Shower Oil vs Shower Gel: Which Is Right for Your Skin?
Just like different people choose different facial skincare depending on their skin type and needs, there’s also no single best option on what to use in the shower. The two main categories of body washes are shower oils and shower gels, but what is the difference between them and how to know what’s right for your skin?
How Does a Classic Shower Gel Work?
Most shower gels are made using special cleaning molecules called surfactants, which is what gives them that rich, foaming lather. It feels effective in removing dirt and sweat, and that’s exactly what most people want from a body wash.
However, the one thing to know about traditional soap-based shower gel formulas is that their pH level tends to be well above the skin’s natural pH level (roughly 8.5-11 as opposed to somewhere between 4 and 6). Research shows that soap-based cleansers can, therefore, affect how well your skin holds onto moisture, potentially making it feel more tight and dry, or sometimes even a little itchy, especially in the winter.
So while that’s not a dealbreaker for everyone and it certainly doesn’t mean shower gels are bad for you, they may not be compatible with all skin types.
How Are Shower Oils Different?
Shower oils work on a different principle: rather than relying on hash surfactants to lift away dirt, they cleanse with oil itself. While they may feel like there’s less going on, without all the foaming and bubbles, they’re actually just as effective as gels.
The main advantage of oil-based body washes, however, is their nourishing and moisturising properties. Often formulated with blends of natural oils, such as jojoba, avocado, olive, almond and argan, and enriched with soothing ingredients, like lavender or jasmine, shower oils leave your skin feeling luxuriously soft and silky.
The disadvantage, of course, is that this naturally comes at a higher price point, compared to shower gels which can be very budget-friendly.
Choosing Between the Two
There’s room for both on the body wash shelves, and choosing between them usually comes down to skin type and personal preference.
If your skin runs dry or feels reactive to harsher products, an oil-based wash is likely the gentler everyday option. If you have oilier skin, or you love that squeaky-clean feeling after a workout, a gel can absolutely stay in the rotation. Some people like switching in between them, depending on the day, while others choose them depending on the season – you may prefer a shower gel in the summer, but need the oil’s moisturizing properties during the drier months of the winter.
It’s also worth considering the rest of your beauty routine. Do you like to use a body lotion after your shower or would you rather kill two birds with one stone? If it’s the latter, a shower oil may also be the preferable option for you.
Let Your Skin Make the Decision
If you’re still not sure what you prefer or what type of skin you have, the simplest way to find out is by experimenting! Try an oil-based wash for a week or two and see how your skin feels compared to using just shower gel the week before.
