The Best Body Soaps

Soaps That Are a Steal -- Under $3

The Base Animal fat or a petroleum derivative is combined with vegetable oil.

Lather These tend to be heavy on lathering agents, which can dehydrate skin.

Softeners As in their more-expensive counterparts, glycerin is the star. Many brands are adding shea butter, olive oil, and honey, but in smaller doses.

Fragrance Chemical-based fragrances are the norm. Some brands get the scent just right; others can smell unnatural.

Size and Weight Usually a curved shape and under five ounces, these easily fit in a woman's hand.

Packaging Simple cardboard wrapping is typical, but sophisticated presentation is becoming more common.

Our Picks
*Dove Pro-Age Beauty Bar, $2.99 for two, exfoliates with rounded beads and moisturizes with olive oil.
*Dial White Tea and Vitamin E Glycerin Soap, $2.19 for three, nourishes skin.

Originally published in Ladies' Home Journal, February 2008.