The Best Moisturizing Body Washes I’ve Tried for My Super Dry Skin

Ever since I wrote an article on cleansers that don’t dry out my face last fall, I’ve been on the hunt for moisturizing body washes that similarly deliver. My skin often feels itchy and tight shortly after I get out of the shower—especially during the winter—and while I’ve discovered a couple of formulas that helped with this issue over the years, I knew there had to be othersmore out there. Plus, I wanted to know more about what, exactly, to look for on labels. I put a lot of thought into the products I use on my face, so why not the rest of my body?

In my quest to quench my dry skin (and my thirst for knowledge), I learned that cream-based formulas are the gold standard when it comes to mild, hydrating cleansers, as Syril Keena Que, MD, assistant professor of clinical dermatology at Indiana University, previously told SELF. Oil-based options, too, are unlikely to cause that uncomfortable stripped feeling, Dr. Que said.

You also want to look for humectants (like hyaluronic acid and glycerin), which attract water to your skin, as well as words like “gentle,” “creamy,” and “moisturizing” on the label—all dermatologist-recommended qualities if you’re dealing with dryness. On the flip side, gel-based or “foaming” washes can have the opposite effect because they often contain sulfates, cleansing agents known to cause dehydration or irritation, per Dr. Que, especially in people who are already on the dry or sensitive side.

With these tips in mind, I set out to find a reliable group of body washes that leave my skin feeling comfortable and hydrated, and even allow me to occasionally skip post-shower moisturizer without issue—a skin care step that I really, truly loathe. Here are my top picks so far.

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It’s extremely creamy and my go-to in the winter when my skin is extra parched. It doesn’t dry me out at all (I probably have ceramides and hyaluronic acid to thank for that) and I reach for it when I don’t have time for moisturizer after my shower.

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