7 Non-Drying Hand Soaps That’ll Leave Your Skin Feeling So Soft All Winter

My default, everyday favorite is J.R. Watkins Gel Hand Soap in the Green Tea scent, which smells fresh without being overpowering. This formula is genuinely moisturizing, and I buy the bulk refill packs so I can decant into my reusable dispensers; guests regularly compliment the scent and feel. I also like the foaming version, although I still prefer the gel.

This “fancier” soap originally came in a multipack at Costco, and I’ve been hooked ever since. You can still find Newport Home Hand Soap on Amazon, although scent options are more limited. It's made with coconut oil and essential oils, and it’s noticeably more moisturizing than many mainstream formulas. If I could keep a citrusy Newport soap stocked at all times, I absolutely would.

When skin is extra sensitive, ECOS Hypoallergenic Hand Soap is our go-to. The Free & Clear formula is scent-free and has a super-gentle feel. It’s especially great for the kitchen, as we wash our hands constantly while prepping and cleaning up food. Bonus: It’s plant-powered and eco-friendly, too.

On the opposite end of the scent spectrum is Caldrea Hand Wash Soap. Their fragrances are bold and luxurious. Although some of their scents are strong for my sensitive nose, they’re a hit with friends. My personal favorite is Sea Salt Neroli, which really does feel like a mini spa moment. This one is pricier, so I treat it as a special occasion or guest bathroom soap rather than an everyday kitchen staple.

Native (yes, the deodorant brand) makes a surprisingly lovely hand soap at a drugstore price. The Sweet Peach & Nectar scent is fresh and fruity; it’s a bit stronger than some of my other favorites, but still gentle and plant-based. If you want a boutique feel without the boutique price, this is a great pick.

When my hands are especially dry, I reach for Kosmatology Foaming Hand Soap. The brand was created by a pharmacist mom inspired by her baby’s eczema. It comes in several scents (I usually go for the citrus options or unscented), and I especially like it in the kitchen. The texture is a bit thicker than other foam formulas, so you have to rinse a touch longer — but honestly, during cold-and-flu season, that may be a good thing.

I was curious about Blueland’s refill-tablet model and reusable glass bottles, so I tried the fragrance-free version of the brand’s hand soap. It’s another gentle, free-and-clear option that’s great for everyday use in bathrooms or kitchens. It doesn’t feel quite as moisturizing as some gels on this list, but it cleans well without stripping the skin (plus, the sustainability element is a big win).