Bar soap vs body wash vs shower gel: Complete guide to select the best cleanser for your skin

Taking a shower is something we do daily and seems to be a pretty straightforward business so we don't really put too much thought into it. But did you know choosing the right products during that shower is the key to healthy skin? If you are new to the vast world of beauty and skincare products it is likely that you'll get confused about the endless options for body cleansers available in the market. Fret not! Here's a complete guide about the three main types of body cleansers i.e. bar soaps, body wash and shower gel, so that you make an informed decision based on your body's needs.

Also Read: What's the first thing to do in shower: Shampoo or body wash? Here's a complete guide

Bar soaps vs body wash vs shower gel: Everything you need to know

Bar Soaps

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The classic body cleansers we've all been using since childhood, bar soaps are usually made by combining fats and oils with an alkali.

Pros:

1. One of their biggest advantages is bar soaps typically contain fewer preservatives and synthetic ingredients than liquid soaps.
2. Since they come with minimal packaging, reducing waste, they have a lesser environmental packet making them more eco-friendly.
3. Bar soaps are generally less expensive than liquid soaps making them a more cost-effective option in the longer run.

Cons:

1. If a bar soap is not dried properly in between uses, it can harbour bacteria which is detrimental to your skin's health and causes a host of problems ranging from body acne to rashes.
2. For some, it may not be as practical a choice as a liquid soap because of their construct or how they need to be stored. Sometimes they can also leave a residue on the surface of the sink or shower.

Body Wash

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Body wash is a liquid soap formulated with surfactants and is the most commonly used cleansing product nowadays.

Pros:

1. Body wash typically comes in a body and is extremely convenient to use.
2. Body washes are usually infused with moisturising agents such as aloe vera gel, essential oils or glycerin that leave you with soft and supple skin.
3. There is a wide variety of formulas available in the market which can used to target specific skin concerns such as acne, dryness or sensitivity.

Cons:

1. Body washes are generally more expensive than bar soaps and may not be a viable option for all.
2. They tend to come in plastic bottles with other plastic packaging and are not a sustainable alternative. Also, some formulas contain plastic microbeads which are detrimental to marine life.

Shower Gel

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Shower gel has a similar formulation to that of body wash but is generally thinner in consistency. It has a gel-like finish and more often than not comes with added fragrances and vibrant colours.

Pros:

1. The gel-like consistency provides a refreshing sensation and creates a better bathing experience especially when you are taking a hot shower.
2. Shower gels come in a wide variety of scents and fragrances making your routine shower a novel aromatic experience.

Cons:

1. The added fragrance and dyes in shower gels can sometimes cause skin irritation, particularly for those with sensitive skin or other skin conditions like eczema.
2. Similar to body washes, shower gels also contribute significantly towards the growing menace of plastic pollution.

Also Read: Cold Shower: 5 Reasons Why You Should Take Shower Only In Cold Water Every Morning

Which is the best choice for you?

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Since all cleansers differ in the way they are formulated, choosing the right one is much more about your personal preference. Your skin type plays the biggest role in selecting what cleanser is the right option for you.

Oily Skin

For people with oily skin, bar soap is the best option as it deeply cleans the skin and is the most effective in removing skin impurities that can clog your pores. Opt for a non-comedogenic bar soap that will clean your skin without stripping it of its natural moisture which leads the skin to produce even more oil to compensate for it.

Dry Skin

A body wash is your ideal shower companion if you have dry skin as it comes with hydrating and moisturising agents that can help lock in moisture and are generally more gentle for your skin as compared to a bar soap. Also, apply a body butter or a thick body lotion after your shower to keep your skin healthy and prevent itchiness due to lack of moisture.

Sensitive Skin

If you have sensitive skin, the lighter and milder formula of shower gel is your best bet to prevent your skin from getting irritated. If you are concerned about fragrance, don't worry because there is a wide variety of fragrance and dye-free options available in the market which will work wonders to elevate your shower experience.

Whether you are looking for an environmentally-conscious option or you want something that is practical and travel-friendly, by knowing the pros, cons and formulation of each product you can make an intelligent decision that aligns with your personal preference as well as skin type. So use this guide the next time you go shopping and happy showering!

Also Read: Morning Rituals: Could A Cold Shower Replace Coffee In Your AM Routine? Just Maybe

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