13 Best Body Washes For Men: Smell Great & Get Results

After coming home from the gym or having your hands covered in grease, you need a soap that will not only perform well to get your skin incredibly clean but also one that isn’t going to dry your skin.

So what’s the solution?

While you could share a unisex soap or body wash with your significant other, you will be missing out on all the great benefits that a proper body wash designed for a man’s skin has to offer.

Check this out:

A man’s skin is different from that of a woman’s. We men have much thicker and coarser skin.

In addition, we have increased collagen levels making us look, on average, about 15 years younger than those of the opposite sex (source).

However, the problem is that men often use inferior products that don’t account for their naturally different skin.

While you could use a bar of soap to lather up in the shower, body washes make the process much quicker and tend to deliver effective results.

With the recent explosion of men’s grooming products on the market, we wanted to round up the very best men’s body washes that you can order with a few clicks of a mouse.

Comparing the Best Body Washes

ImageProductFeaturesPrice
Best Overall18.21 Man Made WashSmells incredible3-in-1 body washMoisturizes skin for great resultsCheck Price
Best SmellingRugged & Dapper Body WashFresh and masculine scentWorks for both hair and bodyHeavy reliance on natural ingredientsCheck Price
Natural CompositionJack Black Turbo Body WashGreat body wash for men with dry to normal skinThe invigorating scent smells greatA little will go a long wayCheck Price

Get The Right Body Wash For Your Skin Type

Now, if your skin is dry, acne-prone, sensitive, or tends to cause odor rather quickly, there are a few things you can look out for when picking up a body wash.

Here’s a summary of the different skin types and what to look out for:

Dry Skin

Of course, there are many reasons why you may have dry skin. From allergic or environmental reasons to simply atopic dermatitis and diet, even the best body wash may not solve the problem.

However, for most men, a simple change of habits or soap can make a huge impact.

First and foremost, you want to shower once every couple of days. There are a few reasons for this, but most importantly, it has to do with your sebaceous glands.

These glands found at the base of every hair follicle produce an oil called sebum oil. It’s the job of sebum oil to ensure that not only your hair stays well-nourished and moisturized but also your skin as well.

Of course, one of the key ingredients you want to look for in your body wash contains oils or moisturizers that naturally complement the sebum oil. This will help give your skin an overall better appearance between showers.

Also, when you hop out of the shower, you want to typically pat to dry instead of vigorous drying that some men prefer.

Aside from showering, body lotions and getting an adequate amount of water daily can make a difference too.

Acne-Prone Skin

Should you have acne on your back or in various places throughout your body, there are some body washes on the market that you will want to consider.

Most notably, those that contain Benzoyl Peroxide have proven to be quite effective at reducing the occurrence of mild acne.

As many studies have found, Benzoyl Peroxide is a common and effective medication that has worked well for many men.

To get the best results for your skin, we would recommend using a washcloth or loofah as they tend to carry fewer bacteria than sponges.

Oily Skin

Opposite to dry skin, men with oily skin types tend to generate excess sebum oil.

Not only can this lead to shiny spots on your skin, but in worse cases, it may also cause mild amounts of pimples throughout your body where oil buildup is excessive.

To unclog your pores, body washes that contain small amounts of AHA or BHA (salicylic acid) will help to remove oil buildup without over-drying your skin naturally.

This results in a skin complexion throughout your entire body that will be more matte and even. Consider also picking up a mattifying face wash as well.

Body Odor

While most men who suffer from mild to severe cases of body odor will reach for body washes with strong fragrances to mask any embarrassing scents, if you want to reduce body odor from occurring, you should get an antibacterial body wash.

An excellent antibacterial body wash will stop the spread of bacteria that emits foul scents found naturally on your skin.

Thankfully there is plenty of great body washes for men on the market today that prove effective at eliminating body odor.

Sensitive Skin

When finding the right body wash for sensitive skin, you will need to pay attention to two primary factors:

  • Scent
  • Chemicals

Both scents and chemicals may irritate men who have severely sensitive skin.

Brands like NIVEA and many others offer straightforward and effective body washes that will still get you clean in a non-irritating manner.

Best Body Wash for Men – Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall Body Wash: 18.21 Man Made Wash

18.21 Man Made Original Sweet Tobacco 3-in-1 Body...

If there was ever a manly body wash, this is it! Emitting the smell of sweet tobacco (in a good way), you will be channeling your inner manliness when you lather up this body wash in the shower.

Evoking scents that are only reserved for war vets from a few generations ago, this body wash is pH balanced and free of sulfates and parabens. Therefore it has a relatively tepid ingredient profile.

Of all the men’s body washes that we covered, this is likely the best one that presents itself well to be an excellent gift for Christmas, Father’s Day, or any other special occasion.

Related: 18.21 Man Made Wash Review

Pros

  • Smells incredible
  • 3-in-1 body wash
  • Moisturizes skin for great results

Cons

  • Compared to others, it is a bit expensive (but worth it)

2. Best Smelling Body Wash: Rugged & Dapper Body Wash

RUGGED & DAPPER Dual Purpose Power Shampoo & Body...

This dual-use body wash by Rugged & Dapper can be used on both your body and hair. Primarily containing all-natural ingredients (although there are a few chemical-based ingredients added) will give you a relatively healthy and clean wash not found in most big-name body washes found in the marketplace.

For starters, some of the oils that you can find in this body wash include rosehip, tea tree, and orange peel. Generally speaking, this is a manly scented body wash, much like the cedarwood one offered by Every Man Jack that should provide adequate nourishment and moisture throughout the day. A few other notable features that set this body wash apart are that it’s paraben-free, animal cruelty-free, vegan, and contains no artificial fragrances or perfumes.

If you are looking for a relative newcomer, this body wash by Rugged & Dapper is worth a try.

Pros

  • Fresh and masculine scent
  • Works for both hair and body
  • Heavy reliance on natural ingredients

Cons

  • Some men didn’t like the scent

3. Best Natural Body Wash: Jack Black Turbo Body Wash

Jack Black Turbo Wash Energizing Cleanser for Hair...

There is no better brand to go with for men who desire both luxury and natural ingredients than Jack Black. This USA-made body wash is derived from several key ingredients, including Rosemary, Eucalyptus, and Juniper Berry, that will target both dirt and oils and wash them away gently.

Perfect for men who have dry skin, this body wash will add in much-needed moisture to allow you to look your best. Another nice feature about this body wash compared to many others on our list is size versatility.

Available in the following sizes:

  • 3 oz.
  • 10 oz.
  • 33 oz.

You can get one for both travel and home use and not have to deal with messy travel containers. The scent for the Turbo Body Wash is a perfect balance of both subtle masculine notes and eucalyptus.

While some men may have sticker shock with the high price, a little can go a very long way – making it well worth the investment.

Consider also pairing this with their award-winning face wash.

Pros

  • Great body wash for men with dry to normal skin
  • Invigorating scent smells great
  • A little will go a long way

Cons

  • It’s pricier than most – but should last for a long time

4. Best For Sensitive Skin: NIVEA Men Sensitive Skin Body Wash

NIVEA MEN Sensitive Body Wash with Bamboo Extract,...

NIVEA is an excellent choice for men looking for a versatile body wash that covers all the bases while being gentle on sensitive skin. This body wash by NIVEA will not only get your skin clean but also doubles as a shampoo and moisturizer as well thanks to its 3-in-1 formula.

Therefore you can take one item off your monthly shopping list and use this single bottle for your entire shower routine. Lastly, regarding scent, this body wash is dubbed as having a clean scent that works hard to eliminate odor.

Pros

  • Long lasting odor control
  • Provides the best value
  • Cleans deep

Cons

  • Subtle scent is subjective

5. Best Body Wash For Body Odor: Dr Song Benzoyl Peroxide Wash

Dr Song Benzoyl Peroxide Wash 10% Acne Treatment:...

Should you be dealing with body odor regularly, you will want to pick up a medicated body wash that targets the bacteria that emits an odor.

This body wash by Dr. Song is the best body wash for men with body odor.

The 10% Benzoyl Peroxide solution will remove odor-causing bacteria allowing you to smell your best without being self-conscious.

While most antibacterial products smell like chemicals and can be off-putting to use, this body wash received high marks from many men as it delivered a clean unisex smell.

If you are apprehensive about trying a brand that you aren’t entirely familiar with, you will be happy to know that this body wash offers a 100 day, 100% money-back guarantee.

Therefore, you can safely use up the entire bottle and evaluate its worth the cost.

Lastly, this body wash was made in the USA, ensuring higher quality and safety standards.

Pros

  • Scientifically proven to reduce body odor
  • Gracious return policy allows you to fully evaluate effectiveness
  • Made in the USA

Cons

  • Lack of travel size options

6. Everyone Soap for Every Man

Everyone 3-in-1 Soap for Man, Cedar and Citrus, 32...

What is it about this product that makes it so popular?

Besides being a shampoo, this product also works as a body wash and a shaving cream.

Yeah, you read that right!

This makes showering incredibly easy as you have one bottle for every possible function. In addition, the bottles are enormous for the price, meaning you get more uses out of just one bottle than if you bought three different products for three additional functions.

It cleanses with natural ingredients, making this product easy on the skin, leaving you feeling clean, soft, and invigorated.

Through the use of essential oils, this product makes you smell fantastic. It is available in two scents: Cedar and Citrus, a powerful, masculine scent, and Cucumber and Lemon for those who prefer a milder fragrance.

Both products work fantastic and are proudly paraben and polysorbate-free. This all-natural shampoo is perfect for saving time in the shower, leaving you feeling energized, alert, and, most importantly, clean.

Shave, shampoo, and shower with confidence with this all-in-one powerhouse of a product.

Everyone Soap for Every Man is wonderfully inexpensive and can be picked up with a sub-$10 price tag. For 32 ounces of product, this is a fantastic deal.

Pros

  • It’s versatility is unmatched
  • Perfect body wash for men on a budget
  • Gluten and cruelty free

Cons

  • Doesn’t generate a good lather

7. American Crew 3-in-1 Body Wash

Shampoo, Conditioner & Body Wash for Men by...

Many men are familiar with American Crew’s hair products, given that they are in barbershops across the country. In addition to hairstyling, they also make pre-shave oils to help ensure a much more comfortable shave which we recently reviewed. This body wash makes for a fine addition in the latest addition to their lineup.

This 3-in-1 body wash is designed to eliminate body odor while also working well to clean up the rest of your body.

With a mixture of synthetic ingredients and natural oils, the primary cleansing agent is derived from raw vegetables. Generally, the scent is classified by American Crew as fresh and clean. Lastly, this product is made in the USA.

Pros

  • Made in the USA
  • Designer-made body wash that smells great
  • Great for men with body odor

Cons

  • Priced at a premium

8. Burt’s Bees Body Wash

Burt's Bees Natural Skin Care Body Wash for Men,...

Largely known for their lip balms, Burt’s Bees enters the foray into the men’s grooming world with this body wash designed specifically for men in mind. While it might be exclusive to body washing only, it was made from 99.9% natural ingredients.

One of the significant components of the ingredient list for this body wash is coconut oil, which can deliver many health benefits for both your skin and well-being.

Regarding the scent of this body wash, it’s largely considered to be of a woodsy profile followed by some bright citrus after tones.

Overall this is a fantastic body wash to try out, primarily if you depend on Burt’s Bees balms for those dry winters or desert summers.

Pros

  • 99.9% All Natural
  • Woodsy scent smells amazing
  • Trusted brand that will deliver great results

Cons

  • Some may find the lather a bit lacking

9. Dove Men+Care Body Wash

Dove Men Plus Care Body Wash, Deep Clean, 13.5...

One of the most popular and iconic brands for body washes, this product has been designed specifically for a man’s naturally rougher and coarser skin They make a splash in this review with their Deep Clean body wash.

Designed with purifying grains that get deep into your pores, this body wash will leave you feeling both invigorated and clean once you hop out of the shower.

While others in this review are a 3-in-1 solution, the Dove Men+Care Deep Clean body wash is only suitable for both your face and skin; therefore, you will want to steer clear of using this as shampoo.

Lastly, the Deep Clean body wash scent is more of a ‘Fresh’ scent profile that should satisfy most men out there.

Pros

  • Plenty of great scents
  • Works for both face and body
  • Perfect for men who want quality on a budget

Cons

  • Some men may want a ‘cleaner’ ingredient label

10. Every Man Jack Body Wash

Everyman Every Man Jack Body Wash Shower Gel,...

While a relatively newer entrant to the men’s grooming world, Every Man Jack makes various all-natural products. We reviewed their all-natural deodorant in this post. What makes Every Man Jack stand apart from the crowd is their ingredient list. While big names may contain rougher chemicals in their products – in this body wash, you will find castor oil, clary sage oil, and rosemary oil, to name a few.

These oils will help to keep your skin naturally hydrated throughout the day. This body wash may be worth checking out if you generally have sensitive skin. Ingredients aside, this product is cruelty-free and absent of any synthetic dyes.

Pros

  • No-frills and gets the job done
  • Budget friendly body wash for daily use
  • Easy to pick-up both online and in stores

Cons

  • Some men found the scent lighter

11. L’Occitane Men’s Body Wash

L'Occitan Shower Body And Hair Gel, 8.4 Fl Oz

While many may think that L’Occitane is reserved for just women and can be found at your local mall, they do provide a body wash that can be used for men as well – all without smelling too feminine. The body wash is pretty versatile in that it can be used on both your entire body and head.

Also worth mentioning is that this body wash contains a plethora of essential oils that will leave a pleasant after scent upon use. On the side of the label, you can find juniper, sandalwood, immortelle, and rosemary oils.

Lastly, and most importantly, L’Occitane included shea butter as a moisturizing and conditioning agent to help ensure that this body wash keeps your skin well-nourished through natural properties long after use.

Pros

  • Heavy reliance on natural ingredients instead of chemicals
  • Great for men with dry skin as it contains several moisturizing ingredients
  • Works for both body and hair

Cons

  • Stronger scent may not be good for men with sensitive skin

12. Old Spice High Endurance Pure Sport Body Wash

Old Spice Hydro Body Wash for Men, Pure Sport Plus...

If Old Spice isn’t making some sweet commercials featuring the legendary Terry Crews (that guy is awesome – here is a cool Reddit IAMA he did a while back), they are developing great smelling deodorants and body washes.

This body wash by Old Spice will do a great job at getting you clean. However, there is a kit limitation inherent in this product. First and foremost, it’s absent of a pump design like many others out there, which may make it a bit cumbersome to handle in the shower with soapy hands, and secondly, it’s only a body wash. Therefore it’s not designed to be used on your face or hair (get a separate face wash instead).

If you like the classic Old Spice scents, then this is one worth checking out.

Pros

  • Terrific smell is loved by many
  • Affordable and available everywhere

Cons

  • Only for body washing (not hair or face like others)

13. Oleavine Body Wash

TheraTree Tea Tree Oil Soap with Neem Oil - 12oz -...

This tea tree-based body wash by Oleavine is an entirely all-natural body wash that will effectively clean your skin completely clean naturally. Geared to be used on both your body and feet, the tea tree oil contained within this product is naturally an antiseptic that will help to fight any odor-causing bacteria along with jock itch, foot odor, and other general fungi. You can even find tea tree oils in popular products like beard oil.

Bacterial fighting properties aside, this body wash is loaded with a ton of natural carrier oils that will also ensure that your skin stays incredibly moisturized and nourished throughout the entirety of your day.

Much like the Every Man Jack body wash, this body wash is also cruelty-free for the animal-tested conscious consumers out there as all the ingredients are plant-derived.

Pros

  • Contains only natural and organic ingredients
  • Invigorating scent
  • Soothes itchy skin, eliminates odor, improves complexion

Cons

  • May cause irritation for those with sensitive skin

Adam Williams

As the lead editor of Tools of Men, Adam loves men's grooming products. Particularly of interest is managing facial hair and perfecting the art of the modern man's skincare routine. His work has been featured or quoted in several publications, including New York Magazine, Vice, Sharpologist, MIC, Elite Daily, and more. When Adam isn't working, he enjoys spending time with his two little kids who keep him both on his toes and young at heart.

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