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- Best Body Washes
Our Handy Guide to The Best Body Washes

Whether you have a quick five-minutes in the morning or a long, hot soak in the evening, it’s time to update your shower routine to create the ultimate pamper moment,
Finding the perfect shower gel or body wash can be a tricky task, especially when the market is so saturated with so many different brands. But that’s where we come in! We've put together our cosmetic knowledge to answer some frequently asked body wash questions and run through the best body washes from some of our favourite brands.
Are shower gel and body wash the same thing?
Shower gel and body wash are very similar as both can be used while bathing to clean your body. Whether you're in the bath or the shower you can use these varying products to cleanse and hydrate the skin.
However, there are some slight differences between the two. As the name suggests, shower gel has a thinner gel consistency, while body wash tends to have a thicker texture. Shower gel often has a water base – perfect for hotter months as it often leaves a refreshing feeling. Body wash on the other hand has a creamier consistency and is a perfect choice for people who suffer with dryness or skin irritations.
Can I use shower gel as shampoo?
This all depends on the specific product. Some shower gels and body wash products have been specially designed to be suitable for both your body and hair, such as classic 2-in-1 formulas from Kiehls and Rituals.
However, it is important to check the ingredient list as some shower gel formulas may dry out your luscious locks.
Is shower gel good to use on my face?
The skin on your face is a lot more sensitive than the skin on your body. That's why it's important to use specific face cleansers so as not to irritate or disrupt your skin.
Using a harsh shower gel or a soapy body wash may have detrimental effects on your complexion. Often formulas used in the shower create a suddy, soapy consistency, which can disturb the natural balance, PH and oils on your skin. This can cause excess dryness and isn't suitable for extra sensitive complexions.
Stick to face cleansers, which can help tackle specific concerns, such as oiliness, acne or anti-ageing. Some of our favourite brands include REN, Clinique and Liz Earle.
What ingredients should I look out for in body wash?
If you have extra sensitive skin, it's always good to check the ingredient list.
Parabens, phthalates, SLS and even fragrances can all have an impact on your skin and could potentially lead to irritations. Alcohol can also dry out your body and strip your skin of its natural oils.
However, what works for one skin type may not work for another. It's about trial and error with skin care and body care products. Find what works for you by testing your favourite brands and products.
The best body washes
So, what are the best body washes in the biz? Keep scrolling, as we’ve collated our favourites to help you get the ultimate squeaky-clean feeling.
REN Atlantic Kelp & Magnesium Anti-Fatigue Body Wash
£21.50 £24.00 (11% off)This is an award-winning offering from REN. It has a nourishing mixture of mineral-rich kelp, plankton extract and magnesium, which helps smooth and cleanse the skin. Free from sulphates and parabens, it’s a skin-friendly formula with a mood-boosting scent.
ESPA Bergamot & Jasmine Body Wash
£19.00 £20.00 (5% off)This body wash is the perfect treat for shower or bath time. Working as both a shower gel and a foaming bath soak, this formula cleanses skin and leaves it feeling revitalised. A mix of pure essential oils ensure that skin stays moisturised while a delicate scent of bergamot and jasmine provides a spa-like aroma.
Antipodes Nirvana Hand & Body Wash
£16.33 £18.14 (10% off)Update your bathroom cabinet with this must-have 2-in-1 hand wash and body wash. It expertly helps wash away impurities, excess oil and dirt for a hydrated and purified finish. The formula contains a balanced mix of hibiscus and harakeke oil for all your moisturising needs and is carefully scented with wild blackcurrant, spearmint and cardamom.
ELEMIS Frangipani Monoi Shower Cream
£15.98 £29.00 (45% off)This shower gel is a best-seller for a reason. Helping to nourish your whole body, the ultra-rich cream glides over wet skin for a hydrated, super clean result. The blend Tahitian monoi, coconut oil and frangipani flowers not only smells divine, but softens and conditions the body to leave your skin feeling smooth and supple.
Green People Organic Homme No. 5 Cool Style Shower Wash
£12.60This solution is ideal for men that are in need of a little pick-me-up. Washing away all impurities from the surface of skin, the botanical ingredients create a refreshing experience plus leave your body feeling clean with a cool scent.
The Ordinary Sulphate 4% Cleanser For Body & Hair
£8.41Struggle with sensitive, problem skin? Then this cleanser for body and hair from The Ordinary is for you. This sensitive body wash utilises modified sulphates to eliminate excess oil, dirt, debris and product residue, such as perfume, from your skin. Made to be less irritating and drying, it is ideal for reducing the likes of back acne, bum spots, irritation and scaly skin.
Dr. PAWPAW Everybody Hair & Body Wash
£12.35A body wash for every body. Dr. PAWPAW present a formula that suits all skin types, including baby skin. The multi-purpose formula is infused with papaya, olive oil and coconut to leave both skin and hair feeling refreshed.
Decléor Neroli Bigarade Hydrating Shower Gel
£19.00For something a little more on the boujee side, take a look at the Decléor Neroli Bigarade Hydrating Shower Gel. This indulgent wash offers a delightful aroma which sets the tone for the day ahead. With neroli essential oil headlining the formula, skin is left hydrated and feeling energised.
ELEMIS Sharp Shower Body Wash
£24.50Make you shower a luxurious self-care moment with the ELEMIS Sharp Shower Body Wash. Formulated with plant extracts, as well as spearmint and peppermint essential oils, this gel uplifts and stimulates the senses. It’s a great choice for fresh, soft, clean skin all day long.
Aveda Cherry Almond Hand & Body Wash
£22.08 £23.00 (4% off)Aveda know a thing or two about beautiful body care products with a range of body moisturisers and hand care products on offer. We love their apothecary style packaging and their refreshing formulations, which help wash away daily dirt and grime. This particular formula contains babassu nut, cherry blossom and sweet almond oil to help nourish and condition the body from head to toe.
Weleda Men's Shower Gel
£7.43 £8.25 (10% off)Another must-have for the guys. Weleda Men's Shower Gel features spicy vetiver, zesty lemon, and warm woody undertones in order to leave you feeling rejuvenated, revitalised and ready to take on the day. Not to mention, it's 100% natural so it feels real good when washing away the day.
This Works Deep Sleep Shower Gel
£17.05 £19.00 (11% off)Struggle to wind down after a long, hard day? Rinse away the day's stresses with This Works Deep Sleep Shower Gel. Created with a beautiful, therapeutic fragrance, this product helps you kick back, relax and and forget about the worries of life. It also sets up the senses for a good night's sleep.
Nuxe Prodigieux Floral Scented Shower Gel
£11.90 £15.00 (21% off)This floral shower gel from the cult-favourite Nuxe Prodigieux collection makes a great gift for yourself, or a body care obsessed loved one. Bursting with fresh notes of grapefruit, magnolia and musk, this formula is the perfect morning kick for any shower routine.
For more body care goodies, including body treatments and deodorants, take a quick look at the Beauty Hub and The Ultimate Guide to the Best Body Moisturisers.

Written by Rebecca Jenkinson
Rebecca is a content writer with over three years’ experience and a keen interest in cosmetics. Cosmetify allows her to combine her blogging skills with her passion for beauty.
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