Dermatologists Reveal Surprising Benefits of Bar Soap Over Liquid Body Wash

Dermatologists Reveal Surprising Benefits of Bar Soap Over Liquid Body Wash

While liquid body soap has dominated showers across North America since the late 1990s and early 2000s, many individuals continue to prefer traditional bar soap for its affordability, plastic-free packaging, and minimal environmental footprint. However, the appeal of body wash is understandable with its delightful scents, diverse brand options, and often stylish containers. Surprisingly, dermatologists now highlight several advantages of choosing bar soap for daily body care that might change your cleansing routine.

Expert Insights on Bar Soap Effectiveness

Dr. Brendan Camp, a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York, explains that bar soaps can actually be more effective at removing oil, dirt, and residue from skin than their liquid counterparts. "Liquid soaps are water-based, which means they are more diluted than bar soaps," he stated, suggesting this dilution could reduce their cleansing power. Furthermore, Dr. Camp added that the water-based nature of liquid soaps makes them "more prone to contamination with bacteria," challenging the common myth that bar soap is germier.

Environmental and Health Advantages

Dr. Deanne Mraz, a board-certified dermatologist and president/co-founder of Modern Dermatology in Connecticut, emphasized that "bar soaps are better for the environment — from production and transportation to packaging and waste, they have a lower impact." She further explained that liquid soaps frequently "rely on artificial preservatives to extend their shelf life and are stored in plastic containers that might not be BPA-free." In contrast, bar soaps are waterless and typically don't require synthetic chemicals to maintain freshness.

Top Dermatologist-Recommended Bar Soaps

If you're considering switching from liquid to bar soap, quality doesn't need to be compromised. Below are expert-approved bar soaps that are effective cleansers while being nourishing, hydrating, and affordable.

Expert Picks

1. CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser Bar - Dr. Mraz recommends this fragrance-free, multi-tasking bar that's gentle enough for both face and body. It helps remove grime while boosting the skin's natural moisture barrier.
2. Vanicream Cleansing Bar - Both experts enthusiastically endorse this option, noting it's excellent for dry skin and conditions like eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis. It's free of dyes, fragrances, and other common irritants.
3. Avène XeraCalm A.D Ultra-Rich Cleansing Bar - Dr. Camp recommends this French pharmacy staple containing evening primrose oil and thermal spring water, which cleanses without disrupting the skin's natural microbiome.
4. Dr. Bronner's Pure-Castile Bar Soap - According to Dr. Mraz, this vegetable-based soap is free of chemicals and synthetic ingredients, with hemp seed oil creating a soft lather that won't dry out skin.
5. Community Goods Shampoo Bar - For those expanding to package-free hair care, Dr. Mraz recommends this shampoo bar that combines eco-friendly benefits with hair-specific formulations.
6. Aveeno Moisturizing Bar Soap - Dr. Mraz suggests this ultra-gentle formula with colloidal oats, glycerin, and paraffin, ideal for eczema-prone or sensitive skin.

Editors' Favorite Bar Soaps

1. Dove Antibacterial Care Soap Bar - A nourishing antibacterial option that leaves skin soft with a fresh, non-overpowering scent.
2. Glossier Body Hero Exfoliating Bar - Features biodegradable bamboo powder for gentle exfoliation with the brand's signature clean fragrance.
3. Flamingo Estate Roman Parsley & Fresh Rosemary Soap Brick - An extra-large, herbaceous bar designed to cleanse and refresh skin.
4. Dial Antibacterial Refresh & Renew Bar Soap - Recommended by tattoo artists for thoroughly cleansing without stripping natural moisture.
5. Valitic Kojic Acid Dark Spot Remover Bar Soap - Contains active ingredients like vitamin C and retinol to potentially even skin tone and reduce blemishes.
6. Soft Services Buffing Bar - Provides physical exfoliation with mineral microcrystals while nourishing with glycerin and shea butter.
7. Nécessaire The Body Exfoliant Bar - An unscented, luxurious option with exfoliating ingredients suitable for sensitive skin.
8. Dove Purely Pampering Shea Butter Beauty Bar - A hydrating shea butter soap that doesn't leave greasy residue.
9. L'Occitane Shea Butter Extra-Gentle Solid Soap - A gentle, lavender-scented bar that cleanses without creating a stripping sensation.

Bar Soap for Dry Skin Considerations

Since soaps can potentially be drying, Dr. Camp advises seeking formulas with hydrating ingredients like shea butter, avocado oil, glycerin, and ceramides. Those with sensitive skin should avoid soaps containing fragrances and dyes, which may cause irritation. Dr. Mraz recommends bar soaps with colloidal oats for additional nourishment if you have dry or sensitive skin.