Dr. Brooke Jeffy Shares Dermatologist-Approved Body Washing Tips with Women’s Health

Read the full article here

Something as basic as washing your body has somehow become another skincare topic complicated by social media.

I recently spoke with Women’s Health about how to cleanse your skin without disrupting the skin barrier and what to actually look for in a body wash.

What Should You Look for in a Body Wash?

Many of the ingredients we associate with facial skincare are now showing up in body care. I recommend looking for hydrating, barrier-supporting ingredients such as ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid when choosing a body wash.

I also shared an important reminder about exfoliation: more is not always better. For normal skin, daily exfoliation usually isn't necessary, and overdoing it can contribute to dryness and a damaged skin barrier.

When it comes to cleansing, focus on areas where sweat and moisture tend to accumulate - particularly the underarms, groin, and feet. And after showering, gently pat the skin dry and apply a body cream or lotion while the skin is still damp.

For body acne, medicated cleansers containing ingredients such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide can be helpful, but I generally recommend using them specifically on acne-prone areas rather than automatically applying them head to toe.

The takeaway? Your body care routine doesn't need to be complicated. Gentle cleansing, intentional ingredients, and protecting your skin barrier can make a meaningful difference.

Read the full article, “The Best Way to Wash Your Body for Healthy Skin, According to Dermatologists,” originally published by Women’s Health and featured on AOL.

-Brooke Jeffy MD