13 Best Dermatologist-Approved Soaps For Eczema (2024)
Soothe your atopic dermatitis with the right formulations in your arsenal.
Dr. Schwarzburg is a leading authority in the field of minimally invasive cosmetic and laser medicine in New York City. He is an Ivy League school graduate with 7 years of experience in cosmetic dermatology and regenerative medicine.
His authority is widely recognized, and his expert opinion has been sought by many prestigious publications, including Forbes, Glamour, Good Morning America, ABC News, and many others.
Read full bio of Dr. Schwarzburg
Experience: 3 yearsKrati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of experience in writing and editing for different niches.
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Experience: 5 yearsMedha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.
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Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
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Eczema is a condition in which the skin becomes red, itchy, and sensitive. If you are searching for the best soap for eczema, you have come to just the right place. We have compiled a list of the best soaps that are effective in soothing the irritation caused by eczema.
This skin condition is also termed atopic dermatitis. If you use any soap with harsh chemicals in it, your eczema may worsen, and there is a high chance that you may develop several allergies. However, there are many other triggers for this condition. Be it medical issues, stress, or even environmental factors, you can find many negative effects on the skin once you develop this condition. These can be colorless outbreaks, tiny bumps, or red patches. However, one should always focus on ways to control and manage it rather than concentrating on the negatives. One of the most effective ways to combat eczema is to use a suitable soap that is mild yet effective. In this article, we have listed out the best soaps for eczema that are gentle and soothe the irritation caused by this condition. Scroll down and check them out below!
In This Article
13 Best Soaps For Eczema That Are Non-Irritating (2024) + Reviews
1. Best Anti-Aging:Wonderfully Natural African Black Soap
Wonderfully Natural is a business that believes in fair trade. Its African black soap has all-natural ingredients and is made with the most authentic traditional West African recipe. Enriched with natural ingredients like vitamin E, palm kernel oil, and coconut oil, it lets the moisture into your skin to heal the dryness and inflammation caused by eczema. The antibacterial soap is also known to work wonders for dark spots, blemishes, dry skin conditions, psoriasis, and dandruff. A skincare guide is included with the pack. Reviewers love this traditional soap and recommend using it daily to experience visible results.
Pros
- Suitable for all skin types
- Antibacterial
- Antifungal
- Anti-aging properties
- Contains vitamin A and E
Cons
- Some may feel that the soap crumbles quickly.
Pro Tip2. Best Gentle:CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser Bar
The formula of this soap-free, fragrance-free gentle cleansing bar contains 5% CeraVe moisturizing cream and is suitable for sensitive and eczema-prone skin. It cleanses gently yet thoroughly without stripping the skin of its natural moisture. Formulated with ceramides, it restores the skin’s protective barrier ensuring the skin doesn’t dry out or get irritated. Its key ingredients include MVE Technology, which ensures 24-hour hydration and hyaluronic acid, which helps skin suffering from eczema retain maximum moisture. The deep cleansing formula also bears the National Eczema Association seal of acceptance and is an excellent fragrance-free soap for skin suffering from eczema. If you need more convincing, feel free to take a look at this YouTuber’s review on the merits and demerits of this personal care product before you test it out.
Dr. Schwarzburg, MD, Cosmetic Dermatology, says, “CeraVe is a go-to for many as it has a gentle formulation ideal for people with sensitive skin. One thing to look out for when it comes to soap bars, is to rinse them off thoroughly after use, as they may build up bacteria as they sit out in the open.”
Pros
- Accepted by the National Eczema Association.
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Can be used for both face and body
- Soap-free
- Fragrance-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Suitable for severe eczema
Cons
- Although it doesn’t have an added fragrance, some may not like the scent.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 10,054 Amazon acclaimed reviews, this product is sure to find a place in everyone’s shopping bag.
3. Best Long-Lasting Formula:Marie Originals Eczema Face And Body Soap Bar
The Marie Originals Eczema Face And Body Soap Bar is powered with bentonite clay that gently cleanses away the toxins and irritants from the skin, soothes rashes caused by eczema and psoriasis, and restores healthy, smooth skin. The calming soap is infused with noni fruit that soothes and nourishes the skin, vegetable glycerin that moisturizes and softens the skin, and organic oats that treat and calm inflamed skin. This chemical-free formula is suitable for all skin types and is ideal for treating dry patches, and roughness, and eliminating skin discoloration. If you are not sure about this personal care product, check out some reviews on Amazon.
Pros
- Suitable for all skin types
- Long-lasting formula
- Gentle
- Lathers well
- Gluten-free
- GMO-free
- Petroleum-free
- Phthalate-free
- Paraben-free
- SLS-free
- Synthetic dye-free
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- None
"This soap bar cleanses my skin well. It also helps to soothe my rashes that are caused by eczema and psoriasis. My skin feels better nourished and moisturized. I have also noticed that my skin discoloration has been reduced after regularly using this soap bar."
4. Best Exfoliating:Noble Formula Emu Oil Handcrafted Bar Soap
Specially formulated for those with dry skin and eczema, this is a safe daily cleansing bar soap for eczema that is suitable for acne-prone skin as well. It contains high antioxidant ingredients like olive oil and emu oil. The added milled oats ensure gentle exfoliation and are soothing for eczema as well. An all-natural zinc soap with 2% ZnP, with no harsh detergents, the deep cleansing formula has antifungal and antibacterial properties as well. It relieves minor skin infection symptoms like itching, irritation, flaking, and redness.
Dr. Schwarzburg, MD, Cosmetic Dermatology, says, “Exfoliants like Noble Formula Emu Oil can be very beneficial for those with dry flaky skin, as they rid your epidermis of dead skin cells. However, do not exfoliate more than 2 – 3 times a week, especially if you have sensitive skin, as over-exfoliation can cause more damage than good.”
Pros
- Exfoliating properties
- Handcrafted
- Does not contain mineral oil
- Low comedogenic properties
Cons
- May not be cruelty-free
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The extensive 8,282 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are vouching for this product.
5. Best Natural:Keika Naturals Charcoal Black Soap
Completely handmade, this activated charcoal soap is 100% vegan and GMO-free, featuring a refreshing peppermint scent. Suitable for men, women, and teens, this soap works as a great detox, taking care of skin sensitivities and symptoms of eczema. It can be used as a body soap, face soap, for working up a lather for shaving, and also as a hand soap for eczema. It is formulated with palm oil, coconut oil, olive oil, and bentonite clay, making it a nourishing cleanser for dry and itchy skin. And there’s one more interesting thing about this soap. Every time a bar of soap is purchased, one tree is planted to help reforest the planet.
Pros
- 100% natural
- Cruelty-free
- Longer lasting
- No artificial fragrances
Cons
- May not be best suited for all skin types
6. Best For Dry Skin:The Yellow Bird Activated Charcoal Soap Bar
This soap bar contains only natural and easily recognizable ingredients such as charcoal, lavender, and lemongrass that keep the skin hydrated and exfoliate it thoroughly. Handcrafted in small batches, these bars are made with the cold-pressed process. This ensures that there is no compromise with the quality whatsoever. It also contains sunflower, coconut, and palm oils along with shea butter to give your skin the hydration it deserves. The soap deep cleans and detoxes, and is gentle on sensitive and inflamed skin, and is an excellent soap for dry skin eczema.
Pros
- Contains organic botanical oils
- Contains pure essential oils
- Contains organic shea butter
- Deep, all-day hydration
- Cruelty-free
- Plastic-free packaging
Cons
- May not be the best fit for extremely sensitive skin
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With 1,757 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.
7. Best Fragrance:SheaMoisture African Black Soap
This soap’s main ingredients include organic shea butter and sea wrack. It effectively moisturizes dry and inflamed skin. With certified organic ingredients only, this is an excellent antibacterial soap for eczema. These include aloe vera, lemon balm, and gotu kola. Because of their all-natural composition, these soaps soothe and cleanse gently, ensuring your eczema is under control. And if you’re someone who enjoys the scent of chocolate, this soap won’t let you down. Click this video to learn more about the product.
Dr. Schwarzburg, MD, Cosmetic Dermatology, says, “Parabans can irritate the skin in many ways, which is particularly damaging to people suffering with eczema. Shea Moisture African Black Soap is free of harsh ingredients and parabens, making it an excellent option for those with sensitive skin, dry skin, and people with eczema.”
Pros
- Natural, organic, and sustainably-produced
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Never tested on animals
Cons
- May take a long to show results
8. Best For Sensitive Skin:Southern Natural Lavender Goat Milk Soap Bar
This all-natural goat milk soap with lavender leaves skin moisturized after every wash. Its mild natural ingredients include olive oil, coconut oil, and sustainable palm oil, in addition to goat milk and lavender which help soothe dry and itchy skin. These ensure that your sensitive skin is well taken care of. Because of its mild nature, it is also suitable for babies. While you pick it for yourself, it can also be the perfect gift set for someone who you know shares your skin troubles.
Pros
- Suitable for body, face, and hands
- Rich in vitamins A and E
- High in antioxidants
- Long-lasting
Cons
- Lavender scent may be overpowering for some
Pro Tip9. Best pH-Balanced:One With Nature Dead Sea Salt Soap
Dead Sea salts are famous for their positive effects on the skin. They are known to reduce wrinkles, improve overall elasticity, and minimize pores. Their rich mineral content restores the skin’s pH balance. This alkaline soap provides effective relief from eczema and other minor skin infections. Combined with the natural benefits of argan oil and shea butter, this soap is ideal for sensitive eczema skin and also contains vitamin E, which helps keep the skin firm yet supple.
Pros
- Restores the skin’s natural pH
- 100% natural
- GMO-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- It may leave behind a residue
"This soap has reduced my wrinkles and my skin feels better now. I have also noticed that my pores have been minimized since I started regularly using this soap. It has also helped me with my eczema, making this one my absolute favorite."
10. Best For Oily Skin:O Naturals Dead Sea Mud & Clay Soap
This soap is composed of Dead Sea mud combined with French green clay. This is what makes it an ideal choice for oily skin and scalp as well. Formulated with olive, jojoba seed, avocado, and coconut oils among others, this soap detoxifies, exfoliates, and revitalizes damaged skin effectively. Due to the green clay’s absorbing quality, it attracts all the grime and dust, leaving your skin refreshed.
Pros
- Vegan
- Sulfate and paraben-free
- Suitable for all skin types
- No animal testing
Cons
- Some may not like the scent of the soap.
"This soap has revitalized my damaged skin while effectively exfoliating it. After each usage, my skin feels refreshed. I also use it on my scalp, and the results are impressive."
11. Best For All Skin Types:The Soap Haven Oatmeal Soap
This all natural unscented soap contains oatmeal, goat milk, and honey. All these ingredients are known to be beneficial for the skin and go a long way in ensuring that your skin is healthy and well-moisturized. While goat milk hydrates, honey contains antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, and oatmeal is an excellent natural exfoliation. This soap is suitable for all skin types and even more so for eczema sufferers.
Pros
- No harmful chemicals
- Handmade in small batches
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
Cons
- Goat milk smell can be overpowering for some
"This soap keeps my skin well-hydrated and moisturized. My eczema has gotten a lot better since I started using this. It also exfoliates my skin well without making it dry. The soap is unscented, a quality that I particularly like."
12. Best For Babies:Mustela Stelatopia Oil Cleanser And Body Wash
This oil cleanser, with a tear-free formula, is multi-use and can be used to gently care for your baby’s delicate skin and hair. 98% of it is made up of ingredients that are naturally derived and have proven efficacy. It has avocado perseose and sunflower oil distillate. The avocado perseose protects your baby’s skin, while sunflower oil distillate maintains the moisture barrier. Safe to use right from birth, this soap is one of the few that have been recognized by the National Eczema Association and is fragrance-free.
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Phenoxyethanol-free
- Steroid-free
- Dermatologist-tested
- Clinically tested
Cons
- May not be a good substitute for a bath oil
"I use this product for my baby and am extremely happy with the results. It protects my baby's skin and keeps it hydrated. I have also tried it on my baby's hair, and the results are equally satisfactory."
13. Best Allergen-Free:Amish Farms Handmade Natural Soap For Eczema
This hypoallergenic soap serves multiple purposes and can be used not just for the face and body, but also for shaving, as a shampoo, and also as a pet shampoo. Its all-natural ingredients are vegan and absolutely chemical-free. Suitable for sensitive skin and conditions like eczema, it is creamy and moisturizing, leaving your skin hydrated and refreshed. It contains coconut and soybean oils, which help keep your skin moisturized throughout the day.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Gluten-free
- Allergen-free
Cons
- Some may find the soap slightly chalky
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received over 5,556 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.
Wasn’t that an exhaustive list? We hope you can find the perfect soap that fits seamlessly into your lifestyle and also meets all your eczema skin care needs. But before that, we would like to leave you with some buying tips, so you can make the right choice for yourself.
How To Choose The Best Soap For Eczema
- Finding the right fit
What works for others may not work for you. So rather than going by someone else’s experience, always strive to create your own. And here’s the thing – your skin changes often. This could be because of external causes, like the weather, or something more internal, like your changing food habits. So, you may need to look for the best fit depending on what condition your skin is in. And while one product may have seemed like the perfect fit, the next batch may not feel as perfect. But don’t be bogged down by this. It is worth all the time and effort because your skin will be thanking you later! If you have extremely sensitive skin, make it a point to consult with your dermatologist before using any product.
- Checking for the right ingredients
Always check the label of any new soap you are planning to try out and check for the following:
Fragrance: Any added fragrance is not very good news for sensitive eczema skin. It is best to avoid soaps which have added artificial fragrance.
Synthetic dye: Anything that is not natural has the potential of irritating skin. So, while the aquamarine color might look soothing, unless it is all-natural, it can be quite detrimental for those with eczema.
pH: Most soaps in the market are alkaline and can have a very drying effect on your skin. Always looks for soaps with natural pH balance.
Allergens: Always be on the lookout for potential allergens and things you know you are allergic to. If a soap’s label indicates that it may have any such ingredient, please avoid buying it.
- Testing it again before diving into it
You may think that you have found the right fit for your skin, but never make the mistake of diving right into any skin product before actually testing it. And this is all the more important if you have eczema because your skin is already hyper-sensitive and causing it more damage would just be terrible.
The test is pretty simple. All you have to do is apply the soap to the crook of your elbow, or your wrist, and leave it unwashed for 48 hours. You can cover it with a bandage to avoid spilling water on it. If you don’t experience any redness or itchiness, the product is most likely safe for you to use.
Infographic: Skin-Soothing Ingredients In Soaps For Eczema
Eczema flare-ups can be difficult to deal with and may take a physical and mental toll on your health. Using a product with the right ingredients can help alleviate your symptoms to a great extent. The infographic below lists the skin-friendly ingredients to look for to ensure that your eczema soap can help provide your skin with some much-needed TLC. Check it out!
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Eczema is a serious skin condition, and using the wrong products to treat the ailment might result in uncontrollable skin irritation. It is important to choose good skincare soaps and products for treating a condition like eczema. The CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser Bar is an excellent choice due to its dermatologist-recommended formula that helps restore the skin’s protective barrier. The Noble Formula Emu Oil Handcrafted Bar Soap uses a unique combination of emu oil and pyrithione zinc, known for its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for soothing irritated skin. The Soap Haven Oatmeal Soap has anti-spectic properties with oatmeal being a natural exfoliator. Hence, people who are suffering from the issue should choose soaps that are mild and enriched with natural ingredients like eucalyptus and coconut oil. The soaps should also come with antibacterial and antifungal properties. Many soaps for eczema have anti-aging properties as well that help you get rid of premature signs of aging such as dark spots, patches, and wrinkles. However, there are many soaps that can crumble quickly and wouldn’t lather well. These soaps should be avoided at all costs!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does goat milk soap work for eczema?
Goat milk has natural moisturizing qualities. Because of its creaminess and mild properties, it is known to be good for eczema.
Are soap nuts good for eczema?
Soap nuts are a natural allergen-free product and, therefore, safe for eczema skin. They do not contain any harsh chemicals and can be beneficial for all sensitive skin.
Can I use tetmosol soap for eczema?
Tetmosol soaps are medicated soaps meant specifically for treating scabies-related itching and irritation. It is effective against lice as well, but may not be very effective against eczema.
Is glycerin soap for eczema a good idea?
Naturally made glycerin soap that is not loaded with fragrances, is a good idea for eczema-prone skin. It is moisturizing and heals and protects the skin barrier.
Is bar soap better than body wash for eczema?
Both soap bars and body wash are equally effective for eczema. Look out for soaps that have glycolic acid, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and other beneficial ingredients for eczema.
Does baby soap help with eczema?
Yes, unscented baby soaps can be gentle on skin flares. But if you opt for a fragrant one, it can trigger eczema flare-ups.
How can you treat eczema naturally?
You can treat eczema naturally by following simple home remedies suitable for your skin type. For instance, you can choose chemical-free virgin or cold-pressed coconut oil as it has antibacterial properties that can minimize staph bacteria on the skin while keeping it smooth and moisturized.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Krati Darak is our skin and hair care connoisseur who knows that everyone’s skin has different needs. After considering multiple user feedback and reviews, she chose the best soaps to manage eczema based on skin issues and type. She also considered factors like pH level and if any allergens or harsh elements were added in the formula. All the soaps mentioned here are non-drying and moisturizing to ensure your dry and dehydrated skin woes are taken care of easily.
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