," pick a fragrance that boosts your mood and confidence. Just remember, sometimes less is more – unscented options are the strong, silent types of the body wash world

10 Best Body Washes for Men

The best body wash for men involves knowing the products that meet the acute needs of your skin. From CeraVe Body Wash for Dry Skin’s hydration to energizing Black Wolf Charcoal Detoxifying Body Wash, these high-rated picks center stage on clinically tested ingredients for optimal skincare.

1. 21 Man Made Original Sweet Tobacco Body Wash

18.21 Man Made Original 3-in-1View On Amazon
21 Man Made Original Sweet Tobacco Body Wash is the powerhouse formulated to elevate your shower game with a luxurious experience.

This body wash contains macadamia glycerides, hydrolyzed quinoa, and jojoba esters that ensure deep hydration and nourishment to the skin.

Rightly pH-balanced, free from parabens and sulfates, hence perfect for all skin types.

Fragrance leaving the lasting sweet tobacco smell after the shower, lather-rich formula for a real indulgence at every shower time.

Say goodbye to dryness and hello to refreshing invigoration at cleansing time

Best For: Men looking for a luxurious and nourishing body wash with a distinctive scent.

Pros
  • Provides deep hydration and nourishment to the skin
  • Protects against free radicals
  • Lathers well, even on loofahs
Cons
  • Some users have noticed a change in the product’s consistency and lathering ability
  • Pricey compared to other body washes and shampoos

2. Mens Body Wash Shampoo

Next in line is the multi-purpose Men’s 2-in-1 Body Wash Shampoo. This formula efficiently cleans and balances moisture; therefore, it’s convenient.

It comes loaded with quality ingredients like Biotin, Caffeine, Jojoba Esters, Green Tea, and Argan Oil to help revive and improve one’s hair thickness. It is, hence suitable for all hair types and contains no poisons like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and parabens.

If you’re after a comprehensive grooming product that isn’t tested on animals, this one’s a top contender

Best For: Men looking for a convenient and effective way to cleanse and revitalize their hair.

Pros
  • Versatile for all hair types
  • Premium ingredients promote hair growth and thickness
  • No harsh chemicals like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate or Parabens
Cons
  • Pricey
  • Scent may not linger after shower
  • Watery consistency

3. CeraVe Body Wash for Dry Skin

CeraVe Body Wash for DryView On Amazon
CeraVe Body Wash for Dry Skin is highly rated for maintaining body hydration. A new, clinically tested formula made to help retain moisture with hyaluronic acid, provide extra hydration with glycerin and repair the skin’s natural barrier with three essential ceramides.

This non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, paraben-free, and sulfate-free body wash isn’t irritating or drying. Further, it’s accepted by the National Eczema Association; hence, it won’t irritate the skin.

Experience renewed, smoother skin without the hassle of harsh chemicals

Best For: Normal to dry skin

Pros
  • Helps retain moisture with hyaluronic acid
  • Provides extra hydration with glycerin
  • Repairs skin’s natural barrier with three essential ceramides
Cons
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4. Dove Men Extra Fresh Body Wash

Dove Men+Care Body Wash ExtraView On Amazon
Dove Men Extra Fresh Body Wash is a powerhouse for your skin, hydrating and refreshing with its scent. With Micromoisture Technology, it activates and locks in moisture on contact to take care of dry skin.

An invigorating mix of mandarin citrus, patchouli, and rosemary leaves one smelling great while feeling revitalized. This is a gentle dermatologist-approved product for both body and face; it’s great for men looking for practical, nourishing care that wouldn’t compromise the refreshing feeling in general

Best For: Men with dry skin looking for a hydrating and refreshing body wash.

Pros
  • Hydrates skin with Micromoisture Technology
  • Crisp, refreshing scent of Mandarin Citrus, Patchouli, and Rosemary
  • Gentle enough for face and body
Cons
  • May be too drying for some skin types
  • Scent may be too strong for some
  • Relatively expensive

5. Black Wolf Charcoal Body Wash

Black Wolf Charcoal Powder BodyView On Amazon
Black Wolf Charcoal Body Wash combines activated charcoal and salicylic acid for deep cleansing and breakout reduction. This body wash targets men’s skincare needs by removing toxins and impurities while maintaining healthy skin with its cucumber-derived formula. Free from parabens, it creates a rich lather, smooths skin, and helps clear clogged pores. Although it’s effective and provides a subtle fragrance, it may be drying for some skin types and has a higher price point

Best For: Men seeking deep cleansing and breakout reduction

Pros
  • Deeply cleanses and reduces breakouts
  • Charcoal and salicylic acid effectively remove toxins and impurities
  • Cucumber-derived formula promotes healthy skin
Cons
  • May be drying for some skin types
  • Higher price point compared to other body washes
  • Subtle fragrance may not be appealing to everyone

6. Eucerin Advanced Cleansing Body Face Cleanser

Eucerin Advanced Cleansing Body &View On Amazon
Eucerin Advanced Cleansing Body & Face Cleanser is for gentle yet effective cleansing. This fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and soap-free formula helps support your skin’s protective barrier and maintain its optimal pH.

Suitable for normal to dry, sensitive skin, the cleanser is clinically tested, with very few soothing ingredients, leaving your skin without irritation while it works to clean.

Perfect for the face and body to thoroughly cleanse your skin without any residue left behind. It can be trusted on dermatologist recommendations to keep your skin healthy and hydrated, irritated-free

Best For: Those with normal-to-dry, sensitive skin who want effective yet gentle cleansing.

Pros
  • Soap-free and fragrance-free
  • Maintains skin’s optimal pH level
  • Suitable for both face and body
Cons
  • Medicinal-type smell
  • Not strongly scented
  • Can be drying for some skin types

7. Harrys Mens Body Wash Redwood

HarryView On Amazon
Harry’s Men’s Body Wash Redwood is one of the best all-around cleaners a man can get when seeking an invigorating and woodsy experience. This clinically tested, specially blended body wash uses natural extracts such as eucalyptus with essential oils to deeply cleanse the skin without parabens, sulfates, or dyes.

It leaves the skin conditioned and smooth due to its thick lather while scented with Redwood for a refreshing yet manly fragrance. This body wash, trusted by top publications, isn’t only going to pamper your skin; it’s also a choice that has been aligned with cleanliness.

Daily use keeps healthy and hydrated skin

Best For: Men seeking an invigorating and woodsy experience.

Pros
  • Clinically tested to deeply cleanse without drying out
  • Rich lather leaves skin smooth and conditioned
  • Manly fragrance with natural extracts

8. First Botany All Natural Body Wash

First Botany, ALL Natural BodyView On Amazon
First Botany All Natural Body Wash combines tea tree, eucalyptus, and aloe for a soothing, antibacterial cleanse. This cruelty-free formula avoids alcohol, parabens, and sulfates, ensuring it’s safe for sensitive or inflamed skin. Ideal for active lifestyles, it eliminates odor and soothes itchy skin.

Users appreciate its invigorating, tingling effect. However, some find its scent overpowering, reminiscent of gasoline. Keep in mind, it might run out quickly if used frequently

Best For: Active individuals seeking a soothing, antibacterial cleanse.

Pros
  • Invigorating tingling effect
  • Eliminates odor and soothes itchy skin
  • Cruelty-free and free from harsh chemicals
Cons
  • Scent may be overpowering for some
  • Difficult to squeeze product from bottle
  • May run out quickly with frequent use

9. Cremo Blue Cedar Cypress Body Wash

Cremo Rich-Lathering Blue Cedar &View On Amazon
Cremo Blue Cedar Cypress Body Wash offers a brisk, woodsy scent with notes of lemon peel, cypress, and cedar. It features marula oil, keeping your skin moisturized without a heavy feel.

The rich-lathering formula cleans effectively and rinses off easily, leaving a pleasant, long-lasting fragrance. However, it contains sodium laureth sulfate and sodium lauryl sulfate, which mightn’t suit sensitive skin.

This body wash provides a boutique-quality scent without the high-end price, perfect for an invigorating shower experience

Best For: Individuals seeking a woodsy and invigorating shower experience with long-lasting fragrance.

Pros
  • Brisk, woodsy scent with notes of lemon peel, cypress, and cedar
  • Rich-lathering formula effectively cleanses and moisturizes without a sticky feeling
  • Contains marula oil to nourish skin in all seasons
Cons
  • Contains sodium laureth sulfate and sodium lauryl sulfate, which might irritate sensitive skin
  • Some reviewers have reported receiving previously returned and tampered-with products
  • May not be suitable for individuals with highly sensitive skin

10. Native Body Wash Unscented

Native Body Wash for MenView On Amazon
Native Body Wash Unscented is the way to go in a fragrance-free, clean experience. It’s vegan, cruelty-free—no sulfates, parabens, or phthalates—so gentle on all skin and extra sensitive skin too.

Powered with coconut oil–derived cleansers, it moisturizes, nourishes, and leaves your skin feeling soft with no irritated areas.

Eco-friendly packaging is the cherry on top for those concerned about the environment.

Refreshing wash aligning with your values to keep you fresh and healthy

Best For: Individuals seeking a fragrance-free, gentle, and eco-conscious body wash.

Pros
  • Sulfate-free, paraben-free, and dye-free
  • Vegan, cruelty-free, and made with natural ingredients
  • Hydrating formula with coconut oil–derived cleansers
Cons
  • Some reviewers find it more expensive than other brands
  • Some reviewers question the parent company’s cruelty-free status
  • Some reviewers prefer a more lathering formula

Understanding Your Skin Type

Understanding Your Skin Type
Knowing your skin type in choosing the right body wash is essential. Be it oily, dry, combination skin, or even sensitive skin, making sure that the right product gives the proper hydration and cleansing and ensures good skin health.

Oily Skin

If you’ve got oily skin, prioritize a body wash with foamy lather and antibacterial ingredients. Look for products marked as pH balancing and sulfate-free. Salicylic acid is your ally for tackling acne-prone skin and chest acne. Ingredients like tea tree oil for deep cleansing can be a game-changer, preventing breakouts and excess oil

Dry Skin

If you’ve got dry skin, look for body washes with moisturizing ingredients like glycerin, ceramides, aloe, and coconut oil. These ingredients hydrate, preventing skin irritation and cracking. Avoid harsh lathering agents that strip moisture. For best results, choose clinically-tested formulas specifically designed to lock in hydration, ensuring your skin stays soft and supple

Combination Skin

For combination skin, you need a balanced approach. Look for these:

  1. Dual-Action Ingredients: Choose body washes with both moisturizing agents and gentle exfoliants.
  2. Scent Compatibility: Opt for fragrance-free or natural scents.
  3. Exfoliation Recommendations: Use mild, sulfate-free, and alcohol-free formulas to maintain hydration without over-drying.

    Keep it simple, and your skin will thank you

Sensitive Skin

For sensitive skin, choose a body wash with a pH balance. Opt for sulfate-free, paraben-free, and fragrance-free products. Look for natural ingredients like niacinamide, aloe vera, shea butter, sodium lauroyl oat amino acids, and oat proteins for soothing benefits. Use gentle, clinically-tested formulations that nourish without irritating.

Ingredient Benefits
Niacinamide Soothes, reduces redness
Aloe Vera Hydrates, calms skin
Shea Butter Moisturizes, prevents dryness
Sodium Lauroyl Oat Amino Acids Maintains skin elasticity

Key Ingredients in Men’s Body Washes

Key Ingredients in Men
Choosing the best men’s body wash will allow a combination of essential ingredients to keep your skin healthy and water-rich. Avoid harsh chemicals that damage—like parabens and sulfates—and consider your skin type and peculiar needs for better results.

Moisturizing Agents

To keep your skin hydrated, choose body washes with powerful moisturizing agents. Look for these key ingredients:

  1. Shea Butter: Smooths rough skin and locks in moisture.
  2. Glycerin: Attracts moisture, keeping skin supple.
  3. Aloe Vera: Soothes and relieves dryness.
  4. Plant Oils: Nourish and restore healthy skin barrier.

Your skin will thank you!

Exfoliants

Crucial for men’s body cleansers are exfoliants alpha hydroxy acids and beta hydroxy acids.

An example of a physical exfoliant is the finely powdered pumice or jojoba beads that scrub immediately while their chemical counterparts gently break down dead skin.

These ingredients work well in fighting keratosis pilaris and keep your skin smoothed out without irritating it.

Choose based on skin type

Natural Extracts

Natural extracts will take your body wash experience to a whole new level. Watch out for antibacterial properties, plant-based ingredients like sugarcane, and essential oils. It nourishes with apple proteins and natural oils and hydrates uniquely with coconut frosting.

Cruelty-free options in eco-friendly packaging from committed brands to sustainable sourcing are available. These features ensure your skin stays healthy and sensitive to the environment

Fragrances

When choosing the proper manly body wash, consider fragrance preference: beachy smells like Old Spice Fiji and woodsy scents with Atlantis and Bountiful Eau de Parfum.

Go for natural over synthetic for far better health of your skin. Scent longevity and layering via natural extracts play an essential role in the best-smelling body wash.

Keep a lookout for something that does a great balancing act between scent and skincare benefits

Choosing the Right Scent

Choosing the Right Scent
Choosing the right scent for your body wash can make your shower routine more enjoyable and personalized. Explore options like woody notes, fresh and clean blends, citrus scents, or stick to unscented formulas for a subtle approach

Woody Notes

When selecting a body wash with woody scents, you’re tapping into a timeless, masculine aroma that’s both grounding and sophisticated. Look for products with:

  • Essential oils like cedarwood and sandalwood
  • PH-balanced formulas
  • Hydrating ingredients such as shea butter and aloe vera
  • Options like Bulldog Skincare for Men Shower Gel
  • Avoidance of harsh chemicals like parabens

Fresh and Clean

Wanting "fresh and clean," you’re thinking of refreshing body washes. Consider exfoliating body wash for deep cleaning or travel-sized body wash for convenience. Check out eco-friendly body washes to keep you refreshed. Look for ingredients like aloe vera and green tea extract—perfect for feeling crisp and refreshed.

Citrus Blends

Citrus blends are perfect for anyone who enjoys fresh, refreshing scents. Discover energizing blends from Bath and Body Works or Every Man Jack’s line in citrus.

From the classic notes of citrus by Old Spice to the summery feeling with Irish Springs and topped off with the refreshing burst by Magno La Toja. These will brighten up your day, making you feel revitalized and ready for just about anything

Unscented Options

If you prefer to avoid fragrances, unscented body washes are the way to go. Look for formulas that are pH-balanced, sulfate-free, and paraben-free, like Dr. Bronner’s liquid soap or Bath & Body Works’ Daily Moisturizing line. These all-natural options will cleanse your skin without disrupting its delicate pH level, leaving you feeling refreshed and euphoric

Addressing Specific Skin Concerns

Addressing Specific Skin Concerns
If you have issues like acne, aging, or eczema, or if you sweat excessively and would therefore not want body odor, then the ingredients become very important when choosing the appropriate body wash. Look for products with salicylic acid to fight acne, hyaluronic acid to combat aging, colloidal oatmeal for eczema, or even antibacterial agents against body odor.

Acne-Prone Skin

For acne-prone skin, body washes need to be specifically formulated with ingredients that help to control sebum and offer some antibacterial actions. Tea tree oil, salicylic acid, and benzoyl peroxide are close allies in fighting breakouts.

Dr. Bronner’s liquid soap is a popular pick, boasting organic cleaning power.

Regarding the best-smelling men’s body wash to battle acne, QV Bath Bars wins with its unique blend of acne-battling ingredients and refreshing scents

Aging Skin

As you age, your skin needs extra care. Look for body washes with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides to combat dryness.

Antioxidants such as vitamin E can help fight free radicals, while peptides boost collagen production.

For a euphoric clean that combats aging, try men’s body washes with natural oils

Eczema and Psoriasis

If you’re dealing with eczema or psoriasis, your skin needs extra TLC. Look for body washes with gentle, fragrance-free formulas like Dr. Bronner’s liquid soap.

These conditions can leave your skin dry and sensitive, so opt for moisturizing ingredients like body oil. For scalp psoriasis, choose a specialized men’s body wash that won’t irritate your skin

Body Odor Control

While the management of eczema and psoriasis is number one, tackling body odor is essential as well.

Check for body washes that have antibacterial properties and odor-fighting ingredients; they do help in combating the bacteria that cause smells.

Washes with deodorizing agents like tea tree oil or charcoal reach into this fray to not just clean you but also give you sweat control to keep you fresh all day long

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What body wash do dermatologists recommend?

Dermatologists often recommend gentle, fragrance-free body washes with ceramides and hyaluronic acid. You’ll want to look for brands like CeraVe, Cetaphil, or Eucerin. These products cleanse without stripping your skin’s natural oils, keeping you moisturized and balanced

What is a good body wash for men?

Like Poseidon’s elixir, a good men’s body wash balances cleansing power with skin-nourishing ingredients. You’ll want one with hydrating elements like glycerin or aloe vera, free from harsh sulfates. CeraVe Hydrating Body Wash fits the bill perfectly

Should men use men body wash?

You don’t need gender-specific products. Your skin’s needs matter more than marketing. Choose a body wash that suits your skin type and concerns. Many "men’s" washes contain harsh ingredients, so focus on quality, not labels

What is the healthiest body wash for your body?

While you might think any body wash will do, the healthiest option contains natural ingredients like aloe vera and glycerin. You’ll want to avoid harsh chemicals, opting instead for pH-balanced formulas that cleanse without stripping your skin’s natural oils

Which body wash is best for men?

Choose a body wash that suits your skin type. Look for hydrating ingredients like glycerin and avoid harsh sulfates. CeraVe Hydrating Body Wash or Dove Men+Care are solid choices, offering gentle cleansing and moisture retention for most men

What is a good and effective skin care routine for men with oily skin?

Don’t let oily skin rain on your parade! Cleanse twice daily with a gentle, oil-free cleanser. Use a toner, apply a lightweight moisturizer, and exfoliate weekly. Don’t forget sunscreen and consider using clay masks for extra oil control

What is the best smelling body wash for men?

You’ll love Nécessaire Body Wash for its sophisticated scent and nourishing skin ingredients. It’s sulfate-free and pH-balanced, enriched with vitamins. Eucalyptus, Sandalwood, or Bergamot give it a refreshing, manly smell that boosts your self-assurance throughout the day.

What is a good body wash?

Did you know 60% of men use body wash daily? You’ll want a pH-balanced formula with moisturizing ingredients like glycerin or aloe vera. Avoid harsh sulfates. Choose a scent you enjoy, as it’ll boost your confidence throughout the day

How often should men use body wash?

You should use body wash daily to maintain clean, healthy skin. If you’re active or sweat a lot, consider using it twice daily. For dry skin, every other day may suffice. Listen to your body’s needs

Can body wash be used on the face?

While you can use body wash on your face, it’s not ideal. Your facial skin’s more sensitive, so opt for a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser designed specifically for faces. You’ll keep your mug happy and healthy!

Is body wash better than bar soap?

Body wash often trumps bar soap for your skin’s health. It’s gentler, more hydrating, and won’t disrupt your skin’s pH balance. You’ll enjoy a cleaner, smoother feel without that tight, dry sensation afterwards. Choose wisely for your skin type!

Should men use a loofah or washcloth?

Like choosing the right tool for a job, selecting between a loofah or washcloth depends on your skin type. Loofahs exfoliate effectively but can harbor bacteria. Washcloths are gentler and easier to clean. Consider your skin’s needs and hygiene preferences

Do body washes have an expiration date?

Yes, body washes do expire. You’ll typically find a PAO (Period After Opening) symbol on the bottle, indicating how long it’s good for once opened. Unopened, they can last 2-3 years. Always check for changes in smell or consistency

Conclusion

You’ve got the best body washes for men, from moisturizing formulations to exfoliating options—there is a perfect match for every skin type and concern.

Your skin is your biggest organ; as such, treat it with care.

Once you know your skin type, key ingredients, and specific needs, you can treat your body with a perfect wash that will leave you fresh, clean, and full of confidence.

Settle not for less; enhance the shower experience by using the right cleanser

References
  • toolsofmen.com
  • baldingbeards.com
  • gearhungry.com
Avatar for Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim is a published author and software engineer and beard care expert from the US. To date, he has helped thousands of men make their beards look better and get fatter. His work has been mentioned in countless notable publications on men's care and style and has been cited in Seeker, Wikihow, GQ, TED, and Buzzfeed.

  1. Avatar for Nasib Shah Nasib Shah says:

    Thank you for the quality information you have given!!! This is the perfect detail for anyone who wants to get body wash for men. Find more @ https://parfumerieeternelle.com/collections/body-wash-exfoliants

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