If you’re like most people, the store's skincare aisle can be a confusing place unless you know exactly what to buy. We all tend to linger in the store aisle for too long, trying to decide which cleanser is best for your skin type. Unless you know what ingredients you are searching for, picking the right one can be problematic. So which one should you choose? Here is an overview of body wash, how to use it, and how to choose the right type for your unique skin!

The primary function of body wash is to cleanse your skin of impurities like oil, dirt, makeup, and sweat. Body wash is similar to bar soap and shower gel in that it creates lather and rids the body of dirt, but many differences set the three options apart.

The reasons you might select body wash over bar soap might deal with personal preference or skin sensitivity. Some bar soaps can be very drying and leave the skin feeling tight. If you experience dry skin, look for a mild soap that gently cleanses without overdrying. Outside of the shower, take care of your hands by using a moisturizing hand soap that relieves dryness while still cleansing skin of dirt and germs without stripping your hands of moisture.

Body wash and shower gel generally have comparable ingredients and are similar in the way they cleanse the skin.

If you choose to use shower gel or body wash:

• Wet your skin in the bath or shower and lather the solution on a loofah or washcloth.
• Apply a generous layer all over your skin.
• Rinse it off and pat your skin dry with a clean towel.
• Try not to rub your skin after you get out of the shower. Rubbing can strip away the moisture and irritate skin.

One the surface, using body wash seems pretty straightforward. Get in the bath, lather the wash across your skin, and rinse it off with water. Pretty simple right? As it turns out, there is a correct and incorrect way to use body wash. Use our top tips to help you get the most benefit from your body wash:

• Use the right amount: Most people use way too much body wash. A quarter-sized dollop is sufficient to cleanse your entire body.
• Avoid using hot water: If you’re like most people, you love taking hot showers. While hot showers can feel soothing, they can also be very drying. Swap the hot water for lukewarm showers to help your skin retain moisture.
• Be gentle on your skin: Resist the urge to rub your body with a towel after you shower. Rubbing can cause unnecessary irritation and dryness. Pat your body with a clean, dry towel each time you shower and wash your towels after each use to remove germs and dirt.
• Apply a moisturizer: Apply a hydrating lotion each and every time you shower, particularly during the dry winter months. Try a wet skin moisturizer to instantly lock in moisture without a heavy, sticky feel.

Many people use the same soap to wash both their face and their body. While this may be an economical option, it is not suitable for your skin. The skin on your face is far more delicate than the skin on your body. Facial cleansers have specific formulas to remove makeup and unclog pores. Facial skin is more sensitive than the skin on the rest of your body, so it’s best to avoid using body wash on your face.

• Choose between body wash, shower gel, and bar soap by assessing your skincare needs and daily routine.
• To nourish your skin in the shower, look for a hydrating, oil-infused body wash that cleanses without stripping skin.
• When using body wash, use a quarter-sized amount of cleanser and create a creamy lather on your skin.
• Avoid long, hot showers and always moisturize after showering to prevent dry skin.
• Avoid using body wash on your face. Body washes and face washes are two different types of products designed for different parts of your body.