Dove
Dove was launched in 1957 by Lever Brothers (now Unilever) with a single product: the Dove Beauty Bar, which was marketed not as soap but as a beauty bar containing one-quarter moisturizing cream. This positioning was revolutionary -- traditional soap stripped skin oils, while Dove's syndet (synthetic detergent) bar cleansed without destroying the skin's moisture barrier. The brand has since expanded into body washes, lotions, deodorants, and hair care, becoming one of Unilever's largest brands with presence in over 150 countries. Dove's 2004 'Campaign for Real Beauty' became one of the most culturally significant advertising campaigns in history, challenging beauty industry standards by featuring women of diverse ages, sizes, and ethnicities. The brand's dermatological credibility remains strong, with the Beauty Bar still the number-one dermatologist-recommended cleansing bar.
Brand Philosophy
Dove's philosophy centers on gentle cleansing and moisturizing that respects the skin's natural barrier. The brand has consistently positioned itself against harsh, stripping formulations, using its mild surfactant technology and moisturizing cream base as differentiators. Beyond product, Dove has made body positivity and self-esteem central to its brand identity, investing in programs that promote positive body image in young people. The formulation approach prioritizes gentleness, pH balance, and moisture retention across all product categories.
Everyone seeking gentle, moisturizing cleansing at mass-market pricing. Especially beneficial for dry and sensitive skin types who find traditional soaps stripping, and families looking for trustworthy, dermatologist-backed body care essentials.
- Beauty Bar -- #1 dermatologist-recommended cleansing bar
- 1/4 moisturizing cream formulation technology
- Campaign for Real Beauty cultural phenomenon
- Gentle syndet (non-soap) cleansing technology
- Available in 150+ countries
- Glycerin
- Sodium Lauroyl Isethionate
- Sodium Lauroyl Glycinate
- MicroMoisture Droplets
- 1/4 Moisturizing Cream
Dove at a Glance
Strongest Categories
Dove performs best in: Body Care (2 products, avg 79/100); Cleanser (1 product, avg 79/100).
Best Conditions Served
Across all products, Dove scores highest for: Dry/Dehydrated Skin (avg 90/100); Eczema-Prone Skin (avg 86/100); Sensitive Skin (avg 85/100). If your primary concern is one of these conditions, Dove products are particularly worth considering.
Certifications
Common certifications include Paraben-Free, Sulfate-Free, 98% Biodegradable Formula, 100% Recycled Plastic Bottles, pH-Balanced, #1 Dermatologist-Recommended Body Wash Brand.
Best Dove by Skin Condition
The highest-scoring Dove product for each condition we evaluate.
Dove Body Wash Deep Moisture
Dove Plant Milk Coconut Milk & Sugar Lychee Cleansing Body Wash
Dove Plant Milk Coconut Milk & Sugar Lychee Cleansing Body Wash
Dove Beauty Bar Original
Dove Plant Milk Coconut Milk & Sugar Lychee Cleansing Body Wash
Dove Beauty Bar Original
Dove Plant Milk Coconut Milk & Sugar Lychee Cleansing Body Wash
Dove Beauty Bar Original
Dove Plant Milk Coconut Milk & Sugar Lychee Cleansing Body Wash
Dove Body Wash Deep Moisture
All Dove Products (3)
Dove Body Wash Deep Moisture
Dove Plant Milk Coconut Milk & Sugar Lychee Cleansing Body Wash