Choosing the right soap for eczema can be tricky. Harsh soaps can strip away natural oils, worsening irritation and dryness. If you're wondering what soaps are good for eczema, you've come to the right place!
We have partnered with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Angelie Chua for a guide that outlines how you can choose the best soap for eczema. Additionally, our team has curated a list of recommended soaps that are dermatitis-friendly, available on Lazada and Shopee to make your search easier. Check out our guide for more information!
Quick List - Top Soaps for Eczema
Aveeno
Has Natural Oat Extract to Soothe and Nourish Dry Skin
Mustela
A Body Wash to Soothe and Strengthen the Skin Barrier With This Body Wash
Dr. Angelie Chua is a dedicated Thomasian physician specializing in dermatology, with board certification from the Philippine Dermatological Society. She completed her residency at UST Hospital and is currently pursuing a fellowship in Trichology (hair disorders). Passionate about beauty, health, history, music, and travel, she fosters continuous learning and expertise in diverse fields. Dr. Chua is committed to providing exceptional care and staying at the forefront of dermatological advancements for the benefit of her patients.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
Does itchy, irritated skin from eczema make shower time a struggle? Finding the right soap can make a big difference. This guide will help you navigate the world of cleansers to find an eczema-friendly option that soothes and protects your skin.
Soaps strip away any dirt and bacteria that may be present on our skin. However, they also wash away natural oils that protect our skin, which may cause them to get dry and exacerbate those with eczema. Thus, it is essential to choose soaps that contain ingredients that nourish your skin. Read them down below.
Fragrances and essential oils are common culprits behind eczema flare-ups.
Who doesn't love a delightful scent in the shower? But for those with eczema-prone skin, these fragrances or scents can trigger flare-ups! Sometimes, even unscented soaps can sneak in some hidden fragrances to mask unpleasant smells. These fragrances, along with all the usual perfumes and essential oils, can irritate your already sensitive skin.
To be completely sure you're avoiding fragrances, always check the ingredients list for "fragrance" or "parfum" – even in unscented soaps!
Essential oils, although they are “natural”, don’t mean that they are safe for eczema or those with sensitive skin. Keep in mind that "natural " doesn’t mean that it’s safe.
These are great for other skin conditions (wrinkles, fine lines, hyperpigmentation, etc.), but they can be irritating and further dry out eczematous skin.
While some ingredients like retinoids, salicylic acid, and urea are great for tackling wrinkles and sun damage, they can be a bit too tough on eczema-prone skin.
These keratolytic ingredients or "exfoliating agents" break down the outer layer of skin, which can be helpful for anti-aging, but they can also irritate sensitive skin and worsen eczema flare-ups.
Gentle, non-irritating, and moisturizing ingredients repair and maintain the skin’s barrier.
Since eczema often causes dry and irritated skin, keeping it well-moisturized is key. When choosing soaps, look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, aloe vera, and shea butter. These humectants and emollients attract and retain moisture, keeping your skin hydrated and preventing dryness.
For soothing relief, check for colloidal oatmeal, niacinamide, aloe vera, and chamomile. These ingredients have anti-inflammatory properties that can help calm irritation and itching.
Lauric acid is a good alternative to sulfates as it can gently cleanse the skin without stripping away natural oils.
Sulfates (SLS and SLES) are effective at removing dirt and oil, but they can be too harsh, especially for those with sensitive skin or eczema. They can strip away natural oils, leaving skin dry and irritated. Lauric acid offers a gentler alternative, effectively cleaning without stripping away moisture. Remember that alongside lauric acid, choose a soap with moisturizing ingredients to restore and keep the skin’s integrity.
Here are some more ingredients that individuals with eczema-prone skin should avoid:
Compromised skin integrity makes the skin more prone to irritation.
The NEA "Seal of Acceptance" signifies that a product has met specific criteria for eczema-prone skin.
The National Eczema Association (NEA) is a US-based organization that helps people with eczema find suitable products. While their "Seal of Acceptance" isn't directly enforced in the Philippines, it can still be a helpful guide!
The NEA emphasizes avoiding harsh ingredients and using gentle cleansers, which aligns with what the Philippine FDA likely recommends. So, even though you might not see the NEA seal on products in the Philippines, you can still use their info to choose eczema-friendly options.
Looking at customer reviews can also be helpful in deciding which eczema soap to buy. However, it is important to remember that everyone's skin type is different hence what may work for your friend may not be suitable for you.
If you have sensitive skin, it is recommended to try products one at a time and then compare. Once you have found a product that works for you, stick to it!
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Key Ingredients | Fragrance-free | Keratolytic-free | Sulfate-free | National Eczema Association-Approved | Net Weight | |||||
1 | Cetaphil Pro Ad Derma Skin Restoring Wash | ![]() | An Ultra-Gentle Formula That’s Even Safe for Newborns | Glycerin, Butyrospermum Parkii Oil (Shea Butter), Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil (Sunflower Seed Oil), Sodium PCA, and Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E) | 145 ml | |||||
2 | Aveeno Baby Cleansing Therapy Moisturizing Wash | ![]() | Has Natural Oat Extract to Soothe and Nourish Dry Skin | Colloidal Oatmeal, Panthenol, Ceramide NP, Glycerin | 236 ml | |||||
3 | Vanicream Cleansing Bar | ![]() | Daily Moisturizing Solution for Dry Skin | Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Stearic Acid, Water, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate | 110 g | |||||
4 | Mustela Stelatopia Cleansing Gel | ![]() | A Body Wash to Soothe and Strengthen the Skin Barrier With This Body Wash | Organic Sunflower Oil Distillate, Avocado Perseose, Glycerin | 500 ml | |||||
5 | Baby Dove Hair to Toe Wash Sensitive Moisture | ![]() | A Baby Wash With 1/4 Moisturizing Cream for Smoother and Softer Hair and Skin | Glycerin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, and Dimethicone | 200 ml | |||||
6 | Aveeno Dermexa Wash | ![]() | Discover Gentle Relief for Extra-Dry, Eczema-Prone Skin With This Body Wash | Colloidal Oats, Pre-Biotic Oat Complex, Ceramides | 280 ml | |||||
7 | Cetaphil Deep Cleansing Bar|127g | ![]() | A Soap for Everybody Regardless of Skin Type and Age | Glycerin, Panthenol, Niacinamide | 127 g | |||||
8 | Vanicream Gentle Body Wash for Sensitive Skin | ![]() | Pure Care, Gentle Clean – Perfect for Sensitive Skin | Glycerin, Propanediol, and Panthenol | 355 ml | |||||
9 | CeraVe Soothing Body Wash|296ml | ![]() | A Soothing Solution for Very Dry Skin | Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramids, Glycerin, Omega Oils | 296 ml | |||||
10 | La Roche Posay Lipikar Syndet Ap+ Ultra-Gentle Body Wash | ![]() | A Gentle Body Wash That Provides Relief for Atopic Eczema-Prone Skin | Glycerin, Shea Butter, and Niacinamide | 400 ml |
Cetaphil Pro AD Derma Skin Restoring Wash is a gentle, hypoallergenic cleanser formulated specifically for eczema-prone skin. It contains patented Miracare and Filaggrin technology to restore the skin barrier and improve moisture retention. Its formula is also infused with a moisturizing complex and vitamins B5 and B3 to soothe dry and itchy skin.
Safe for all ages, including newborns, this body wash comes highly recommended by dermatologists and pediatricians. According to users, it is a fantastic choice for individuals with easily inflamed skin. Reviews highlight it to be a gentle and effective cleanser that can contribute to improving overall skin health.
Key Ingredients | Glycerin, Butyrospermum Parkii Oil (Shea Butter), Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil (Sunflower Seed Oil), Sodium PCA, and Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E) |
---|---|
Fragrance-free | |
Keratolytic-free | |
Sulfate-free | |
National Eczema Association-Approved | |
Net Weight | 145 ml |
Looking to address and prevent irritation and dry skin in babies? Look no further than this hypoallergenic wash from Aveeno! This baby wash contains colloidal oatmeal, oat essence, and rich emollients, which can soothe extra-dry skin without compromising the skin’s barrier. It also proudly holds the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance.
Ideal for daily use, this formula ensures a tear-free bathing experience for your little one while producing a luxurious lather to deeply moisturize extremely dry and eczema-prone skin. Most importantly, it's pediatrician and dermatologist-recommended and free from soap, fragrance, sulfates, parabens, and phthalates!
Key Ingredients | Colloidal Oatmeal, Panthenol, Ceramide NP, Glycerin |
---|---|
Fragrance-free | |
Keratolytic-free | |
Sulfate-free | |
National Eczema Association-Approved | |
Net Weight | 236 ml |
Key Ingredients | Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Stearic Acid, Water, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate |
---|---|
Fragrance-free | |
Keratolytic-free | |
Sulfate-free | |
National Eczema Association-Approved | |
Net Weight | 110 g |
Key Ingredients | Organic Sunflower Oil Distillate, Avocado Perseose, Glycerin |
---|---|
Fragrance-free | |
Keratolytic-free | |
Sulfate-free | |
National Eczema Association-Approved | |
Net Weight | 500 ml |
Key Ingredients | Glycerin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, and Dimethicone |
---|---|
Fragrance-free | |
Keratolytic-free | |
Sulfate-free | |
National Eczema Association-Approved | |
Net Weight | 200 ml |
Key Ingredients | Colloidal Oats, Pre-Biotic Oat Complex, Ceramides |
---|---|
Fragrance-free | |
Keratolytic-free | |
Sulfate-free | |
National Eczema Association-Approved | |
Net Weight | 280 ml |
Cetaphil is one of the most widely recommended soaps when it comes to dealing with sensitive skin or eczema, and it’s not hard to see why. Their soap cleans the skin to get rid of dirt and bacteria without stripping it of its natural oils. It now comes in a new and improved soap-free formula that contains glycerin, panthenol, and niacinamide.
Altogether, it aims to hydrate, moisturize, and protect your skin against the 5 signs of skin sensitivity, such as a weakened skin barrier, tightness, roughness, dryness, and irritation. It is also gentle enough to use on the face and body, has neutral pH levels, and has no fragrance! So, if you’re looking for a soap for eczema, you can never go wrong with this.
Key Ingredients | Glycerin, Panthenol, Niacinamide |
---|---|
Fragrance-free | |
Keratolytic-free | |
Sulfate-free | |
National Eczema Association-Approved | |
Net Weight | 127 g |
Specifically formulated for sensitive and easily irritated skin. Free of fragrances, dyes, parabens, and sulfates to minimize irritation.
Contains moisturizing ingredients to help maintain skin’s natural barrier.
Gentle cleansing formula that effectively removes dirt and oils without stripping moisture.
Formulated with ingredients dermatologists consider desirable and not irritating or sensitizing to the skin; awarded the Seal of Acceptance from the National Eczema Association.
Key Ingredients | Glycerin, Propanediol, and Panthenol |
---|---|
Fragrance-free | |
Keratolytic-free | |
Sulfate-free | |
National Eczema Association-Approved | |
Net Weight | 355 ml |
CeraVe is another go-to brand for people dealing with skin conditions like eczema, and their Soothing Body Wash is a great example of this. Its main ingredients consist of hyaluronic acid, which brings moisture to the skin, and ceramides that restore your skin's barrier. This is why it's a great choice for people with eczema or eczema-prone skin.
It also contains omega oils which can help calm and moisturize the skin. This makes it suitable for people with very dry and itchy skin, especially if you find traditional bar soap to be too drying. In addition, it is accepted by the National Eczema Association, so know that you're in good hands with this product.
Key Ingredients | Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramids, Glycerin, Omega Oils |
---|---|
Fragrance-free | |
Keratolytic-free | |
Sulfate-free | |
National Eczema Association-Approved | |
Net Weight | 296 ml |
Key Ingredients | Glycerin, Shea Butter, and Niacinamide |
---|---|
Fragrance-free | |
Keratolytic-free | |
Sulfate-free | |
National Eczema Association-Approved | |
Net Weight | 400 ml |
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Angelie Chua.
It is okay to try over-the-counter soaps from popular skincare brands but of course, there is always a greater risk of triggering eczema flare-ups once a product with a harsh ingredient is used. With the exhaustive list of ingredients of most products, it's difficult to evaluate and even pronounce the ingredients!
Therefore, it is best to consult a board-certified dermatologist. You can talk to us regarding your skin concerns and we can give you proper advice on what products will be most suited for you and those that will be harmful.
Yes, children can outgrow their eczema as they get older. However, there is no way to predict whether an individual will have eczema improvement, persistence, or aggravation.
Avoidance of triggers such as smoking, pollution, harsh soaps, and stress management have been noted to control eczema symptoms and flare-ups. Avoidance of long, hot showers and regular application of moisturizing lotion are also helpful.
Give your skin more TLC! Below are some links for more of our articles that list down the best sensitive skin-friendly skincare products.
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: Cetaphil|Pro Ad Derma Skin Restoring Wash
No. 2: Aveeno|Baby Cleansing Therapy Moisturizing Wash
No. 3: Vanicream |Cleansing Bar
No. 4: Mustela |Stelatopia Cleansing Gel
No. 5: Baby Dove|Hair to Toe Wash Sensitive Moisture
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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