When it comes to daily hygiene routines, people usually need to put more thought into the most common part - Body wash or shower gel! The benefits of this body care are often neglected, which is quite unfair, we say! Wondering why? Well, beyond cleaning the skin, modern body washes and shower gels offer a wide range of skincare benefits, from hydrating dry skin to providing a relaxing spa-like experience.
Whether you are finding answers to how to use a shower gel or are more inclined towards knowing about its benefits, this blog has covered them all! Read along carefully to understand why a shower gel or a body wash is one of the most essential body care products.
What is a Shower Gel?
A shower gel, also known as a body wash, is a liquid soap formulated specifically for cleansing the body while taking a shower. Its formulation is thinner and lighter as compared to bar soaps and usually contains moisturizing ingredients. Unlike bar soaps, shower gels have pleasant fragrances that last for a longer duration. They are popular because they're easy to apply, provide rich later, and leave the skin feeling refreshed and gentle. We know, you must be thinking that bar soaps have been there for centuries and they too cleanse the body, provide lather, and leave the skin feeling good. Yes, you are right, however, there are major differences between the products, making one preferable to the other,
Bar Soaps Vs Shower Gel: Know the Difference
1.) Formulation
- Bar Soap - They are typically made with a combination of fats or oils, alkalis, and fragrances. This formulation's pH level is higher, making bar soap harsher on the skin. The harsh behavior strips away the skin's essential and natural oils.
- Shower Gel - Shower gels have a liquid consistency and are often made using detergents, water, and skin-friendly moisturizers. They have lower pH levels, making them feel gentler on the skin. Many herbal shower gels, commonly those that are herbal contain added nutrients like vitamins, essential oils, and exfoliating ingredients.
2.) Skin Hydration
- Bar Soap - Bar soaps that lack moisturizing agents or have higher pH levels tend to make the skin dry.
- Shower Gel - The best shower gels are often infused with hydrating ingredients such as aloe vera, glycerin, and oils. Such ingredients make them more suitable for maintaining the skin's moisture balance. The shower gel is best for those having dry or sensitive skin.
3.) Hygiene
- Bar Soap - Bar soaps are used directly on the skin, thus, they can sometimes give birth or become home to several bacteria, especially when they are left in a damp environment. Moreover, a bar soap is often shared between family members, which becomes a medium for transferring germs.
- Shower Gel - Shower gels are more hygienic because they are dispensed from the bottle, reducing the risk of contamination.
4.) Lather and Texture
- Bar Soap - Soaps generally create less lather unless designed extra foamy. The creamy texture sometimes leaves a residue and might make your skin feel slippery.
- Shower Gel - They are formulated to produce rich leather and soft texture, especially when applied using a loofah or sponge. They are lightweight and easy to rinse off.
What is Shower Gel Used for?
The shower gel is formulated to clean the body and wash away dirt, impurities, and sweat, leaving the skin feeling refreshed and bouncy. Moreover, many shower gels contain hydrating ingredients that help lock in moisture and prevent skin from getting dry. The majority of the shower gels are infused with fragrances like lavender, jasmine, citrus, or eucalyptus, which can provide a calm sensory experience during the shower. Besides, some body showers contain exfoliating ingredients like salts or beads, that help remove dead skin cells, leaving the skin smooth and rejuvenated.
What is a Shower Cream?
Other than body shower or shower gel, you may have come across shower cream. Wondering what is that? Shower creams and similar to shower gels, but they have rather creamier textures and rich consistency and offer more hydration. For those having dry and sensitive skin, shower creams could be their best friend. This product locks in the moisture while providing a soothing experience. Shower cream usage is the same as that of a shower gel, however, they are more luxurious and give your skin a velvety feel.
Shower Gel or Body Wash Benefits: A Deeper Understanding
1.) Hydration
Many shower gels, especially those that are herbal contain moisturizing agents such as glycerin, aloe vera, aritha, and essential oils. These ingredients are best for skin hydration and prevent dryness & irritation.
2.) Fragrance
From calming lavender to energizing citrus, shower gels often come in a wide range of scents. The fragrances help in keeping your skin refreshed.
3.) Exfoliation
Some shower gels come with exfoliating beads or natural ingredients like sugar or walnuts that help kick away dead skin cells, leaving your skin smooth and rejuvenated.
4.) Gentle on Skin
Unlike bar soaps that make your skin dry and take away natural oils, shower gels tend to be gentle. They have a balanced pH and, thus, are less likely to snatch away skin's natural and essential oils.
5.) Convenience
Shower gels are less likely to make a mess as compared to bar soaps, as they do not leave any residue. Besides, they are hygienic since they are never exposed to environmental pollutants after every use.
How to Use Shower Gel for Best Results?
To enjoy the maximum benefits of a shower gel, it is important to use it appropriately. Follow these steps to get the most out of your shower gel.
- Thoroughly wet your skin.
- Squeeze a small amount of shower gel onto a loofah or a sponge. Loofah or sponge helps in creating a rich lather and also provides gentle exfoliation to your body.
- Gentle scrub your body from neck to toe in circular motions to remove dirt, sweat, and oil. Don't forget to clean your back, armpits, and other areas that are prone to sweat.
- After scrubbing, make sure you rinse off the lather thoroughly, because not doing so can leave your skin feeling irritated.
- Don't rub, rather pat dry your skin with a tidy towel.
- Lastly, follow up with a body lotion or body oil to lock in the moisture.
Conclusion
Shower gel or body washes have evolved, they aren't just limited to cleaning your body, but rather they offer benefits beyond that. They now act as a key product in keeping your overall hygiene in check. Having a deep understanding of what is the use of shower gel, what is shower cream, and the benefits of shower gel is necessary to incorporate this body care product into your daily routine. By choosing the right shower gel, you can experience a luxurious and skin-nourishing showering experience. Now is the time to add an excellent shower gel to your regimen and give extra care and attention to your body.
And that’s Kulsum’s Secret. Stay glowing, stay flawless!
FAQ's
1.) Can we use shower gel on the face?
Shower gels are great for body cleaning, but they are not right for facial use. The facial skin is more delicate and sensitive and the body shower formulation is not best for it. This formulation might turn out to be harsh on your face. It is best to use a face wash or a face cleanser rather than a body shower to get the best face skin.
2.) Can shower gel be used for hair?
Shower gel isn't a substitute for a shampoo or conditioner. A shower gel is strictly formulated to cleanse and hydrate your skin. The necessary ingredients to keep your scalp healthy are not present in a shower gel, thus, it is recommended to use only shampoo and conditioner on your hair.
3.) Is shower gel used instead of soaps?
It is beneficial to use shower gel instead of soap, as they are liquid and convenient to use. Besides, their formulation is gentle on the skin as compared to soaps; they do not strip away the natural oils from the skin.
4.) Can I use shower gel without a loofah?
You can use your hands to apply shower gel on your body. However, it is better to use a loofah for it also works and exfoliant, scrubbing away the dirt, along with creating more lather as compared to palms.
5.) How much shower gel to use?
A coin-sized amount of shower gel is appropriate to create a good lather and cleanse the entire body.
