Parents always want to ensure that they make the right choices for their child. This is especially true for first-time parents. Even before their little one is born, it's their instinct to prepare every product needed to keep their baby safe and healthy—one of which is baby soap. A baby's skin is delicately soft, sensitive, and needs full-on protection.
When choosing a baby soap for your child, make sure to get a product with a gentle formula to prevent allergic reactions and other skin issues. That's why we also asked for some comments and tips from dermatologist Dr. Barbara Marcelo. Join us as we walk you through our top 10 recommended baby soaps along with a buying guide to help you decide when shopping online.
Dr. Barbara Ellen T. Marcelo is a board-certified dermatologist who is passionate about helping parents nurture their children’s skin. Her advocacies include teaching about sun protection, treating patients with eczema, and promoting skin and body positivity. You can follow her on her Instagram page: @mybabyderm to learn more about caring for children’s skin.
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.
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With tons of options available in the market, it can be time-consuming to scroll through various baby soaps. But we can help you with that! Below, we prepared a buying guide to provide you useful information on how to select the best soap for your little one.
As first-time parents, bathing a newborn can be daunting. To ease the nerves, it helps to get bath products trusted by many parents and are guaranteed safe for your little one. When it comes to baby soaps, first and foremost, they must be gentle on your baby's sensitive skin.
A good baby soap must be moisturizing because bath time can sometimes lead to dry skin, especially if it's longer than 10 minutes. Ingredients like avocado oil, oats, and milk help keep your baby's skin hydrated by locking in moisture.
Humectants like glycerin and panthenol (provitamin B5) are also good ingredients, as they retain moisture in the skin. Other indicators of a great formulation include being 'pH-neutral' or 'pH-balanced,' meaning they are less likely acidic and harsh to use for a baby's delicate skin.
A baby's skin continues to develop throughout the first year of life. Babies are more prone to dry skin because they have a thinner epidermis (topmost layer of skin) and produce less natural moisturizing factors. When the skin is dry, it doesn't function well as an effective barrier against water loss, allergens, and skin infections.
Bathing is an essential part of parent-child bonding, but it can also be drying to your baby's skin. Look for soaps or cleansers with moisturizing ingredients such as ceramides and filaggrin (which form part of your baby's skin barrier), shea butter, coconut oil, and colloidal oatmeal.
Typically, baby soaps come in liquid form, so you can easily create a lather to wash your baby's hair, face, and body. But remember that the soap must be tear-free to prevent eye irritation. This also ensures that your child won't have any uncomfortable experiences, making bath time a breeze!
While it is true that picking the right baby soap for your baby's delicate skin is overwhelming at first, a word from the experts will surely answer your questions about a product's credibility and effectiveness.
Review the packaging labels as well as the description on the official website and online store to check if the product is "Pediatrician-recommended" or "Dermatologist-tested". These imply that the soap has been approved by medical professionals and is 100% safe to use on your baby.
While buying a cleanser that is labeled dermatologist-tested or pediatrician-recommended is a great choice, the best cleanser for your baby still depends on his or her skin needs. If your baby has dry skin, look for cleansers that are hydrating and soap-free. If your baby has normal skin, you can choose a top-to-toe wash or foaming cleanser.
If your baby has extra sensitive skin, you may opt for a baby soap that is hypoallergenic. Another good option is a product that is organic and is made with naturally derived ingredients, mostly from coconut, sugar cane, or rice bran.
It is also highly advised to choose fragrance-free products as fragrances can cause contact dermatitis. However, natural baby soaps that contain ingredients such as chamomile, lavender, rosemary, and cucumber are not only good for the skin but also have a natural fragrance.
Some babies have extra sensitive skin that reacts to changes in weather or temperature, friction, and specific ingredients in skincare products. Common allergens in skin products include fragrances, dyes, formaldehyde, and formaldehyde-releasing agents.
These allergens have several other names, so it is best to check the label of your baby's skincare products, especially if your baby is experiencing any local reactions like skin redness, rashes, or itching. Also, note that natural and organic ingredients can also cause irritations or allergies.
While all baby soaps serve their purpose as a cleanser for your little one's skin, you have to keep an eye on what's inside the container. Avoid ingredients like parabens, sulfates, phthalates, and synthetic dyes, which can cause irritation, dryness, and skin conditions such as eczema.
Some types of sulfates, particularly sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), found in cleansers, can clean too well and strip natural oils from the skin, especially if they are not rinsed right away. For babies who have thinner skin and less natural moisturizing factors, sodium lauryl sulfate can dry out their skin further.
Phthalates are chemicals used in the manufacturing of plastic products and some cosmetics. These chemicals can disrupt hormones and fertility. The current recommendation from the American Academy of Pediatrics is to limit exposure to phthalates while studies on their effects are ongoing.
More people are now aware of the hazards of single-use-plastics to the environment. In line with this, manufacturers are now shifting to refillable containers, which is also a perfect choice if you want an economical approach.
What's best about using refillable containers like pump bottles is that they're more accessible and spill-proof. As your baby grows and discovers the fun of bath time, you'll need a convenient way to dispense soap while holding a squirmy baby.
Pump bottles are a convenient way to dispense products in fixed amounts without spilling. When using refills for cleansers, remember to wash and completely dry the container before refilling with the cleanser. Liquid soaps contain a big percentage of water which can harbor bacteria or mold if the container is not cleaned regularly.
For deep skin protection and hydration, this hypoallergenic wash from Aveeno has it all for you! This baby soap cleanses the skin without causing dryness and irritation. It contains natural oat extract and provitamin B5, which lock in moisture and soothe the skin. Parents noticed that their little one's skin doesn't dry out upon using this product.
Perfect for everyday use, this formulation assures a tear-free bathing experience for your baby. It also creates a rich lather to moisturize extremely dry and eczema-prone skin. More importantly, it is pediatrician- and dermatologist-recommended and is soap, fragrance, sulfate, paraben, and phthalate-free!
Key Ingredients | Glycerin, Avena sativa (Oat) Kernel Flour, Panthenol, Ceramide NP |
---|---|
Tear-Free | Yes |
Fragrance-Free | Yes |
Dermatologically-Tested | Yes |
Other Features | Soap-, Sulfate-, Phthalate-, and Paraben-Free, Protects Baby’s Dry and Eczema-Prone Skin, Awarded National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance |
Net Weight | 236mL |
When it comes to your baby's skin, you can never go wrong with a product that is tested and recommended by pediatricians. This hypoallergenic wash and shampoo made by Cetaphil promises to keep both your baby's skin and hair as soft as they can be.
A gentle soap that you can use from birth onwards, its tear-free formula will leave your baby lightly fragrant and feeling fresh after every bath. No need to worry about frequent usage because it is pH-balanced and will never leave your baby's skin dry and irritated. These are the reasons why it has gathered a steady following of parents who always reach for this product for bath time.
Key Ingredients | Glycerin, Coco-Glucoside, Panthenol |
---|---|
Tear-Free | Yes |
Fragrance-Free | Yes |
Dermatologically-Tested | Yes |
Other Features | Formulated With Natural Extracts |
Net Weight | 230mL |
Key Ingredients | Glycerin, Ceramides, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin E |
---|---|
Tear-Free | Yes |
Fragrance-Free | Yes |
Dermatologically-Tested | Yes |
Other Features | Paraben-, Dye-, Phthalate-, and Sulfate-Free, Suitable for Eczema-Prone Skin, Accepted by the National Eczema Association, Forms a Mild Foam, Doesn’t Leave Any Residue |
Net Weight | 237mL |
Key Ingredients | Sodium Palmate, Glycerin, Mineral Oil, Milk Protein |
---|---|
Tear-Free | No |
Fragrance-Free | No |
Dermatologically-Tested | Yes |
Other Features | Paraben-Free, Contains Hypoallergenic Fragrance |
Net Weight | 150g |
This pH-neutral head-to-toe wash by Dove has both cleansing and moisturizing properties. It is as gentle as water and is tear-free, making it beneficial to use on sensitive skin. Plus, this soap is made with 100% skin-natural nutrients, such as 1/4 moisturizing cream, to help lock in the natural moisture of your baby's skin.
This hypoallergenic formula tested by dermatologists, pediatricians, and ophthalmologists also contains prebiotic moisturizer to double the action of retaining moisture and promoting the health of your baby's skin. It is compatible with eczema-prone skin and is clear of harsh ingredients such as dyes, parabens, phthalates, and sulfates. Parents swear by the moisturizing properties of this product and like its mild scent, giving it high ratings.
Key Ingredients | Glycerin |
---|---|
Tear-Free | Yes |
Fragrance-Free | No |
Dermatologically-Tested | Yes |
Other Features | Locks in Moisture, Produces a Rich, Creamy Lather |
Net Weight | 1000mL |
Key Ingredients | Colloidal Oatmeal, Cetearyl Alcohol |
---|---|
Tear-Free | Not Specified |
Fragrance-Free | Yes |
Dermatologically-Tested | Yes |
Other Features | Hypoallergenic, Absorbs and Seals in Moisture |
Net Weight | 500mL |
This 2-in-1 baby wash and shampoo is pediatrician-recommended, so you can be assured of its quality. It has an extra mild tear-free formula that is also fragrance, paraben, and preservative-free. Enhanced by the combination of chamomile essence and Provitamin B5, it gently cleanses your baby's skin while soothing and hydrating it.
With its light lather, you can also use it to wash your little one's hair. Rinsing the soap is a breeze as well since it doesn't leave any residue. Users confirmed it is mild enough for their baby's skin—some parents even use it as a facial cleanser! Plus, they appreciate the convenience the pump dispenser offers when they're bathing their child.
Key Ingredients | Decyl Glucoside, Hydrogenated Glyceryl Palmate, Panthenol |
---|---|
Tear-Free | Yes |
Fragrance-Free | Yes |
Dermatologically-Tested | Yes |
Other Features | Dye- and Paraben-Free |
Net Weight | 750mL |
For an organic option, Human Nature won't disappoint. This baby wash is non-irritating since it contains only natural ingredients, including lavender, rosemary, and chamomile extracts. Moreover, it is hypoallergenic and SLS, SLES, and paraben-free to prevent adverse reactions to your baby's delicate skin.
This formulation is mild and dermatologically tested, so it is perfectly safe to use, even for newborns! Reviewers say that this baby wash is a great choice if you want to go all-natural in cleansing your little one's skin. But do note that the formula is not tear-free, so refrain from using this near the eye area.
Key Ingredients | Decyl Glucoside, Glycerin, Chamomile Extract, Rosemary Extract, Lavender Extract, Tocopherol (Vitamin E) |
---|---|
Tear-Free | No |
Fragrance-Free | No |
Dermatologically-Tested | Yes |
Other Features | Artificial Fragrance- and Mineral Oil-Free, Made From Plant-Derived Moisturizers, Vegan, Cruelty-Free |
Net Weight | 190mL |
With 90% naturally derived ingredients, this cleansing gel from Mustela is guaranteed safe to use for babies, including newborns! Thanks to its gentle and hypoallergenic formula, you can use it on your little one's face, body, and hair. Moms swear by its effectiveness in keeping their babies' skin soft and fresh-smelling.
Its dermatologically tested, tear-free formulation also contains Avocado Perseose, a patented natural ingredient that moisturizes the skin and strengthens its barriers. Moreover, it is enriched with Vitamin B5 to further hydrate the skin, giving a soothing effect for babies with normal skin.
Key Ingredients | Glycerin, Panthenol, Persea gratissima (Avocado) Fruit Extract |
---|---|
Tear-Free | Yes |
Fragrance-Free | No |
Dermatologically-Tested | Yes |
Other Features | Phenoxyethanol-, Paraben-, and Phthalate-Free, Vegan, Eco-Friendly, Biodegradable Formula |
Net Weight | 500mL |
Key Ingredients | Glycerin, Rice Bran Extract, Tocopherol (Vitamin E) |
---|---|
Tear-Free | Not Specified |
Fragrance-Free | No |
Dermatologically-Tested | Not Specified |
Other Features | Rich in Vitamins B and E, Low Foaming |
Net Weight | 350mL |
Choosing safe and effective skin products for your baby can be challenging. So it's important to look beyond the hype and read the list of ingredients.
Your baby's skin type, whether normal, dry, eczema-prone, or sensitive, will also determine which products will work well for them. If your baby is experiencing any skin problems or rashes, or if you need additional guidance when choosing skin products, consult your child's pediatrician or dermatologist.
We only want the best care for our babies. If you still have unanswered questions about baby soaps, here are answers from Dr. Barbara Marcelo.
Yes, but choose a mild, pH-balanced cleanser that is soap-free and fragrance-free. In the first few days after birth, cleanse the face with plain water. Remember that a baby's skin can easily become dry. There's no need to bathe your baby every day, but clean soiled areas (mouth, neck, diaper area) frequently. Limit bathing to two to three times a week and for five to ten minutes at a time.
There are a lot of causes of rashes, especially in the first few weeks of life, some of which are expected as the baby adjusts to the outside environment. If you suspect that your baby's rashes are because of baby soap, discontinue its use and just use plain water for washing in the meantime. Consult a dermatologist or pediatrician right away.
Adults with dry, sensitive skin can benefit from using baby soap, which is moisturizing and is usually free of fragrances or dyes. However, adults with oily skin or acne-prone skin may discover that baby soap does not totally wash off dirt or grime. Therefore, the choice of soap really depends on your skin type and skin needs.
Bath time can be a great opportunity for parent-baby bonding. However, the bath is also a common place for drowning at home. Preparation is key to prevent burns, falls, and drowning. Gather materials and place them within arm's reach.
Place a non-slippery bath mat on your feet and a silicone mat on the bottom of the tub. Adjust water temperature by pouring cold water first before hot water and test using your elbow. Never leave the baby alone even for a second and keep a firm hold on them while bathing.
Your baby's first year of life is very crucial for proper development. So you have to choose only the best products to keep your little one safe and healthy. Check the article links below for our other lists of recommended baby essentials such as baby lotions, newborn baby diapers, and laundry detergents for baby clothes.
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. 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.
When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
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