The best 2-in-1 formulas for quick, frequent showers.
When it comes to body washes, the idea of a 2-in-1 is appealing—to some. In the world of men’s grooming, this usually means a shampoo-body wash hybrid (questionable, at best). But what about a face-and-body wash? Or better yet, a generously sized body cleanser that’s actually safe for your face?
side note: the slanted soap holder from the photo above got so much attention on my IG stories–you can find it for $14.99 on amazon.com
I’m not expecting a fully optimized, luxury face wash masterpiece here, but hear me out:
• In summer, I shower up to three times a day because I’m constantly coated in bug spray or sunscreen.
• In winter, it’s once a day, in and out within minutes, before the dry, itchy skin kicks in from the hot water and indoor heat combo.
So, a gentle yet effective body-and-face wash? Sounds like a perfect fit. After much trial and error, I’ve found a few that actually work. Here’s my criteria and top picks.
What I Look for in a Body-and-Face Wash:
✔ Thoroughly cleansing – I have a moderately hairy body and like to feel and smell clean, duh.
✔ Lightly foaming – No washcloths or loofahs here, so I need a formula that lathers well with just my hands.
✔ Lightly scented – I don’t mind fragrance-free, but I do enjoy a subtle scent—think “clean” or “fresh.”
✔ Water-based – Works as step two of a double cleanse if needed.
✔ Hydrating – Leaves my skin feeling soft, never tight or dry.
⚠️ Note: I can’t speak to how these perform on conditions like eczema, rosacea, or KP.
Shower tips: Keep the water warm (not scalding hot) and keep it short.
Naturium The Perfector Salicylic Acid Body Wash
I love the thick gel texture of this one. The Salicylic Acid is a great bonus since my skin always benefits from gentle exfoliation and decongestion. Gentle is the key word here—it’s effective but not overly potent and won’t trigger sensitivities.
The glycerin-forward formula is packed with nourishing plant oils (Sunflower, Safflower, Olive), so it leaves skin feeling surprisingly hydrated. I’ve repurchased this multiple times—two enthusiastic thumbs up. It’s also fragrance-free.
💡 Take note: If your skin leans dry/sensitive, keep an eye out for Naturium’s brand new The Calmer Ceramide Body Wash, also safe for face cleansing.
La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+ Gentle Foaming Moisturizing Wash
This might actually be my favorite. It’s a low-foaming, opaque gel that effectively cleanses while leaving skin feeling moisturized.
Technically, it’s fragrance-free, but the unscented scent reminds me of Kiehl’s old-school Foaming Non-Detergent Washable Cleanser—a nostalgic throwback. Since both brands are under L’Oréal, I sometimes wonder if they share some formula DNA.
If I had to pick a desert island product, I’d be thrilled to use this year-round. It’s packed with mineral-rich thermal spring water, glycerin, and shea butter, which keep my skin happy.
💡 Travel tip: This comes in a 400ml pump, but if you ever find the elusive 100ml tube, grab it for your Dopp kit.
Bioderma Atoderm Cleansing Oil
Bioderma is famous for its micellar water, but this cleansing oil is just as worthy of attention.
This thick, viscous oil-to-foam formula cleanses deeply while keeping skin soft and nourished. It’s my go-to during winter months when my skin is at its driest and most temperamental.
Loaded with glycerin, niacinamide, and vitamin C, it does everything I need—hydrates, conditions, and cleanses—without any tightness.
💡 Pro tip: Apply to wet skin, unlike traditional oil cleansers. Also, go big: get the liter size.
💰 $14.99 (6.7oz) or $32.99 (1L) at dermstore.com
Embryolisse Foaming Cream – Milk
Embryolisse is best known for its cult-favorite moisturizer, but their face and body products are equally great. Including this face and body cleanser.
The Foaming Cream Milk is a thin, translucent gel that foams lightly and gently removes oil and grime. It’s super mild, making it ideal for daily use.
🚨 Fragrance warning: If you prefer strictly unscented formulas, this isn’t for you. The scent is clean yet powdery—classic French pharmacy vibes. I personally find it comforting.
💰 $15 (6.7oz) at embryolisse.com or amazon.com
CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser Bar
For the ultimate minimalist, sometimes all you need is a bar of soap.
There’s nothing fancy about the CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser Bar, and that’s precisely why it works. No gimmicks, just a solid unscented, creamy bar that doesn’t split in half between uses (the worst).
I always grab one when I’m traveling in case the hotel toiletries are suspiciously unbranded. It lathers well, cleanses great, and never leaves skin feeling tight.
Final Thoughts
A great 2-in-1 body and face wash can simplify your routine—whether you’re taking multiple showers in the summer or speeding through in winter. From luxe French pharmacy finds to drugstore basics, these are the best options that clean, hydrate, and work above the neck, too.Would love to know—do you have a go-to 2-in-1 body wash? Let me know in the comments!
Make sure to check out my round-up of best face cleansers to use during colder months.
