Whether you’re on the hunt for the best bar soaps or the best body wash for men, it really is just a matter of preference. Both use the same key ingredients to cleanse, nourish, and refresh skin. And when it comes to the best way to scrub-a-dub-dub, you need to find one that agrees with your skin’s needs and variables.
Skin variables include sensitivity, acne, dryness, oiliness, and even body odor. And a high-quality body wash will honor those variables without disrupting the skin’s barrier functions. The skin needs this barrier in order to trap moisture and maintain softness, and if it’s compromised, you’ll know it via redness, itching, dehydration, or cracking. This could mean finding a body wash that has specific and targeted active ingredients—or simply choosing one that lacks any bad-for-you ingredients.
Our Favorite Body Wash for Guys
Looking for Something Specific?
Finding your perfect formula might take some trial and error: “The effectiveness of a body wash can vary from person to person depending on factors such as skin type, lifestyle, and personal preference,” says board-certified dermatologist James Collyer of Seattle’s Modern Dermatology. “It’s always best to try a few options to see what works best.” Hopefully, our own experience with body washes will give you a shortcut to a solution, though. We also asked for advice on how to shop smarter for body washes from board-certified dermatologist Dr. Robyn Gmyrek of UnionDerm and board-certified dermatologist Kiran Mian of Hudson Dermatology and Laser Surgery in NYC.
Read on for GQ’s picks for the best men’s body wash across various needs and budgets.
Best Overall Body Wash: Wonder Valley Hinoki Body Wash
Our Experience
What makes the best overall body wash? While there’s no one-size-suds-all solution, Wonder Valley can claim the crown for most guys. A multitasker that cleanses, hydrates, and supports your skin’s microbiome? Check. Suitable for all skin types? Check. Stylish, sustainable aluminum packaging? Check. A silky yet viscous formula? Check. Free from parabens, phthalates, sulfates, or artificial dyes? Check—you get the idea. Wonder Valley keeps it simple yet effective with a focus on key natural ingredients: willow bark, an antioxidant emollient that hydrates and improves skin tone; ashwagandha, which boosts collagen production; aloe vera to soothe; and Wonder Valley’s own California extra virgin olive oil for hydration and antioxidant benefits. The result? An exceptional cleansing lather paired with a subtle, woody, balsamic, citrus fragrance. All of this comes in a chic container that adds some indie style to your tub. Wonder Valley proves that the niche grooming movement is not going anywhere—it is only expanding with fantastic products, like this body wash, that are natural, effective, and darn cool.
Best Body Wash for Softening Skin: Sachajuan Body Wash
Our Experience
While proprietary tech in grooming products can sometimes feel like a gimmick, Sachajuan’s Earthen Silk Tech’s proof is in the pudding. Given the brand’s cult-favorite roots in haircare, it’s no surprise their body washes also leave your skin silky smooth. At the heart of their Earth Silk Technology is oat beta-glucan—a soothing and softening ingredient derived from Scandinavian-grown oats (the Swedes know their skin care). These soluble oat fibers penetrate deep into the skin, giving some serious hydration you can feel. The gel lathers beautifully, and while there are plenty of body washes that soften skin, this one stands out. After showering, my skin felt extra smooth for most of the day. As for the scents, an intoxicatingly good lavender blend with vanilla, musk, and tonka bean adds a layer of calm to an already soothing experience.
Best Hybrid Exfoliator Body Wash: Malin+Goetz Eucalyptus Hand + Body Scrub
Our Experience
Exfoliation is a must once or twice a week to slough off dead skin cells and keep your skin fresh and healthy. Some folks prefer chemical exfoliants, like glycolic or lactic acids, which dissolve dead cells for easy removal, while others prefer the physical slough of granule scrubs and particles. But why choose? Malin+Goetz’s new eucalyptus hand + body scrub offers the best of both. Its alpha hydroxy acid blend (lactic and mandelic acids) brightens and exfoliates, while pumice—a mineral-based physical exfoliant—smooths, resurfaces, and clears away dirt and dead skin. Toss in niacinamide, vitamins, and antioxidants to brighten and soothe, and you’ve got a cleansing, skin-rejuvenating powerhouse. It’s both a scrubber and latherer, and true to Malin + Goetz form, the eucalyptus scent is an herbaceous artisanal aroma. Bonus: it doubles as a hand scrub. Win, win.
Best Unscented Body Wash: Saltair Fragrance Free Body Wash
Our Experience
Founded by model Iskra Lawrence in 2022, Saltair champions inclusivity and affordability without compromising quality. Honestly, the brand could charge far more for what you’re getting—but that’s the point: Making luxury accessible for everyone, and we’re all for it. Saltair’s body washes come in a striking range of vibrant colors that reflect their scents, all housed in hefty, sustainable aluminum pumps that feel satisfyingly substantial. But our top pick? The unscented option. Great for sensitive or easily irritated skin, it feels anything but basic with a minimalist, luxe vibe that’s indulgent in its simplicity. True to the brand’s ethos, the formula leans on natural powerhouse ingredients: Saltair’s coconut water and a fermented oil complex to leave skin silky-soft, plus skin care standards like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to hydrate and even skin tone.
Best Pump Design/Longest Lasting Body Wash: Dove Men+Care Relax Body Wash
Our Experience
I fully get that “best pump design” might seem like an odd category for a body wash list, but hear me out: Among the many things I love about Dove Men+Care Body Wash, its longevity stands out—except it skips the bulk-store vibes and looks downright practical by your tub. The pump is easy to dispense mid-shower without awkwardly picking it up (it is larger), and it lasts forever. I’ve been a fan of Dove Men+Care for years because they blend science-backed ingredients with natural elements, creating accessible men’s grooming staples that are simple, effective, and available in most places. This body wash delivers as a no-fuss, everyday cleaner infused with a few essential oils for good measure. My skin felt clean, fresh, and soft after cleansing with this. Oh, and the eucalyptus-cedar is an olfactory upgrade from the usual options at this price point.
Best Body Wash for Frequent Showers: Soft Services Comfort Cleanse
Our Experience
Most of us don’t shower more than once daily, but sometimes life (or a solid workout) calls for a second rinse. The downside? Frequent showering can wreak havoc on your skin, especially if you’re using body washes that strip away essential oils. The Soft Services Comfort Cleanse is a hydrating cleanser that is gentle on your skin during extra shower time, even if your water bill takes a hit. Specifically designed for daily use, it features a hefty dose of glycerin to lock in moisture and protect your skin barrier while its water-oil texture binds to surface grime, cleansing without scrubbing. Instead of a lather overload, it transforms into a soft, silky foam. Bonus: Its slick formula doubles as an in-shower shaving cream, making it perfect for multitaskers.
Best Luxury Body Wash:
Flamingo Estate Rosemary & Clary Sage Body Wash
Our Experience
Flamingo Estate is enjoying a well-earned moment in the spotlight—and it’s likely here to stay. Best known for its coveted olive oils, this apothecary-inspired brand has expanded into luxurious hand washes, candles, and, naturally, a stellar aromatic body wash. Picture a farm-to-table restaurant owned by a niche perfumer and grooming expert concocting this formula, and you’ll get the vibe. True to its roots, this cleanser is crafted with nourishing oils like olive and babassu and thickened with natural sea salt for a honey-like texture. Available in various scents, each evoking the estate’s garden, the rosemary and clary sage blend is herbaceous and transportive, like showering amongst lush greenery. While lab-formulated luxury has its place, Flamingo Estate celebrates the gifts of Mother Earth—and it’s hard to imagine a more indulgent (and fittingly aromatic) upgrade to your body-wash lineup.
Best 2-in-1 Body Wash: Jack Black JackZen Renewing Body & Hair Cleanser
Our Experience
Even the least grooming-savvy among us might approach a 2-in-1 body wash and shampoo with a bit of skepticism. But some of these multitaskers have shed their stigma with newer formulas—including ambitious 3-in-1s (yes, even for your face). For our money, Jack Black delivers the goods with its JackZen wash, packaged in the brand’s signature cobalt blue that’s come a long way since its breakout lip balms. The sudsy lather is bolstered by skin-soothing aloe vera and moisturizing glycerin, but the real standout is Pro-Vitamin B5, which provides lightweight hydration to leave hair soft and smooth—impressive for a 2-in-1. While these aren’t a substitute for a full grooming routine (they can sometimes dry hair or lack targeted follicular care), JackZen is great for travel or time-crunched mornings. Plus, its aromatic scent—a mix of cardamom, bamboo, clary sage, and patchouli—elevates your shower into a ritual that might even rival your cologne.
Best Eco-Friendly/Refillable Body Wash: Bathing Culture Mind and Body Wash – Cathedral Grove
Our Experience: Bathing Culture isn’t just our select for the most eco-friendly body wash—it’s also the cool kid on the body wash block. Other brands here boast elevated, chic packaging that leaves the plastic banality of body wash past in the dust, but Bathing Culture’s niche, artisanal vibe really shines. Their pop-art refillable glass bottles add style to your tub, and they’re designed to last—you can get gallon refills to cut down on waste. The soap feels refreshingly natural with hydrating and soothing plant-based ingredients like aloe, shea butter, and olive oil. You won’t find synthetic fragrances here; the aromas blend 10+ essential oils and extracts into perfume-grade creations. My favorite, Cathedral Grove, captures the essence of a foggy redwood forest with lush undergrowth and a subtle oceanic tinge. If eco-friendly, effective, and hip could coexist in a body wash, Bathing Culture would be it.
Best Smelling Body Wash (Or Best Fragrance):
Salt & Stone Body Wash
Our Experience
Salt & Stone has earned its place as a stand-out grooming brand synonymous with incredible scents. Their deodorants feel more like high-end colognes, complete with top, heart, and base notes. And the body washes? Downright addictive. Each is a sensory experience so fragrant and perfectly balanced that you might skip cologne that day. Case in point: the Santal and Vetiver wash leaves a regal, amber-green scent that lingers in your bathroom for hours—think luxury spa meets fragrance atelier. The Saffron and Cedar wash balances warm, spicy gourmand notes with the floral depth of jasmine, while Bergamot and Hinoki marries bright citrus with the sweet earthiness of Japanese hinoki. Black Rose and Oud delivers a deep, mysterious aroma for cooler months. Beyond their fantastic scents, these washes shine in skin care performance, too, packing hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and antioxidants like blueberry extract and vitamin C for a nourishing cleanse.
Best Body Wash for Dry Skin: Cetaphil Moisturizing Relief Body Wash for Dry Sensitive Skin
Sometimes as I make these “Best Of” lists, I find myself thinking “Oh, how unique, another pick from Cetaphil…” but there’s a damn good reason this derm-favorite brand satisfies so many people—especially those with dry and sensitive skin. This lotion-like body wash lacks any fragrance and coats skin with its generous base of glycerin and shea butter. I’ve even used it as a hand wash at peak winter, when my mitts are super cracked but I need to wash them multiple times a day. Pair this with some short, mild showers (letting the cream set on skin for a good 30 seconds before rinsing), and you’ll leave the shower feeling like you already lathered on some body lotion. (I’d still suggest using the body lotion, too, for ongoing defensiveness, but at least this one leaves skin feeling fantastic.)
Best Body Wash for Sensitive Skin: Nécessaire The Body Wash Fragrance-Free
Nécessaire is a master of the body nourishing craft, and alongside its terrific unscented body lotion, this fragrance free body wash is perfect for sensitive skin. It’s all about those active ingredients, too: This omega-rich glycerin-based shower gel houses niacinamide and Vitamin E galore, for smoothed and soothed skin. Everytime this brand sends anything to my doorstep, I mutter something akin to “oh hell yeah…”, then have to concoct some way to not share it with my partner. I just feel so good and so cool when I use their products, and it’s this body wash that I put atop their roster overall because of its universality, its gentleness, and its effectiveness. I can skip the fragrance, I just want nourishing, refreshing results, and I get that with Nécessaire.
Best Exfoliating Body Wash: Baxter of California Exfoliating Body Wash
Oooh, I could wax poetic on this product for a while. It’s way grittier than most exfoliating body washes I’d otherwise recommend (since I’m a fan of chemical exfoliants over physical ones). But, as a dry-skin buffer, this pumice-packed formula also packs a punch. I wouldn’t recommend using it every day—especially since it’s smaller than most other options and won’t last you as long. Deploy it when you need that extra effort, like on dry elbows, crusty ankles, cracked heels, or even just targeting your pits and groin to promote better hygiene. But here’s my favorite part of all: This thing smells phenomenal. It’s a remix of the brand’s best-selling (and best-smelling) exfoliating body bar, with its brilliant oakmoss and cedar essence that has also recently made its way into Baxter’s deodorants too—which, for what it’s worth, is also a GQ-chart topping best deodorant).
Best Drugstore Body Wash: Harry’s Body Wash
Ain’t nothing compromising about the best cheap body wash, which currently comes in six different scents. And while that scent profile continues to grow, my favorite remains one of Harry’s original options, the crisp and mineral-tinged Stone. This one builds a big lather, and I may have even used it as a light bubble bath base more than once. And despite its big-batch synthetic formula, it follows Dr. Mian’s script for having pH-balancing citric acid, and is the perfect example of why drugstore options are often as good (if not better) than the top-shelf options. Also, they just launched a 30-fl. oz. version, in case you wanted even more bang for your buck.
Best Acne Body Wash for Men (and for Oily Skin, Too): Differin Acne-Clearing Body Wash
While there are two key ingredients used in body washes to target acne—salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide—I’d sooner recommend this salicylic acid option to readers at large. Benzoyl options (common in Differin’s own face wash formulas) are best for acne induced by bacteria, whereas salicylic acid seeps into the pores to free up any trapped skin cells and sebum buildups. For me, I use benzoyl more reactively, since I find it dries out my skin (and risks staining towels), while this body wash suits me better day to day—and as an acne mitigator in the first place. As an unusually sweaty person, I also find that it helps temper clogged pores all around the body, not just the chest, back, shoulders and neck as advertised.
Best Dermatologist-Recommended Men’s Body Wash: Native Sulfate-Free Body Wash
Why Dermatologists Love It
“Native uses citric acid, a great pH balancer to maintain our skin barrier, along with derivatives from plant-based oils that add hydration,” says Dr. Mian of Native’s hydrating body wash, which she recommends readily to her patients thanks to a paraben- and pthalates-free formula. “It also smells nice without overdoing it on any artificial parfums. Its texture is sudsy yet luxurious at the same time, and instead of leaving you with that tight squeaky-clean feeling, it leaves you soft and cleansed.”
How to Find the Best Body Wash for You
Sourcing the best body wash solution for your skin starts with choosing targeted active ingredients. Here are the doctors’ orders on some ideal ingredients to consider for key skin care needs.
“Look for a body wash with benzoyl peroxide, and/or salicylic acid,” says Dr. Mian. “Benzoyl peroxide is anti-bactericidal [so it neutralizes blemish-causing bacteria]. It also decreases sebum and sweat. Salicylic acid helps to clear out the debris from our pores, taking away the starting point of acne formation.”
“Choose a body wash with glycerin and ceramides,” says Mian. “Think of your skin as a brick wall. Ceramides make up the cement in between the bricks. Without proper ceramides our skin barrier is not as strong, increasing transepidermal water loss. A strong skin barrier will help to maintain hydration in super dry skin.” If you want to buff away dry skin, there are many physically gritty exfoliating body washes, as well as those with chemical exfoliants like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), including glycolic acid and lactic acid. Dr. Gmyrek advises, “If you have dry skin, look for a low-foaming body wash containing gentler cleansing agents or surfactants, also known as cream or oil cleansers. Look for glycerin, shea butter, and sunflower seed oil to help retain moisture and nourish the skin.” Additionally, “Non-foaming washes cleanse more gently without stripping oils from the skin. So, if you have dry skin, choose washes that lather less and hydrate more.”
While your body probably isn’t quite as oily as your face, it can still be an issue below the neck, especially if you want to prevent acne and mitigate sweat buildup. Collyer says to use oil-balancing formulas, like those including salicylic acid for an all-around deep-cleansing finish. Many will double as terrific options for fighting breakouts too, thanks to the deep clean of it all. Dr. Gmyrek advises: “For oily skin, I recommend foaming body washes, which are more effective at removing some of the oils from the skin. Washes that contain salicylic or glycolic acid can also help to remove excess oil and dead skin cells. In addition, ingredients like niacinamide and ceramides help regulate sebum or oil production and keep the skin barrier healthy.”
“Body odor can be caused by a variety of reasons including bacterial or fungal overgrowth, hormones, and hygiene routine,” says Dr. Collyer. Mian adds that most commonly, odor occurs “when the natural flora of bacteria on our skin breaks down sweat, which releases byproducts that lead to odor.” So, the best body wash for BO will decrease bacterial count as well as keeping the skin clean and exfoliated, she says. “A combination of gentle exfoliating acids like mandelic or salicylic acid, antibacterial salts like benzalkonium chloride, and even gentle fragrances can help neutralize body odor.”
Depending on how sensitive your skin is, Dr. Gmyrek advises you to try to avoid ingredients known to irritate, such as sulfates and dyes, and look for soothing ingredients like colloidal oatmeal and ceramides and moisturizing agents like glycerin. She adds, “Opt for an unscented body wash since it’s free from dyes, and many fragrances—even natural ones—can irritate those with sensitivities.” Also, prioritize hypoallergenic washes to reduce the risk of irritation or allergic reactions. Collyer says to prioritize anti-inflammatory agents, like chamomile, aloe vera, and allantoin—all of which “can help to soothe the skin and reduce inflammation.”
In addition to targeted ingredients, base ingredients are also important to consider—those ones besides water that feature at the front of the ingredient list, like glycerin and shea butter. Sometimes these will be the key hero ingredient in a body wash recipe, which is totally fine; just because a formula lacks any buzzy ingredient like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide doesn’t make it inferior. (You can always put that onus on your body lotion, too.)
Your Body Wash FAQs, Answered
What is the best body wash for men? After a decade of testing the top body washes, our pick for the best overall body wash is Wonder Valley’s Hinoki Body Wash.
What are some foundational ingredients to look for?
Dr. Gmyrek advises a few ingredients to support your skin’s health and moisture levels, a.k.a. Body Wash 101. “Look for ceramides, which strengthen the skin’s protective barrier, retain moisture, and guard against environmental stressors. Plant-based oils like jojoba, shea butter, coconut, and sunflower oil are excellent for soothing and moisturizing dry or irritated skin, while squalane and glycerin draw in moisture, repair cracks, and leave the skin smooth and supple.”
What should you look for in terms of hydration?
Dr. Gmyrek breaks it down into three key hydrating ingredients. Humectants attract water from the environment or deeper within the skin to increase the skin’s water content. Common examples include hyaluronic acid, glycerin, lactic acid, and squalane. Emollients help restore the skin barrier and soften its surface with ceramides, shea butter, glycerin, and dimethicone. Finally, occlusives seal in moisture and prevent water loss. They include waxes, lanolin, argan oil, petrolatum, and coconut oil. “For maximum hydration, look for body washes with two or three hydrating ingredients. Some ingredients, like glycerin and ceramides, even offer multiple benefits.”
What is exfoliating, and how often should I do it?
Exfoliating is important for maintaining healthy, smooth skin, but it’s not something you should do every day. Aim to exfoliate once or twice a week to get the benefits without irritating. There are two main types of exfoliators. “Chemical exfoliants, such as AHAs like glycolic, lactic, and mandelic acids, and BHAs like salicylic acid, work by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to slough off while enzymatically smoothing and brightening the skin. Physical exfoliants use scrubs with grainy substances, like walnut shells, coconut shells, oatmeal, or pumice, to mechanically remove dead skin cells from the skin’s surface,” says Dr. Gmyrek. Hybrid exfoliating washes (like the Malin+Goetz wash above) combine physical and chemical exfoliants for a dual-action approach.
Why is everything “plant-based” nowadays?
Dr. Gmyrek explains that natural ingredients like shea butter, almond oil, jojoba oil, sunflower oil, and safflower oil are excellent for replenishing the skin’s natural oils. However, not everything labeled as plant-based is truly plant-based or vegan. While such products may feature plant-derived ingredients, they can also include animal-derived components like emu oil or lanolin. Additionally, being plant-based or “organic” does not necessarily mean being chemical-free. “Everything is a chemical—natural or synthetic—and many ‘natural’ ingredients, like essential oils, can still irritate the skin.” In short, plant-based sounds great, and there are many reasons to use said ingredients, but approach it with a bit of healthy knowledge.
Dr. Gmyrek states, “Antioxidants combat free radicals, slowing cell damage and preventing collagen and elastin breakdown. While antioxidants in body washes can be beneficial, their short contact time with the skin limits their effectiveness compared to leave-on products like serums and creams.” The best approach? Use antioxidant-infused body washes as a supportive step in your routine, but pair them with leave-on products for maximum impact.
Should we—or can we—really avoid sulfates?
Dr. Gmyrek states, “Not all sulfates are inherently bad—many body washes, including popular mass-market options, use sulfates because they’re effective at creating lather and removing dirt, oil, and sweat. However, sulfates can strip the skin of its natural oils if used excessively or in high concentrations, leading to dryness or irritation, especially for sensitive or dry skin types.” Look for washes that balance sulfates with hydrating ingredients like glycerin, ceramides, or natural oils to counteract potential dryness. She also emphasizes that less is more: “Don’t overuse (your wash) and be sure to wash off well and follow with moisturizer application.”
Are synthetic body washes bad?
Says Adam: We don’t have any vitriol to spew about mass-made body washes. Many of the best men’s body wash picks on our list lack specific targeted ingredients (and even fully natural ingredients), in favor of tried-and-true synthetic surfactants. And it’s probably not worth diving so deep that we’re discussing whether an ingredient like “cocamidopropyl betaine” is going to damn your skin to eternity if it’s featured in a well-revered recipe.
Let’s just leave it at this: Read reviews. Go for reputable brands. When curious, do that research into the oddball ingredients. We’re not even 100% negative on sulfates here because who doesn’t love a sudsy lather? (But that’s because some sulfate-inclusive formulas are well-researched and will honor many skin types.) So, keep that in mind as you shop around. Sometimes the best choice is one of the most affordable drugstore body washes because it’s probably also been tested on the most people—with the top-regarded scientists and researchers writing the script, no less.
The Dermatologists We Consulted
Dr. Robyn Gmyrek is a Board-Certified Dermatologist at UnionDerm.
James Collyer is a board-certified dermatologist at Modern Dermatology in Seattle.
Kiran Mian is a board-certified dermatologist at Hudson Dermatology and Laser Surgery in NYC.
How We Tested
Reviewed and Tested by Michael Stefanov & Adam Hurly.
Michael Stefanov: In addition to writing for GQ, I have covered topics ranging from grooming, menswear, fragrances, and watches for InsideHook, Robb Report, Men’s Journal, Esquire, and Men’s Health. I served as the market editor at Esquire for several years, scouring the industry for the best garments and goods that were worth the investment and made for compelling stories and good advice for our readers. I also conceptualized and wrote many fragrance stories for Esquire and a significant portion of the grooming pages. Whether it’s about coats, colognes, or body washes, people recognize that I’ve done the legwork. In testing these body washes, I found that each excelled in its respective category. I also consulted with friends with various skin types for feedback, as well as a renowned dermatologist.
Adam Hurly: As with any review I’ve written, the product picks are built on experience: I have been a grooming editor and writer since 2013, and have been with GQ since 2016. I receive and test thousands of products a year—often with the help of my partner, since that’s a lot of products. The ones that cut through the noise are those that you see here. I always crosscheck my opinion with the general reviews of these brands and products, too. While I stand by everything I believe, I want to acknowledge that my experience is singular, so it helps to see that others share a love of these products, too.
