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Think of the best moisturizing body washes almost like body lotion in disguise. They don’t just rinse away dirt and sweat—they also leave your skin feeling soft, hydrated, and nourished before you’ve even reached for moisturizer. The right formula transforms your shower into more than just a rinse-off routine: It’s a two-in-one moment of cleansing and care.
These aren’t your average suds; they’re loaded with the kind of nourishing ingredients, like shea butter, ceramides, and glycerin, that keep moisture locked in while gentle cleansers do their thing, so you get clean without the tight, squeaky aftermath. And if you have sensitive skin, you’ll appreciate that many of these derm-approved picks skip common irritants like dyes and fragrances, and even carry the National Eczema Association’s seal of approval.
Our Top Moisturizing Body Washes
- Best Overall: La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+ Gentle Foaming Moisturizing Wash, $20
- Best Sudsy: Glossier Nourishing Daily Oil Wash in Sandstone, $28
- Best for Body Acne: Youth to the People Superfood + Niacinamide Body Cleanser, $39
- Best for Sensitive Skin: Osea Undaria Algae Body Wash, $32
- Best Scent Options: Nécessaire The Body Wash, $28
- Best Exfoliating: Beekman 1802 Goat Milk Hand & Body Wash, $22
- Best for Eczema: CLn BodyWash, $36
- Best Fragrance-Free: Vanicream Gentle Body Wash, $12
- Best Drugstore: Olay Ultra Moisture Shea Butter Body Wash, $10
Frequently Asked Questions
Bottom line: A great moisturizing body wash saves you from that dry, itchy post-shower feeling and makes your skin feel silky and comfortable all day. Here, the editor-approved picks that turn a simple shower into a moisturizing moment.
Best Overall: La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+ Gentle Foaming Moisturizing Wash
La Roche-Posay
Lipikar AP+ Gentle Foaming Moisturizing Wash
Amazon
Dermstore
Why it's worth it: Anything by La Roche-Posay is the epitome of drugstore prices with luxury vibes, and the Lipikar AP+ Gentle Foaming Moisturizing Wash is no exception. "This is a great non-soap, hydrating cleanser compatible with all skin types," explains Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Hamden, Connecticut. She says this foaming wash is “loaded with ceramides (a fundamental building block of the skin barrier) and glycerin, a very potent humectant, so you’re sure to get smoother skin. And our tester with mature skin agreed, noting it not only left her face and body softer post-rinse but quickly became her go-to because it soothed her son’s eczema and still felt luxurious in her own shower.
Tester feedback from executive beauty director Jenny Bailly
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“The fragrance-free milky gel removes all traces of my (granted, relatively light) makeup while also leaving my skin softer than it was pre-wash. The second ingredient in the formula is glycerin, a humectant that pulls water from the air to keep skin hydrated for hours. It also includes niacinamide to rebuild the skin’s lipid layer and shea butter to soften. A little dab’ll do ya (dime-size for your face, a couple of quarters for your entire body) and you still get just enough foaminess to tell your brain you’re getting clean. This wash started out in my kids’ bathtub— where it soothed rough patches on my eczema-prone son—before it migrated to my own shower and became my go-to.” —Jenny Bailly, executive beauty director
More to know
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- Key ingredients: glycerin, ceramides, niacinamide, shea butter, La Roche-Posay prebiotic thermal water
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Who it's for: everyone
Best Sudsy: Glossier Nourishing Daily Oil Wash in Sandstone
Glossier
Nourishing Daily Oil Wash in Sandstone
Sephora
Glossier
Why it’s worth it: Most body oil washes either slip right through your fingers or leave behind a greasy film, but not Glossier’s Nourishing Daily Oil Wash in Sandstone. It has just enough thickness to let you work it into a frothy, rich lather before rinsing completely clean. The blend of sunflower seed, castor, and soybean oils keeps skin soft and conditioned, while vitamin E helps support your skin's barrier, so it doesn’t feel stripped. We’re also sure you can’t help but notice the seaform-green bottle is a departure from the brand’s signature pink, which reflects the new, addictive Sandstone scent. Think fig leaves, sage, and sandalwood—combined, it’s warm, fresh, and grounding.
Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee
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“I love how this oil wash has just the right texture—not too thin, not too heavy—and it bubbles up into a really satisfying lather. The formula feels so nourishing on my dry, keratosis pilaris–prone skin. I’ve been a huge fan of the original Orange Blossom Neroli scent, but the new Sandstone is just as good: warm, earthy, and not at all overwhelming. —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer
More to know
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- Key ingredients: sunflower seed oil, glycerin, vitamin E
- Fragrance-free: no
- Who it's for: people who want deep moisture without a greasy residue
Best for Body Acne: Youth to the People Superfood + Niacinamide Body Cleanser
Youth To The People
Superfood + Niacinamide Body Cleanser
Amazon
Nordstrom
Why it's worth it: The deep-cleansing, moisturizing Youth To The People Superfood + Niacinamide Body Cleanser softens skin with a blend of niacinamide, antioxidants, kale and green tea extracts, and amino acids. You can expect a strengthened barrier (resulting in better moisture retention over time) and a sudsy, satisfying all-over lather that clears away dead skin cell buildup and evens skin tone with fatty acid surfactants. “It’s a fantastic blend for keeping skin clear, hydrated, and resilient,” says Zoë Indigo, MD, a Los Angeles-based board-certified dermatologist. This sudsy shower gel features the brand's signature scent, Elevated Self, which features notes of cedarwood, black pepper, and fresh greens.
Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han
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"Youth to the People's body-care lineup is a certified hit. The gel is cooling and lathers into a foam that cuddles every inch of my body, and ooooh, the fresh, earthy scent—it's a whole sensorial experience, and as someone who doesn't give their body-care routine as much love as her face (I'm trying to be better!), little things count/help me go through with using said product.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: niacinamide, kale extract, green tea extract, amino acids, antioxidants
- Fragrance-free: no
- Who it's for: people with uneven skin tone
Best for Sensitive Skin: Osea Undaria Algae Body Wash
Osea
Undaria Algae Body Wash
Amazon
Nordstrom
Why it's worth it: If you already use and love the Osea Undaria Algae Body Oil, it's time to make room in your shower for the just-dropped Osea Undaria Algae Body Wash. The non-stripping formula has already won over the hearts of Allure editors and Dr. Indigo with its super-hydrating seaweed (the namesake algae), glycerin, and sugar complex (saccharide isomerate) blend. “Algae is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that nourish, balance, and even protect the skin barrier—making [Osea’s Undaria Algae Body Wash] a luxurious way to keep your skin silky, healthy, and glowing," says Dr. Indigo. It lathers into a subtle foam that leaves your skin feeling soothed and smoothed, with the added touch of the brand's signature citrusy fragrance.
Tester feedback from shopping director Shanna Shipin
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"As soon as this entered my routine, it became a mainstay. Not only does this soap smell incredible (FYI, Osea doesn't use synthetic fragrances, so there's a subtle from-the-seaside scent that's non-irritating), but it's gentle enough for daily use on even the driest of people. Usually, when I use a body wash that's a little too harsh, my skin peels afterward (like a sunburn!)—not to worry with this absolute treat of a body wash. The gel-like formula feels ribbony-soft, foams just enough, and never strips my skin. I'll be forever stocked up on it." —Shanna Shipin, shopping director
More to know
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- Key ingredients: seaweed, glycerin, saccharide isomerate
- Fragrance-free: no
- Who it's for: people looking for a plant-based formula
Best Scent Options: Nécessaire The Body Wash
Nécessaire
The Body Wash
Amazon
Nordstrom
Why it's worth it: While many people with extremely dry skin are sensitive to fragranced products, that's not true for everyone. So, if you're looking for a super hydrating formula spiked with a stunning scent (although there is a fragrance-free version), the Nécessaire Body Wash is your new best friend. Whether you opt for Santal, Eucalyptus, Olibanum, or Hinoki, you'll be getting a dose of rich, sophisticated fragrance. Its oil-based formula not only smells nice, but also has the benefits of dryness-defeating glycerin, conditioning marula and meadowfoam seed oils, and a surprisingly gentle 6 percent chemical exfoliator complex of lactic, glycolic, mandelic, and salicylic acids. You'll also get a serving of antioxidant-rich, mature skin-loving resveratrol and anti-inflammatory niacinamide. No wonder it's one of our favorite body washes, period.
Tester feedback from former commerce writer Jennifer Hussein
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"From the neck down, my skin is pretty finicky (I'm somehow prone to bouts of dry skin and body acne), so I have to be particularly discerning when it comes to body washes. Thankfully, Nécessaire fits my fussy bill with its hybrid gel-oil formula. It provides the deep cleanse I need to prevent breakouts but doesn't over-strip my skin, thanks to its conditioning oil blend. I've gone through a bottle of every scent, and each one makes my skin smell like I just sprayed on a luxe perfume (minus the fragrance-free option, of course)." —Jennifer Hussein, former commerce writer
More to know
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- Key ingredients: glycerin, chemical exfoliator complex (lactic acid, glycolic acid, mandelic acid, salicylic acid), niacinamide, resveratrol, meadowfoam seed oil, marula oil
- Fragrance-free: no, but fragrance-free is available
- Who it's for: people who like a scented body wash
Best Exfoliating: Beekman 1802 Goat Milk Hand & Body Wash
Beekman 1802
Goat Milk Hand & Body Wash
Ulta Beauty
Beekman 1802
Why it's worth it: What's goat milk got to do with dry skin? Well, a lot, when it comes to the Beekman 1802 Goat Milk Hand and Body Wash. Goat milk naturally contains lactic acid, a gentle alpha-hydroxy acid that helps whisk away dead cells for smoother, softer skin without irritation. Combined with “glycerin, jojoba seed oil, meadowfoam seed oil, and shea butter, this body wash hydrates the skin, supports the skin barrier, and helps to lock in moisture," says Hadley King, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. "Honey and aloe vera add additional soothing properties," she says. She adds that you won't find any skin-stripping detergents in this hearty, healthy formula. You can also use this wash on your dry hands—extra points for versatility.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: glycerin, goat milk, jojoba, meadowfoam seed oil, shea butter
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Who it's for: people looking for a multipurpose product
Best for Eczema: CLn BodyWash
CLn
BodyWash
Amazon
Why it’s worth it: Accepted by the National Eczema Association, CLn BodyWash is a dermatologist-developed cleanser made for skin that needs extra TLC. “Harnessing the power of hypochlorous acid, this medicated body wash reduces the microbial count on the skin yet is gentle enough for compromised and sensitive skin found in eczema, dermatitis, and irritation,” says Peterson Pierre, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Thousand Oaks, California. With only five ingredients beyond water and no added fragrance, this refreshingly simple formula is gentle enough even for babies over six months. Whether you’re managing eczema, body acne, or just dealing with easily irritated skin, “It reduces redness, dryness, and flakiness, leaving behind smooth skin, leaving behind zero residue,” says Dr. Pierre.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: sodium laureth sulfate, sodium hypochlorite
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Who it's for: people with eczema or sensitive skin
Best Fragrance-Free: Vanicream Gentle Body Wash
Vanicream
Gentle Body Wash
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Why it’s worth it: When your skin simply can’t handle the extra stuff—like fragrance, dyes, parabens—Vanicream Gentle Body Wash is a soothing choice. “Vanicream is a pH-balanced formula for super dry and sensitive skin, especially if you suffer from eczema or contact allergies,” says Peter Bittar, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami. Formulated to be as hypoallergenic as possible, this gentle body wash skips common irritants while still delivering a thorough cleanse. It features glycerin to keep skin moisturized, as well as coco-glucoside and sodium cocoyl glycinate—ultra-mild, coconut-derived cleansers that gently lift away dirt without stripping—and panthenol (pro-vitamin B5) to soothe irritation and support the skin barrier. “I rarely have a patient who cannot tolerate this cleanser,” adds Dr. Bittar.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: glycerin, coco-glucoside, panthenol
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Who it's for: people with sensitive, easily irritated skin
Best Drugstore: Olay Ultra Moisture Shea Butter Body Wash
Olay
Ultra Moisture Shea Butter Body Wash
Amazon
Walmart
Why it’s worth it: The two-time Best of Beauty Award winner Olay Ultra Moisture Shea Butter Body Wash hardly needs an introduction, but it’s worth reminding you why it’s a favorite. Some body washes slide right off before you’ve even worked up a lather, but this one hugs the skin, foaming into a cushiony cream that actually keeps moisture in. “This formula uses gentle cleansing agents to wash away impurities, while shea butter and Olay’s Lock-In-Moisture technology deliver long-lasting hydration. It’s a luxurious foaming product that leaves the skin feeling soft and smooth with no sticky residue,” says Dr. Pierre. With added niacinamide for barrier support, it’s proof that a body wash can be both effective and indulgent—all while staying budget-friendly.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: shea butter, niacinamide
- Fragrance-free: no
- Who it's for: people who want lasting moisture
Frequently Asked Questions
How should I choose a body wash for dry skin?
First, seek out body washes or beauty bars that contain gentle surfactants to thoroughly cleanse, as well as humectants and emollients to hydrate the skin and support the skin barrier, suggests Dr. King. Kelly Dobos, a cosmetic chemist, recommends looking for ingredient lists that feature niacinamide (a.k.a vitamin B3), which is key for its antioxidizing, ceramide-boosting, skin-brightening effects. "Niacinamide is an ingredient with numerous advantages; as a cosmetic chemist, I love its versatility in formulation," she says.
Synthetic compounds are also crucial to a good body wash—even the ones you can't pronounce. "Combinations of two to three synthetic surfactants are essential for good cleansing and foaming and increasing mildness. Cocamidopropyl hydroxysultaine and cocamidopropyl betaine are examples of mild secondary surfactants," says Dobos. "One ingredient that is particularly useful in body wash is guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride. This ingredient is a conditioning polymer with many positive charges that make it substantive to dry skin. It can help deposit other ingredients on the skin too," she adds.
Remember your ceramides, too. Joshua Zeichner, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, previously told Allure that "Skin-repairing ceramides, which fill in the cracks between skin cells and help the skin heal itself," are hugely helpful in body care.
What should I avoid in a body wash for dry skin?
While not everyone is sensitive to fragrance in body washes, picking a fragrance-free option minimizes the risk of irritation. "Try to avoid fragrances, cleansers with a high pH, or soap-based cleansers," says Dr. King. She notes that "soap" doesn't always refer to bar soap, but rather cleansers with a high pH. "Skin has a neutral to slightly acidic pH, so you want cleansers that mimic that and support barrier health. If it has tons of ingredients, ditch it. Keep it simple!" Also, it’s a good idea to avoid harsh, skin-stripping detergents like SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate), which can dry the skin of its natural oils, leading to more dryness.
If you have eczema, avoid formulas that feature anti-acne ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, Olga Bunimovich, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Pittsburgh, PA, previously told Allure. She explained that these ingredients can be particularly drying and irritating. So, if you have acne-prone and very dry skin, talk to your dermatologist before buying a new body wash.
Meet the experts
- Peter Bittar, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Miami Dermatology & Laser Institute, based in Miami
- Olga Bunimovich, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, based in Pittsburgh, PA
- Kelly Dobos, a cosmetic chemist, based in Cincinatti
- Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Hamden, Connecticut
- Zoë Indigo, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, based in Los Angeles
- Hadley King, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, based in New York City
- Peterson Pierre, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Golden State Dermatology, based in Thousand Oaks, California
- Joshua Zeichner, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City
How we test and review products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that's included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.
For our list of the best body washes for dry skin, we considered each product's performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance (or lack thereof), texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from board-certified dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.
Our staff and testers
A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.
After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we've solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it's never been tested on curls? We're proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.
