15 Best Shower Gels For Dry Skin, According To An Expert – 2024
Keep inflammation at bay with gentle formulations that moisturize your skin.
Dr. Patricia Gaile Espinosa has 9 years of experience. She is a Diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society, and a member of the Philippine Academy of Dermatologic Surgery Foundation Inc, Philippine Society of Venereologists, Inc, Philippine Medical Association, Rheumatologic Dermatology Society, and International Society of Dermatology.
Read full bio of Patricia Gaile Espinosa
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: 5 yearsAditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products.
Read full bio of Aditi Naskar
Experience: 8 yearsArshiya Syeda is the Co-Editor-in-Chief of StyleCraze with 8 years of experience. Prior to that, she was a content writer who combined her writing and research skills to write over 200 high-performing articles on hairstyles, hair care, and skin care.
Read full bio of Arshiya Syeda
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Dry and itchy skin are some of the most common skin concerns that you may experience at some point. While moisturizers and creams are there to your rescue, using the best shower gels for dry skin might help alleviate these dry skin issues. Besides cleansing your skin, a good shower gel will offer hydration and make your skin smooth, firm, and soft. So keep reading to check out the 15 high-quality shower gel recommendations for dry skin!
In This Article
15 Best Shower Gels For Dry Skin That Make It Smooth & Firm
1. Best Biodegradable Formula:Jason Purifying Tea Tree Body Wash
The Purifying Tea Tree Body Wash from Jason is formulated with vitamin E, pro-vitamin B5, aloe vera, and tea tree oil. Tea tree oil cleanses the body, while aloe vera soothes and hydrates the skin and soothes sunburn. The skin becomes softer and smoother with regular use of this soothing bath product. It also nourishes the skin to make it healthier. However, we recommend conducting a patch test if you have sensitive skin to ensure safety.
- No parabens
- No sulfates
- No phthalates
- No petrolatum
- Not tested on animals
- Biodegradable formula
- Good fragrance
- May cause allergic reactions
"This tea-tree body wash has a mild scent that lingers for some time and fades away quickly. The formula leaves my skin feeling clean and soft. It works without leaving any moisture residue. I also like that it is pH-friendly and does not cause any side effects on my skin."
"This tea-tree body wash has a mild scent that lingers for some time and fades away quickly. The formula leaves my skin feeling clean and soft. It works without leaving any moisture residue. I also like that it is pH-friendly and does not cause any side effects on my skin."
Pro Tip2. Best Plant-Based: Puracy Natural Body Wash
The Puracy Natural Body Wash was developed by doctors and skincare experts and validated by leading dermatologists to exfoliate and cleanse the skin without causing any irritation. It provides a rich cleansing and moisturizing experience. It is formulated with 99.3% plant-based ingredients like coco glycinate, Himalayan sea salt, and essential oils. Coco glycinate, extracted from coconuts, makes the gel foamy and leaves the skin moisturized and smooth. Sea salt cleanses and exfoliates the skin. The essential oils add a lovely fragrance.
This moisturizing shower gel is perfect for dry skin and can also be used on sensitive skin. It has a pH level of 5.5, making it gentle for the skin. This shower gel has 84 minerals and other trace elements that revitalize the skin. It contains a coconut-based surfactant that softens and cleanses the skin without causing any irritation, redness, or dryness.
- No sulfates
- No cocamidopropyl betaine
- No salicylates
- No parabens
- No petroleum-based ingredients
- No animal by-products
- No perfumes or dyes
- 99.3% plant-derived ingredients
- No heavy lather
Caution
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is so liked by shoppers that it has gained over 11,732 great reviews on Amazon.
3. Best Aromatherapeutic: Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Body Wash
Mrs. Meyers Clean Day Body Wash is formulated with aloe vera gel, essential oils, flaxseed oil, honeysuckle blossoms, and other moisturizing ingredients. This effective body wash leaves the body cleansed, soft, smooth, and revitalized with a fresh and sweet honeysuckle fragrance. The dermatologically tested product is thoughtfully formulated to be safe for the environment.
- Good fragrance
- Dermatologist-tested
- Aromatherapeutic
- Plant-based
- Cruelty-free
- The smell may be too strong for some.
"This body wash lathered beautifully and left my skin moisturized, even in hard water. Though the scent wasn't prominent, it was perfectly subtle for my liking. In fact, after showering with this gel, I even need less lotion to moisturize my skin. This one's worth a try!"
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 2,593 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.
4. Best Non-Comedogenic: CeraVe Hydrating Body Wash
CeraVe Hydrating Body Wash cleanses and hydrates the skin. It consists of three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II), which restore the skin’s natural protective barrier. When applied to the skin, this nourishing shower gel foams to refresh and purify the skin. This product also contains hyaluronic acid, which draws more moisture to the skin’s surface. It contains emollients to keep the skin hydrated, making it soft, smooth, and supple. However, it is best to perform a patch test to determine if the product is suitable for your skin type.
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Non-comedogenic
- No soap
- No parabens
- No sulfates
- NEA accepted
- May not suit all skin types
"I appreciate this body wash overall. It's noticeably improved my skin health. The lather is creamy and gentle that adds to the showering experience. Encouraged me to explore more products from this brand."
Pro TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
It has gained over 11,565 positive reviews on Amazon, making it an all-time best-seller.
5. Best Preservative-Free: Avalon Organics Nourishing Lavender Bath And Shower Gel
The Avalon Organics Nourishing Lavender Bath And Shower Gel contains botanical cleansers, vitamins, and essential oils to cleanse and restore dry skin. This gentle body wash is made with a 100% vegetarian formula. This hydrating shower product contains lavender essential oil to calm the body with its relieving fragrance. It also contains quinoa protein and aloe vera, which rejuvenates and hydrates the skin making it soft, firm, and smooth.
- EWG-verified
- Non-GMO
- 100% vegan
- Gentle lavender fragrance
- No synthetic colors or fragrances
- No phthalates
- No harmful sulfates
- No parabens
- No harsh preservatives
- Has a strong smell
"This body wash is superb for my sensitive skin. It has a gentle yet clean lavender scent. The formula, though slightly thin, needing more usage, left me feeling clean but not dry at all! It adds a refreshing afterglow to my skin."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
A whopping 7,178 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.
6. Best Hypoallergenic: Alba Botanica Coconut Rescue
The Alba Botanica Coconut Rescue soothes and moisturizes the skin with virgin and unrefined coconut oil and coconut milk. It is 100% vegetarian. This skin-friendly shower gel soothes dry and irritated skin with a creamy and rich lather. The creamy lather and the pleasing scent of this perfect body wash gives you a relaxing bathing experience. Patch testing is crucial if you have sensitive and acne-prone skin.
- 100% vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Leaping Bunny certified
- No parabens
- No phthalates
- No sulfates
- The consistency is a bit oily.
"Its light and milky texture suits my skin well. The scent is pleasant but fades swiftly. On the upside, it leaves no trace and my skin feels very moisturized after use. I even used it on my kids and it worked well on their gentle skin."
7. Best Soap-Free: Rituals The Ritual of Sakura
The Ritual of Sakura from Rituals has a special gel-to-foam technology that cleanses and moisturizes the skin. It is made with organic ingredients such as rice milk, cherry blossom, glycerin, castor oil, and linalool. On contact with water, this shower gel becomes a soft and refreshing foam that hydrates and purifies the skin. The entire bottle provides 50 showers. The pleasing fragrance of this dry skin shower essential helps uplift the mood and makes your bathing time luxurious. Performing a patch test can help you understand if the product is suitable for your skin.
- Nice cherry blossom smell
- Long-lasting
- May cause allergic reactions
"Pleasantly surprised by this foamy shower gel. It offered a fresh, gentle smell. The quality was impressive, didn't face any itchiness despite my sensitivity to scents. It's become a favorite! One tip: do shake the bottle before use it may dispense thin liquid."
8. Best Gentle Formula: Bioderma Atoderm Gel Douche
Bioderma’s Atoderm Gel Douche is a daily cleansing shower gel that moisturizes dry skin while cleansing it. It makes skin soft, smooth, and supple. It has Vitamin B3 and a healthy combination of sugars that recreate the skin’s natural barrier to prevent damage. This gentle cleansing product contains soothing properties to prevent any redness or irritation on dry skin, leaving you with healthy skin. Its gentle formula is ideal for daily use and is safe for all age groups, including infants.
- Good fragrance
- Soap-free
- Ideal for normal to dry, sensitive skin
- Dermatologist-tested
- May cause allergic reactions
"As a person suffering from sensitive skin and eczema, I've tried countless body washes, only to be left feeling drier than before. This product, however, has been gentle and hydrating, without any harsh scents. Lately, the consistency felt a little watery - not a major shift, but it's something I did notice. Regardless, I'm grateful that this products exists."
9. Best Dermatologist-Developed: Eucerin Skin Calming Body Wash
Eucerin’s Skin Calming Body Wash is ideal for dry skin as it is made with a gentle formula. This fragrance free product is filled with enriching omega oils and natural lipids that soothe and moisturize irritated, dry skin. Its mild formula provides immediate relief from itchiness caused by dry skin. It forms a mild lather that purifies the skin without leaving behind any product residue. According to the reviewers, this shower gel helps provide deep hydration for dry skin and bestows you with supple, soft skin.
- No added fragrance
- No soap
- No dyes
- Gentle formula
- May cause allergic reactions
"I have sensitive and dry skin and decided to try this body wash. It lathers well and removes dirt without stripping my skin's natural moisture. I like how it settles into my skin without itching or leaving any greasiness behind. It has a fish oil scent, which isn't overwhelming to me."
"I have sensitive and dry skin and decided to try this body wash. It lathers well and removes dirt without stripping my skin's natural moisture. I like how it settles into my skin without itching or leaving any greasiness behind. It has a fish oil scent, which isn't overwhelming to me."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has received 8,877 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.
10. Best With Good Fragrance: CeraVe Soothing Body Wash
The CeraVe Soothing Body wash is ideal for extra dry, itchy, and eczema-prone, and psoriasis-prone skin. It gently cleanses, soothes, and moisturizes the skin. It is made with three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II), which restore and maintain the protective barrier of the skin. It also contains hyaluronic acid, which brings extra moisture to the skin. Omega oils in the formula soothe and nourish the skin. The reviews indicate that the shower gel is ideal for extreme dryness.
- NEA-accepted
- No parabens
- No sulfates
- Dermatologist- developed
- Non-comedogenic
- No soap
- No added fragrance
- Should only be used on dry skin
"It has a thin consistency and not much lather, so be mindful of that. But it transformed my itchy, dry patches and gave me healthier skin. I loved it from the very first use but when I used it regularly, the results were so much better! Overall, it's a worthy purchase."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has made it to our top favorite list with more than 655 rave reviews on Amazon.
11. Best Organic: The Body Shop Satsuma Shower Gel
The Body Shop Satsuma Shower Gel is a soap-free cleanser that makes skin soft, refreshed, and smooth. It contains cold-pressed satsuma essence, which is the source of its invigorating zesty citrus fragrance. The product can easily be incorporated into your dry skin shower routine and help achieve smooth skin in no time.
- No parabens
- No gluten
- No silicone
- Good fragrance
- Relaxing
- Soap-free
- May cause reactions
"I'm smitten with this shower gel's amazing scent! My mom, usually allergic to scents, surprisingly enjoys it as well! The gel doesn't leave my skin dry or itchy, unlike other brands. It has a pleasant, non-chemical aroma, reminiscent of essential oils. It has great lathering quality. I'll surely repurchase it."
12. Best Cruelty-Free: Avalon Organics Revitalizing Peppermint
Avalon Organics Revitalizing Peppermint Shower gel is ideal for extra dry skin. It gently cleanses, replenishes, and stimulates the skin. It is formulated with certified organic and plant-derived gentle ingredients like organic botanicals and essential oils. It contains a hydrating ingredient, aloe vera, which cleanses and hydrates the skin, and peppermint essential oil, which stimulates the skin.
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Plant-derived
- No harsh preservatives
- No synthetic fragrances or colors
- No phthalates
- No sulfates
- No parabens
None
"I've enjoyed this soap for its lovely smell and non-drying formula, though it could lather better. The fragrance uplifts my senses and deters mosquitoes - bonus! It is safe and non-slippery in showers and leaves your skin soft and vibrant. A delightful product indeed."
13. Best Gel-Based Formula: The Body Shop Olive Shower Gel
The Body Shop Olive Shower Gel has a fresh fragrance. It is ideal for normal and dry skin. It is made with community trade olives from Italy. It has a liquid-gel consistency. It transforms dry skin to soft, firm, hydrated, and smooth.
- Gentle
- No harsh ingredients
- No animal testing
- The scent may not be pleasing for everyone.
"I adore this shower gel; the fresh fragrance consistently earns me compliments. It doesn't irritate my skin but cleanses it well. As long as you apply some lotion on damp skin, the little post-shower dryness is nothing to worry about. If you have dry skin, do try out this gel."
14. Best For Hydration: Tree To Tub Soapberry For Body
Soapberry For Body from Tree To Tub is non-drying even to sensitive skin. It has a pH level of 5.5, which makes it gentle on the skin. It contains coconut cleansers, aloe vera, cucumber, chamomile, and shea butter. It is perfect for winter when the cold dries out the skin. This shower gel hydrates, nourishes, and cleanses the skin. It does not leave any residue behind.
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Sustainable
- No chemicals
- No sulfates
- No parabens
- No silicone
- No DEA/MEA
- No gluten
- No artificial fragrances
- Expensive
"I have been using this for a good while now. It has a pleasant lavender smell and is made of natural ingredients, which is an important factor for me. It has a thin consistency, but it leaves my skin feeling hydrated and soft. It is a good choice for people with sensitive skin."
"I have been using this for a good while now. It has a pleasant lavender smell and is made of natural ingredients, which is an important factor for me. It has a thin consistency, but it leaves my skin feeling hydrated and soft. It is a good choice for people with sensitive skin."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has received 1,081 reviews from customers on Amazon, indicating its popularity and reliability.
15. Best Moisturizing:Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Body Wash
The Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Body Wash hydrates your skin and aids in replenishing its natural moisture, making it a great addition to your daily routine. This creamy body wash will help you seal in the natural moisture barrier so that your skin feels smoother and softer long after you have showered. To help heal dry skin types, the formula includes nourishing emollients and calming prebiotic oats. This Aveeno cleansing, moisturizing body cleanser has a light fragrance and is made without parabens, dyes, or soaps. The shower gel is ideal for sensitive skin as well.
- Moisturizing
- Paraben-free
- No artificial colors
- Prebiotic oats
- Has a strong smell
"The scent of this body wash is delightful, even though it's a tad stronger than anticipated. Leaves my skin feeling lotion-soft without a greasy after-feel. It does leave a residue but that could be its moisturizing factor. So, I'll refrain from using it on my face. However, it's still a worthwhile purchase."
These listed shower gels are highly beneficial for people with dry skin. But have you ever wondered what makes shower gels more popular than soap? Is it just because they are easier to use? Well, no, there is more to it. Read on to know why you should use a shower gel cleanser.
Benefits Of Shower Gel
- Shower gels don’t contain soap and other harsh ingredients. Many shower gels are made mainly of plant-derived active ingredients that are gentle on the skin. This reduces the risk of irritation or dryness.
- Shower gels are more hygienic. Soaps tend to get dirty collecting body hair and other bacteria. Shower gels are dispensed where your skin doesn’t come in contact with the reserve inside the container.
- Aromatherapeutic shower gels relieve stress and provide relief.
- Soaps tend to dissolve faster than shower gels. Shower gels are more long-lasting and hence, cost-effective.
- Shower gels provide soft and rich foam with moisturizing properties, unlike soaps which contain harsh lathering agents.
Shower Gel vs. Body Wash vs. Shower Cream
- Shower gels have a thicker, gel-like consistency. It foams instead of lathering. It may also contain granules that provide exfoliation.
- Body washes are watery, and they lather, which could dry out the skin. But, a moisturizing body wash promotes the growth of good bacteria and maintains the pH balance of the skin. It also makes the skin smooth and soft.
- Shower creams have creamy consistencies and address specific skin issues more aggressively.
The Bottom Line
Extreme dry skin can cause itchiness and irritation. The best shower gels for dry skin help you fight this skin condition and make it feel firm and soft. Moreover, these shower products hydrate your skin and nourish it to make it healthy. These gels lather well and exfoliate the skin, and revitalize skin cells. Prioritize eco-friendliness with the Jason Purifying Tea Tree Body Wash that boasts a biodegradable formula. If you prefer a body wash that offer nourishment without clogging the pores opt for the CeraVe Hydrating Body Wash. For a hypoallergenic choice, the Alba Botanica Coconut Rescue stands out, offering soothing care. These shower gel products are cruelty-free, vegan, and gentle. However, some products may not suit all skin types and may cause allergic reactions. The buying guide will help you choose the best gels that suit your skin type.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Shiboli Chakraborti, who authored this post, is a certified skin care coach with a penchant for finding the best skin care products for all your skin issues. She has spent a lot of time scanning through many product reviews to find you the best shower gels for dry skin. These products have been recommended because of their fragrance, ingredients, formula, absence of harsh elements, and many more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use shower gel on dry skin everyday?
Yes, you can use shower gel every day on dry skin. Look for hydrating shower gels with nourishing ingredients, such as the CeraVe Hydrating Body Wash.
Is soap or shower gel better for dry skin?
If you have dry skin, it is ideal to opt for shower gels as they are more moisturizing and help nourish your skin.
What is the difference between body wash and shower gel?
Body washes and shower gels are both liquid body cleansers. However, shower gels have a gel-like texture, while body washes are runnier.
How long should you leave shower gel on your dry skin?
For any shower gel to work, you can leave it on your body anywhere from 1 – 3 minutes.
Can I use shower gel to wash my intimate area?
No. Do not use shower gel on your intimate areas as it can disrupt your PH level and cause irritation and itching.
Are there any side effects of shower gel?
No. Generally, shower gels are safe for all skin types. However, study the ingredients list before choosing a shower gel.
Read full bio of Patricia Gaile Espinosa
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