Body Wash vs. Bar Soap: The Ultimate Showdown for Teen Skin
Jun 12, 2021
Welcome to the Clean Team Tryouts
When it comes to getting clean, everyone’s got an opinion. Some are die-hard bar soap fans, others can’t live without their body wash. So, which one’s actually better for teen skin (and your shower shelf)? Let’s break down the differences, the perks, and the Prep U favorites—so you can pick your perfect match.
Meet the Contenders
Bar Soap: The OG of Clean
Bar soap has been around forever—but don’t call it old school. Today’s bars (especially from Prep U) are packed with natural ingredients, skin-friendly oils, and scents that actually make you want to shower. They’re compact, eco-friendly, and ready for anything from face to feet.
Prep U’s MVPs:
- Tea Tree Cleansing Castile Bar
- Peppermint + Oats Cleansing Soap Bar
- Charcoal Bar Soap
- Sandalwood Cleansing Castile Bar
- Blue Tansy Cleansing Bar
- Alpine Shave Bar
Want a side-by-side comparison? Check out our Compare Prep U Cleansing Bars guide.
Body Wash: The Smooth Operator
Body wash is the new kid on the block—liquid, lathery, and easy to use. It’s great for sharing, comes in mess-free bottles, and can be tossed in your gym bag without a second thought. Prep U’s body wash is a 2-in-1, so it handles hair and body in one go (hello, time saver!).
Prep U’s MVP:
Bar Soap vs. Body Wash: The Face-Off
Ingredients & Skin Feel
-
Bar Soap:
- Solid bars are packed with plant-based oils, butters, and natural scents.
- No parabens, sulfates, or weird stuff.
- Great for sensitive, oily, or breakout-prone skin.
- Learn more about what’s inside: Ingredient Glossary for Bars
-
Body Wash:
- Liquid formula is hydrating, gentle, and easy to spread.
- Also free from harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances.
- Perfect for quick showers, post-gym, or anyone who likes a sudsy lather.
Want to know the difference between bar soap and face wash? Here’s our Bar Soap vs. Face Wash breakdown.
Eco-Friendliness & Travel
-
Bar Soap:
- Minimal packaging, no plastic bottles, lasts forever (okay, not forever, but you get it).
- TSA loves it. No spills in your bag.
-
Body Wash:
- Comes in recyclable bottles, but still uses more packaging than a bar.
- Less mess in the shower caddy—no gooey soap dish.
How You Use It
-
Bar Soap:
- Rub directly on skin or with a washcloth/loofah.
- Easy to target rough spots, feet, or anywhere you need extra clean.
- Need a how-to? Here’s How to Wash Your Face with Bar Soap.
-
Body Wash:
- Squeeze, lather, rinse. Great for sharing (if you’re into that).
- Works for hair AND body if you’re using Prep U’s 2-in-1.
Which Is Best for…
-
Active Teens & Athletes:
- Both work, but Charcoal Bar and Tea Tree Bar are awesome for sweaty, post-practice skin.
- 2-in-1 Body Wash is perfect for the gym bag and quick showers.
-
Sensitive Skin:
- Try Sandalwood, Blue Tansy, or Peppermint + Oats Bars for gentle, soothing clean.
- Body Wash is also gentle—no harsh detergents.
-
Travel & Sleepovers:
- Bar soap wins for portability, but body wash is less likely to get smooshed in your bag.
-
Minimalists:
- 2-in-1 Body Wash = less clutter, less stress.
The Prep U Lineup: Find Your Perfect Clean
Bar Soap Picks
- Tea Tree Bar: For athletes and oily skin
- Charcoal Bar: For breakouts and deep clean
- Sandalwood Bar: For dry or sensitive skin
- Peppermint + Oats Bar: For soothing and refreshing
- Blue Tansy Bar: For calming and balancing
- Alpine Shave Bar: For shaving and creamy lather
Body Wash Pick
- Hydrating 2-in-1 Hair + Body Wash: For head-to-toe clean (and hair, too!)
Still Can’t Decide? Mix & Match!
You don’t have to choose just one. Lots of Prep U fans keep a bar and a bottle in the shower so they can switch things up. Try a bar for face and body, and the 2-in-1 for hair or quick washes. (Bonus: All our products are parent-approved, cruelty-free, and made for real teen skin.)
Quick FAQ
Can I use both bar soap and body wash?
Absolutely! Use what feels best for your skin and your routine.
Absolutely! Use what feels best for your skin and your routine.
Are Prep U bars and washes safe for sensitive skin?
Yes—no harsh chemicals, just clean, plant-based ingredients.
Yes—no harsh chemicals, just clean, plant-based ingredients.
Which lasts longer?
Bar soap usually goes the distance, but our body wash is concentrated so a little goes a long way.
Bar soap usually goes the distance, but our body wash is concentrated so a little goes a long way.
Want to Dive Deeper?
- How to Wash Your Face with Bar Soap
- Compare Prep U Cleansing Bars
- Bar Soap vs. Face Wash
- Ingredient Glossary for Bars
- How to Build a Skincare Teen Routine
Final Thoughts: No Wrong Answers (Just Clean Ones)
Whether you’re Team Bar or Team Body Wash, Prep U’s got your back (and your face, and your hair). Try them both, mix it up, or stick with your favorite. Clean skin, simple routines, and zero drama—that’s what we’re all about.
Want more skincare tips, answers, or memes? Explore our blog or sign up for our newsletter.
