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Body Wash & Shower Gel Cheat Sheet Hello Charlie

You jump into the shower, and lather up, ready to face the day.

But what are you really putting on your body? Harsh preservatives, sulphates, synthetic colours and perfumes, PEGs?

Aren’t you glad that Hello Charlie is here to sort out the good stuff for you? We’ve researched and reviewed 42 body washes and shower gels for you, so you don’t have to be fooled by greenwash!

Here’s our top picks for body washes and shower gels for the grown ups. If you’re looking for baby and kids body washes, have a look at our cheat sheet here.

Safe Picks for Body Wash & Shower Gel

(in alphabetical order)

For the full details, keep reading!

Body Wash & Shower Gels – the Full Rundown

Name: 100% Pure Coconut Shower Gel 100% Pure Coconut Shower Gel
Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis (Organic Aloe) Leaf Juice*, Rosa Centifolia (Organic Rose Hydrosol) Flower Water*, Cocos Nucifera (Saponified Coconut) Oil, Vegetable Glycerin, Extracts of Camelia Sinensis (Organic Green Tea) Leaf*, Asparagopsis Armata (Red Algae), Mel (Lavender Honey), Thymus (Thyme) Vulgaris Flower/Leaf, Origanum Vulgare (Oregano) Leaf, Rosmarinus (Rosemary) Officinalis Leaf, Hydrastis Canadensis (Goldenseal) and Cocos (Coconut Flavor) Nucifera Extract, Lonicera Caprifolium (Japanese Honeysuckle), Hyaluronic Acid. *Certified Organic
EWG Skin Deep Rating: Not in EWG but we estimate it as 1.
Cost: 236 ml for $24.95
Comments: Nothing to be concerned about here – this looks good!

 

Name: 808 Dude Shampoo & Body Wash 808 Dude Shampoo & Body Wash
Ingredients: Aqua, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Extract Organic, Lauryl Glucoside, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Decyl Glucoside, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Certified Organic Glycerine and Aqua and Certified Organic Eleutherococcus senticosus (Ginseng) and Naticide, Aqua and Glycerin and Paullinia Cupana Seed Extract (Guarana) and Citric Acid and Sodium Benzoate, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Panthenol, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Oil, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Peel Oil, Pogostemon Cablin (Patchouli) Oil, Citrus Aurantfolia (Lime) Oil, Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Oil, Juniperus Virginiana (Cedarwood) Bark Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil, Coriandrum Sativum (Coriander) Oil, Glyceryl Caprylate, Potassium Sorbate.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: Not in EWG.
Cost: 250ml for $13.95 (Buy at Hello Charlie)
Comments: This one is a shampoo and body wash aimed at teen boys, but my husband is happy to use this as well. This scores higher in EWG because of the Naticide. The preservative Naticide is allowed by the organic certifying bodies ACO and EcoCert. Naticide is the trade name, but the Australian products must list ingredients according to the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI) names, and the INCI name for Naticide is parfum or fragrance. Which of course, scores high on the EWG database and pushes up the overall rating on this product. The only ingredient that I’m not super keen on is the cocamidopropyl  betaine. As a whole, however, this is an good product that’s much safer, yet still acceptable for teen boys. Check out our review here. Go, 808 Dude!

 

Name: Acure Sensitive Skin Body Wash Acure Sensitive Skin Body Wash
Ingredients: Organic Anthemis Nobilis (Chamomile) Flower, Organic Euterpe Oleracea (Acai) Berry, Organic Rubus Fruticosus (Blackberry), Organic Rosa Canina (Rosehips), Organic Punica Granatum (Pomegranate), Organic Fair Trade Certified™ Rooibos, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (From Coconut), Glyceryl Stearate Se (Vegetable), Organic Virgin Cocos Nucifera (Coconut Oil), Stearyl Dihydroxypropyldimomium Oligosaccharides (From Sugar), Vegetable Glycerin, Glyceryl Oleate (Fatty Acid), Decyl Glucoside (Sugar Soap), Disodium Cocoglucoside Citrate (From Coconut), Phenethyl Alcohol (Fatty Alcohol), Glyceryl Caprylate (Vegetable Fatty Acid), Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate (Lactic Acid Salt), Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters, Sclerotium Gum (Sugar Gum), Jojoba Esters, Organic Agania Spinosa (Argan Oil) , Organic Fair Trade Certified™ Olea Europea (Olive) Oil, D-Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Hippophae Rhamnoides (Sea Buckthorn) Seed Oil, Organic Curcubita Pepo (Pumpkin) Seed Oil, Ubiquinone (Coq10) , Argania Spinosa (Argan) Stem Cells, Glycerophosphoinositol Lysine (From Sunflower).
EWG Skin Deep Rating: 1 (Low Hazard)
Cost: 235ml for $19.95 (Buy at Hello Charlie)
Comments: Nothing to be concerned about in this one, either. I like it!

 

Name: Alaffia African Black Soap Citrus Alaffia African Black Soap Citrus
Ingredients: Ocimum Canum (African Mint) Aqueous Extract, Saponified Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter* & Elaeis Guineensis (Palm Kernel) Oil*, Lauryl Glucoside, (Coconut), Tangerine Essential Oil, Orange Essential Oil, Lemongrass Essential Oil, Litsea Essential Oil. * Certified Fair Trade
EWG Skin Deep Rating: Not in EWG but we evaluated it as 1.
Cost: 475ml for $14.95
Comments: Nothing to worry about in this, either.

 

Name: Andalou Naturals Clementine Ginger Shower Gel Andalou Naturals Clementine Ginger Shower Gel
Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis Juice*, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Vegetable Glycerin, Fruit Stem Cells (Malus Domestica, Solar Vitis) and BioActive 8 Berry Complex*, Citrus Clementina (Clementine) and Zingiber Officinalis (Ginger) Extracts, Citrus Tangerina (Tangerine) Extract*, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Water*, Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5), Argania Spinsosa (Argan) Oil*, Aspalathus Linearis (Rooibos) Extract*^, Rosa Canina (Rosehip) Oil*, Cyamopsis Tetragonolobus (Guar) Gum*, Allantoin, Sodium Benzoate, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Citrus Tangerina (Tangerine) and Cymbopogon Martini (Palmarosa) Oils*. Non-GMO verified *Organic ^Fair Trade
EWG Skin Deep Rating: 2 (Low Hazard)
Cost: 251ml for $9.95
Comments: Another good one from Andalou Naturals.

 

Name: Biologika Coconut Hand & Body Wash Biologika Coconut Hand & Body Wash
Ingredients: Organic Herbal Blend of Lavender, Chamomile & Rosehip; Coco Polyglucose, Decyl Glucoside, Organic Coconut Oil, Organic Aloe Vera, Organic Macadamia Oil, Organic Avocado Oil, Guar Gum, Citrus Seed Extract, Coconut absolute oil, Olive Leaf Extract, Potassium Sorbate, Citric Acid, Sweet Almond Oil.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: Not in EWG but we estimate it as 2.
Cost: 250ml for $6.95 (Buy at Hello Charlie)
Comments: Again, nothing to be concerned about with this one. Australian certified organic, too.

 

Name: Blisume Hand & Body Wash – Bergamot and Litsea Cubeba Blisume Hand & Body Wash Bergamot and Litsea Cubeba
Ingredients: Purified Aqua (Water), Coco Glucoside, Organic Aloe Vera Juice, Guar Gum, Natural Fragrance, Organic Goji Berry Extract, Rosehip Extract, Kakadu Plum Extract, Organic Paw Paw Extract, Citric Acid, Bitter Orange Extract, Elderberry Extract.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: Not in EWG but we estimate it as 3.
Cost: 250ml for $19.95
Comments: It’s the fragrance that pushes the score up on this. The Blisume website specifically says that they don’t use synthetic fragrances, and explain how their natural fragrances are made from essential oils and botanicals. But the EWG database doesn’t like fragrance, so the score is higher. The ingredients look good to me.

 

Name: Bondi Wash Body Wash – Lemon Tea Tree and Mandarin Bondi Wash Body Wash Lemon Tea Tree and Mandarin
Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside (Plant-Based), Coco-Glucoside (Plant-Based), Glycerin, Xanthan Gum, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Extract, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Citric Acid, Australian Bush Oils, Essential Oils, Saccharide Isomerate (Sugar-Based), Sodium Citrate (Salt), Glyceryl Caprylate, Gluconolactone, Sodium Benzoate (Non-Paraben Preservatives).
EWG Skin Deep Rating: Not in EWG but we estimate it as 2.
Cost: 500ml for $34.95
Comments: Another body wash that looks good, with a fragrance from essential oils.

 

Name: Crabtree & Evelyn Avocado Olive & Basil Revitalising Bath & Shower Gel Crabtree & Evelyn Avocado Olive & Basil Revitalising Bath & Shower Gel
Ingredients: Water (Aqua) (Eau), Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Cetyl Betaine, Glycerin, Polysorbate 80, Fragrance (Parfum), Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Fruit Extract, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Extract, Ocimum Basilicum (Basil) Extract, Lauryl Lactyl Lactate, Sodium Chloride, Polyquaternium-7, Disodium Edta, Citric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Hexyl Cinnamal, Benzyl Salicylate, Limonene, Linalool, Hydroxycitronellal, Benzyl Benzoate, Citronellol, Citral, Geraniol, Phenoxyethanol, Benzoic Acid, Dehydroacetic Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Methylisothiazolinone.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: Not in EWG but we estimate it as 6.
Cost: 250ml for $28.00
Comments: This one’s not looking so great. There’s perfume, and polyquaternium-7.  The preservatives are phenoxyethanol and methylisothiazolinone (MIT), both of which are on my ‘avoid’ list. That’s enough for me – I wouldn’t use this.

 

Name: Derma Sukin Daily Gentle Wash Derma Sukin Daily Gentle Wash 
Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract (Chamomile), Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Glycerin, Glyceryl Stearate, Phenoxyethanol, Benzyl Alcohol, Citric Acid.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: Not in EWG but we evaluated it as 3.
Cost: 250ml for $8.95
Comments: This is okay, but only okay. I’m not a huge fan of cocamidopropyl betaine or phenoxyethanol, and I choose not to use these. Otherwise the ingredients are okay.

 

Name: Divine by Therese Kerr Moisturising Body Wash Divine by Therese Kerr Moisturising Body Wash
Ingredients: Potassium Oleate, Potassium Cocoate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice*, Glycerine*, Rooibos (Aspalathus Linearis) Extract*, Cocoa (Theobroma Cacao) Seed Butter*, Guar (Cyamopsis Tetragonolob) Gum*, Hempseed (Cannabis Sativa) Oil*, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil*, Lemongrass (Cymbopogon Schoenanthus) Oil*, Lime (Citrus Aurantifolia) Oil*, Linalool, Limonene. *Certified Organic Ingredients
EWG Skin Deep Rating: Not in EWG but we estimate it as 3.
Cost: 300ml for $34.95
Comments: This scores higher in EWG because of the linalool and limonene, both of which are natural components of essential oils. Cosmetics laws say that these need to be declared, but as they’re part of essential oils, I’m happy with that. I’d use this.

 

Name: Dr Alkaitis Organic Body Wash Dr Alkaitis Organic Body Wash
Ingredients: Dr. Alkaitis’ Organic Castile Soap Base Made From Organic, Cold Pressed, Virgin Olive*, Jojoba*, Coconut* And Apricot Pit* Oils, The Following Herbals Are Blended: Organic Aloe Vera Gel*, Vegetable Glycerin, Bio-Pure Skin Complex Composed Of Lavender Flowers*, Chamomile Flowers*, Rosemary*, Lemon Balsam*, Benzoinº, Black Elder*, Bitter Orange*, Borage*, Mexican Marigold*, Plantain*, Grapefruit, Marsh Mallow*, Sea Wrackº And Atlantic Seaweedº, Vegetable Glycerin, Natural Vitamin C Complex And Vitamin E Complex (D-Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta Tocopherols). And 100% Pure Essential Oils. * Certified Organically Grown. º Signifies Ethically Wild-Crafted
EWG Skin Deep Rating: Not in EWG but we evaluated it as 2.
Cost: 240ml for $44.95
Comments: This looks good, as it’s a essentially a castile soap base with lots of oils and botanicals added. Having said that, I’m not sure that it’s worth the hefty price tag for what is basically castile soap.

 

Name: Dr Bronner’s Pure Castile Liquid Soap – Peppermint Dr Bronner's Pure Castile Liquid Soap - Peppermint
Ingredients: Water, Organic Coconut Oil*, Potassium Hydroxide**, Organic Palm Kernel Oil*, Organic Olive Oil*, Mentha Arvensis, Organic Hemp Oil, Organic Jojoba Oil, Mentha Piperita, Citric Acid, Tocopherol. * Certified fair trade ** none is left after saponifying oils into soap and glycerin.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: 1 (Low Hazard)
Cost: 237ml for $12.95 (Buy at Hello Charlie)
Comments: Love, love, love! My favourite. I pretty much only use this (although my sons use the 808 Dude and the Lavera 2 in 1). Dr Bronner’s is simple, pure and ethical. And it works. 

 

Name: Dr. Hauschka Rose Nurturing Body Wash Dr. Hauschka Rose Nurturing Body Wash
Ingredients: Aqua, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil, Coco-Glucoside, Glycerin, Decyl Glucoside, Alcohol, Persea Gratissima Oil, Pyrus Cydonia Seed Extract, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Xanthan Gum, Rosa Damascena Flower Oil, Parfum*, Citronellol*, Linalool*, Geraniol*, Eugenol*, Citric Acid, Hectorite. *From Natural Essential Oils
EWG Skin Deep Rating: 5 (Moderate Hazard)
Cost: 200ml for $29.00
Comments: This gets a high score in the EWG database, because of the fragrance, citronellol, linalool, geraniol and eugenol. The last four are all components of essential oils, and the fragrance is made from essential oils. Dr Hauschka is a brand that I trust, so I’m happy with this. The rest of the ingredients are good, too.

 

Name: Eco Store Orange & Patchouli Body Wash Eco Store Orange & Patchouli Body Wash
Ingredients: Aqua, Sodium Lauroamphoacetate, Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate, Coco Glucoside, Glyceryl Oleate, Citric Acid, Citrus Sinensis, Cinnamomum Camphora, Piper Nigrum, Rosemarinus Officinalis, Agathosma Betulina, Coriandrum Sativum, Pogostemon Cablin, Canarium Luzonicum.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: Not in EWG.
Cost: 400ml for $9.49
Comments: The only ingredient in this that’s questionable is the sodium hydroxymethylglycinate. It’s a formaldehyde releaser, and the EWG is not super keen on it. Ecostore are moving away from using it. However, this is still a pretty good product.

 

Name: Eco Tan Organic Foaming Body Wash Eco Tan Organic Foaming Body Wash
Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice*, Decyl Glucoside**, Sodium Lauryl Lactylate**, Glycerin*, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate**, Glyceryl Caprylate**, Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Oil*, Pink Grapefruit Essential Oil*, Lemongrass Essential Oil*, Peppermint Oil*, Coconut Oil*, Xanthum Gum**, Guar Gum**, Capryl Wheat Bran/Straw Glycosides**, Fusel Wheat Bran/Straw Glycosides**, Polyglyceryl-5 Oleate**, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate**, Glyceryl Caprylate**, Potassium Sorbate**. (*Certified Organic Ingredients, ** Natural)
EWG Skin Deep Rating: Not in EWG but we estimate it as a 1.
Cost: 375ml for $21.95 (Buy at Hello Charlie)
Comments: Nothing to be concerned about here, either. This looks good!

 

Name: ECO. Tea Tree Face & Body Wash ECO. Tea Tree Face & Body Wash
Ingredients: Purified Water, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Cocoamidopropyl Betaine, Glycerin, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Sodium PCA Potassium Hydroxide, Benzyl Alcohol, Dehydroacetic Acid, Citric Acid.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: Not in EWG but we estimate it as 2.
Cost: 95ml for $18.00
Comments: I’m not super keen on cocoamidopropyl betaine. Yes, it may be derived from coconuts, but that doesn’t make it natural. It’s a synthetic, and there are a few issues with it. It’s an okay product, but I’d probably choose something else.

 

Name: Juniper Calming Face & Body Wash Juniper Calming Face & Body Wash
Ingredients: *Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, *Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Oil, ** Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate (Natural Olive Emulsifier), *Glycerin (Glycerine), *Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Nut Butter, *Camellia Oleifera (Camellia) Oil, **Sambucus Nigra Fruit Extract (Elderberry) Extract, **Helianthus Annuus, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary CO2) Extract, ** D-Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate (Natural Vitamin E). *Certified Organic **Natural /Non GMO
EWG Skin Deep Rating: Not in EWG but we evaluated it as 1.
Cost: 250ml for $25.95
Comments: I can’t see anything to get worked up about in this. It looks good.

 

Name: Jurlique Jasmine Shower Gel Jurlique Jasmine Shower Gel
Ingredients: Aqua (Water)/Eau; Cocamidopropyl Betaine; Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate; Decyl Glucoside; Honey; Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Seed Extract; Quillaja Saponaria (Soap Bark Tree) Bark Extract; Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract; Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract; Arctium Lappa (Burdock) Root Extract; Betula Alba (Birch) Leaf Extract; Althaea Officinalis Root Extract; Trifolium Pratense (Clover) Flower Extract; Urtica Diocia (Nettle) Extract; Achillea Millefolium (Yarrow) Extract; Aesculus Hippocastanum (Horse Chestnut) Seed Extract; Equisetum Arvense (Horsetail) Extract; Totarol; Citric Acid; Fragrance/Parfum*; Hydrolyzed Soy Protein; Glycerin; Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride; SD Alcohol 40-A (Alcohol Denat.); Benzyl Alcohol*; Benzyl Benzoate*; Eugenol*; Linalool*. * From Natural Essential Oil
EWG Skin Deep Rating: 5 (Moderate Hazard)
Cost: 300ml for $29.00
Comments: There’s some nice ingredients, in here, but the second (and therefore the second highest quantity) is cocoamidopropyl betaine, which is synthetic. As is the third ingredient, sodium lauroyl sarcosinate. If you look at Jurlique’s website, it’s all about natural. So I get annoyed when the ingredients aren’t! The ingredients list says that their fragrance is from essential oils, but there’s nothing about this on their website.

 

Name: Kelapa Organics Body Wash Kelapa Organics Body Wash
Ingredients: *Organic Aloe Vera Juice, Purified Water, Coco Glucoside, *Organic Guar Gum, *Organic Coconut Water, *Organic Vanilla Oleoresin, Citric Acid, *Organic Coconut Oil, Bitter Orange Extract, *Organic Glycerin, *Organic Lavender, *Organic Sandalwood, Glyceryl Caprylate, Oat Extract. *Australian Certified Organic Ingredients.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: Not in EWG but we evaluated it as 1.
Cost: 250ml for $24.95
Comments: Nice! Good list of ingredients.

 

Name: Lavera Basis 2 in 1 Hair & Body Wash Lavera Basis 2 in 1 Hair & Body Wash
Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Sodium Coco Sulfate, Lauryl Glucoside, Glycerin, Sea Salt (Maris Sal), Algae Extract, Avena Sativa (Oat) Straw Extract*, Tritcum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Extract*, Sodium PCA, Sodium Lactate, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Hydrolyzed Corn Protein, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Citric Acid, Lactic Acid, Tartaric Acid, Alcohol**, Fragrance (Parfum)**, Limonene**, Geraniol**, Linalool**, Citral**, Citronellol** (*ingredients from certified organic agriculture, ** components of natural essential oils)
EWG Skin Deep Rating: Not in EWG.
Cost: 200 ml for $12.95 (Buy at Hello Charlie)
Comments: The only thing that jumps out with this one is the perfume. But Lavera is a reputable company, and their fragrances are from essential oils. The limonene, geraniol, linalool, citral and citronellol are all components of essential oils that have to be declared as separate ingredients. Lavera is NaTrue certified, and I’m happy with this. In fact, we use this at our house!

 

Name: Manuka Biotic Refreshing Body Wash Manuka Biotic Refreshing Body Wash
Ingredients: Deionised Water, Decyl Glucoside, Glycerine, Coco-Glucoside, Glyceryl Oleate, Leptospermum Scoparium Oil (Manuka Oil) *Organic, Kunzea Ericoides Oil (Kanuka Oil) *Organic, Xanthan Gum, Dehydroacetic Acid, Benzyl Alcohol, Sclerotium Gum, Sodium Citrate. *Certified Organic
EWG Skin Deep Rating: Not in EWG but we evaluated it as 2.
Cost: 200 ml for $19.99
Comments: The only thing that jumps out here is the benzyl alcohol, but it’s used as a preservative, so that’s all good. Another good product!

 

Name: Miessence Sunflower Body Wash Miessence Sunflower Body Wash
Ingredients: Certified Organic Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, Coco Glucoside, Certified Organic Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Non-Gmo Xanthan Gum, Certified Organic Citrus Dulcis (Sweet Orange) Essential Oil, Certified Organic Citrus Limonum (Lemon) Essential Oil, Certified Organic Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Essential Oil, Citric Acid, Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Fruit Extract.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: 1 (Low Hazard)
Cost: 250ml for $15.95(Buy at Hello Charlie)
Comments: Nothing here to get concerned about. A great product.

 

Name: Milk & Co. Body Wash Milk & Co. Body Wash
Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Sodium Laureth Sulphate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Lauryl Glucoside, Glycol Stearate, Laureth-4, Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer, Polyquaternium-7, Mannitol, Chondrus Srispus (Carrageenan) Extract, Xanthan Gum, Laminaria Digitata (Horsetail Kelp) Extract, Glycogen, Disodium Edta, Methylchloroisothiazoline, Methylisothiazolinone, Mel (Honey), Whey Protein, Glycyrprihiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Sodium Chloride, Fragrance (Parfum). Contains Limonene.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: Not in EWG but we evaluated it as 4.
Cost: 375ml for $12.95
Comments: There’s a lot in here that I don’t like. There’s sulphates, cocamidopropyl betaine, polyquaternium 7 and perfume. The perfume is apparently natural, but I can’t find anything on their website or any certifications to back this up. And then there are two preservatives that I don’t like, Methylchloroisothiazoline (MCI) and Methylisothiazolinone (MIT). Definitely one to avoid.

 

Name: MOA Fortifying Green Bath Potion MOA Fortifying Green Bath Potion
Ingredients: Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil, Foeniculum Vulgare (Fennel) Oil, Laureth-3, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Achillea Millefolium (Yarrow) Extract, Abies Sibirica (Fir Needle) Oil, Betula Lenta Bark (Sweet Birch) Oil, Tocopherol, CI 75810 (Chlorophyll).
EWG Skin Deep Rating: Not in EWG but we evaluated it as 2.
Cost: 100ml for $60.50
Comments: I can’t see anything in here to get worked up about. Looks good.

 

Name: Modere Shower Gel Modere Shower Gel
Ingredients: Water, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Decyl Glucoside, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Sodium Isostearoyl Lactylate, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Butylene Glycol, Citrus Tangerina (Tangerine) Peel Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Ocimum Basilicum (Basil) Oil, Equisetum Arvense Extract, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leaf Extract, Sambucus Nigra Flower Extract, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: Not in EWG but we evaluated it as 3.
Cost: 350ml for $17.05
Comments: I’m not at all keen on the preservatives in this, Methylchloroisothiazoline (MCI) and Methylisothiazolinone (MIT), and would avoid this product based on those two ingredients.

 

Name: Moo Goo Milk Wash Moo Goo Milk Wash
Ingredients: Aqua, Decyl Glucoside (Glucose Based Cleanser), Sodium Lauroamphoacetate (Coconut Derived Cleanser), Behentrimonium Methosulfate (Canola Based Detangler), Lauryl Glucoside (Glucose Based Cleanser), Cetearyl Alcohol (Plant Based Emulsifying Wax), Cocamidopropyl Betaine (Coconut Derived Cleanser), Glyceryl Oleate (Skin Conditioner), Coco-Glucoside (Glucose Based Cleanser), Allantoin, Piroctone Olamine, Hydrolysed Milk Protein, Fragrant Oil (Phthlate Free).
EWG Skin Deep Rating: Not in EWG but we evaluated it as 2.
Cost: 500ml for $17.50
Comments: The cocamidopropyl betaine and the fragrant oil push the score up on this. It’s okay, but I’d probably choose something else because of these two.

 

Name: Mukti Botanique Wash Mukti Botanique Wash
Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice*, Fucus Vesiculosus (Bladderwrack)*, Calendula Officinalis (Calendula)*, Chamomilla Recutita (Chamomile)*, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf*, Equisetum Arvense (Horsetail)*, Urtica Dioica (Nettle)*, Trifolium Pratense (Red Clover)*, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary)*, Salvia Officinalis (Sage)*, Achillea Millefolium (Yarrow)* Extracts, Coco Glucoside, Decyl Glucoside, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Levulinate, Sodium Anisate, Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime)*, Litsea Cubeba (Lemon Verbena), Sodium Chloride (Salt), Citric Acid. *Certified Organic Ingredient. Naturally Occurring Constituents In Essential Oils: Citral, Isoeugenol, Linalool.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: 1 (Low Hazard)
Cost: 500ml for $49.95
Comments: Nothing to worry about here, either.

 

Name: Natio Mineral Body Wash & Polish Natio Mineral Body Wash & Polish
Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Ammonium Lauryl Sulphate, Glycerin, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Polyethylene, Triethanolamine, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Macrocystis Pyrifera (Kelp) Extract, Luffa Cylindrica (Loofah) Fruit Powder, Tocopheryl Acetate, Vetiveria Zizanioides (Vetiver) Root Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Sweet Orange) Peel Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Flower Oil, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil, Xanthan Gum, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Tetrasodium Edta, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: Not in EWG but we evaluated it as 4.
Cost: 210ml for $6.96
Comments: Again with the Methylchloroisothiazoline (MCI) and Methylisothiazolinone (MIT) as preservatives! Also sulphates and cocamidopropyl betaine. Not a product I’d be using.

 

Name: Olive Oil Skin Care Company Pure Castile Olive Oil Body Wash Olive Oil Skin Care Company Pure Castile Olive Oil Body Wash 
Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Decyl Glucoside, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Coco Glucoside, Glyceryl Oleate, Glycerin, Xanthan Gum, Olea Europea Fruit Oil, Glyceryl Caprylate, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Chloride.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: Not in EWG but we evaluated it as 1.
Cost: 300ml for $19.99
Comments: Again, cocamidopropyl betaine, but otherwise okay ingredients. It’s definitely not a ‘castile’ soap, though, so don’t be fooled by the name. Stick with Dr Bronner if you want real castile soap with pure ingredients.

 

Name: OM She Aromatherapy Purely Australian Body Wash OM She Aromatherapy Purely Australian Body Wash
Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Glycerin, Triethanolamine, Carbomer, Rosa Eglanteria (Rosehip) Seed Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract (Aloe Vera), Mangifera Indica (Mango) Fruit Extract, Echinacea Purpurea, Disodium EDTA, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone. May Contain: Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Peel Oil, Limonene, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Melaleuca Alternifloria (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil, Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin/Orange) Peel Oil, Santalum Album (Sandalwood) Oil, Red 4 (CI 14700), Yellow 5 (CI 19140), Blue 1 (CI 42090), Red 33 (CI 17200).
EWG Skin Deep Rating: Not in EWG but we evaluated it as 5.
Cost: 500ml for $12.95
Comments: Cocamidopropyl betaine, Methylchloroisothiazoline (MCI) and Methylisothiazolinone (MIT), synthetic colours, and triethanolamine. Choose a different product.

 

Name: Original Source Mint & Tea Tree Shower Gel Original Source Mint & Tea Tree Shower Gel
Ingredients: Aqua, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Cocamide DEA, Mentha Arvense (Mint) Leaf Oil, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Glycerine, Lauramidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Lactate, PEG-150 Distearate, Lactic Acid, Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer, Disodium EDTA, Diethanolamine, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone, CI 42090, CI 19140.
EWG Skin Deep Rating:Not in EWG but we evaluated it as 5.
Cost: 250ml for $4.40
Comments: Sulphates, synthetic colours, PEG’s, and Methylchloroisothiazoline (MCI) and Methylisothiazolinone (MIT). No thanks!

 

Name: Philosophy Vanilla Birthday Cake Shampoo, Shower Gel & Bubble Bath Philosophy Vanilla Birthday Cake Shampoo, Shower Gel & Bubble Bath
Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Lauryl Betaine, Ppg-2 Hydroxyethyl Cocamide, Glycerin, Glycol Distearate, Parfum/Fragrance, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Allantoin, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Panthenol, Tocopherol, Tocotrienols, Trilinolein, Triolein, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Polyquaternium-7, Polyquaternium-10, Maltodextrin, Methyl Gluceth-20, Sodium Benzotriazolyl Butylphenol Sulfonate, Buteth-3, Tributyl Citrate, Citric Acid, Sodium Chloride, Magnesium Chloride, Magnesium Nitrate, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Sulfite, Polysorbate 20, Potassium Sorbate, Disodium Edta, Maleic Anhydride, Sodium Hydroxide, Methylene Di-T-Butylcresol, Phenoxyethanol, Hexylene Glycol, Caprylyl Glycol, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone, Fd & C Yellow No. 5 (Ci 19140), Fd & C Red No. 40 (Ci 16035).
EWG Skin Deep Rating: 5 (Moderate Hazard)
Cost: 480ml for $30.00
Comments: Sulphates, perfume, polyquaterniums, phenoxyethanol, synthetic colours, Methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCI), and Methylisothiazolinone (MIT). That would be a no thanks.

 

Name: Pure Fiji Coconut Milk Shower Gel Pure Fiji Coconut Milk Shower Gel
Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Cocoalkyl Dimethylamine Oxide, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Peg-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, Peg-60 Almond Glycerides, Fragrance, Cocus Nucifera (Virgin Coconut) Oil, Macadamia Ternifolia (Macadamia Nut) Oil, Aleurites Moluccana (Sikeci Nut) Oil, Passiflora Incarnata (Passionflower) Extract, Ananus Sativus, (Pineapple) Extract, Phenoxyethanol
EWG Skin Deep Rating: Not in EWG but we evaluated it as 3.
Cost: 250ml for $24.95
Comments: I don’t like the cocamidopropyl betaine, the fragrance, the phenoxyethanol or the PEGs. So I’d be looking for another product.

 

Name: Sanctum Body Spa Sanctum Body Spa
Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice*, Decyl Glucoside, Olive (Olea Europaea) Leaf Extract*, Glycerin*, Xanthan Gum, Aqua, Honeysuckle (Lonicera Caprifolium) Flower Extract, Rosemary (Rosmarinus Officinalis) Leaf Oil*, Thyme (Thymus Vulgaris) Leaf Extract, Bladderwrack (Fucus Vesiculosus) Extract, Chamomile (Chamomilla Recutita Matricaria) Flower Extract*, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract*, Honeysuckle (Lonicera Japonica) Flower Extract, Oak (Quercus Robur) Bark Extract*, Lemon Myrtle (Backhousia Citriodora) Oil, Rosemary (Rosmarinus Officinalis) Leaf Extract, Orange (Citrus Aurantium Dulcis) Oil, Citral, Limonene. *Certified Organic / 91% Certified Organic / 100% Naturally Derived
EWG Skin Deep Rating: Not in EWG but we evaluated it as 1.
Cost: 200g for $16.95
Comments: Another good one. Nothing to worry about here.

 

Name: Soda & Co. Pink Lemonade Natural Body Wash Soda & Co. Pink Lemonade Natural Body Wash
Ingredients: Aqua, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Olea Europea (Olive) Oil, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Potassium Hydroxide, Glycerin, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Citrus Paradisi (Pink Grapefruit) Oil, Citric Acid, Vitamin E, Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Oil, Guar Gum.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: Not in EWG but we evaluated it as 1.
Cost: 250ml for $13.95
Comments: Nice! This looks good.

 

Name: Sukin Botanical Body Wash Sukin Botanical Body Wash
Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Cocoamidopropyl Betaine, Decyl Glucoside, PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, Glycerin, Rosa Canina Fruit Oil (Rose Hip), Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract (Chamomile), Yucca Schidigera Root Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower Extract, Citrus Tangerina (Tangerine) Peel Oil, Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Vanillin, Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Benzyl Alcohol, Limonene*, Linalool*. * Natural Component of Essential Oils.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: Not in EWG but we evaluated it as 2.
Cost: 250ml for $7.95
Comments: There’s cocamidopropyl betaine, PEGs and phenoxyethanol. It doesn’t score high in EWG, but it probably wouldn’t be my first choice because of these ingredients.

 

Name: Swisse Lemongrass Body Wash Swisse Lemongrass Body Wash
Ingredients: Aqueous Extract of Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Glycerin, Coco-Glucoside, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Xanthan Gum, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Citrus Reticulata (Tangerine) Peel Oil, Cymbopogon Flexuosus (Lemongrass) Leaf Oil, Fragrance (Parfum)*, Citric Acid, Dehydroacetic Acid, Benzyl Alcohol. *Natural Fragrance
EWG Skin Deep Rating: Not in EWG but we evaluated it as 3.
Cost: 500ml for $14.99
Comments: There’s cocamidopropyl betaine and fragrance. The ingredients list says natural fragrance, but I can’t find anything on their website other than the claim that it’s natural. The other ingredients are okay, but I’d probably skip it.

 

Name: Thank You Botanical Geranium & Rosewood Body Wash Thank You Botanical Geranium & Rosewood Body Wash
Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Aloe barbadensis (Aloe Vera) leaf juice, Decyl glucoside, Sodium cocoamphodiacetate, Cocoamidopropyl betaine, PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl tetrastearate, Glycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium hydroxymethylglycinate, Lactic acid, Chamomilla recutita (Chamomile) flower extract, Pelargonium graveolens (Geranium) oil, Rose damascena (Rose) oil, Pogostemon cablin (Patchouli) oil, Citrus limonum (Lemon) peel oil, Aniba roseodorata (Rosewood) oil, Fragrance (Natural).
EWG Skin Deep Rating: Not in EWG.
Cost: 500ml for $8.80
Comments: There’s cocamidopropyl betaine, PEGs, phenoxyethanol and fragrance, which is apparently natural, but I can’t find anything on their website. I want to like this company because of their charitable causes (100% of their profits go to charity) but I’m afraid I wouldn’t use this.

 

Name: The Body Shop Jumbo Moringa Shower Gel The Body Shop Jumbo Moringa Shower Gel
Ingredients: Water, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Glycerin, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Polysorbate 20, Honey, Sodium Chloride, Citric Acid, PEG-18 Glyceryl Oleate/Cocoate, Fragrance, Myristamidopropyl PG-Dimonium Chloride Phosphate, Phenethyl Alcohol, Caprylyl Glycol, p-Anisic Acid, Propylene Glycol, Linalool, Hexyl Cinnamal, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Disodium EDTA, Benzyl Salicylate, Geraniol, Moringa Oleifera Leaf Extract, Sorbitol, Caramel, Yellow 5.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: 5 (Moderate Hazard)
Cost: 750ml for $24.95
Comments: Not for me, thanks. There’s sulfates, cocamidopropyl betain, PEGs, fragrance, propylene glycol, benzyl salicilate and synthetic colours.

 

Name: Vanessa Megan Blood Orange Foaming Body Wash Vanessa Megan Blood Orange Foaming Body Wash
Ingredients: 100% Natural / 80.25% Certified Organic: *Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, Coco Glucoside, Potassium Cocoate, *Glycerin, Glyceryl Caprylate, *Olive Squalane, Xanthan Gum, Mineral Salt, Sclerotium Gum, *Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Oil (Blood Orange) Essential Oil, *Backhousia Citriodora (Lemon Myrtle) Essential Oil, *Pogostemon Cablin (Patchouli) Essential Oil. *Certified Organic Ingredients
EWG Skin Deep Rating: Not in EWG but we evaluated it as 1.
Cost: 500ml for $54.95
Comments: Nothing bad in this. I like it, except for the price. Ouch.

 

Name: Weleda Sea Buckthorn Creamy Body Wash Weleda Sea Buckthorn Creamy Body Wash
Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Oil, Coco-Glucoside, Alcohol, Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Glycerin, Chondrus Crispus (Carrageenan), Fragrance (Parfum)*, Hippophae Rhamnoides Oil, Xanthan Gum, Lactic Acid, Limonene*, Linalool*, Citral* (* From Natural Essential Oils)
EWG Skin Deep Rating: 5 (Moderate Hazard)
Cost: 200ml for $17.95 (Buy at Hello Charlie)
Comments: As with all Weleda products, it’s the fragrance that pushes the score up here. But as Weleda is entirely reputable, and their perfumes are all made from essential oils, I don’t have a problem with this at all. It’s a lovely product, and I’ve used it myself.

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Copyright © Vanessa Layton and Hello Charlie 2016.

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