Our range of body wash and shower gel is designed for daily care, from gentle washes for sensitive skin to tea tree formulas for problem skin. Customers often ask what the difference is between the two names, and whether "organic" means anything on a bottle. Honest answers below.
Body wash and shower gel: mostly the same thing
In practice the two terms describe the same category of product. The distinction, where one exists, is texture. "Shower gel" tends to be clear or translucent and slightly firmer; "body wash" tends to be creamier and more opaque. Both are liquid cleansers for the body, both work the same way, and brands use whichever word sells better in their market. "Shower gel" is the more common term in the UK, "body wash" in the US.
So the question to ask is not "gel or wash?" but "what is in it, and what does it do?"
What "organic" does and does not mean
"Organic" on a shower gel is loosely regulated. A product can call itself organic with a small percentage of certified ingredients, or none, unless it carries a recognised certification mark. Our shower gels are not certified organic and we do not describe them that way. What we can say precisely is this:
- They are built on natural essential oils: tea tree and eucalyptus in one, rose and citrus in the other.
- They use a gentle cleansing base rather than harsh sulphate-heavy surfactants.
- They are vegan and cruelty-free, with no harsh chemicals.
- They are made in the UK.
If organic certification is important to you, look for a certification mark on the pack. If what you want is a natural, gentle, effective wash, the ingredient list is the thing to read.
Choosing between our two
For skin that sweats, smells or itches
The Tea Tree Shower Gel. Tea tree oil is antibacterial and antifungal; eucalyptus soothes. It is the one for body odour, athlete's foot, jock itch and post-workout freshness. More than 900 reviews, 4.7 out of 5. The twin pack is better value if you use it daily.
For everyday, sensitive or reactive skin
The British Rose Shower Gel. Rose essence, a touch of citrus, a soft lather and a clean rinse. Suits men, women and teens, and is the better choice if a medicinal scent is not what you want in the morning. £4.99, or a twin pack for £14.
Can a body wash replace soap?
Yes, and for many people it is kinder to skin. Bar soap is often alkaline and can leave skin tight; a well-made gel or wash cleans at a gentler pH. The exception is targeted soaps with active ingredients, such as our salicylic acid and sulphur bars for acne-prone skin, which do a specific job a general wash does not.
The short version
Ignore the gel-versus-wash label. Check the ingredients, match the active to your skin's problem, and treat "organic" as a claim to verify rather than a reason to buy. Both of our gels are in the shower gel collection, and the guide to the best shower gel for all skin types will help if you are deciding between them.
