9 Best Hydrating Body Washes, According to Dermatologists

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Compared to shampoo and conditioner, body wash can often be more of an after thought. But, as it turns out, you don’t want to wash away the days’ dirt and grime with just any old bar of soap, especially if dry skin is a concern. As summer comes to a close and we head into fall, switching up our head-to-toe skincare routines to something more moisturizing can help combat some of the dry, cool air that can feel great after a sweltering summer but wreak havoc on the skin—that’s where hydrating body wash comes in. 

The Best Hydrating Body Washes at a Glance

Whether you already have dry skin concern or want to get away of the seasonal changes to your complexion, now is the time to add a nourishing body wash to your shower lineup. These formulas can provide a gentle and effective cleanse without stripping the body’s natural oils to reveal softer and smoother skin. 

What to Look for in Hydrating Body Washes

“When choosing a hydrating body wash, I always suggest looking for formulas that do more than just cleanse,” says Dr. Dendy Engelman, MD, FACMS, FAAD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Shafer Clinic in New York City. “Ingredients like glycerine and hyaluronic acid help pull moisture into the skin, while nourishing oils and ceramides work to strengthen the barrier and prevent that tight, dry feeling after a shower.” 

Dr. Engelman adds that it’s also just as important to avoid some ingredients. “If hydration is your main concern, it is best to steer clear of body washes with harsh sulfates or strong detergents, since they can strip away the skin’s natural oils and leave it feeling tight and dry,” she explains. “I also recommend avoiding formulas that are heavily fragranced or contain alcohol, as those can be irritating and further compromise the skin barrier.”

The Best Hydrating Body Washes to Try This Season

Not all body washes are actually hydrating, so we scoured the internet—and asked Dr. Engelman for a few of her favorites—to find formulas that can support the skin’s moisture barrier while also keeping us fresh and clean all season long. From luxe elixirs to drugstore standouts, here are the best hydrating body washes to switch to this fall and winter. 

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