What does body wash mean?

What does body wash actually do?

Body wash contains cleansing ingredients called surfactants, which loosen oil and dirt so water can carry them away. Washing also removes sunscreen from the skin. Water alone does not remove oily dirt as effectively because that dirt sticks to the skin.2

Body wash is rinsed off; a body moisturizer stays on, so the bottles have different jobs rather than a naming dispute. Moisturizers trap moisture in the skin. Some cleansers contain moisturizing ingredients, but applying moisturizer after bathing is still part of caring for dry skin.234

Is body wash the same as soap?

Both clean the skin, but not every cleanser is technically soap. Cleansing ingredients can be soap, synthetic detergents or a combination. Traditional soap is alkaline and can irritate sensitive skin. Synthetic detergent cleansers can be formulated closer to the skin's natural acidity and cause less dryness. Liquid soap also exists, so a bottle does not automatically mean a soap free formula.2

Which body wash should you choose?

• For dry or sensitive skin, choose a gentle, fragrance free cleanser. Antibacterial and deodorant washes can dry the skin.
• For eczema prone skin, choose a mild liquid cleanser rather than a bar of soap. Look for wording such as gentle, fragrance free, soap free or moisturizing.
• Do not treat unscented as another spelling of fragrance free. Unscented products can contain ingredients that hide other smells and irritate dry, sensitive skin.
• For dry or itchy skin, an emollient cleanser or suitable soap substitute is another option. Emollient means moisturizer.

An emollient wash can clean skin without foaming, so bubbles do not get to grade the shower.6

How do you use body wash?

1. 1Wet your skin with warm water. If your skin is dry, keep the shower or bath to five to ten minutes.
2. 2Apply cleanser to your hands and massage gently over the areas you need to clean. For dry skin, concentrate on places such as the armpits and groin.
3. 3Use enough cleanser to remove dirt and oil. For dry skin, avoid using so much that you produce a thick lather.
4. 4Rinse thoroughly, then gently pat your skin dry with a clean towel rather than rubbing.
5. 5Apply a fragrance free moisturizer while your skin is still damp. For eczema prone skin, a cream or ointment is generally preferable to a lotion.

How often should you use it?

Daily washing is an option even with eczema, provided showers stay short and lukewarm. Shower after a workout and change out of tight, sweaty clothes. After swimming in a pool, shower promptly with fresh water and a mild cleanser or a body wash made for swimmers. Avoid repeated washing that leaves your skin dry or irritated.125

What if a doctor gives you a body wash?

An antiseptic body wash prescribed to reduce bacteria before hospital treatment is different from an everyday cleanser. Follow its treatment instructions rather than the ordinary washing routine above. Some prescribed antiseptic washes must not be used alongside other soaps, shampoos or moisturizers. If problems develop during that treatment, stop using it and tell your doctor or nurse.7

What if washing irritates your skin?

If an emollient wash stings and the sensation does not settle after rinsing, ask a pharmacist for a different product. Tell a dermatologist about burning, stinging or irritation from skincare products. Seek help if dryness persists despite gentle washing and moisturizing, or if a rash lingers or worsens.456