10 Best Antibacterial Body Washes Of 2024, Recommended By An Esthetician
Say goodbye to harmful bacteria and hello to these must-have, effective formulations
Matthew has worked in the hair and beauty industry for over 27 years having managed salons, spas and esthetic clinics for brands like Toni & Guy and Aveda before starting his own chain of multi-award winning laser and skin clinics in central London.
Read full bio of Matthew Rundle
Experience: 2 yearsOyendrila holds a master's degree in English Literature from the University Of Calcutta, West Bengal, and is a certified skin care coach. As a beauty and lifestyle writer with two years of experience, she writes about everything that the modern woman needs to know about grooming and self-care.
Read full bio of Oyendrila Kanjilal
Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Experience: 7 yearsAnjali is an associate editor at StyleCraze. She specializes in hairstyles and hair and skin care and has written over 200 articles in these domains. She has 7 years of experience, and her philosophy about hair and skin care is simple: if you love and care for it, it will be healthy.
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By taking a shower every day, we are getting rid of dirt, harmful bacteria, and gunk. So, keep your regular body wash aside and try out the best antibacterial body washes that keep your skin free from germs. How else can these products help your body? Mathew Rundle, Professional Esthetician, says, “An antibacterial body wash is a great choice if you are dealing with a host of skin concerns. For example, we see often a condition in our clinics called Tinea Corporis. This skin condition shows up as patches of paler skin on the body which can mistakenly be identified as Vitiligo. A simple antimicrobial body wash can help you say goodbye to a condition that can be both unpleasant and embarrassing. These products are usually very reasonably priced and can be life-changing for a lot of our patients.” These body washes help cleanse your skin deeply, preventing bad body odor and harmful germs. Also, they keep your skin away from concerns like infections, prickly heat, and redness. So, why wait? This article will take you through a list of the 10 most popular and effective antibacterial body washes. Check them out!
In This Article
10 Best Antibacterial Body Washes
1. Best Non-Drying Formula:derma-nu Anti-fungal Therapeutic Soap
The derma-nu Antifungal Therapeutic Soap helps tackle body odor and combat dry skin and itching. This body wash keeps hygiene in check as it contains tea tree oil and mint that prevent bacteria that cause athlete’s foot, ringworm, psoriasis, jock itch, fungal acne, toenail, nail fungus, yeast, and skin irritation. This detox body wash contains soothing essential oils, such as tea tree, peppermint, menthol, wintergreen, eucalyptus, and spearmint, calm inflamed skin. The therapeutic formula is tested to be suitable for athletes, gym enthusiasts, and people who engage in physical activity.
Pros
- Contains organic ingredients
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- No synthetic fragrance
- Dye-free
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Insufficient quantity
Pro Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received over 11,444 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.
2. Best For All Skin Types: Remedy Soap Tea Tree And Peppermint Body Wash
The Remedy Soap Tea Tree and Peppermint Body Wash is a potent cleansing formula that helps minimize acne and relieve skin problems, such as athlete’s foot, fungal infections, ringworm, jock itch, and problems with toenails and foot odor. This shower gel is formulated with antibacterial ingredients such as high-quality botanical oils like tea tree oil, rosemary oil, and peppermint oil that soothe itchy skin and leave it feeling refreshed and healthy. Additionally, the formula is infused with jojoba oil, coconut oil, aloe vera, and olive oil that moisturizes and deodorizes your skin. This deep cleansing, gentle body wash
Pros
- Organic
- Suitable for all skin types
- Mild fragrance
- Removes bad odor
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Chemical-free
Cons
- Dries out quickly
Pro TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 30,809 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.
3. Best Moisturizing Formula: Dove Care And Protect Antibacterial Body Wash
The Dove Care And Protect Antibacterial Body Wash is a hydrating formula that removes 99% of germs and keeps your skin nourished. This body wash is infused with the Moisture Renew Blend technology and plant-based moisturizers. This technology helps renew the skin’s natural moisture while also protecting the skin from external aggressors. Additionally, this gentle cleanser is pH-balanced, making it highly suitable for daily use, and it can promote healthy skin. This hydrating body wash has an antibacterial component that is recommended by dermatologists It is also tested to be suitable for use on all skin types.
Pros
- Suitable for all skin types
- Moisturizes the skin
- Perfect for daily use
- Skin-friendly
- Ph-balanced
- Gentle
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Recyclable packaging
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Waters down quickly
"This body wash leaves my skin feeling fresh and moisturized without irritation. It is gentle for an antibacterial product, especially for my sensitive skin. The scent is pleasant too."
| derma-nu Anti-fungal Therapeutic Soap Best Non-Drying Formula | Remedy Soap Tea Tree And Peppermint Body Wash Best For All Skin Types | Dove Care And Protect Antibacterial Body Wash Best Moisturizing Formula | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | All | All, Oily, Dry, Normal | All |
| Dimensions | 2 x 2 x 6 inches | 6.3 x 2.4 x 2.4 inches | 7.63 x 5 x 9.75 inches |
| Weight | 8 Ounces | 12 Ounces | 6.17 Pounds. |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 11,444 | 30,809 | - |
| Price | $17.87 | $14.99 | $27.88 |
4. Best Staying Power:Dettol Sensitive Antibacterial Body Wash
The Dettol Sensitive Antibacterial Body Wash is a dermatologist-recommended, pH-balanced formula that provides germ protection. This gentle body wash is enriched with pure glycerin that helps retain skin moisture and preserve the skin’s natural defense to make it soft and smooth.
Pros
- Moisturizes the skin
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Gentle formula
- Long-lasting
- pH-balanced
- Dermatologist-recommended
Cons
- Strong scent
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has gained over 1,883 positive reviews on Amazon, making it an all-time best-seller.
5. Best For Irritated Skin:ORISO Anti-fungal Tea Tree Oil Body & Foot Wash
This all-natural antibacterial body wash contains tea tree oil that washes away dirt and impurities and soothes irritated skin. It reduces body odor and eliminates the bacteria and fungi that cause athletes’ feet, ringworm, jock itch, acne, nail fungus, and eczema. as noted by skin care reviewers. This body cleanser is tested to be suitable for all skin types.
Pros
- All-natural body wash
- Pleasant fragrance
- Cruelty-free
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- None
6. Best Hypoallergenic Formula:Defense Shower Gel
This body wash contains a blend of natural tea tree oil and eucalyptus oil that cleanse the skin of bacteria and fungi, preventing skin irritations. It forms a rich lather and penetrates the skin to slough off dead skin cells and keep it germ-free. The clinically proven formula is made with all-natural ingredients and helps improve skin health. This shower gel is infused with coconut, aloe vera, jojoba, and olive oils that moisturize and revitalize the skin. This product also helps soothe itchy, scratchy, dry, and inflamed skin, as noted by reviewers.
Pros
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- No synthetic fragrances
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Triclosan-free
- Preservative-free
- Petroleum-free
- GMO-free
- Allergen-free
Cons
- Expensive
"This body wash foams up nicely and deep cleans my pores. The lather spreads evenly on my skin and washes easily without building residues. The nourishing composition of this cleanser leaves my skin plump and hydrated. I like that this product controls my skin’s sebum production."
7. Best Odor-Free Option:Perspi Guard Odour Control Body Wash
This body wash cleanses the skin and eliminates body odor from the underarms, groin, and feet. It removes the odor-causing bacteria and maintains the body’s moisture balance for 24 hours. This body wash contains triclosan, an antibacterial and antimicrobial ingredient that targets the bacteria formed during sweating.
Pros
- Suitable for regular use
- Unscented
- Suitable for all skin types
- Long-lasting
Cons
- None
"What I like the most after using this cleanser is that it eliminates any foul odor from my body. The formula soothes my skin and deep cleans my pores. It fights bacterial buildup and controls my sweat production."
8. Best Natural Formula: Purely Northwest’s Tea Tree And Peppermint Body Wash
The Purely Northwest’s Tea Tree And Peppermint Body Wash is infused with a potent but comforting blend of botanicals that is good for your skin. Tea tree is the main ingredient in this natural foot and body wash, which helps soothe skin irritations and eliminate foul body odor. The formula cleanses away excess sweat and dirt from the pores, treats regular acne, and eliminates any stinging and scratching sensation caused by jock itch, athlete’s foot, and yeast infections. This pH-balanced body wash is mild and safe enough to use on a regular basis as it prevents daily flare-ups, as noted by reviewers.
Pros
- pH-balanced
- Gentle
- Suitable for regular use
- Residue-free
- Eliminates foul body odor
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Sulfate-free
Cons
- Defective pump dispenser
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 24,491 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are so in awe of this product.
9. Best Refreshing Formula: Dial Coconut Water Hydrating Body Wash
The Dial Coconut Water Hydrating Body Wash invigorates you with a clean formula that is refreshing and uplifting. It is powdered with the Dial HYDRACLEAN complex that leaves your skin feeling clean and smooth. This skin-nourishing formula develops a thick creamy lather that imparts your skin lightweight moisture and restores its natural shine and health. The invigorating aroma of coconut water in the body wash provides your skin with hydration and fills your senses with a soothing aroma. Additionally, this body wash is dermatologist-tested and is good for all skin types.
Pros
- Suitable for all skin types
- Dermatologist-tested
- Develop creamy lather
- Lightweight
- Value for money
- Pleasant fragrance
- Dermatologist-tested
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Silicon-free
- Sulfate-free
Cons
- Defective pump dispenser
"My skin looks clean and feels refreshed after I shower with this body wash. It restores my skin’s pH balance and exfoliates my pores to remove clogged dead skin cells. It lathers up quickly and never makes my skin feel stripped. It also has a pleasant scent."
10. Best For Athlete’s Foot:Natural Riches Tea Tree Oil Body Wash
The Natural Riches Tea Tree Oil Body Wash contains tea tree, jojoba, coconut, rosemary, olive, oregano, peppermint, aloe, and eucalyptus oils that eliminate harmful fungi, microbes, and bacteria from the skin. It is also infused with the useful vitamins A, B1, B2, C, D, and E. This germ-killing body wash heals athlete’s foot, jock itch, body acne, tinea versicolor, ringworms, and yeast infections. According to reviews in different e-commerce websites, it also soothes irritated skin and prevents body odor without damaging the skin.
Pros
- Non-irritating
- Non-drying
- Long-lasting
- Eliminates odor
- Free of harsh chemicals
Cons
- Watery consistency
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
A whopping 3,627 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.
With the kind of pollution we face all day, sometimes regular soap is not good enough to cleanse your body thoroughly. What you need is a dermatologically-approved antibacterial formula that not only removes dirt but also kills bacteria that may cause skin infections and mal odor. We have curated a list of considerations for buying the best antibacterial body washes to prevent bad odor.
Things To Consider While Buying The Best Antibacterial Body Washes
- Ingredients
Bacteria causes bad odor in the body. Ingredients like aloe vera, tea tree oil, coconut oil, and turmeric help remove odor and combat the bad bacteria that causes foul smell.
Along with moisturizing, aloe vera has antimicrobial properties which help treat inflammations, wounds, acne and reduces redness and sunburns. Tea tree oil is a naturally-derived antiseptic that is gentle on the skin. The antimicrobial properties in the oil fight bacteria and reduce inflammations and skin infections. It also keeps the skin hydrated. Coconut milk is a natural moisturizer infused with antiseptic advantages which fight bacterial germs. It nourishes and rejuvenates the skin with proven efficacy. Turmeric has effective healing properties and purifies the skin while jojoba oil offers deeper hydration and locks in moisture into the skin cells. Jojoba beads are also very good exfoliators that help remove dead and dry skin.
- Skin type and conditions
Your skin may be dry, oily, combination, or sensitive. Check the label of the body wash to find a product that is suitable for your skin type and provides clinically proven results. By choosing a product as per your skin type, you can avoid extra dryness, oiliness, or the formation of rashes and allergies.
You may also have some skin conditions like dermatitis, acne, rashes, eczema, and other bacterial infections which need to be medically treated. Check with your dermatologist before committing to a new body wash.
- Fragrance
Artificial scents may not be feasible for your skin, especially if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin. A clinically tested fragrance-free body wash or a mild fragrance from natural botanical extracts and oils is a safe bet.
An antibacterial body wash is an easy remedy for killing harmful germs on the skin. Read on to know the significant benefits of antibacterial body washes.
Benefits Of An Antibacterial Body Wash
- Eliminates Bacteria And Germs: Antibacterial body washes kill harmful bacteria on your skin. They keep your skin clean and prevent the accumulation and breeding of infection-causing bacteria.
- Prevents Body Odor: Sweat and bacteria on the skin are the primary reasons for body odor. An expert-recommended antibacterial body wash fights body odor and cleanses sweat. Thus, it protects your skin from foul body smell and disease-causing agents.
- Combats Skin Issues: The germs and excess oil trapped in the pores leads to acne. The harmful bacteria also aggravate open wounds and allergies. The best remedy is using a scientifically formulated antibacterial body wash. Antibacterial body washes eliminate bacteria that cause skin irritation, infections, and itchiness.
Look out for these ingredients while purchasing an antibacterial body wash.
Ingredients To Look For In Antibacterial Body Washes
- Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is a naturally-derived antiseptic that is gentle on the skin. Unlike other bacteria-fighting ingredients, it does not dry out the skin. Tea tree oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that fight harmful bacteria and fungi responsible for skin infections(1).
- Aloe Vera
Aloe vera has antimicrobial and moisturizing properties. The antifungal and antibacterial properties of aloe vera can help treat acne, skin inflammation, and wounds(2). It also helps reduce sunburns and redness.
- Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer and has antiseptic properties. Look for coconut in your antibacterial body wash for good hydration and strong germ-fighting powers.
Infographic: How To Use An Antibacterial Body Wash The Right Way
Cleansing your body is more than just a daily ritual; it is an important step in maintaining your health and well-being. Over the day, your skin is exposed to pollution, dirt, bacteria, and other environmental factors, which might cause you to sweat profusely and smell foul. If not cleansed properly, the bacterial buildup might eventually lead to infections. The right way to deal with this situation is to use an antibacterial body wash that fights bacterial buildup without drying out your skin. Check out the infographic below to learn how to use it the right way.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Antibacterial body washes are great if you want to tackle body odor while preventing bad bacteria from causing skin irritation. The derma-nu Anti-fungal Therapeutic Soap helps treat athlete’s foot and ringworm, while the Remedy Soap Tea Tree And Peppermint Body Wash helps minimize acne. The Dove Care And Protect Antibacterial Body Wash balance the skin’s pH level and protect against external aggressors. These products also remove sweat, dirt, and unwanted body smell while preventing itchiness, dryness, and inflammations. Many antibacterial body washes comprise natural ingredients, including tea tree oil, rosemary, oregano jojoba, aloe, and eucalyptus, that offer skin nourishment and hydration. Steer clear of products that are greasy and don’t work on making the skin softer, plumper, and radiant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use antibacterial body wash every day?
Yes, use professional-grade antibacterial body washes daily to eliminate impurities, germs, and dirt from your skin.
What are the pros and cons of using antibacterial body wash?
Antibacterial body washes eliminate dirt and bacteria from the skin. They help prevent common skin infections and are tested to be suitable for all skin types. However, some may experience allergies and reactions to the ingredients in an antibacterial body wash. Also, continued use may develop resistance against certain bacterial strains over a period. Certain ingredients in antibacterial body wash, like triclosan and triclocarban, are harmful to the environment.
Can we get a normal flora back after we clean the skin with an antibacterial body wash?
Antibacterial body washes reduce normal flora and affect the natural levels of the bacterial community on the body. However, once you stop using them, the normal flora gets back in place.
Can I wash my face with an antibacterial body wash?
No. Avoid washing your face with antibacterial body washes as they are too harsh for sensitive facial skin.
Can you use antibacterial body wash on tattoos?
Yes. If your tattoo is older than a few months, you can use an antibacterial body wash.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Oyendrila Kanjilal, is a certified skin care coach. She is an expert at reviewing skincare products and recommends using antibacterial body washes to cleanse the body and deeply remove harmful pathogens during showers. The products she recommends in this list have been reviewed thoroughly, considering their composition, effectiveness, and safety. She also considered the affordability of the product and its fragrance, along with its cleansing and antibacterial properties. The antibacterial body washes on this list can prevent bad odor and concerns like infections, prickly heat, and redness.
References
Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.
- A review of applications of tea tree oil in dermatology
.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22998411/#:~:text=Terpinen%2D4%2Dol%20is%20a,infections%20affecting%20skin%20and%20mucosa - The Review on Properties of Aloe Vera in Healing of Cutaneous Wounds
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4452276/
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