A hot shower isn't complete without a refreshing, cleansing body wash. That said, body was does more than keep your skin fresh and clean -- it can also moisturize, exfoliate, fight acne and reduce the effects of aging. With so many brands of body wash to choose from, selecting the best product for your needs and skin type can be difficult. Many people might simply choose the cheapest option in the largest container, but what's the fun in that? Buying the right body wash can be the difference between good showers and great ones. Read on for more information about how to choose the best body wash.
Cleansing and moisturizing oily skin can be complicated. Ideally, you want to clean the skin, then exfoliate and then moisturize. Some body washes are all-in-one products that accomplish all three of these steps, while others come in sets for doing each step separately. Definitely make sure to choose a body wash system designed for oily skin.
Again, a moisturizing body wash is best for most people with dry skin. However, if you don't have sensitive skin, then you can choose from a wider range of products with all kinds of fragrances. Common ingredients in standard moisturizing body wash products include sodium lauroyl isethionate, petrolatum and hydrolyzed milk protein.
If you hit the gym before your daily shower, then your standard body wash will do. However, if you exercise later in the day, then you'll want a body wash that doesn't have strong cleaning chemicals, because too much cleansing can dry out your skin. Choose a body wash with decyl glucoside or sodium lauroyl sarcosinate that will rinse salts and oils without drying your skin.
Hypoallergenic body washes are designed for people who are allergic to chemicals frequently used in skin care products. They're very similar, with both containing mostly natural ingredients and no added fragrances. Talk to your doctor about hypoallergenic body wash if you have allergies or known skin problems.
If you have sensitive skin, look for a body wash that contains moisturizing ingredients. You might also want to choose body wash products that don't have any added dyes or fragrances. Glycerin, sunflower oil and oatmeal are common ingredients in body washes for sensitive skin.
Some body wash products double up as shampoos. These are extremely convenient for people who enjoy quick showers with fewer products. However, they might not be ideal for anyone with complex skin care needs.
Wrinkle creams and other anti-aging products work best on exfoliated skin. With that in mind, choose a body wash that excels in exfoliation. Look for ingredients such as niacinamide, lactic acids and alicylic acids.
If you have acne, then choose a body wash with anti-inflammatory and exfoliating properties. Look for body washes with tea tree oil or other natural ingredients that reduce inflammation while killing bacteria. Also, use a shower puff to gently apply the body wash to your skin.