Everything You Need to Know About the Hand Soaps of 2024

In the era of frequent handwashing, you can make it a luxurious moment with the latest hand soaps. Dermatologist Dr. Jennifer MacGregor says fragrance is fine unless you’re sensitive. Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose suggests picking a soap that lathers well and doesn’t feel too thin or slippery. Not all hand soaps are equal, so finding one that turns a simple task into a pleasant experience can make your day better.

Grown Alchemist Sweet Orange, Cedarwood, Sage Hand Wash

Grown Alchemist’s hand soap became my favorite after I stumbled upon it in a Delta lounge. The natural botanical oils like fennel seed, cedarwood, and rosemary leaf not only create an incredible scent but also provide the hydration my skin needs. With properties like antimicrobial and antiseptic, they act as natural cleansers. Coconut oil softens the skin, sweet orange oil clarifies, and sweet almond oil soothes and retains moisture. The refreshing scent, a blend of citrus, cedarwood, and herbs, makes handwashing a delightful experience.

Type: Liquid | Scents: 3 | Size: 16.9 fl oz

Mrs. Meyers Clean Day Rain Water Foaming Hand Soap

This affordable foaming hand wash is a top contender. We love its rich lather and quick-rinse lightweight foam. With essential oils, aloe vera, glycerin, and olive oil, our hands felt soft without any sliminess. It’s gentle for sensitive skin, free from parabens, phthalates, and artificial colors. The recyclable packaging and upcoming refills for reuse make it eco-friendly. The rainwater scent, part of the Aromatherapy line, is fresh and delightful.

Type: Foam | Scents: 7 | Size: 10 fl oz

Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser

If you have hand eczema, Dr. MacGregor suggests Cetaphil cleanser. It’s creamy, has vitamins B3 and B5, and glycerin for gentle cleansing without drying the skin. Being unscented reduces the risk of fragrance reactions. Plus, it’s gentle enough for the face, making it suitable for sensitive skin.

Type: Cream | Scent: Unscented | Size: 16 fl oz

Homecourt Neroli Leaf Hand Wash

Homecourt’s Neroli Leaf scent is a joy – fresh and floral, like a tropical greenhouse. The gel-like formula turns into a bubbly lather, keeping hands moisturized with argan oil and Australian hibiscus flower extract. Washing hands with this soap is so pleasant that we take our time.

Type: Liquid | Scents: 4 | Size: 12 fl oz

Kiehl’s Liquid Hand Soap

Kiehl’s hand soaps are great for kitchen enthusiasts worried about dry hands. Dermatologists recommend it because of its gentle formula with hydrating ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and vitamin E. The grapefruit scent is a nice touch for the kitchen sink.

Type: Liquid | Scents: 1 | Size: 6.8 fl oz

L’Occitane Shea Ultra-Rich Wash

For added moisture in your handwashing routine, dermatologist Dr. Corey L. Hartman recommends this cream soap from L’Occitane. The dense, creamy consistency feels luxurious, and the key ingredient, shea butter, is rich in omega 6 and 3, providing an instant dose of moisture to your skin. It’s a pampering handwashing experience that leaves your hands soft all day long.

Type: Cream | Scents: 1 | Size: 10.7 oz

J.R. Watkins Foaming Hand Soap with Pump Dispenser

Dr. Murphy-Rose’s personal favorite, this foaming hand soaps quickly lathers and rinses without leaving any residue. Its largely plant-based formula avoids harsh chemicals, making it mild for sensitive or reactive skin. Additionally, it comes in attractive packaging and a variety of scents.

Type: Foaming | Scents: 12 | Size: 9 fl oz

C.O. Bigelow Hand Wash

C.O. Bigelow, a trusted NYC pharmacist, offers a great hand wash collection. With scents like verbena and coconut, it transforms from gel to rich lather. Packed with moisturizers like pro-vitamin B5 and aloe vera, it’s paraben- and SLS-free. Classic packaging adds to its charm, making it an excellent choice for liquid soap lovers.

Type: Liquid | Scents: 9 | Size: 10 fl oz

Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Liquid Soap

Dr. Bronner’s, beloved by eco-conscious individuals, follows the Spanish Castile soap-making tradition, using all-natural plant oils. This 100% vegan soap avoids harsh lab-produced detergents, making it non-toxic and biodegradable. It arrives concentrated, requiring dilution with water before use. Incredibly versatile, it’s strong enough for hands and even tough kitchen messes.

Type: Liquid | Scents: 9 | Size: 16 fl oz

Paloroma Gentle Hand Wash

Paloroma’s Main Squeeze Gentle Hand Wash is perfect for sensitive skin. Made from plant extracts, it’s free from harsh chemicals like parabens and fragrances. With soothing ingredients like chamomile and aloe vera, it’s gentle and calming. Plus, the cute packaging works for adults too!

Type: Liquid | Scents: Unscented | Size: 10 fl oz

Krigler Bar Soap

Krigler’s French milled soaps offer a luxurious handwashing experience. With beautiful disc shapes resembling French macaroons, they come in pastel shades. Produced from natural plant materials, these soaps undergo three milling processes, providing abundant lather, divine scents, and quick rinsing. The natural, moisturizing ingredients leave hands feeling silky. Perfect for a fancy bathroom sink.

Type: Bar | Scents: 9 | Size: 3.5 oz

Seventh Generation Unscented Hand Soap

A go-to for Dr. Hartman, this drugstore staple hand soap provides a nice lather without leaving the skin parched or tight. The unscented formula is composed of natural, plant-derived ingredients, making it a safe choice for those with skin conditions or sensitive skin.

Type: Liquid | Scents: Unscented | Size: 12 fl oz

Conclusion

Washing your hands in 2024 is all about choosing the right soap for your needs. From eco-friendly options like Dr. Bronner’s to luxurious picks like Krigler, there’s something for everyone. Paloroma’s Main Squeeze is great for sensitive skin, while classics like C.O. Bigelow and Cetaphil offer reliable choices. Whether you prefer budget-friendly or high-end, keeping your hands clean can be effective and enjoyable.