If you have eczema, choosing the right soap is crucial to avoid irritation and flare-ups. The best soaps for eczema are fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and moisturizing—look for ingredients like ceramides, colloidal oatmeal, or glycerin. Avoid harsh detergents, sulfates, and artificial fragrances, as they can strip your skin of natural oils.
Popular eczema-friendly soap brands include:
- CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser Bar
- Aveeno Fragrance-Free Bar Soap
- Dove Sensitive Skin Beauty Bar
- Vanicream Cleansing Bar
In this guide, we’ll break down what makes a soap eczema-friendly, key ingredients to look for, and tips for managing eczema-prone skin.
What Soap Is Good For Eczema?
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Recommended Reading: Why Have I Suddenly Developed Eczema?
Why Soap Choice Matters for Eczema
Eczema (atopic dermatitis) causes dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. Harsh soaps can worsen symptoms by:
- Stripping natural oils
- Disrupting the skin barrier
- Triggering irritation or allergic reactions
A good eczema soap should:
✔ Be fragrance-free
✔ Contain moisturizing agents
✔ Have a mild, non-foaming formula
Key Ingredients to Look for in Eczema Soaps
1. Ceramides
Help restore the skin barrier and lock in moisture.
2. Colloidal Oatmeal
Soothes itching and reduces inflammation.
3. Glycerin
Attracts moisture to the skin, preventing dryness.
4. Shea Butter
Provides deep hydration and calms irritated skin.
5. Hyaluronic Acid
Helps retain moisture for long-lasting relief.
Soaps to Avoid If You Have Eczema
- Antibacterial soaps (can be too harsh)
- Deodorant or heavily scented soaps (may irritate skin)
- Bar soaps with high pH levels (disrupt skin’s natural balance)
Tips for Washing Eczema-Prone Skin
- Use lukewarm water – Hot water dries out skin.
- Pat dry gently – Rubbing can cause irritation.
- Apply moisturizer immediately – Helps seal in hydration.
- Limit washing frequency – Overwashing can worsen dryness.
FAQs
Can regular soap make eczema worse?
Yes, many conventional soaps contain sulfates and fragrances that strip moisture and trigger flare-ups.
Is Dove soap good for eczema?
Yes, Dove Sensitive Skin Beauty Bar is a dermatologist-recommended option because it’s fragrance-free and moisturizing.
Should I use liquid or bar soap for eczema?
Both can work, but choose creamy, non-foaming formulas regardless of type.
How often should I wash if I have eczema?
Once or twice a day is usually enough—overwashing can dry out your skin further.
