The Best Bar Soaps of 2025 By Category

Bar soap is back and it’s here to stay.

Today’s bar soaps are a far cry from the overly drying, chemical-heavy versions of the past. With cleaner ingredients, luxurious scents, and far less plastic waste than bottled body washes, bar soaps are becoming a go-to for skin-conscious and eco-conscious shoppers alike.

In this guide, we break down the best bar soaps by skin type and use case so you can find the one that’s right for you (and maybe even ditch the pump bottle for good).

Best Bar Soap Categories We Evaluated

We selected bar soaps based on dermatological performance, ingredient quality, sustainability, and real user reviews. Each pick falls into one (or more) of the following categories. Click on each category for our in depth review.

• Best Overall
• Best for Sensitive Skin
• Best for Dry Skin
• Best for Men
• Best for Men (Cooling)
• Best Clay/Exfoliating
• Best Energizing Bar
• Best Luxury Bar
• Best Natural Bar for Acne
• Best Clinical Acne Treatment

The Best Bar Soaps Comparison Table

Category	Bar Soap	Best For	Key Ingredients	Fragrance	Packaging	Price Range	Buy Link
Best Overall	Dove Beauty Bar	Overall, Sensitive Skin	Moisturizing Cream, Stearic Acid	Light, clean	Paper box	$	Shop on Amazon
Best for Dry Skin	CeraVe Hydrating Bar	Dry or Eczema-Prone Skin	Ceramides, Hyaluronic Acid	Fragrance-free	Paper box	$$	Shop on Amazon
Best for Sensitive Skin	Curie Hydrating Bar	Sensitive Skin	Coconut oil, Aloe, Glycerin	Subtle coconut	Plastic-free	$$	Shop at Walmart
Best for Men	Dr. Squatch Wood Barrel Bourbon	Men, Exfoliating	Shea Butter, Sand, Kaolin Clay	Masculine, bourbon-vanilla	Cardboard box	$$	Shop on Amazon
Best for Men (Cooling)	Every Man Jack Cold Plunge	Men, Oily Skin	Peppermint Oil, Charcoal	Cooling mint	Cardboard box	$	Shop on Amazon
Best Clay Soap	Herbivore Pink Clay	Gentle Exfoliation	Pink Clay, Coconut Oil	Light floral	Paper sleeve	$$$	Shop on Amazon
Best Energizing Bar	Ursa Major Morning Mojo	Morning Boost	Peppermint, Shea Butter, Volcanic Rock	Peppermint/Eucalyptus	Paper wrap	$$$	Shop on Amazon
Best Luxury Bar	Flamingo Estate Jasmine & Rose Brick	Luxury, Daily Use	Olive Oil, Jasmine, Rose	Bold floral	Paper wrap	$$$$	Shop at Flamingo Estate
Best Natural Bar for Acne	Dr. Bronner’s Castile Bar	Acne, Multi-use	Organic Oils, Tea Tree	Herbal	Paper wrap	$	Shop on Amazon
Best Clinical Acne Treatment	PanOxyl Benzoyl Peroxide Bar	Moderate Acne	10% Benzoyl Peroxide	Medicinal	Cardboard box	$	Shop on Amazon

Category Reviews

Best Overall: Dove Beauty Bar

This classic bar soap is a long-standing favorite for a reason. It’s formulated with moisturizing cream, which helps to nourish and protect the skin without stripping its natural oils.

It’s a gentle, hypoallergenic option that works well for most skin types, including those prone to dryness or sensitivity. The lather is rich and satisfying, and the bar itself lasts a long time, offering great value. While it has a subtle, clean scent, it’s generally considered mild enough for those who prefer less fragrance.

Pros:

• Ultra-moisturizing formula that doesn’t strip natural oils
• Hypoallergenic and gentle for most skin types

Cons:

• Not a “natural” soap—contains synthetic ingredients
• Some users may prefer a completely unscented bar

Best for Dry Skin: CeraVe Hydrating Bar

Developed with dermatologists, this bar is specifically crafted to cleanse and hydrate without leaving the skin feeling tight or stripped. It incorporates key ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides, which are known for their ability to retain moisture and support skin health.

This makes it an excellent choice for individuals struggling with dry or dehydrated skin. The fragrance-free formula is a bonus for those sensitive to scents.

Pros:

• Includes ceramides and hyaluronic acid to help retain skin moisture
• Fragrance-free and dermatologist-developed

Cons:

• Texture is softer than some bars, so it may wear down faster
• Less lather compared to traditional soaps

Best for Sensitive Skin: Curie Hydrating Bar

Formulated with sensitive skin in mind, this bar soap is designed to cleanse effectively while maintaining the skin’s natural moisture barrier. It often includes ingredients like oils and vitamins that are known for their hydrating properties.

Its gentle nature makes it suitable for daily use, even on the face, without causing irritation or dryness. While it aims for a mild scent, some users might find it noticeable.

Pros:

• Formulated with hydrating oils and gentle ingredients for sensitive skin
• Plastic-free packaging makes it a sustainable option

Cons:

• Mild scent may still be too noticeable for ultra-sensitive users
• Pricier than drugstore alternatives

Best for Men: Dr. Squatch Bar Soap

This bar soap is a popular choice for men seeking a robust and invigorating cleansing experience. It typically features natural ingredients that provide a good lather and a distinctive scent profile, often inspired by masculine fragrances like bourbon.

The formulation aims to cleanse effectively while leaving the skin feeling refreshed and moisturized, avoiding the dryness sometimes associated with men’s soaps.

Pros:

• Strong masculine scent with great lather
• Natural exfoliants like sand and clay help cleanse deeply

Cons:

• Scent may be overpowering for sensitive noses
• Costs more than standard grocery store soaps

Best Cooling Men’s Soap: Every Man Jack Cold Plunge

Designed for a refreshing and awakening shower experience, this men’s soap often incorporates cooling agents or menthol to provide a noticeable invigorating sensation.

It cleanses the skin thoroughly while leaving a crisp, cool feeling that can be particularly appealing in the morning or after physical activity. The scent is typically fresh and clean, complementing the cooling effect.

Pros:

• Refreshing menthol tingle—great post-gym or morning wake-up
• Formulated with charcoal to help cleanse pores

Cons:

• May be too drying for daily use on sensitive skin
• The cooling effect can be intense for some users

Best Exfoliating Clay Bar: Herbivore Pink Clay

This bar soap utilizes the natural properties of pink clay to gently exfoliate the skin, removing dead cells and impurities. It’s often formulated with nourishing oils to counteract any potential dryness from exfoliation, leaving the skin feeling smooth and revitalized.

The clay helps to clarify pores and can contribute to a brighter complexion. It’s a good option for those looking to add a mild exfoliating step to their routine.

Pros:

• Gently exfoliates without harsh scrubbing
• Pink clay helps detoxify and brighten skin

Cons:

• More expensive than most bar soaps
• May not be exfoliating enough for very oily or acne-prone skin

Best Morning Wake-Up: Ursa Major Morning Mojo

This soap is crafted to provide an energizing start to the day. It typically features invigorating scents from natural essential oils, such as citrus or mint, combined with ingredients that offer a thorough cleanse.

The combination of aroma and effective cleansing aims to awaken the senses and prepare you for the day ahead. It’s a great way to make your morning shower more stimulating.

Pros:

• Energizing peppermint and eucalyptus scent
• Natural volcanic rock powder offers mild exfoliation

Cons:

• Premium price point for a small bar
• Scent may fade quickly after use

Best Luxury Pick: Flamingo Estate Bar Soap

For those seeking a more indulgent experience, this luxury bar soap offers a premium blend of high-quality ingredients and sophisticated fragrances. Often featuring botanical extracts and rich oils, it provides a decadent lather and leaves the skin feeling exceptionally soft and pampered.

The captivating scent of jasmine and rose adds an element of spa-like luxury to your daily cleansing ritual.

Pros:

• Sophisticated floral scent and silky lather
• Extra-large bar lasts longer than standard sizes

Cons:

• One of the most expensive soaps on the list
• Scent may be too floral for some users’ preferences

Best Natural Soap for Acne: Dr. Bronner’s Castile Bar (Tea Tree)

Dr. Bronner’s Castile Bar, particularly the tea tree variant, is a highly regarded natural option for acne-prone skin. Made with organic oils, it offers a potent yet gentle cleanse that helps to combat breakouts.

The tea tree oil is known for its natural antibacterial properties, which can help to purify the skin and prevent future blemishes. It’s a versatile soap that can be used on the face and body, providing a thorough clean without harsh chemicals.

Pros:

• Tea tree oil helps fight bacteria naturally
• Versatile enough for face, body, and even shaving

Cons:

• Scent can be medicinal and strong
• Can be slightly drying if used daily without moisturizer

Best Clinical Acne Treatment: PanOxyl Benzoyl Peroxide Bar

This bar soap is a powerful treatment for moderate to severe acne, containing benzoyl peroxide as its active ingredient. Benzoyl peroxide works by killing acne-causing bacteria and helping to clear clogged pores.

It’s a clinical-grade option that can be very effective for persistent breakouts, but it’s important to use it as directed to avoid potential dryness or irritation. It’s often recommended by dermatologists for its efficacy in treating acne.

Pros:

• Contains 10% benzoyl peroxide for serious acne treatment
• Widely recommended by dermatologists

Cons:

• Can bleach towels and fabrics if not rinsed off well
• May cause dryness or irritation without proper hydration

How to Choose the Right Bar Soap for Your Skin

Choosing the right bar soap involves understanding your skin’s specific needs and what ingredients will best address them. It’s not just about picking a pleasant scent; the formula itself plays a significant role in how your skin feels and behaves after washing.

Understanding Your Skin Type

Your skin type is the most important factor. If you have dry skin, look for soaps with added moisturizers like glycerin, shea butter, or natural oils. These ingredients help to replenish moisture that might be stripped away during cleansing. For sensitive skin, it’s best to avoid harsh chemicals, artificial fragrances, and dyes. Opt for formulas with gentle surfactants derived from natural sources, such as coconut oil, and ingredients known for their soothing properties.

Oily or acne-prone skin might benefit from soaps containing ingredients like salicylic acid or tea tree oil, which can help manage oil production and combat breakouts. Remember, even bar soaps designed for oily skin should still contain some moisturizing elements to prevent over-drying, which can paradoxically lead to more oil production.

Key Ingredients to Look For (and Avoid)

When examining the ingredient list, certain components are generally beneficial. Glycerin is a humectant, meaning it draws moisture to the skin. Ceramides and hyaluronic acid are also excellent for supporting the skin’s natural barrier and retaining hydration. On the flip side, be wary of ingredients that can be overly drying or irritating.

Sulfates, while effective cleansers, can strip the skin of its natural oils. Also, watch out for alcohols like ethanol or denatured alcohol, and certain preservatives or fragrances that can cause reactions, especially if you have sensitive skin. Always check the label for ingredients that align with your skin’s requirements.

Lather and Texture Considerations

The way a soap lathers and feels can also indicate its quality and suitability for your skin. A good bar soap should produce a creamy, rich lather rather than a thin, bubbly one. This often suggests a better balance of cleansing and moisturizing agents.

The texture of the bar itself should ideally be smooth and dense. A soap that feels gritty or overly soft might break down too quickly or contain less desirable fillers. A pleasant lather can significantly improve the overall shower experience, making your daily routine more enjoyable. You can find a wide variety of options that offer a great lather and texture.

Bar Soap vs. Liquid Body Wash

While liquid body washes have long been popular, bar soaps are making a strong comeback, and for good reason. They are often more sustainable due to reduced packaging and can last longer than liquid counterparts.

Many modern bar soaps are formulated to be just as gentle, if not gentler, than liquid options, often incorporating dermatologist-recommended ingredients. They can be a more economical choice without sacrificing skin health. When considering a switch, think about how a bar soap might simplify your routine and reduce waste.

Soap Routine Tips

Incorporating bar soap into your daily routine is straightforward, but a few practices can help you get the most out of your chosen bar and keep your skin happy. It’s not just about picking the right soap; how you use and store it makes a difference.

Proper Application

To ensure effective cleansing, always lather the bar soap thoroughly in your hands or with a washcloth before applying it to your skin. This helps distribute the product evenly. Start from your upper body and work your way down, gently massaging the lather into your skin. Focus on areas that tend to accumulate sweat and bacteria, such as underarms and feet. Be gentle with more sensitive areas, as they can react to cleansing agents. Using warm water, rather than hot, is also recommended to avoid drying out your skin.

Optimal Storage

Proper storage is key to extending the life and effectiveness of your bar soap. Keep your soap out of direct water streams and away from excessive moisture. If your soap is in the shower, place it on a raised soap dish that allows for drainage, away from the faucet. This prevents the bar from becoming soggy, developing a slimy texture, and breaking down prematurely. A cool, dry spot is ideal for preserving the soap’s integrity.

Understanding Ingredients

Bar soaps can vary greatly in their formulations. Some contain sulfates, which, while effective at cleansing, can be harsh and lead to dryness or irritation. Look for bars that balance cleansing agents with moisturizing ingredients like glycerin, ceramides, or shea butter. These help maintain your skin’s natural moisture barrier. For specific concerns like acne or dryness, selecting a bar with targeted ingredients, such as salicylic acid or hydrating oils, is beneficial.

Frequency of Use

How often you use a particular bar soap depends on its purpose and your skin type. For general cleansing, daily use is fine. If you’re using an exfoliating bar or one with active acne-fighting ingredients, you might want to limit its use to a few times a week to prevent over-exfoliation or dryness. Always observe how your skin responds and adjust accordingly.

Paying attention to the details of how you use and store your bar soap can significantly impact your skin’s health and the longevity of the product itself. Simple adjustments can lead to better results.

Wrapping Up Your Bar Soap Journey

So, we’ve looked at a bunch of bar soaps, from ones that are super gentle for sensitive skin to those that help with body acne. It turns out bar soap isn’t just a throwback; many modern options are really good for your skin and better for the planet, too. They can be moisturizing, clean well, and last a long time, often without all that plastic packaging. Whether you need something for dry skin, oily skin, or just a good everyday clean, there’s likely a bar soap out there that fits the bill. Give one of these a try – you might be surprised at how much you like them.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to use bar soap?

To get the most out of your bar soap, lather it up well in your hands or on a washcloth first. Then, gently rub the suds all over your body, starting from the top and working your way down. Make sure to give extra attention to areas that tend to get sweaty, like your underarms and feet. Use lukewarm water, as hot water can dry out your skin.

How should I store bar soap?

It’s best to keep your bar soap dry when you’re not using it. If it’s in your shower, make sure it’s not sitting in a puddle of water. Store it somewhere cool and dry, maybe on a soap dish that drains well. This helps the soap last longer and prevents it from getting mushy or growing germs.

Why are bar soaps a good option?

Bar soaps can be a great choice because they often come with less packaging, making them more eco-friendly than liquid soaps in plastic bottles. Plus, a single bar can last a really long time, often longer than a bottle of body wash.

How do I pick the right bar soap for my skin?

When picking a bar soap, think about your skin type. If your skin is dry, look for soaps with moisturizing ingredients like shea butter or glycerin. For sensitive skin, choose soaps without strong perfumes or rough exfoliants. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, soaps with ingredients like salicylic acid or tea tree oil can help.

Can bar soap really be moisturizing?

Many bar soaps today are made to be gentle and moisturizing. Unlike older soaps that could leave your skin feeling tight and dry, modern formulas often include ingredients that help keep your skin hydrated and protect its natural barrier.

Can I use bar soap on my face too?

Yes, some bar soaps are designed to be used on both your face and body. Just be sure to check the product description to confirm it’s suitable for facial use, especially if you have sensitive facial skin.

What does bar soap actually do for my skin?

Bar soaps can be quite effective at cleaning away dirt, oil, and sweat. Some even contain special ingredients that can help with things like exfoliation or fighting acne.

Are all bar soaps heavily scented?

While some bar soaps might have a noticeable scent, many are available in fragrance-free options, which are ideal for people with sensitive skin or those who prefer unscented products.