You might be partial to soap or body wash, but may be wondering which is of these products is really the best choice for your body and skin. Both types of cleansing products can be beneficial, but each has its own list of pros and cons.

Body Washes: Pros and Cons

Body wash is often pricier than body soap, but generally offers more benefits for your skin. According to Dr. William Huang, M.D. with Wake Forest Baptist Health, many of the newer body washes have lower pH balances, a lower concentration of harsh cleaners, and contain skin conditioners that not only cleanse but moisturize your skin — which prevents skin barrier disruptions and dried out skin. A 2011 review published in the Indian Journal of Dermatology reports that body washes are more hygienic than bar soaps, and contain emollients that can actually improve the quality of your skin over time.

Body Soaps: Pros and Cons

One benefit of using bar soap is that it can save you money. Such soaps are generally much cheaper than body washes and may last longer. However, Dr. William Huang, M.D. with Wake Forest Baptist Health says that soaps have higher pH values than body washes, which is harsher on your skin and causes dryness. The 2011 review published in the Indian Journal of Dermatology notes that body soaps are less generally less convenient — and less hygienic — than body wash.

Which Products are Best?

If you shower or bathe often and want to avoid skin dryness or irritation, then body wash is your best bet. Picking body wash over body soap keeps your skin cleaner and better moisturized. Furthermore, it’s often the most convenient option — especially when you’re traveling. But, if you don’t shower or bath every day, don’t have problems with dry skin, and are on a tight budget, body soaps will do the trick to meet your needs.

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