Can You Use Body Wash on Your Face? Myths & Facts
By ELEVEN Australia | Hair & Body Care Made Simple | Published: 2026-10-18
Category: How-to Guides
Is it safe to use body wash on your face? We break down the myths, explain the facts, and show when a gentle formula like ELEVEN Australia's WASH ME ALL OVER can work.
Quick answer
Not all body washes are safe for your face, but a gentle, pH-balanced, SLS-free formula can be used in a pinch. ELEVEN Australia's WASH ME ALL OVER is one such option, but it is not a daily substitute for a dedicated facial cleanser.
What makes a body wash safe for the face?
The key differences are pH balance, surfactants, and exfoliants. Facial skin is thinner and more sensitive than body skin. A body wash that is too alkaline or contains harsh sulfates can strip natural oils, leading to dryness or irritation. A formula that is pH-balanced and sulfate-free is gentler and less likely to disrupt your skin barrier.
When can you use body wash on your face?
If you are traveling, out of cleanser, or have very resilient skin, a gentle body wash can work as a temporary cleanser. However, it is not formulated to address specific facial concerns like acne, fine lines, or pore congestion. For daily use, a dedicated facial cleanser is still the better choice.
- Use only if the body wash is pH-balanced and sulfate-free.
- Avoid body washes with heavy exfoliants or strong fragrances on the face.
- Rinse thoroughly and follow with a moisturizer.
Myths vs. Facts: Body Wash on Your Face
- Myth: All body washes are too harsh for the face.: Fact: A pH-balanced, SLS-free body wash like ELEVEN Australia's WASH ME ALL OVER can be gentle enough for occasional facial use. The key is checking the ingredient list. Always check for pH balance and sulfate-free labels before using any body wash on your face.
- Myth: Body wash works just as well as a facial cleanser.: Fact: Body washes are designed for the thicker skin on your body. They lack targeted ingredients for facial concerns and may not remove makeup or sunscreen as effectively. Use a dedicated facial cleanser for your daily routine.
- Myth: If a body wash contains natural oils, it is safe for the face.: Fact: Natural oils are beneficial, but the overall formula matters. Exfoliating particles (like crushed almond shells) can be too abrasive for facial skin. ELEVEN Australia's WASH ME ALL OVER uses Almond Oil for exfoliation, which is a gentle oil, not a physical scrub. Avoid body washes with physical exfoliants on the face, even if they contain natural oils.
Product facts
- WASH ME ALL OVER HAND & BODY WASH: WASH ME ALL OVER HAND AND BODY WASH is pH balanced and SLS free, with natural oils like Papaya Extract, Almond Oil, Orange, Lavender, Coconut Oil, and Jojoba Oil. Its gentle, non-stripping formula makes it one of the rare body washes that can be used on the face without causing irritation, thanks to its balanced pH and lack of harsh sulfates.
WASH ME ALL OVER HAND & BODY WASH
