Dove’s New Serum+ Oil Body Wash Has Made My Skin Softer And Smoother — And It Only Costs $15

(Alice Prendergast)

I’m deeply invested in my skincare routine, and that extends to my body care. While I’m pretty loyal to the products I use on my face, I’m a lot more flexible in the shower and love trying new launches. I’ll admit, I can be a bit of a luxury snob when it comes to skincare — I often believe you get what you pay for — but if I find something affordable that works just as well (or better) than its high-end counterparts, I’m all in.

When Dove launched its Serum+ Oil Body Wash earlier this year, featuring formulas for soothing and radiance, I had a feeling it might become a staple in my routine. Streamlining my mornings is always a priority, and since this wash cleanses while nourishing, it seemed like an easy way to save time. Its performance, combined with its budget-friendly price point, has made it a standout for me.

Now, let’s get into the details.

Affordability and efficacy can be a rare combination in the beauty world. At the very least, it often takes some digging to find formulas that truly deliver in today’s saturated skincare market. So when Dove announced it was adding an oil body wash to its beloved lineup of shower essentials, my interest was piqued. It promises luxurious hydration, moisturized skin, and a radiant glow, all while leaving a dewy — not greasy — finish, which can be a common issue with similar products. It all sounded promising, so as soon as I could get my hands on it, I did.

Let’s start with the facts and figures. The Dove Serum+ Oil Body Wash comes in a 452 mL plastic pump bottle and costs around $15, with slight variation depending on where you buy it. That’s fairly standard for a drugstore option, but notably more affordable than luxury counterparts with similar claims, like the Josie Maran Vanilla Vibezzz Hydrating Argan Body Wash. While it’s not a one-to-one comparison — there are differences in the ingredient lists — both are oil-based formulas designed to hydrate and nourish. By contrast, the luxury option is $30 for 250 mL, nearly double the price for just over half the amount of product.

Now for the more important stuff: scent, texture, and results. When it comes to formula, you have two options: Serum+ Soothing and Serum+ Radiance. While I have tried both, I definitely gravitate toward the Serum+ Soothing, if only for the scent, which is an almond oil and sandalwood blend (Serum+ Radiance has a jojoba oil and manoi flower base). Texture-wise, the two formulas react the same, starting as a rich oil and lathering into a light foam when hot with water. I love the experience as it’s the best of both worlds: the luxury and moisture of an oil but with the frothiness and cleansing powers of a classic body wash. I often start by exfoliating with a Kitsch African Net Sponge, and then go in with the body wash to replenish moisture.

I’m happy to report that it delivers on its promises. The scent is amazing, the in-shower experience is top-notch, and my skin feels moisturized enough afterward that I can skip my usual oil-and-lotion routine. I also love using it as a shave cream — it’s rich and fluffy, but not so much that it gets in the way of a close shave. Another big win in my books.

As for ingredients, the Dove Serum+ Soothing Oil Body Wash gets its moisturizing power from 50% glycerin and almond oil, which help deliver long-lasting hydration. The formula was co-created with a team of dermatologists and trusted beauty experts, designed to be gentle while boosting radiance and moisture. That said, if you don’t enjoy the texture of oil-based skincare, this might not be the best fit for you.

For me, the Dove Serum+ Soothing Oil Body Wash gets top marks. You get great value for your money, and it delivers on scent, moisture, and cleansing. It’s a new shower must-have in my routine.

Dove Serum+ Soothing Oil Body Wash Pros

• Very affordable
• Cleanses and moisturizes in one step
• Leaves skin smoother and more radiant
• Rich texture and scent

Dove Serum+ Soothing Oil Body Wash Cons

• Packaging is not the most durable
• Some reviewers have issues with the fragrance

What are reviewers saying about the Dove Serum+ Soothing Oil Body Washes?

Though it’s new to the market, Dove Serum+ Oil Body Wash is already receiving rave reviews, earning an average rating of 4.5 stars on Amazon Canada and 4.7 stars on Walmart Canada. Reviewers love that it combines the cleansing power of a traditional body wash with the rich, nourishing benefits of an oil. Many use them as an all-in-one product, replacing their body wash, shave cream, and moisturizer. They’re a big hit for those who prefer a more streamlined routine and a clutter-free shower.