Best Moisturizing Bar Soaps for 2024: Top 9 Picks for Hydrated Skin

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You’re seeking the best moisturizing bar soaps for hydrated, healthy skin.

Top picks like Dove, CeraVe, and Kitsch harness nourishing ingredients to cleanse without stripping your body’s natural oils.

Bar soaps often use fewer ingredients and generate less plastic waste than liquid washes.

When choosing, consider your skin type, preferred ingredients, fragrance, and packaging.

While some bar soaps can be drying, many formulas today are specifically designed to deeply moisturize.

Explore the top moisturizing bar soap options to find your ideal hydrating cleanser.

Top 9 Moisturizing Bar Soaps

Looking to treat your skin to some serious hydration in 2024? Check out these top 9 moisturizing bar soaps that can leave your skin feeling soft, smooth, and nourished. From trusted brands like Dove and CeraVe to unique offerings like the Kitsch Exfoliating Sugar Body Scrub Bar, there’s an option here for every skin type and preference.

1. Dove Gentle Skin Moisturizing Cleanser Bar

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Dove’s Gentle Skin Moisturizing Cleanser Bar is a popular choice for those seeking a moisturizing bar soap. This bar is formulated with ¼ moisturizing cream, which helps to nourish and soften the skin, leaving it more radiant-looking compared to ordinary soap.

The formula is gentle and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It’s also dermatologist-recommended and free of sulfate cleansers, parabens, and harsh chemicals.

The Dove Gentle Skin Moisturizing Cleanser Bar is a reliable and gentle choice for daily skincare, effectively cleansing the skin while leaving it soft and smooth.

Best For: Those seeking a moisturizing bar soap for daily skincare.

2. CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser Bar 2-Pack

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The CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser Bar is a top-rated soap that has been developed with dermatologists for normal to dry skin. It’s non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores, and is fragrance-free, making it suitable for sensitive skin.

The bar soap contains three essential ceramides and hyaluronic acid, which help hydrate the skin without stripping the skin barrier. It also features 5% CeraVe Moisturizing Cream and patented MVE Delivery Technology, which releases a steady stream of hydration throughout the day and night.

The CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser Bar is accepted by the National Eczema Association with the NEA Seal of Acceptance, making it a trusted choice for those with eczema-prone skin.

Best For: Those with normal to dry skin, sensitive skin, or eczema-prone skin.

3. Kitsch Exfoliating Sugar Body Scrub Bar

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If you’re looking for a moisturizing bar soap that exfoliates your skin, the Kitsch Exfoliating Sugar Body Scrub Bar is a top choice. This soap is designed to gently scrub away dead skin cells and impurities, leaving your skin feeling soft and clean. The sugar crystals in the soap provide a gentle exfoliation, while the moisturizing ingredients help to hydrate your skin.

One of the key benefits of this soap is that it’s made with natural, bio-based ingredients. It’s also compostable, zero-waste, and plastic-free, making it an eco-friendly choice. Additionally, it’s vegan and cruelty-free, so you can feel good about using it on your skin.

The Kitsch Exfoliating Sugar Body Scrub Bar is also fragrance-free, which is great for those with sensitive skin. It’s also sulfate-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free, and silicone-free, making it a gentle option for all skin types.

One potential downside of this soap is that it may not last as long as some other bar soaps. However, it’s still a great choice for those who want to exfoliate and hydrate their skin without harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances.

Best For: Those looking for a moisturizing bar soap that exfoliates the skin

4. Chandrika Ayurvedic Bar Soap 10 Pack

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Chandrika Ayurvedic Bar Soap is a 10-pack of 2.64 oz bars that are suitable for all skin types. The soap is made with pure vegetable oils such as purified Coconut oil, Sandalwood oil, and Patchouli oil, and is vegan, without any animal fats, detergents, or preservatives. It is also free of common allergens and has a light, pleasant sandalwood scent.

The soap is known for its rich lather and ability to cleanse, refresh, tone, and moisturize the skin. Customers have praised its effectiveness in removing dirt and oil, as well as its gentle nature on the skin.

Best For: Individuals seeking a natural, gentle, and effective soap for all skin types.

5. Grandpa Thylox Acne Treatment Soap

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Grandpa Thylox Acne Treatment Soap is a 3.25 oz bar that’s ideal for acne-prone skin. It contains 3% sulfur, an active ingredient that helps prevent and eliminate breakouts, blackheads, and excess oil.

The soap is also formulated with natural ingredients, including sodium palmate, sodium cocoate, water, glycerin, and jasmine and ylang-ylang oils.

It’s recommended for use twice daily and should be applied to affected areas without scrubbing.

Best For: Acne-prone skin

6. Dr Bronners Pure Castile Bar Soap

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Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Bar Soap is a popular choice for those seeking a moisturizing, organic, and environmentally-friendly soap option. Made with certified fair trade ingredients and organic U.S.-grown hemp seed oil, these soaps provide a soft, smooth lather that won’t dry your skin. They come in various scents, such as citrus, almond, lavender, and peppermint, catering to different preferences. The unscented version is also available, which is suitable for sensitive skin and babies.

Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Bar Soaps are vegan, gentle, and versatile, making them suitable for washing body, face, or hair. They’re packaged in 100% post-consumer recycled wrappers and are shown to be readily biodegradable under stringent testing conditions. These soaps are hypoallergenic, making them an ideal option for people with sensitivity to harsh soaps and cleansers.

In addition to their moisturizing properties, Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Bar Soaps are also environmentally friendly. They’ve a minimal impact on the environment since they don’t contain additives, preservatives, artificial coloring, or other chemicals commonly found in other soaps. They’re also certified fair trade, ensuring that the ingredients are sourced ethically.

To use Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Bar Soap, simply wet your skin, apply the soap, and rinse off with water. The soap can be used on various skin types, including acne-prone skin, as the tea tree oil extract in the tea tree variant has antibacterial properties. For a more luxurious experience, you can dilute the soap with water to create a rich lather.

Best For: Those seeking a moisturizing, organic, and environmentally-friendly soap option.

7. Crest 3D Whitestrips Professional Effects Teeth Whitening

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Crest 3D Whitestrips Professional Effects Teeth Whitening is a popular at-home teeth whitening kit that offers professional-level whitening results. The kit contains 40 strips, with 20 for the top teeth and 20 for the bottom teeth, designed to be used over the course of 20 days. The strips are enamel-safe and use the same whitening ingredient as dentists, making them effective in removing stains and whitening teeth.

The Advanced Seal Technology provides a comfortable, no-slip fit, allowing users to talk and even drink water while whitening their teeth. The strips are designed to whiten like a professional-level treatment at home and can make teeth up to 18 levels whiter when used for 45 minutes a day for 20 days. However, it’s essential to follow the instructions carefully and avoid overuse, as excessive whitening can lead to tooth sensitivity and gum discomfort.

Crest 3D Whitestrips Professional Effects Teeth Whitening is a convenient and effective solution for those looking to whiten their teeth at home. It’s recommended to use the strips once a day for 45 minutes and to visit your dentist regularly for proper dental care.

Best For: Individuals seeking professional-level teeth whitening results at home.

8. Eczema Honey Gentle Oatmeal Lavender Soap

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If you’re wrestling with the itch-scratch cycle of eczema, Eczema Honey Gentle Oatmeal Lavender Soap might just be your skin’s new best friend. It’s like a gentle hug for your skin, hydrating without the rough exfoliation.

Imagine wrapping your skin in a soothing blanket, thanks to its blend of honey and grapeseed oil, without any of the harsh chemicals that make you wince.

Plus, it’s safe for all ages, so even the little ones can join the comfort club. Say goodbye to those pesky nighttime itching fits and hello to soft, soothed skin that feels like it’s just had a long, relaxing drink of moisture.

Best For: Those with eczema and sensitive skin.

9. Bondi Sands Self Tanning Foam

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Bondi Sands Pure Self Tanning Foam is a lightweight, self-tanning foam that provides a natural-looking sun-kissed glow without the harmful effects of UV rays. Enriched with aloe vera and coconut, this foam is gentle on the skin and suitable for sensitive skin. It contains dual tanning actives for a gradual, streak-free tan that develops in 6 hours and lasts for about 5-6 days. The foam is colorless, fragrance-free, and dermatologically tested, making it suitable for all skin types.

To use Bondi Sands Pure Self Tanning Foam, make sure your skin is clean, exfoliated, and free of any moisturizers. Squeeze the product directly onto your skin and blend it with a Bondi Sands Application Mitt in long sweeping motions. Wait until the foam is touch dry before dressing, and leave it on for at least 6 hours for the best results. For a deeper tan, reapply 30 minutes after the initial application.

This foam is easy to apply and doesn’t require a pump application to create a foam. It’s also non-staining and rubs off on towels and shirts while wearing but comes clean in the laundry. The scent is reminiscent of tanning lotion, and the skin may be tacky for a few hours after application.

Bondi Sands Pure Self Tanning Foam is a convenient and eco-friendly option, as its packaging is made from ethically sourced, 100% recyclable plastic with a zero metal foam head, reducing its impact on the environment.

Best For: Those seeking a gradual, streak-free tan that lasts for about 5-6 days.

Benefits of Moisturizing Bar Soaps

You’re likely drawn to moisturizing bar soaps because they typically contain fewer ingredients than liquid body washes since water isn’t needed. Plus, bar soaps generate less plastic waste with their simple paper packaging. Many find bar soaps more moisturizing than liquid washes, and a variety of formulas cater to different skin types and preferences.

Typically Uses Fewer Ingredients Due to Lack of Water

Embrace the benefits of moisturizing bar soaps, like the Dove Beauty Bar or Nivea Creme Care Bar Soap. These waterless formulations offer ingredient simplicity, which is great for sensitive skin. Plus, they’re more sustainable with minimal paper packaging, making them a low-waste choice. Say goodbye to harsh soaps and hello to gentle, moisturizing cleansing bars.

Reduces Plastic Waste With Minimal Paper Packaging

Reducing Plastic Waste with Minimal Paper Packaging

Bar soaps have a lower environmental impact compared to liquid soaps due to their minimal packaging. Traditional bar soaps are made from fats and oils, which can have a significant environmental impact on land, while most liquid soaps are made of petroleum-based synthetic surfactants, which also come with their own set of environmental impacts. However, bar soaps often come in paper packaging, which is more sustainable and biodegradable than plastic.

Switching to bar soaps can help reduce plastic waste in soap production. For example, the use of plastic packaging in soap production contributes to the growing problem of plastic pollution in waterways and oceans. By opting for bar soaps with minimal paper packaging, you can make a conscious choice that supports the environment.

Moreover, bar soaps are often more convenient for travel, as they don’t require the same amount of space as liquid soaps in plastic bottles. This means that when you travel, you can leave the plastic bottles at home and take a bar soap instead, further reducing your environmental footprint.

Variety of Options Available to Suit Preferences

Regarding moisturizing bar soaps, there’s a vast array of choices available to accommodate diverse preferences. Below are three examples:

1. Bar Soap Shapes: Half-round bars are crafted to conform to the curvature of your hand, facilitating a comfortable grip and minimizing the likelihood of slipping during use.
2. Bar Soap Scents: Personalized tissue papers and ribbons can be employed to adorn individual soap bars, enabling customers to choose from an assortment of colors and designs.
3. Bar Soap Additives: Ingredients such as shea butter or cocoa butter can impart additional moisturizing qualities to the soap.

These are merely a few examples of the diverse options available for moisturizing bar soaps. By taking into account factors like shape, scent, and additives, you can identify a soap that aligns with your preferences and elevates your showering experience.

Can Be More Moisturizing Than Liquid Body Wash

Continuing from the variety of options, moisturizing bar soaps often trump liquid washes in the hydration game. They’re packed with nourishing ingredients like shea butter and olive oil, which are kind to your skin and the planet. Plus, the lather difference? Bar soaps create a rich, creamy foam that feels luxurious without the need for excess packaging.

Moisturizing Bar Soaps	Liquid Body Wash
Shea Moisture	Less hydrating
Olive Oil Soap	More chemicals
Exfoliating Benefits	Less sustainable
Packaging Sustainability	More wasteful
Ingredient Comparisons	Fewer nutrients

Choosing the Right Moisturizing Bar Soap

When selecting a moisturizing bar soap, consider your skin type.

Choose ingredients that cater to your needs.

For dry skin, look for nourishing oils and butters.

While oily or acne-prone skin may benefit from gentle clays or plant extracts.

The fragrance and packaging are also factors to keep in mind.

Some individuals may have sensitivities or prefer eco-friendly options.

Skin Type

When selecting the appropriate moisturizing bar soap, it’s critical to take into account the nature of your skin.

If your skin is prone to sensitivity, seek out soaps that are devoid of fragrances and harsh components.

For skin that’s dry, select soaps containing moisturizing ingredients such as coconut oil or shea butter.

If your skin is oily, opt for soaps that are gentle and non-comedogenic.

Ingredients

Choosing the Right Moisturizing Bar Soap: Ingredients

Fragrance

When choosing a moisturizing bar soap, consider your fragrance preferences, allergies, and skin sensitivities.

Some bar soaps, like those from Mitchell’s Wool Fat, Hugo Naturals, and Joanna Vargas, are fragrance-free or offer subtle scents.

If you prefer a more aromatic experience, consider soaps with natural fragrances, like those from Green Mountain or Nancy Boy Sweetgrass.

Packaging

After sniffing out the perfect scent, let’s wrap our heads around packaging. You’re not just buying soap; you’re embracing a lifestyle. Opt for bulk buys or eco-friendly options like Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Bar Soap to join the zero-waste tribe. Travel light with Neutrogena’s Unscented Facial Bar, or nourish your skin and conscience with Kiss My Face or Nopalera Handmade Soap.

Common Concerns About Moisturizing Bar Soaps

While moisturizing bar soaps can provide hydration, it’s essential to be cognizant of potential issues. Some may contain aggressive surfactants that deplete the skin of its natural oils, resulting in dryness and irritation. Moreover, not all products tagged as bar soaps are authentic soaps but rather synthetic detergent-based cleansers that can disturb the skin’s moisture barrier.

Stripping Skin of Natural Oils

Removing skin of natural oils is a common concern regarding the use of bar soaps. Some bar soaps can be too harsh, eliminating essential oils and leaving skin dry and irritated. However, not all bar soaps are created equal. To avoid this problem, it’s important to choose a bar soap that’s suitable for your skin type and preferably formulated with natural ingredients.

When selecting a moisturizing bar soap, consider options that are gentle and contain nourishing ingredients like olive oil or shea butter. These ingredients help to maintain the skin’s natural moisture barrier, preventing it from drying out. Additionally, look for soaps that are labeled as hypoallergenic or fragrance-free, as these are less likely to cause irritation or eliminate the skin of its natural oils.

It’s also important to note that not all bar soaps are soaps. Some products labeled as bar soaps may not contain the same ingredients as traditional soaps, which can lead to dryness and irritation. Always read the ingredient list and look for soaps that are formulated with gentle, moisturizing ingredients.

Not All Bar Soaps Are Soaps

Not all bar soaps are soaps, and it’s critical to recognize the distinction.

Some products labeled as bar soaps may not contain soap at all. Instead, they can be made from organic bar soap alternatives like handmade soap ingredients or bar soap substitutes like liquid soap.

The shape and appearance of bar soaps can vary, with some having a more rounded or rectangular shape.

It’s vital to examine labels meticulously and select products that align with your requirements, whether it’s a bar soap with hibiscus flower extract or a liquid soap for sensitive skin.

Harsh Soaps

Harsh soaps can be a concern for those seeking moisturizing bar soaps.

Some soaps may contain harsh chemicals or soap additives that can cause skin irritation and drying effects.

Additionally, fragrance sensitivity can be an issue for some individuals.

However, there are options like Mitchell’s Wool Fat Bath Soap and Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Bar Soap that are known for their gentle formulas and lack of harsh ingredients.

Soft Services Buffing Bar also offers a milder alternative with chamomile water.

Alternatives to Moisturizing Bar Soaps

If bar soaps don’t meet your needs for hydration or you prefer a different product format, consider liquid body washes, cream body washes, or foaming body washes as alternatives. These options often contain richer, more concentrated moisturizing ingredients and can provide an enjoyable cleansing experience while leaving your skin feeling nourished and supple.

Liquid Body Wash

If you prefer a liquid form of soap, body wash is a great alternative to moisturizing bar soaps. Body wash offers several advantages over traditional bar soaps, including:

• More Moisturizing Ingredients: Body wash is formulated with ingredients that cater to a variety of skin types, often containing moisturizing emollients that help soften and clean the skin without stripping it of its natural oils.
• Easier to Use: Body wash is dispensed as needed, making it a convenient option for multiple people in a household.
• Less Packaging: Body wash is typically stored in bottles, which can be more environmentally friendly than the plastic packaging of some bar soaps.
• Variety of Options: There are numerous body washes available, including those with added moisturizing ingredients, such as marula oil or silk, which can enhance the lather and leave skin feeling softer.

Some popular body washes include:

• Dial® Himalayan Salt Exfoliate & Restore TM Body Wash: This exfoliating body wash helps clean and smooth the skin.
• Dr. Bronner’s Pure Castille Liquid Soap: A natural, gentle option that’s free of harsh chemicals and contains jojoba and hemp seed oil to prevent dryness.
• CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser Bar: Although classified as a bar soap, this product is also available in a liquid form, offering the benefits of both types of cleansers.

When choosing a body wash, consider your skin type and the specific ingredients that will best suit your needs.

Cream Body Wash

If bar soap‘s simplicity and eco-friendly packaging charm you, but your skin thirsts for more, consider cream body wash. It’s a liquid body wash alternative that quenches skin hydration without the soap opera of harsh bar soap ingredients. Plus, you’ll dodge the dry spell often cast by traditional bars, all while keeping your shower shelf looking slick and svelte.

Foaming Body Wash

Foaming body wash is a great alternative to traditional bar soaps for those who want a deeper clean and a more indulgent experience. Here are some use cases, benefits, brands, and alternatives to explore:

Use Cases:

• Cleaner Skin: Foaming body wash can provide a deeper clean than traditional soaps, leaving your skin feeling refreshed and purified.
• More Moisturizing: Some foaming body washes are formulated to be more hydrating than traditional soaps, helping to nourish your skin.
• Luxury Experience: The effervescent nature of these products can offer a sensory experience, making your shower routine feel more pampering.

Benefits:

• Effortless Lather: Foaming body wash is already aerated, so you don’t need to use a loofah or washcloth to create a lather, which can help prevent microbial growth on these items.
• Reduced Bacteria: Since the body wash is already lathered, you can avoid using older, potentially contaminated items like a loofah or washcloth, which can harbor bacteria.
• Efficient Use: A small amount of foam goes a long way, so you’ll use less product overall.

Brands:

• Dove: Dove offers a variety of foaming body washes, including their Instant Foaming Body Wash, which is known to support your skin’s natural moisture barrier.
• Sundae Body: Sundae Body creates a line of whipped shower foams that come in cans, resembling shaving cream.

Alternatives:

• Homemade Foaming Body Wash: You can create your own foaming body wash using ingredients like castile soap, water, and essential oils.
• Spongelle Body Buffer: This product combines the advantages of body wash and a loofah, providing a versatile tool that eliminates the need for traditional bar soap.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)