Related Condition Centers
If you’re sick of feeling itchy and tight after you shower, these might be the ones for you, too.
Courtesy of brands
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Ever since I wrote an article on cleansers that don’t dry out my face last fall, I’ve been on the hunt for moisturizing body washes that similarly deliver. My skin often feels itchy and tight shortly after I get out of the shower—especially during the winter—and while I’ve discovered a couple of formulas that helped with this issue over the years, I knew there had to be othersmore out there. Plus, I wanted to know more about what, exactly, to look for on labels. I put a lot of thought into the products I use on my face, so why not the rest of my body?
In my quest to quench my dry skin (and my thirst for knowledge), I learned that cream-based formulas are the gold standard when it comes to mild, hydrating cleansers, as Syril Keena Que, MD, assistant professor of clinical dermatology at Indiana University, previously told SELF. Oil-based options, too, are unlikely to cause that uncomfortable stripped feeling, Dr. Que said.
You also want to look for humectants (like hyaluronic acid and glycerin), which attract water to your skin, as well as words like “gentle,” “creamy,” and “moisturizing” on the label—all dermatologist-recommended qualities if you’re dealing with dryness. On the flip side, gel-based or “foaming” washes can have the opposite effect because they often contain sulfates, cleansing agents known to cause dehydration or irritation, per Dr. Que, especially in people who are already on the dry or sensitive side.
With these tips in mind, I set out to find a reliable group of body washes that leave my skin feeling comfortable and hydrated, and even allow me to occasionally skip post-shower moisturizer without issue—a skin care step that I really, truly loathe. Here are my top picks so far.
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Cerave
Hydrating Body Wash
It’s extremely creamy and my go-to in the winter when my skin is extra parched. It doesn’t dry me out at all (I probably have ceramides and hyaluronic acid to thank for that) and I reach for it when I don’t have time for moisturizer after my shower.
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Fur
All Body Wash
This oil-based cleanser contains glycerin and hydrating vitamin E, and while it doesn’t have any added fragrance, the mild, herbal scent is delightful. It also has a silky texture and just feels luxurious overall.
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Necessaire
The Body Wash
Another oil-based option with glycerin (as well as soothing niacinamide), this formula is so gentle—and while I usually go for fragrance-free products, I’ve also tried the eucalyptus-scented version and it doesn’t seem to bother my skin (or my nose).
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La Roche-Posay
Lipikar Wash AP+ Gentle Foaming Moisturizing Body & Face Wash
As a fangirl of the brand’s TOLERIANE HYDRATING GENTLE FACIAL CLEANSER, I wasn’t surprised that this body wash delivered. It, too, contains glycerin and niacinamide, you can find it at most drugstores, and it’s just an all-around reliable choice. Five stars.
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Aveeno
Skin Relief Body Wash
I tried this one when I was feeling particularly itchy and it calmed my skin right down. Along with glycerin, it’s also formulated with colloidal oatmeal, a known itch reliever.
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Iota
Supervitamin Body Wash+ Soothing
This brand is new to me but I’m so glad I discovered this hydrating, fragrance-free body wash. It also has glycerin—and calming aloe—and strikes a nice balance of deeply cleansing my skin without stripping it. It’s not the most moisturizing of the bunch, but I love it for spring through fall.
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Seen
Body Wash
Similar to the Iota wash, this one does a thorough cleansing job but doesn’t totally dry me out in the process. I also surprisingly like the scented version (the subtle, fresh smell is delightful), but it comes in a fragrance-free formula, too.
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