Is there any real difference between a body wash, bar soap, or shower gel, apart from the obvious difference that two are liquids while one is solid? Can you use three of them, or is just one enough? If so, which is best? The main purpose of the three is to remove dirt from the skin’s surface that builds up from perspiration, environmental contaminants, and to renew skin cells, but how do they differ?
What’s the difference Between Bar Soap, Body Wash, or Shower Gel?
Bar soap works by dissolving and breaking down the greasy coating of dirt, sweat, and natural oils that the body produces. It protects you against numerous diseases caused by bacteria and germs by removing dead skin, which provides the perfect habitat for microorganisms.
Body wash works in the same way that bar soap does by removing the greasy or oily layer and cleansing the skin of bacteria and contaminants. However, body wash frequently contains mild chemicals that can help the skin regain its moisture balance and reduce clogged pores.
Shower gel, on the other hand, removes oil and dirt from the skin without adding any moisturising agents that would otherwise make the skin regain its natural oiliness. It has a lighter texture and contains ingredients that do not stay on the skin.
Which Is Better? Bar Soap, Body Wash, or Shower Gel?
Choosing the best one for you is based on your own needs and preferences.
If you have dry skin, a body wash with moisturizing ingredients that leave the skin feeling hydrated and soft after washing is best for you. A study in the South African Journal of Child Health stated that bar soaps are not effective for people with dry skin.
People with oily skin who are looking for a product without a lot of moisturising ingredients should use a shower gel over other options. However, it’s important to note that even oily skin needs moisture. According to an essay published in the National Library of Medicine on “The Role of Moisturisers in Addressing Various Kinds of Dermatitis”, researchers emphatically stated that moisturisers are “a major component of basic daily skin care, especially in the presence of epidermal barrier alteration and reduced epidermal water content.”
Bar soap is often a good choice for people with sensitive skin and allergies. In bar form, soap typically doesn’t require as many preservatives as shower gel and body wash do. As stated by the School of Natural Skincare, these preservatives are added to liquid products to extend their shelf life. Interestingly, Dr Lefkowicz, speaking to Real Simple, recommends bar soap as a quick and easy cleansing option for those with oily skin, people in hot and humid climates, or anyone needing a deep wash, such as after a workout.
Now that you understand the differences between these cleansers, it’s unnecessary and counterproductive to use all three simultaneously. Simply choose the product that best suits your skin’s individual needs.
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