Bar Soap vs Body Wash: Is Bar Soap Better Than Body Wash?

The great debate - bar soap vs body wash. Two different ways to accomplish the same thing, cleansing your skin and leaving you smelling fresh. However, they produce very different experiences. That’s why we’ve put together this body wash vs bar soap comparison. 

While body wash is the convenient option, that’s really where its benefits end. Most body wash is laden in synthetic chemicals that not only smell funky but can wreak havoc on your skin, causing dryness and irritation.

In contrast, a high-quality natural bar soap smells more like it came from Mother Nature (because it did) with essential oils providing fragrance. Perhaps more importantly, though, it actually nourishes and repairs skin, leaving you feeling brand new after each wash.

So, is bar soap better than body wash? We believe so. That’s why we’ve made it our life’s work to produce the most gentle, effective men’s bar soap here at The Black Stuff. Learn more about the bar of soap vs body wash debate below, or feel the difference yourself by ordering today!

The Difference Between Bar Soap and Body Wash

At first glance, the only difference between bar soap and body wash is that one’s in liquid form (really more of a gel, but you get the point) and the other is solid. But when you begin digging deeper into the nuances between bar soap vs body wash the differences become crystal clear.

What is Body Wash?

Body wash, also known as shower gel, is a liquid cleanser designed for convenience and ease of use. It’s sold in bottles and lathers up with a loofah, sponge, or even your own hands. 

The ingredients are a mix of water, surfactants (cleansing agents), and moisturizing ingredients like glycerin or silicones. Many formulas take things a step further, featuring vitamins, oils, or plant extracts to add hydration and leave the skin feeling soft. These also provide a fragrance.

Speaking of which, body washes are known for producing strong, long-lasting fragrances that follow you around all day long - for better or worse. 

Body wash is a compelling choice for anyone who wants a quick and easy cleanse. Those with dry, sensitive skin are drawn to body wash as well because it claims to include moisturizers that provide a softer, more supple finish after rinsing off. 

While it’s often marketed as a more luxurious option for showering the actual experience falls short of expectations. That being said, let’s introduce the other half of the body wash vs bar soap comparison.

What is Bar Soap?

Bar soap is solidified through a process called saponification, where natural oils or fats are combined with lye to create a firm cleanser. 

This is the tried-and-true method of washing that has been around for centuries. You know what they say - if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it! Bar soap is known for containing fewer ingredients than body wash, with a theme of keeping things simple. 

So what is natural soap made of? It all depends on the brand and specific formulation in question. However, high-quality bar soaps are typically made with natural oils like olive, coconut, or palm oil, along with essential oils for fragrance. Some even include exfoliants like oatmeal or pumice to gently scrub away dead skin cells.

Part of what makes bar soap so great is that it’s versatile. Sure, you can use it in the shower - but it can also be used for washing your hands or as a shaving aid. 

Plus, its compact size and eco-friendly packaging are a practical way to reduce waste while keeping your skin clean and refreshed. 

You may be wondering, how long does bar soap last? When stored correctly, it can actually last much longer than you may have guessed! Anyone who plans on using bar soap for their grooming routine should invest in a good soap saver dish for this reason.

But hold on - is bar soap better than body wash? If you’re still on the fence, we’ll take a closer look at body wash vs bar soap side by side below. 

Bar Soap vs Body Wash: Which Should You Use in the Shower?

Even though body wash and bars of soap seem to serve the same purpose, the differences in how they cleanse your skin are dramatic. So is the impact they have on the planet. Let’s see which has an edge in comparing bar soap vs body wash.

Fragrance

You obviously want your soap, be it in bar or bottle form, to leave you smelling amazing when you rinse it off and emerge from the shower. Although body wash is known for delivering strong, long-lasting scents, this can be a double-edged sword. Sometimes, it’s too much.

The synthetic fragrances can cling to your skin for hours. Maybe that’s a good thing. If you enjoy bold, cologne-like aromas, body wash may be the right choice for you. However, most men feel as if it leaves them smelling more like a science product with all the artificial fragrances used.

In contrast, bar soap is all about subtlety and nuance. That’s because it’s crafted by hand with essential oils that come straight from the earth, not a laboratory. 

You’ll smell more authentic and grounded, be it the fresh, invigorating scent of peppermint or the woodsy, herbaceous aroma of sandalwood. Sure, it doesn’t last as long - but that’s perfectly fine if you pair it with a high-quality natural deodorant for men!

Lather

One of the biggest misconceptions we see is that bar soap doesn’t cleanse as well because it doesn’t create that same foamy lather that shower gel is notorious for. 

Although soap bars produce a denser, creamier lather, that doesn’t mean they aren’t working as well. Rest assured the active ingredients are working their magic even if it doesn’t look as intense. In fact, many find this type of lather feels more nourishing and satisfying on the skin.

On the other hand, body wash - especially when paired with a loofah - is characterized by a rich, foamy lather with minimal effort. This can feel luxurious and make you feel like you’re getting a deeper clean. 

Again, though, you need to realize that what’s causing the lather isn’t “soap” as much as it is the surfactants paired with chemical foaming agents. 

Shower gel manufacturers know that people associate a lather with cleanliness, and have made it a point to produce the sudsiest solution possible. Is it really making a difference in how clean you get? Not really. In fact, it’s just another ingredient in the laundry list of chemical additives.

Skin Benefits

This is where you’ll see a dramatic difference between bar soap vs body wash. The natural soap benefits are impossible to ignore. These bars of soap are handcrafted with nourishing ingredients like shea butter or olive oil that cleanse without stripping your skin. 

Many with oily or acne-prone skin find that bar soap often provides a more thorough clean without leaving residue. You leave the shower feeling hydrated and clean rather than tight and dry.

Meanwhile, body wash claims to bring its own benefits to the table - but whether it upholds those promises or not is a separate conversation. Some formulations feature added moisturizers, like glycerin or oils, to leave your skin feeling hydrated.

Unfortunately, most find that synthetic shower gels have the opposite intended effect. All the harsh artificial fragrances and other concerning ingredients can dry the skin out and leave you looking flakey. 

Hygiene Perception

We want to address the elephant in the room that bar soap is unhygienic since it’s put in direct contact with your skin and can then harbor germs or bacteria. Not to mention the idea of sharing a bar of soap with someone else can be kind of gross.

Here’s the reality, though: while bacteria can reside on the surface of bar soap, studies have shown that the act of lathering rinses off most microorganisms. The soap’s cleansing properties prevent any residual bacteria from easily transferring to your skin.

Proper storage plays a critical role here, though. A well-drained soap dish keeps the bar dry between uses, eliminating the conditions bacteria need to thrive (moisture and stagnation).

Ease of Use

Now, we want to give credit where it’s due in comparing body wash vs bar soap. When it comes to convenience and ease of use, shower gel certainly takes the cake. Just squeeze, lather, rinse. It’s that easy. You can share it with friends or family without stressing about hygiene, too.

Bar soap, on the other hand, takes a bit more effort - especially to keep it in pristine condition so it doesn’t become too mushy. However, many prefer the straightforward simplicity of a bar and appreciate not having to deal with slippery bottles in the shower.

It’s also worth noting that bar soap has more uses than shower gel as we touched on earlier. Body wash is clearly made for one purpose only - but you can wash your hands or shave using bar soap!

Environmental Impact

Here’s where bar soap has an obvious edge over body wash. It comes with minimal or zero packaging, often wrapped in recyclable or biodegradable paper. 

Shower gel, on the other hand, comes in massive plastic bottles that contribute to environmental waste. If you want to keep your footprint as small as possible, stick with bar soap.

Cost Considerations

Finally, let’s see which is more economical in comparing bar soap vs body wash. As with most aspects, a bar of soap is better in this regard. 

That’s because body wash tends to cost more per ounce and gets used up faster since people tend to be more generous with how much they squeeze out. A high-quality bar of soap can last weeks longer than a bottle of body wash provided it’s stored correctly.

So, is Bar Soap Better Than Body Wash?

There you have it, everything you need to know about body wash vs bar soap. So, is bar soap better than body wash? We think it’s a no-brainer decision, and hopefully, you’ve come to the same realization after reading through this comparison guide.

A bar of soap lasts longer and offers more value, is better for the environment, and delivers a superior clean with a more authentic fragrance. It’s free from the harmful synthetic ingredients and fillers that leave your skin feeling greasy or irritated.

That being said, not all bar soaps are created equal. Many commercial options still rely on harsh detergents and artificial fragrances that dry out your skin or cause irritation. That’s why you need to get your hands on the best men’s soap - available exclusively at The Black Stuff.

Feel the Difference Firsthand at The Black Stuff!

We’ve redefined what bar soap can be. Every bar is handcrafted in small batches using natural ingredients that cleanse, nourish, and invigorate your skin.

Our committment to quality, sustainability, and transparency means you’re getting soaps that are as good for the planet as they are for you. There are so many great options to choose from, too. Here are just a few of our personal favorites:

• Pine tar soap: Rugged and earthy, perfect for deep cleansing and soothing tough, hardworking skin.
• Cedar citrus soap: A refreshing balance of woodsy cedar and bright citrus, great for a morning boost.
• Eucalyptus soap bar: Crisp and revitalizing, offering a cool, clean sensation after every wash.
• Bay rum soap: Warm, spicy, and nostalgic, with a sophisticated edge that lingers subtly.
• Ginger bar soap: Infused with warming ginger and zesty lime, delivering a unique, luxurious lather.

We know that taking a chance on a new grooming product can be stressful, which is why your order is backed by our first-scent guarantee. If you’re less than satisfied with your chosen scent just let us know and we’ll work together ot make it right.

So, upgrade your grooming routine with bar soap that works harder and lasts longer. Experience the difference between bar soap vs body wash today!

Bringing Our Body Wash vs Bar Soap Comparison to a Close

So, is bar soap better than body wash? As we conclude this comparison of body wash vs bar soap the answer is clear. The difference between bar soap and body wash is jarring. Shower gel falls short of matching its eco-friendliness, cost-effectiveness, and gentle cleansing power.

Find more educational resources in our blog such as ginger soap benefits, natural soap vs commercial soap, switching to aluminum-free deodorant, Dr. Squatch alternatives, natural deodorant ingredients, and more. 

Otherwise, see how the right soap can transform your shower experience and your entire grooming ritual for the better today. Ditch the synthetic, plastic shower gel bottle you’ve been settling for. Embrace the natural clean you deserve with The Black Stuff’s handcrafted soaps!