If we’re going to wash our hands all day long, shouldn’t we make our time at the sink more enjoyable and less of a chore? Luckily, companies have stepped up and introduced liquid soaps that turn hand-washing into a pampering experience (yep, you heard that right) with formulations that feel silky going on and scents that transport you to the Mediterranean.
Even better, if used properly, almost all hand soaps are effective at killing microorganisms, shared Dr. Alexis Young, M.D., an Assistant Clinical Professor of Dermatology at Columbia University Medical Center in New York City. “A soap does not have to be labeled ‘antibacterial’ or have harsh, drying ingredients to work.”
According to CDC guidelines, you should wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, with studies showing the longer you wash, the greater the reduction of bacterial counts on the skin. Young also had a few additional tips to maximize the cleansing experience.
“Scrub thoroughly on both sides, between the finger and under the nails, and find a scent and consistency you love, so you’ll be more compliant. Be sure to remove any rings so soap doesn’t get trapped, which could lead to skin redness, itching and cracking. And if you have super sensitive skin, avoid soaps with fragrance.”
We tested dozens of hand soaps to find the best ones that’ll leave your skin feeling soft and supple throughout the cold winter months. Also, we talked to experts to reveal the best ingredients to look for. Here are our go-to picks, along with some other editors' favorites to upgrade your hand-washing game.
What's the difference between hand soap and hand wash?
According to board-certified dermatologist Maryam Safaee M.D., products that contain soaps "are formulated with surfactants that are typically alkaline and disrupt the skin barrier, strip the natural proteins and lipids, thus leading to irritation and dryness."
Whereas, hand wash products typically use "syndets which are milder surfactants, thus designed to maintain the skin barrier and prevent irritation," adds Safaee.
Best hand soaps approved by editors
Production associate Audrey Ekman says this hand soap is great value and offers a moisturizing deal. "I have been using this newly launched serum-infused hand soap and really like that it nourishes my skin instead of stripping it every time I wash my hands. It's great for fall since it marks the start of a stretch of drier air and cold and flu season, when we're washing our hands more and need additional moisture. Plus, it's so affordable," she says.
Editorial operations manager Jillian Ortiz and other Shop TODAY editors are fans of this hand soap for its scent. "I also love Mrs. Meyer’s as a go-to. It’s the one I typically keep a back stock of," says associate editor Kamari Stewart. The formula offers essential oils, aloe vera and olive oil for a moisturizing texture.
The non-overwhelming scent of this hand soap is what makes this a top product for Stewart. "I'm typically not a huge fan of lavender scents for at-home products because I feel like the lavender is overwhelmingly floral, but this one surprised me. It also contains lavendin, a different type of lavender, that tones down the floral of it all and, to me, gives it a more spa-like scent. For how good it smells, it's also surprisingly affordable!"
This hypoallergenic and vegan foaming Dial soap hydrates hands with moisture-drawing glycerin while killing 99.99% of bacteria.
Plant-based cleansers like lemon oil wash away dirt without drying, while glycerin — a humectant that draws in moisture — keeps hands supple.
This classic brand delivers when it comes to keeping your hands cleanly. Stearic and palmitic fatty acids protect your skin’s barrier while moisture-drawing hydroxyethyl urea hydrates, keeping skin soft and healthy-looking all winter long.
Coconut oil and sea salt combine with mint, eucalyptus, peppermint and spearmint to make hand washing an energizing experience.
Deputy managing editor Jess Bender loves this one for its luxurious feel. "This may be a hot take, but one of the best things you can buy at Williams Sonoma is their hand soap," she says.
Her mom introduced her to this luxurious section of the store and she's been hooked ever since. "It has a luscious feel with both aloe vera and olive oil in its formulation, so it leaves your hands feeling extra smooth once you're done scrubbing. Their Meyer lemon scent in particular is super special; it makes as a great gift for anyone who appreciates a little extra luxury in their day-to-day," she adds.
While this is a luxurious hand soap, Stewart loves how great it smells. "This is definitely the fanciest hand soap I've ever owned. When it comes out, it's a little thicker so it feels like lotion and hand soap in one. It smells really good, too. One pump is also more than enough soap, a half pump will do, so the bottle will last a while," she says.
Frequently asked questions
Not all soaps are antibacterial, shares Safaee.
"It’s important to note antibacterial soaps are generally not superior to regular for good hand hygiene. Soaps are formulated to clean and remove dirt through the surfactant properties and the mechanical action of washing. However, antibacterial soaps contain specific antimicrobial agents to kill or inhibit bacteria," adds Safaee.
Yes! "Hand soaps contain surfactants that strip the skin of its natural proteins and lipids. Frequent washing can lead to dry irritated damaged skin," says Safaee.
How we chose
We chose skin care products based on expert advice regarding their benefits, as well as those that contained antibacterial properties as their key ingredient. We also considered other ingredients that help with moisturizing, anti-aging, and more.
Meet the experts
At Shop TODAY, our reporters interview a range of qualified sources and experts to capture a wide scope of perspectives on a given topic. We also ensure that all expert guidance and recommendations are provided independently and without any undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
- Dr. Alexis Young, M.D., is an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Columbia University Medical Center in New York City.
- Maryam Safaee, M.D. FAAD, is a Los Angeles-based board-certified dermatologist and co-founder of ManeRX, a haircare line focused on science-driven hair products.
