15 Best Shower Gels For Dry Skin, According To An Expert – 2024

Keep inflammation at bay with gentle formulations that moisturize your skin.

Medically reviewed by Patricia Gaile Espinosa, MD
Written by Shiboli Chakraborti, MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach
Edited by Aditi Naskar, MA (English Literature), Diploma In Health & Wellness
Fact-checked by Arshiya Syeda, BA (Literature & Psychology), PG Diploma  • 

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!

Top Picks
CHECK PRICE
Best Biodegradable Formula:Jason Purifying Tea Tree Body WashPrice on Amazon
Best Plant-Based:Puracy Natural Body WashPrice on Amazon
Best Aromatherapeutic:Mrs. Meyers Clean Day Body WashPrice on Amazon
Best Non-Comedogenic:CeraVe Hydrating Body WashPrice on Amazon
Best Preservative-Free:Avalon Organics Nourishing Lavender Bath And Shower GelPrice on Amazon
Best Hypoallergenic:Alba Botanica Coconut RescuePrice on Amazon
Best Soap-Free:Rituals The Ritual of SakuraPrice on Amazon
Best Gentle Formula:Bioderma Atoderm Gel DouchePrice on Amazon
Best Dermatologist-Developed:Eucerin Skin Calming Body WashPrice on Amazon
Best With Good Fragrance:CeraVe Soothing Body WashPrice on Amazon

15 Best Shower Gels For Dry Skin That Make It Smooth & Firm

1. Best Biodegradable Formula:Jason Purifying Tea Tree Body Wash

4.3

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.

Skin Type: All | Product Dimensions: 3.75 x 9.5 x 2.25 inches | Weight: 2.21 Pounds

Pros

  •  No parabens
  •  No sulfates
  •  No phthalates
  •  No petrolatum
  •  Not tested on animals
  •  Biodegradable formula
  •  Good fragrance

Cons

  •  May cause allergic reactions

Our Tester's Experience

"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."


Our Tester's Experience

"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."


protip_icon Pro Tip
A palmful of the product is enough for a wash. Using too much shower gel can leave behind a sticky layer and strip off the body’s natural oils while making the skin dry.

2. Best Plant-Based: Puracy Natural Body Wash

4.5
Puracy Body Wash Image: Puracy

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.

Skin Type: All | Product Dimensions: 2.1 x 7.7 x 2.1 inches | Weight: 12 Ounces.

Pros

  •  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

Cons

  •  No heavy lather

protip_icon Caution
A sudden shift from synthetic to natural products may take longer for your skin to adjust to. So, look for ingredients that your skin is familiar with and has no side effects.

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

4.5

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.

Skin Type: Sensitive | Product Dimensions: 2.47 x 2.47 x 9.06 inches | Weight: 8.3 Ounces

Pros

  •  Good fragrance
  •  Dermatologist-tested
  •  Aromatherapeutic
  •  Plant-based
  •  Cruelty-free

Cons

  •  The smell may be too strong for some.

Our Tester's Experience

"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

It has received over 2,593 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.

4. Best Non-Comedogenic: CeraVe Hydrating Body Wash

4.4

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.

Skin Type: Dry,Normal | Product Dimensions: 2.88 x 1.5 x 6.38 inches | Weight: 11.84 Ounces

Pros

  • Dermatologist-recommended
  •  Non-comedogenic
  •  No soap
  •  No parabens
  •  No sulfates
  •  NEA accepted

Cons

  •  May not suit all skin types

Our Tester's Experience

"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."


protip_icon Pro Tip
Wash off the shower gels using warm water. Avoid hot water on dry skin, as it makes the skin drier.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

A whopping 11,565 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.

5. Best Preservative-Free: Avalon Organics Nourishing Lavender Bath And Shower Gel

4.3
Avalon Organics Bath & Shower Gel Image: Avalon Organics

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.

Skin Type: Dry | Product Dimensions: 3.4 x 3.4 x 9.6 inches | Weight: 2 Pounds

Pros

  •  EWG-verified
  •  Non-GMO
  •  100% vegan
  • Gentle lavender fragrance
  •  No synthetic colors or fragrances
  •  No phthalates
  •  No harmful sulfates
  •  No parabens
  •  No harsh preservatives

Cons

  •  Has a strong smell

Our Tester's Experience

"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

The overwhelming 7,178 positive reviews on Amazon show how popular this product is with happy users.

6. Best Hypoallergenic: Alba Botanica Coconut Rescue

4.3
Alba Botanica Coconut Rescue Image: Alba Botanica

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.

Skin Type: Dry | Product Dimensions: 10.81 x 7.19 x 10.13 inches | Weight: 2 Pounds.

Pros

  •  100% vegan
  •  Cruelty-free
  •  Hypoallergenic
  •  Leaping Bunny certified
  •  No parabens
  •  No phthalates
  •  No sulfates

Cons

  •  The consistency is a bit oily.

Our Tester's Experience

"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

4.3
Rituals The Ritual of Sakura Image: Rituals

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.

Skin Type: All | Product Dimensions: 1.97 x 1.97 x 8.07 inches | Weight: 8.8 Ounces.

Pros

  •  Nice cherry blossom smell
  •  Long-lasting

Cons

  •  May cause allergic reactions

Our Tester's Experience

"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

4.5
Bioderma - Atoderm - Hydrating Shower Gel Image: Bioderma

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.

Skin Type: Sensitive | Product Dimensions: 4.41 x 2.83 x 8.7 inches | Weight: 2.2 Pounds

Pros

  •  Good fragrance
  •  Soap-free
  •  Ideal for normal to dry, sensitive skin
  • Dermatologist-tested

Cons

  •  May cause allergic reactions

Our Tester's Experience

"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

4.3
Eucerin Skin Calming Body Wash Image: Eucerin

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.

Skin Type: Dry | Product Dimensions: 7.6 x 3.8 x 2.6 inches | Weight: 1.58 Pounds

Pros

  •  No added fragrance
  •  No soap
  •  No dyes
  •  Gentle formula

Cons

  •  May cause allergic reactions

Our Tester's Experience

"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."


Our Tester's Experience

"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

More than 8,877 Amazon users have vouched for this amazing product.

10. Best With Good Fragrance: CeraVe Soothing Body Wash

4

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.

Skin Type: Dry | Product Dimensions: 2.88 x 1.5 x 6.38 inches | Weight: 10.09 Ounces

Pros

  •  NEA-accepted
  •  No parabens
  •  No sulfates
  •  Dermatologist- developed
  •  Non-comedogenic
  •  No soap
  •  No added fragrance

Cons

  •  Should only be used on dry skin

Our Tester's Experience

"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

4.6
The Body Shop Satsuma Shower Gel Image: The Body Shop

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.

Skin Type: All, Dry, Normal | Product Dimensions: 3.35 x 3.35 x 7.68 inches | Weight: 1.85 Pounds

Pros

  •  No parabens
  •  No gluten
  •  No silicone
  •  Good fragrance
  •  Relaxing
  •  Soap-free

Cons

  •  May cause reactions

Our Tester's Experience

"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

4.2
Avalon Organics Image: 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.

Skin Type: Dry | Product Dimensions: 2.5 x 7.75 x 2.5 inches | Weight: 12.52 Ounces

Pros

  •  Cruelty-free
  •  Vegan
  •  Plant-derived
  •  No harsh preservatives
  •  No synthetic fragrances or colors
  •  No phthalates
  •  No sulfates
  •  No parabens

Cons

None

Our Tester's Experience

"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

4.6
The Body Shop Olive Shower Gel Image: The Body Shop

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.

Skin Type: All, Dry, Normal | Product Dimensions: 10.47 x 1.05 x 0.1 inches | Weight: 9.38 Ounces

Pros

  •  Gentle
  •  No harsh ingredients
  •  No animal testing

Cons

  •  The scent may not be pleasing for everyone.

Our Tester's Experience

"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

4.4
Tree To Tub Lavender Body Wash for Sensitive Skin & Dry Skin Image: Tree To Tub

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.

Skin Type: All, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, Normal | Product Dimensions: 2.28 x 2.28 x 6.01 inches | Weight: 8.5 Ounces

Pros

  •  Vegan
  •  Cruelty-free
  •  Sustainable
  •  No chemicals
  •  No sulfates
  •  No parabens
  •  No silicone
  •  No DEA/MEA
  •  No gluten
  •  No artificial fragrances

Cons

  •  Expensive

Our Tester's Experience

"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."


Our Tester's Experience

"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

More than 1,081 customers have given the product positive reviews on Amazon.

15. Best Moisturizing:Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Body Wash

4.7

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.

Skin Type: Sensitive, Dry | Product Dimensions: 2.25 x 3.25 x 9.5 inches | Weight: 2.59 Pounds

Pros

  • Moisturizing
  • Paraben-free
  • No artificial colors
  • Prebiotic oats

Cons

  • Has a strong smell

Our Tester's Experience

"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.

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