Here in Singapore, the weather is humid most of the time. With that, you always look forward to taking a bath. Taking a bath is refreshing regardless of what products you use. However, there are other Singaporeans who are very particular of the products they use. Is body wash better than soap or is soap better than body wash?

If you are uncertain of what to use, you can continue reading. Here are some things that you need to know about body wash and soap:

• Moisture: You have to know that soaps are more drying than body wash. This is due to the chemical used in manufacturing it – sodium hydroxide. The good news is that bars now comprises of synthetic detergents which makes the skin soft. Just look for bars that contain olive oil, sunflower seed oil and other hydrating oils. Body washes on the other hand do two jobs – it eliminates dirt and deposits moisturizers.

• Exfoliation: If you want a thorough clean, you have to look for bars with exfoliation. You have to be particular about the exfoliating beads. The beads will give an intensive scrub. If you use body wash, there are products that contain micro beads but you will not get the same stimulation from an exfoliating bar. You need a loofah sponge or washcloth though if you want to get stimulation from the beads. If you do not prefer the micro beads but still want to get exfoliation, look for body wash containing salicylic or glycolic acid. It will do the trick without any gritty feeling.

• Fragrance: Soaps are now scented with oils. In fact, there are others that have longer staying power that you can skip putting perfume. However, if your skin is sensitive, it is better to consider fragrance free bars. If you want scents, body washes will give more options. Body washes have neutral pH which makes it easier to formulate fragrances. Soaps have higher pH.

The three things mentioned above will help you decide which is better between the two. If you consider both, there is nothing wrong with that. You can use a body wash or soap according to your likeness. The good news is that there are many manufacturers offering the best of both. You only have to discover it.

No matter what you choose, the important thing is you feel refreshed and clean. There are cheap soaps and washes if you prefer. If you prefer expensive ones, they are available in the market too.