Article

Body Wash

Body wash is a liquid cleansing product designed for use on the body during showering or bathing. It is an alternative to bar soap and is often formulated to be gentler on the skin, with added moisturizers, fragrances, or specialized ingredients.

Types of Body Wash

Moisturizing body wash: Contains added oils or emollients for dry skin.
Antibacterial body wash: Includes agents to reduce bacteria on the skin.
Exfoliating body wash: Contains small particles or acids to help remove dead skin cells.
Sensitive skin formulas: Free from harsh chemicals, fragrances, or dyes.

How to Use

Apply to wet skin, lather, and rinse thoroughly. The effectiveness may vary with water temperature; cooler water tends to preserve the cleansing properties longer while warmer water can enhance relaxation but might strip more moisture.
Use a washcloth, loofah, or hands to distribute product.

Health and Hygiene

pH Compatibility

Body wash formulations aim for a neutral pH range (approximately 5.0 to 7.0) which is compatible with the skin's natural acidic mantle [Skin Microbiome Regulation]. This balance helps maintain the skin barrier function while effectively cleaning, unlike many bar soaps that are formulated at higher pH levels and can temporarily disrupt this protective layer.

Antibacterial Efficacy

There exist standardized testing methods to measure antibacterial efficacy against specific pathogens. Laboratories often employ protocols such as using defined concentrations of test microbes (e.g., Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa) in controlled environments [TODO: add citation]. These tests quantify reduction levels and assess safety profiles.