The best bar soap is extremely mild on the skin, providing a pleasant shower experience that leaves you feeling squeaky-clean while also moisturizing and nurturing, with a subtle aroma that remains. Not to mention that they are substantially less wasteful than other indulgent body washes available on beauty shelves. “Bar soaps are better for the environment because they may use less packaging and plastic than bottled soaps,” explains Kseniya Kobets, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist from New York. “They can also be cost-effective and travel-friendly,” she says.
Our editors examined top-rated bar soaps to determine which are truly worth giving up bottled body washes for. If you’re looking to change up your regimen, check out InStyle’s selection of the finest bar soaps for your specific skin care needs and budget.
Why We Love It: This cult-favorite soap thoroughly washes all parts of your body, including your hands and face. Our tester Kiana loved the creamy lather, which left her skin feeling clean, nourished, and radiant. The citrus scent was stimulating (ideal for a morning shower!), but the brand also offers a wide range of essential oil-based aromas, such as peppermint, lavender, and an unscented alternative for individuals who have sensitive skin. We love how well the bar held its shape over time without becoming mushy.
Who It’s For: Dr. Bronner’s Bar Soaps are Regenerative Organic Certified and plant-powered, which is great news for individuals who like products made with organic ingredients. There’s a bar for everyone, no matter what scent you choose or your skin type.
It’s worth noting that the formula can irritate the eyes.
Kiana, a tester with normal to dry skin, stated, “What really stood out was how hydrated and moisturized my skin felt after rinsing.” Also, I appreciated how refreshing and clean the citrus aroma was—it really lifted my mood during my shower routine.”
Why We Love It: The Dove Beauty Bar is one of the most well-known bar soaps, and for good reason. Not only has the household brand dedicated to low rates, but this bar in particular focuses on mild moisture, leaving limbs silky smooth and nourished for hours on end. Our tester, Alexandra, spends a lot of time swimming and working out, so a product that combats oil and sweat is essential in her regimen. The TLDR: This bar delivered due to its rich lather and moisturizing texture, which are caused by the lauric acid (a fatty acid that helps combat germs and emulsify the hard bar into a large, fluffy lather) baked into the soap.
This bar is hypoallergenic and fragrance-free, making it suitable for all skin types, especially sensitive and eczema-prone skin. It is often available in packs and is a low-cost alternative for frequent showerers who want their soaps to last for at least a month.
It’s worth noting that a soap tray may be necessary for this because it leaves residue on the tile when wet.
Alexandra, a tester with dry and sensitive skin, says, “I enjoy this soap as a regular go-to for after swimming laps because my skin contains chemicals and I want something neutral. I would recommend it to anyone with sensitive skin who needs a simple, inexpensive lotion.”
Why We Love It: With Marlowe’s gentle cleanser bar, you can cleanse, exfoliate, and rehydrate in one step. Not only does the gently exfoliating product revitalize your skin, but the neroli aroma is both elegant and invigorating to the senses. Tiffany, our tester, could still smell the gritty soap two hours after lathering it on her skin.
Who It’s For: Whether you suffer from dry skin or simply want a good exfoliation, this bar will reveal your smoothest skin yet as its pumice ingredient gently scrubs any unsightly flaky spots.
Worth noting: This bar’s extra-large size will last a long time and easily cover your body in a smooth, sudsy lather.
Tiffany, a tester with normal skin, said, “The soap left me feeling squeaky clean and did not dry out my skin at all. I like how it exfoliated my skin and made it softer over time.”
