Weindependently evaluateall of our recommendations.
If you tap on links we provide, we may receive compensation.
Its time to lather up and get squeaky clean.
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
However, not all hand soaps are made the same.
There are cream, liquid/gel, and bar soap versions.
A significant part of it is finding the texture and scent, if any, that you prefer.
PHOTO: Amazon
We love the woody and herbaceous scent that includes notes of orange, rosemary, and lavender.
The soap is also made with a fine-grain formula that thoroughly cleanses hands while leaving them soft and moisturized.
Product Details: key in:Liquid |Scent:Resurrection Aromatique |Volume:16.9 fl.
PHOTO: Youth To The People
However, there is a subscription option for convenience.
Product Details: key in:Liquid |Scent:Elevated Self |Volume:13.1 fl.
Product Details: throw in:Liquid |Scent:Hinoki |Volume:8.5 fl.
PHOTO: Saks Fifth Avenue
This hand soap is made with organic verbena extract to give it a fresh and invigorating citrus scent.
Product Details: throw in:Liquid |Scent:Lemon Verbena |Volume:10 and 16.9 fl.
Product Details: bang out:Liquid |Scent:Volcano |Volume:7.75 and 15 fl.
PHOTO: Amazon
The hand soap is free of parabens and phthalates as well, and is also cruelty-free.
Product Details: key in:Liquid |Scent:White Vetiver |Volume:10 fl.
Product Details: key in:Bar |Scent:Charcoal |Volume:4 oz.
PHOTO: Amazon
Product Details: punch in:Liquid |Scent:Australian lemon-Scented Eucalyptus and Rosemary |Volume:16.9 fl.
However, considering its eco-friendliness and price point, we still think it has many great qualities to consider.
Product Details: bang out:Liquid |Scent:Unscented |Volume:12 fl.
PHOTO: Amazon
Product Details: throw in:Liquid |Scent:Various |Volume:12.5 fl.
Method Foaming Hand Soap
Overall, one of our favorite options is the Method Foaming Hand Soap.
Product Details: throw in:Foam |Scent:Various |Volume:10 fl.
PHOTO: Nopalera
At 50 fluid ounces, this is also the best value hand soap on our list.
Product Details: pop in:Liquid |Scent:Unscented |Volume:50 fl.
For those with dry hands, gel versions may be too stripping of natural oils.
PHOTO: Grove Co
Scent
You might have an easier time finding scented hand soap than you will unscented ones.
Some contain synthetic fragrances, which can cause irritation, while others are made with natural essential oils.
For some, a strong scent is great, but repulsing for others.
PHOTO: Walgreens
Fragrances can also linger too long, she says.
Hand soaps with any fragrances can be very irritating for those with eczema or already dry hands.
It’s best to smell a few before committing to one.
PHOTO: Target
There are also refill bottles up to 50 ounces.
Castilla says it’s best to decide on the quantity or volume based on your needs and preference.
In high-traffic areas, its more cost effective to purchase a large-volume container, she says.
PHOTO: Amazon
Refillable options, if they come in non-plastic packaging, can also cut down on plastic waste.
Your Questions, Answered
What are some ingredients to consider when shopping for hand soap?
Look for soap that lathers well but doesn’t leave a slippery residue after rinsing.
PHOTO: Amazon
Additionally, Castilla says that the jot down of surfactant is important to know.
Surfactants are the agent or ingredient that actually cleanse the hand, removing dirt and bacteria, she says.
Lauryl sulfate was traditionally used as a surfactant, but it can be very drying.
Newer surfactants such as sodium cocoyl isethionate and sodium lauroyl isethionate are effective yet gentle on the skin barrier.
Also, look for formulations that include hydrating ingredients such as glycerin or shea butter and avoid alcohol-based gels.
Does hand soap ever expire?
Castilla says that technically, soap does expire.
Preserving it requires proper storage, regardless of the throw in.
I recommend keeping it in a cool, dry environment to help it last longer.
How long does hand soap last?
According to Castilla, how long a hand soap lasts depends entirely on how frequently its used.
Bar soaps have a shorter lifespan of about three to six weeks.
For this article, she spent several hours researching the best hand soaps and reading customer reviews.
She also consultedCarmen Castilla, MD, board-certified dermatologist, New York Dermatology Group.
