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If you get rough, dry, itchy patches of skin that flare up out of nowhere and seem nearly impossible to soothe, then you’re likely already familiar with eczema. And if you’ve finally put a name to the mysterious state of your skin, you’ve come to the right place. This skin condition differs from a sunburn, pimple, or dark spot in that it can’t simply go away with the use of a targeted product. Eczema is persistent and therefore needs quality products and constant application to give some relief to your skin.
But finding the perfect eczema-friendly body wash for your unique skin is no walk in the park. For those who haven’t had any luck finding formulas that actually get the job done, we have a good feeling this list of expert-approved picks is just what you need.
We chatted with Dr. Tiffany J. Libby, a Mohs Surgeon and board-certified dermatologist, about this skin condition and the body washes that won’t further aggravate your eczema. Keep in mind that everyone’s skin reacts to products differently, but based on ingredients, Dr. Libby’s eight faves are promising options for soothing eczema.
Give any of the following body washes for eczema a chance to keep your dry, itchy patches at bay. After all, you’ve probably been chasing after a smooth, soft, healthy, moisturized canvas for the rest of your skincare and makeup products to glide right onto. Among our expert’s top picks, you’ll find everything from Eucerin’s cream and body wash to Avene’s cleansing oil, so get reading (and shopping)!
What is eczema?
“Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that presents as pink to red-brown rough patches of skin that are often dry, itchy, and irritated,” according to Dr. Libby. And what tends to cause eczema, you might also ask? “It is believed to be influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors,” she adds.
What are the benefits of using a body wash for eczema?
Similar to how folks with acne-prone skin require a specific body wash that targets specific concerns, the same applies to people with eczema. Those with this skin condition already have a compromised skin barrier that is more vulnerable to dryness and irritation. Because of this, “Eczema-specific body washes contain more hydrating and moisturizing ingredients that focus on restoring and repairing the skin’s moisture barrier for healthier and less inflamed skin.”
What ingredients should I look out for in a body wash for eczema?
When looking at eczema body wash ingredient lists, scan the labels for colloidal oatmeal, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, shea butter, allantoin, and niacinamide. These skin-saviors focus on moisturizing, hydrating, nourishing, and soothing skin.
What ingredients should I avoid in a body wash for eczema?
Because people with eczema already have compromised skin barriers, there are absolutely ingredients you should stay far away from. Per Dr. Libby, “Avoid fragrance, harsh dyes, essential oils, exfoliating beads, and acids like salicylic acid or glycolic acid.”
How often should I use a body wash for eczema?
Since eczema-friendly body washes usually contain moisturizing and hydrating ingredients, it’s safe and recommended by Dr. Libby to use one every day to cleanse your skin. “Ideally for those with eczema-prone skin, I recommend just using the body wash on the ‘dirtier’ parts of the body like the armpits, groin, and feet.”
Ahead, find the eight best eczema body washes that have our derm expert’s stamp of approval. They come from brands you likely already know and love, like Cetaphil, Avene, and La Roche-Posay. They’re also, for the most part, super affordable.
Avène
Avene XeraCalm A.D Lipid-Replenishing Cleansing Oil
$34
See AlsoDermatologists Say This Body Wash Can Help You Avoid Eczema Flare-UpsOur Favorite Body Washes to Keep Eczema Flare-Ups at BayTop 11 Best Body Washes for EczemaThe 8 Best Body Washes to Soothe Eczema Outbreaks, According to DermatologistsBuy Now
This cleansing oil is “fragrance-free, pH-balanced, and gently cleanses and soothes dry skin that is prone to eczema and itching,” Dr. Libby explains. While it’s completely sold out on Avene’s site (so you know it’s good), it’s available to shop right now on Amazon.
La Roche-Posay
$16.99
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This La Roche-Posay option relies on ceramides, which are lipids that are naturally present in your skin and promote moisture retention, per Dr. Libby. Restore your skin’s barrier with this formula that’s meant for both your body and face and is ready to order at Amazon, Ulta, La Roche-Posay, and Target.
Cetaphil
Cetaphil RESTORADERM Soothing Wash
$20.70
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“This Cetaphil body wash uses shea butter and filaggrin technology, which helps restore an irritated and compromised skin moisture barrier, leaving skin clean and nourished,” according to our expert. The brand claims it also promises hydration for a full 24 hours after washing.
Eucerin
$12.28
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“This is a non-foaming cleanser that is formulated with colloidal oatmeal and ceramides to help skin retain moisture,” says Dr. Libby.
Mustela
Mustela Baby Gentle Cleansing Gel (2-Pack)
$18.50
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“This cleansing gel is designed for use on baby skin and uses avocado perseose to help protect and hydrate skin while cleaning skin,” says our derm expert. If it’s safe enough to apply to a baby’s ultra-sensitive complexion, then it’s sure as heck gentle enough to lather on your body. Scoop up a two-pack on Amazon or a single bottle at Target.
Vanicream
Vanicream Gentle Body Wash
$10.99$12.4912% Off
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Per Dr. Libby, “This cleanser is free of dyes, fragrances, lanolin, and sulfates, and helps gently cleanse without drying out skin.”
Bioderma
Bioderma Atoderm Cleansing Oil
$29.99
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Bioderma’s Atoderm Cleansing Oil works best for very dry and sensitive skin, which is great news for those with eczema. It “helps soothe skin through a gentle cleanse and helps increase skin’s hydration for up to 24 hours,” explains Dr. Libby. Add this eczema-friendly cleanser to your cart at Amazon or Target.
Iota
Iota Supervitamin Body Wash+ Soothing
$23
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“This is a fragrance-free, award-winning body wash that addresses not only skin’s hydration but also skin’s overall appearance by using a blend of microbiome-balancing prebiotics and postbiotics for improved skin health and radiance,” our expert notes. You can also count on superfoods, multivitamins, and multi-minerals to calm and soften skin.