Foam Baths - Soaps

Body Washes and Soaps: Gentle Cleansing

The shower determines how the skin will behave in the following hours. A body wash does not only do the job of cleanliness, it also regulates how much lipids will remain on the surface when the water is turned off. The surfactants, i.e. the molecules that produce foam and dissolve sweat with impurities, differ greatly among themselves: some take away the protective layer along with them, others leave the surface calm.

The misconception most often heard in the pharmacy is that lots of foam means lots of cleanliness. This is not true. The rich foam depends on the type of surfactants, not on the cleansing ability. Many creamy products and shower oils foam very little and clean perfectly, with much less pulling sensation afterwards.

Textures and forms, and who each one suits

Clear shower gel

Light, quick to rinse off, with a fresh feeling. They suit normal skin and showers after the gym. If the skin tightens in winter, this is the category you will change to first.

Creamy body washes and syndets

Syndets are complex cleansers without classic soap, with pH close to the natural pH of the skin. They have a velvety texture, leave a thin moisturizing film and are the safe choice for skin that dries easily. If dryness is a permanent issue, continue in the section for body dryness.

Shower oils

They turn into a milky liquid with water and are the mildest cleansing option, for very dry legs and skin with a tendency to itch.

Solid soaps and bars

The classic block of olive oil, the bars with shea butter and the syndets in solid form. Practical for travel and without plastic packaging, they just need to dry between uses.

Cleansers with mild exfoliation

Formulas with salicylic or lactic acid smooth the texture on knees, elbows and back. If you want more intensive work, combine them with a product from the body scrubs.

What we look for on the label

• pH 5 to 5.5: close to the natural pH of the skin, less pulling sensation.
• Mild surfactants: indications such as sulfate free or soap free for sensitive skin.
• Glycerin and shea butter: keep moisture in the skin after washing.
• Panthenol: soothes and gives a sense of comfort.
• Unscented: a sensible choice for sensitive skin or for the whole family.
• Large packages and refills: lower cost per use.

Series that our customers consistently request

On a daily basis, economical in use, the first choice is the Pharmasept Tol Velvet and the Pharmasept Hygienic series, with mild formulas and large packages. For dry and sensitive skin, the La Roche-Posay Lipikar in gel and syndet, the Avene XeraCalm and the CeraVe. When the desired is the aromatic experience, the Apivita Tonic Mountain Tea and the Apivita Pure Jasmine, the shower foams Korres with lemon, rosehip and jasmine, as well as the series Messinian Spa and Roger & Gallet have a steady audience. For mild, dermatologically tested daily routine there are also the Sebamed and the Froika.

Practically, in the bathroom

Cool water and not hot, because the temperature dissolves lipids faster than any cleanser. Five to eight minutes are enough. Insist on armpits, folds and soles, and leave the legs with less rubbing. Wipe with patting and apply moisturizing body milk within the first few minutes, while the skin is still fresh. See also the other sections for body care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my skin itch after the shower?

Usually it’s the combination of hot water and an aggressive cleanser. Try a syndet or shower oil, lower the temperature and moisturize immediately afterwards. If the itching persists or is accompanied by a rash, talk to a dermatologist.

Is solid soap worse than liquid soap?

Not by itself. Traditional soaps have high pH and can dry out, but modern solid syndet bars have pH equivalent to liquids. The formula matters, not the form.

Do I need antibacterial body wash?

For the daily hygiene of healthy skin it doesn’t offer anything more. A mild cleanser and proper washing do the job. For special needs, ask your pharmacist.

Can I use the same body wash for face and body?

If it’s mild and unscented, technically yes, but the face skin is thinner and usually better taken care of with a specific cleanser. Many creamy products explicitly state use on both.

The information on this page is informational and concerns cleansing cosmetic products. It does not replace the advice of a dermatologist or pharmacist. For persistent itching, rash or skin condition, consult a healthcare professional.