Dr. Squatch Wood Barrel Bourbon Body Wash

A soap-based body wash formulated with Potassium Cocoate and Saccharide Isomerate to provide a hydrating, squeaky-clean rinse with a prominent fragrance profile.

Performance Rating: 4.0

This formulation relies on traditional liquid soap surfactants (Potassium Cocoate and Potassium Oleate) derived from coconut and olive oils, offering a rich lather and effective cleansing. It is significantly boosted by Saccharide Isomerate, a high-performing humectant that binds moisture to the skin, and Glycerin. The addition of Hydroxypropyl Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride provides a conditioning effect, leaving skin feeling soft rather than stripped.

Safety Rating: 3.8

The product avoids harsh sulfates (SLS/SLES), parabens, and strong synthetic preservatives, utilizing Ethylhexylglycerin and Tocopherol (Vitamin E) instead. It uses an eco-friendly chelating agent (Trisodium Dicarboxymethyl Alaninate). However, the presence of Parfum and specific fragrance allergens (Limonene, Linalool, Coumarin) lowers the score slightly as these can be sensitizing to reactive skin types.

Final Rating: 3.9

A luxurious, soap-based body wash that effectively bridges the gap between natural cleaning agents and modern skin conditioning. While the essential oil components and fragrance add a sensory appeal, they may not suit those with fragrance allergies. Overall, it is a well-rounded product with excellent moisturizing properties provided by Saccharide Isomerate.

Verdict

This formulation distinguishes itself by moving away from modern synthetic detergents and returning to a traditional soap-based cleanser. By utilizing Potassium Cocoate and Potassium Oleate, the product relies on saponified oils—likely coconut and sunflower or olive—to provide a rich lather and a distinctive “squeaky clean” rinse that differs significantly from the slippery residue often left by mild, sulfate-free gels. While traditional soaps can sometimes be alkaline and stripping, the inclusion of Citric Acid helps to balance the pH to a more skin-friendly level. To further counteract the potential drying effects of a soap base, the formula is fortified with Glycerin and Saccharide Isomerate. The latter is a standout ingredient, a plant-derived carbohydrate complex known for its ability to bind to the skin more effectively than standard moisturizers, providing hydration that can outlast the shower itself. Additionally, the presence of Hydroxypropyl Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride adds a conditioning element, giving the foam a luxurious, soft texture that glides easily over the body. However, the most defining characteristic of this body wash is likely its scent. With Parfum (Fragrance) listed high on the ingredient deck, accompanied by specific allergens like Limonene, Linalool, and Coumarin, this product is designed for a strong olfactory experience. While this promises a delightful, spa-like shower, the high concentration of fragrance ingredients poses a risk for sensitive skin. The inclusion of Tocopherol (Vitamin E) offers some antioxidant benefits, but it cannot entirely negate the potential irritation for those reactive to essential oils or perfumes. In summary, this is a premium option for those with normal to oily skin who prioritize sensory pleasure and effective cleansing over clinical mildness. It offers a sophisticated alternative to drugstore body washes, provided your skin barrier can handle the aromatic components.

Who Is This Product For?

Who Should Avoid This Product?

Ingredient Evaluation

📁 Solvents / 溶剂

🧪 Aqua/Water/Eau / 水

Purpose: Solvent base for the formula

Concerns: None

Notes: The primary ingredient in most liquid body washes.

📁 Surfactants (Cleansing Agents) / 表面活性剂(清洁成分)

🧪 Potassium Cocoate / 椰油酸钾

Purpose: Cleansing agent, emulsifier

Concerns: Can be drying if not balanced with moisturizers

Notes: A potassium salt of coconut fatty acid, typical in liquid soaps.

🧪 Potassium Oleate / 油酸钾

Purpose: Cleansing agent, emulsifier

Concerns: None generally

Notes: Derived from oleic acid (often olive oil or sunflower oil).

📁 Moisturizers & Conditioning Agents / 保湿与调理剂

🧪 Glycerin / 甘油

Purpose: Humectant

Concerns: None

Notes: Attracts moisture to the skin.

🧪 Saccharide Isomerate / 糖类同分异构体

Purpose: Humectant, skin soothing

Concerns: None

Notes: A plant-derived moisturizing agent that binds well to skin.

🧪 Hydroxypropyl Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride / 瓜儿胶羟丙基三甲基氯化铵

Purpose: Conditioning agent, anti-static

Concerns: None

Notes: A derivative of guar gum that leaves skin feeling soft.

📁 Thickeners & Texture Modifiers / 增稠与质地调节剂

🧪 Xanthan Gum / 黄原胶

Purpose: Thickener, stabilizer

Concerns: None

Notes: Natural sugar-derived thickener.

📁 Preservatives, Stabilizers & pH Adjusters / 防腐、稳定与酸碱调节剂

🧪 Citric Acid / 柠檬酸

Purpose: pH adjuster

Concerns: Can cause irritation in high concentrations (unlikely here)

Notes: Used to match the product pH to the skin.

🧪 Sodium Citrate / 柠檬酸钠

Purpose: pH buffer, chelating agent

Concerns: None

Notes: Helps maintain the pH balance of the product.

🧪 Ethylhexylglycerin / 乙基己基甘油

Purpose: Preservative booster, skin conditioning

Concerns: Low risk of irritation

Notes: Often used as a safer alternative to parabens.

🧪 Trisodium Dicarboxymethyl Alaninate / 二羧甲基丙氨酸三钠

Purpose: Chelating agent

Concerns: None

Notes: Eco-friendly alternative to EDTA; helps stability by binding metal ions.

🧪 Tocopherol / 生育酚(维生素E)

Purpose: Antioxidant

Concerns: None

Notes: Protects the formula from oxidation and benefits the skin.

📁 Fragrance & Allergens / 香精与致敏原

🧪 Parfum (Fragrance) / 香精

Purpose: Scent

Concerns: Common cause of contact dermatitis/skin sensitivity

Notes: An umbrella term for the scent blend.

🧪 Limonene / 柠檬烯

Purpose: Fragrance component

Concerns: Potential allergen

Notes: Naturally occurring in citrus oils.

🧪 Linalool / 芳樟醇

Purpose: Fragrance component

Concerns: Potential allergen

Notes: Naturally occurring in lavender and other flowers.

🧪 Coumarin / 香豆素

Purpose: Fragrance component

Concerns: Potential allergen

Notes: Has a sweet, hay-like scent.

🧪 Limonene / 柠檬烯

Purpose: Fragrance component

Concerns: Potential allergen

Notes: Naturally occurring in citrus oils.