If you’re looking for the best antibacterial soaps for body odor, I hear you my friend!
With so many brands out there, it’s hard to know which actually works well for those stinky situations (like after a run, or heck, a day dealing with a really tough boss, which can make you JUST as sweaty, believe me!)
Don’t worry, though, I’ve got you covered with some amazing options!
Let’s start with a quick look at our top picks, then keep reading for all the glorious details.
Antibacterial Body Soap for Body Odor Top Picks at a Glance
If you see the value in these products and choose to purchase via my referral links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
- Noble Formula 2% Pyrithione Zinc (ZnP) Argan Oil Bar Soap, 3.25 oz (Winner)
- Dettol antibacterial Hand and Body Bar Soap, Original, 110 Gr / 3.88 Oz (Pack of 12)
- L’OCCITANE Aromachologie Douceur Immortelle Uplifting Body Soap
- Gallinée Prebiotic Cleansing Bar Perfume Free
- JASON Tea Tree Liquid Satin Soap
Don’t have time? Here is a quick comparison of our favorites!
13 Best Antibacterial Soap for Body Odor (Reviews)
Although all soaps have antibacterial effects when used properly, not all are designed to really work well against strong body odor. [1]
I’ve simplified the task for you by compiling a list of the 13 best antibacterial body wash and soaps. Read along to find out what makes each of them worthy!
1. Noble Formula 2% Pyrithione Zinc (ZnP) Argan Oil Bar Soap, 3.25 oz (Winner)
Noble Formula Argan Bar is a handcrafted bar of soap suitable for all skin types and potent enough in the fight against body odor.
It is suitable for everyday use. You get 3.25 ounces in one pack of the soap bar.
The soap bar contains Zinc Pyrithione, which has antibacterial and anti-fungal properties that help fight body odor.
It also contains olive oil, argan oil, and milled oats. They help fight skin irritation, itchiness, and flaking. It does not contain any added mineral oils.
Unlike many other antibacterial soaps, it is completely vegan and is not tested on animals. Also, it is one of the best soaps for acne.
One of the customers, Natalie, says, “If you have acne, please use this soap! It is the best cleanser. The soap by Noble Formula is my all-time favorite antibacterial soap owing to its many benefits. ”
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Handcrafted | Doesn’t lather much |
| Vegan and cruelty-free | Has a light scent |
| Contains zinc pyrithione which helps fight body odor.12 | |
| No added perfume or fragrance |
Take a look at this video to learn more:
- Premium quality ZnP 2% soap with natural ingredients.
- An Excellent cleansing bar for everyday use and all skin types. Low comedogenic properties are helpful for acne prone skin
- Relieves itching, redness, flaking, and irritation while removing oil, dirt, and debris
- Formulated with antioxidant-rich olive oil, moisturizing argan oil, and gently calming and exfoliating milled oats
- Handmade and handcrafted in the USA with only the finest ingredients. We make no compromises for your skin!
2. Dettol antibacterial Hand and Body Bar Soap, Original, 110 Gr / 3.88 Oz (Pack of 12)
Dettol has been one of the best-known makers of hygiene products for over six decades. This is a pack of 12 bars of soap with one bar weighing 12oz.
It is one of the most widely used antibacterial soaps used all over the world. It helps you get rid of germs and is also great for acne.
As one of the users, Bruno, says “ It is great for cleaning up after hot Texas weather.“
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| One of the best known antibacterial soaps | Powerful smell |
| Budget-friendly | |
| Gentle on skin | |
| Beneficial if you have acne |
Watch this video:
- Pack of 12 individually bars, each bar is 110 gr / 3.88 oz
- NEW…Discover the Dettol soap bar
- A new formula that kills 99.9% of bacteria and remove viruses for clean hands and body everyday!
- An improved level of fragrance to deliver at each drop a superior hand and body wash experience for your senses
- Dettol Original soap with a new formula, gives protection causing germs, for your entire family
3. Defense Soap Peppermint 4 Oz Bar (Pack of 2) – 100% Natural and Herbal Pharmaceutical Grade Tea Tree Oil. Made in USA.
Defense soap was first made to suit the needs of athletes and sportspersons. This pack contains 2 bars of soap, with each weighing around 4oz.
It contains natural oils like tea tree, eucalyptus oil and has no cosmetics or dyes. It does not have any chemicals for smell; instead, peppermint does that job.
They are suitable for sensitive skin as well.
One of the reviewers, Stephanie, says about the soap, “I had a chronic itch on my back where the infection was centered, and after just two showers with Defense, the horrible itch was entirely gone.“
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Contains natural oils like natural tea tree oil and eucalyptus oil | It has a weak smell |
| No alcohol, dyes, or other cosmetics | On the pricier side |
| Removes dirt and germs | |
| Has the refreshing smell of peppermint oil |
Look at this video review:
- CLINICALLY PROVEN NATURAL TEA TREE OIL, PEPPERMINT OIL, AND EUCALYPTUS OIL provide a broad spectrum of benefits effective at washing thoroughly
- PROVEN IN THE WORLD OF CONTACT SPORTS TO EFFICIENTLY REMOVE dirt, grime, gym crud, sweat, smog, allergens, grunge, and built up oils
- HIGHEST QUALITY WASH WITH SUPERIOR RINSING ACTION restores the skin's natural barrier and helps controls the production of sebum and dead skin cells
- NATURAL, FREE & CLEAR with no fragrances, dyes, cosmetics, petrochemical compounds, triclosan, alcohol or sodium lauryl sulfate
4. L’OCCITANE Aromachologie Douceur Immortelle Uplifting Body Soap
L’occitane is a bar containing only natural essential oils. It has oils of basil, eucalyptus, and cypress. With this order, you get a bar of soap weighing 0.7 oz.
The lack of chemicals in the soap means your skin is not left dry after use. Also, the soap doesn’t contain any palm oil.
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Contains essential oils that nourish the skin | Comparatively, on the expensive side |
| No palm oil | |
| Does not dry out the skin |
Watch this video:
5. Dove Body Wash Hypoallergenic and Sulfate Free Body Wash Sensitive Skin Effectively Washes Away Bacteria While Nourishing Your Skin 34 oz 3 Count
Dove body wash is pH balanced and gentle on the skin. You get three bottles of body wash with this order, each weighing 34oz.
The body wash is sulfate-free, and the containers are made from 100% recycled bottles.
It’s also gentle enough to be used on the face and moisturizing enough to be used on the body.
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Sulfate-free body wash | Contains Cocamidopropyl betaine |
| PETA certified | It has a faint smell |
| Contains plant-based moisturizer | |
| The bottles are made from recycled bottles | |
| Suitable for sensitive skin |
As one reviewer Mary Snyder says, “Smells fantastic, keeps me fresh, lavender lovers will definitely enjoy it, works with sensitive skin. “
Watch this video:
- Gently cleanses: Dove Sensitive Skin Body Wash combines moisture renew blend with our gentlest ingredients to pamper sensitive skin, Unlike ordinary body soap or shower gel.
- Mild and pH-balanced: Dove Body Wash includes moisture renew blend-a combination of skin-natural nourishes and plant-based moisturizers that absorb deeply into the top layers of skin.
- Dove Sensitive Skin pampers sensitive skin with a rich, luxurious formula, leaving your skin softer than a shower gel.
- Thoughtfully made: our body wash is PETA-certified, cruelty-free and made in 100% recycled bottles, so you can feel good about switching from your everyday shower soap to Dove Sulfate free body wash.
- Plant-based moisturizer: with naturally derived cleansers and skin-natural nutrients, this Dove Body Wash is microbiome gentle, so you'll get beautifully nourished while maintaining healthy skin.
6. Gallinée Prebiotic Cleansing Bar Perfume Free
This perfume-free cleansing bar is by Gallinée. You get a 100-gram bar of soap with this order. The bar is suitable for sensitive skin and even for sensitive areas.
The soap can be used on both the face and body. It contains a rich lactic acid formula that helps the bodily microbiome. It has a balanced pH.
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Rich in lactic acid | Contains sulfate |
| Ideal for use over sensitive areas | Has a strong scent |
| Perfume-free | |
| Suitable for sensitive skin | |
| Can be used on both face and body |
Check this useful review:
7. JASON Tea Tree Liquid Satin Soap
Jason Tea Tree Liquid Satin Soap is antibacterial. It contains no added sulfate, parabens, and petrolatum. It contains Australian tea tree oil, eucalyptus oil and is fragranced from jasmine oil.
With this order, you get a single bottle weighing 16.2 oz. No added chemicals mean it has a faint smell and does not lather up much.
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Contains Australian tea tree oil | Very light scent |
| Fragranced from jasmine oil | |
| No sulfate | |
| Has added Vitamin E |
8. Azulene Body Soap – For All Skin Types
Azulene body soap from Mario Badescu is suitable for all skin types. In this order, you get a single bottle of 8oz. It is hydrating body wash so, instead of leaving your skin dry, it hydrates the skin.
The azulene in the body soap soothes the inflammation. It also has emollient, which is rich in minerals and soothes the skin.
Although the body soap is suitable for all kinds of skin types, it is particularly effective for dry and sensitive skin. It is one of the best dry skin body washes.
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Suitable for all skin types | Has an unpleasant medicinal smell |
| Contains emollient which nourishes the skin | A bit pricier than others. |
| Chamomile and yarrow present help maintain healthy, youthful skin. | |
| Contains azulene, which helps irritated skin | |
| Hydrates the body |
9. Dial For Men Antibacterial Body Wash, Odor Armor 16 oz ( Pack of 3)
Dial for Men antibacterial body wash comes in a pack of three bottles, each weighing 16oz. It is an antibacterial body wash that neutralizes odor rather than just suppressing it.
It contains glycerin which helps the skin maintain moisture. The body wash contains no parabens, phthalates, and silicones.
If you’re someone who is very aware of their carbon footprint, you need not worry as this comes in a recyclable plastic bottle. As one of the users, Dan, says “It does wash away the stink when I use it. “
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Comes in a recyclable bottle | Has a strong floral scent |
| Antibacterial | |
| Suitable for dry skin | |
| Neutralizes odor |
- Antibacterial
- Odor Neutralizing Technology
10. BOTANIC HEARTH Tea Tree Body Wash and Tea Tree Mint Body Wash Bundle
This order is a bundle of tea tree body wash and tea tree mint body wash; each of them comes in a bottle weighing 16oz.
It contains all-natural oils, including tea tree, olive oil, coconut oil, etc. There are no added chemicals in this body wash. It also is free from paraben and added colors.
This body wash is entirely vegan as it is not tested on animals. The aloe vera present in it hydrates the skin.
One of the reviewers, Arrington Fam, says about the product, “It helps with the spots I get on my skin, helps repel insect bites, and gets off stubborn mascara. I love the smell. “
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Contains tea tree and mint | Has a faint scent |
| Contains aloe vera, which hydrates the skin | |
| No paraben or other harmful chemicals | |
| Not tested on animals |
Watch this video review:
- Botanic HearthÕs Tea Tree wash and Tea Tree Mint Body Wash for itchy, dry, and irritated skin Bundle.
- Botanic Hearth Tea Tree Oil Body Soaps are cruelty free and not tested on animals; made in USA
- Maximum Strength Tea Tree Oil Soap / Body Wash: Botanic Hearth Foot and Body Washes are made with 100% pure and natural tea tree oil; Contain potent beneficial ingredients; paraben-free; no harmful chemicals
- Botanic Hearth Tea Tree and Tea Tree Mint soaps are made using traditional European techniques from premium botanicals rich in skin conditioning ingredients
- Powerful broad spectrum ingredients: The Foot and Body Washes helps wash away and defend impurities from the skin surface responsible for body odor, athletes foot, ringworm, jock itch, acne, toenail issues, and other common foot and skin irritation
11. Nesti Dante Immunity Hygiene Soap Bar
Nesti Dante Immunity Hygiene Soap Bar is an Italian made soap bar that has made a name for itself in the past six decades of its existence.
The order contains a single bar of soap weighing 5.2oz. The glycerine in the soap keeps the skin moisturized by keeping intact the natural body oils.
It is antibacterial as it contains Benzalkonium Chloride, which also kills the odor-causing germs. It also is entirely vegan. The soap has no added perfume or fragrance formula.
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Contains glycerine which keeps the skin moisturized | Not suitable for all skin types |
| No added color or perfume | Has a faint smell as there’s no added perfume |
| Benzalkonium Chloride present in the soap bar kills bacteria and prohibits their future growth | |
| Contains no animal extracts as it is entirely vegan |
Check this bar soap’s review:
12. Leland Francis Black Rose Bar
Leland Francis Black Rose Bar contains a single bar of soap weighing about 4oz. It has charcoal which efficiently cleans out toxins and deep cleanses.
The rose oil and bergamot oil in the soap help reduce signs of aging and keep it hydrated as well. African black soap is an excellent ingredient, as it provides antioxidants that nourish the skin.
Also, the soap has no animal extract as it is entirely vegan.
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Contains charcoal which gives thorough cleansing | Not for dry skin |
| Has antioxidants that soothe the skin | Pretty pricey compared to others |
| No animal extract, purely vegan | |
| Contains rose oil and bergamot oil, which reduces the signs of aging |
13. Remedy Soap Pack of 2, Helps Wash Away Body Odor, Soothe Athlete’s Foot, Ringworm, Jock Itch, Yeast Infections and Skin Irritations. 100% Natural with Tea Tree Oil, Mint & Aloe 12 oz
This 2 pack soap by Remedy helps wash away body odor, soothe ringworm, yeast infection, and skin irritation. Each bottle weighs 12oz.
Natural tea tree oil and aloe vera in the soap help hydrate skin and keep it moisturized. The soap is excellent for all skin types but particularly for acne-prone skin.
The soap also has an organic blend of jojoba oil. Coconut oil and oregano oil. The soap is an excellent choice for sporty people and yet gentle enough to be used daily.
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Has organic olive, coconut, and jojoba oil | Not suitable for oily skin |
| Contains tea tree oil and aloe vera, which hydrates the skin | Somewhat strong aroma. |
| Its antibacterial formula fights odor | |
| Contains Epsom salt, which exfoliates dead skins and helps counter dry skin roughness | |
| Deodorizes and cleanses the body |
Check this product review:
- Made in the USA: Now in TWO large 12 ounce bottles, Remedy Soap Body Wash is a powerful odor eliminator that helps with acne as well as other skin irritations including athlete's foot, candida, ringworm, jock itch, foot odor, and toenail issues.
- Natural and Organic Ingredients: Our men’s and women’s shower gel is made from premium botanical tea tree oil and peppermint oil, which are well known for naturally helping skin irritations. We added jojoba oil, coconut oil, and olive oil to moisturize, refresh and deodorize. No parabens, preservatives, petroleum, sulfate, silicone, synthetic fragrances or dyes you’ll find in other gels, lotions, creams and ointments.
- Strong Enough for the Gym, Gentle Enough for Every Day: The perfect men’s and women’s shower gel for your gym bag. It smells great, like a tea tree shower gel with peppermint should, is balanced for all skin types and gives you a fresh tingling sensation.
- Soothes Dry, Itchy, Cracked, Flaky Skin: Contains Skin Enriching Omega 3,6,7,& 9, Vitamin E & C, Aloe Vera, Tea Tree Oil, and other essential oils which help soothe foot and body skin irritations on your face, hands, heels, toe nails, elbow, back, chest, and butt. Men and women with acne and eczema use our moisturizing body wash for cleaner feeling skin.
- TruRemedy 100% Guarantee: We Stand By all Our Products – Remedy Bar Soap, Remedy Shower Gel for Men and Women, Remedy Foot Wash, Remedy Balm, and Tea Tree Oil Foot Soak with Epsom Salt. If you have any issues with our organic body wash reach out to us and we will do our best to make it right.
How is Antibacterial Soap Useful for Body Odor?
Body odor is caused due to bacteria, and as antibacterial soaps help kill germs and bacteria, they help with body odor.
Regular soaps only provide cleaning effects and next to no impact on the bacteria.
On the other hand, an antibacterial soap attacks the odor-causing bacteria, and thus you should include them in your daily cleaning regime.
Regularly cleaning yourself with a good antibacterial soap reduces the risk of body odor.
Some areas tend to produce body odor like armpits, navel, and genitalia. These areas need proper and regular cleaning, more so than the other body parts.
Antibacterial soap kills the germs in these areas.
What to Consider Before Buying Antibacterial Soap for Body Odor?
As you are buying soap specifically for body odor, you should keep in mind a few pointers to help you make the right choice. Here are a few tips to make an informed choice;
Triclosan
Triclosan has antibacterial properties and has been a common ingredient of many anti-bacterial products for decades. [2]
However, the chemical isn’t exceptionally safe. The FDA declared so in 2017. Hence you should make sure your soap doesn’t have this unregulated chemical.
No Added Perfume
Since we are fighting body odor here, you might be tempted to buy heavily perfumed soaps.
However, chemicals present in synthetic fragrances do more harm than benefit in the long term. Instead, opt for a naturally scented soap.
Vegan
If you’re vegan, you’ll be cautious about buying products that aren’t tested on animals. There are plenty of vegan options available for you.
So, you don’t have to worry about compromising on your principles in your fight against body odor.
Natural Oils
The chemicals in antibacterial soaps may make your skin go dry. The condition can worsen if you already have dry skin. [3]
That is why it is crucial to have soaps that contain essential oils. The essential oils help maintain the natural oils of the skin and keep it moisturized.
FAQs
Does antibacterial soap help with the underarm odor?
Yes, the odor is caused due to bacteria. Antibacterial soap helps kill those germs and gives proper cleansing—this fighting underarm odor in the process.
Why do I smell like BO no matter what?
If you regularly take a bath using antibacterial soap and use a good deodorant but still can’t overcome the body odor, get yourself checked by a doctor. It might be due to an underlying medical condition.
Will an antibacterial body wash make my skin dry?
Some of the chemicals present in antibacterial soaps are harsh on the skin. It isn’t anything to worry about, though, unless you already have dry skin, in which case a moisturizer will come in handy.
Will my antibacterial body wash cause acne breakouts?
No, rather, it will kill any bacteria present over your skin and deep cleanse. So, it actually reduces the chance of any acne breakout.
Are antibacterial soaps better than regular soaps?
It depends on what you are looking for. All soaps have antibacterial effects; it is just more pronounced in antibacterial soaps.
The Bottom Line
If you want to get rid of body odor, replacing your regular soap with an antibacterial soap could be the way forward.
While you’re out there looking for a good antibacterial soap, make sure to get one that contains natural oils and glycerin and is free from chemicals like triclosan.
Antibacterial soap containing all-natural ingredients is more suitable for long-term daily use.
References
- Office of the Commissioner (2020) Antibacterial Soap? You Can Skip It, Use Plain Soap and Water. In: U.S. Food and Drug Administration. https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/antibacterial-soap-you-can-skip-it-use-plain-soap-and-water. Accessed 29 Nov 20212. (2020)
- Should you worry about triclosan? In: Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/expert-answers/triclosan/faq-20057861. Accessed 29 Nov 20213. (2020)
- Which Soap is Best? – Minnesota Dept. of Health. In: State.mn.us. https://www.health.state.mn.us/people/handhygiene/how/bestsoap.html#:~:text=Antibacterial%20soaps%20are%20no%20more,home%20or%20in%20public%20places.. Accessed 29 Nov 2021
What is the best antibacterial soap for body odor that you have tried using? Let us know in the comments below!
