These Derm-Approved Body Washes for Eczema Soothe and Cleanse Itchy Skin (2024)

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  • Skin
  • Body

Itch, be gone.

By

Austen Tosone

These Derm-Approved Body Washes for Eczema Soothe and Cleanse Itchy Skin (1)

Austen Tosone

Austen is a fashion and beauty digital content creator. She has contributed to Refinery29, Fashionista, Teen Vogue, NYLON, Interview, Cosmopolitan, HuffPost, and more.

Byrdie's Editorial Guidelines

and

Theresa Holland

These Derm-Approved Body Washes for Eczema Soothe and Cleanse Itchy Skin (2)

Theresa Holland

Theresa Holland is a freelance writer covering all things fitness and wellness for Byrdie. You can also find her work in Elite Daily, MyDomaine, Thought Catalog, and more.

Byrdie's Editorial Guidelines

Updated on November 19, 2024 02:12PM

Medically reviewed by

Lily Talakoub, MD, FAAD

These Derm-Approved Body Washes for Eczema Soothe and Cleanse Itchy Skin (3)

Medically reviewed byLily Talakoub, MD, FAAD

Dr. Talakoub is a board-certified dermatologist with a special interest in medical and cosmetic dermatology.She also serves as a columnist for Dermatology News and previously worked as a medical writer for ABC News

Board-Certified Dermatologist

Fact checked by

Cherisse Harris

These Derm-Approved Body Washes for Eczema Soothe and Cleanse Itchy Skin (4)

Fact checked byCherisse Harris

Cherisse Harris is a fact-checker with a focus on lifestyle, beauty, and parenting.She's worked in research for nearly two decades.

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These Derm-Approved Body Washes for Eczema Soothe and Cleanse Itchy Skin (5)

In This Article

What to Look ForHow We TestedFrequently Asked QuestionsMeet Our ExpertsWhy Trust ByrdieWhy Trust ByrdieWhy Trust Byrdie

Why Trust ByrdieWhy Trust ByrdieWhy Trust ByrdieWhy Trust ByrdieWhy Trust ByrdieWhy Trust Byrdie

TL;DR

The Eucerin Eczema Relief Body Wash achieved top marks because it quickly relieves itchiness. Plus, its affordable price point can’t be beaten. The Dove Original Beauty Bar is another favorite among Byrdie testers and dermatologists because it is simple and effective in soothing and cleansing eczema-prone skin.

If you know, you know. The itchy, flaky, inflamed patches on your skin caused by eczema can be a real drag. And unlike with pimples, a hands-off approach won’t make the problem disappear. While this frustrating, recurring skin condition can occur on the face, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Lian A. Mack, M.D., explains that there are a few different types: atopic dermatitis (the most common form of eczema) often appears below the neck, typically in the folds of the arms or behind the knees; dyshidrotic eczema (which affects the hands and feet); and discoid eczema, which presents as coin-shaped patches spotted anywhere on the arms, legs, or trunk.

Whichever below-the-neck variant you’re experiencing, the right body wash can help keep the skin clean and calm. We tapped board-certified dermatologists and tested top-rated eczema body washes to find the best of the best. The result: This curated list of the best body washes for eczema. It’s time to enter your itch-free era.

01of 08

What We Like

  • Impressive itch-relief

  • Budget-friendly

  • Fragrance-free and gentle

What to Consider

  • Could be more spreadable

Key Ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal, ceramides | Size: 13.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

Some of the best formulas for eczema are not only budget-friendly but also widely available online and at most drugstores. Case in point: Eucerin. "For those looking for a nonfoaming gentle cleanser, I recommend Eucerin's Eczema Relief Cream Body Wash, which contains colloidal oatmeal to soothe itching and irritation" says Dr. Mack. We also like that the fragrance-free formula contains ceramides, which, as Dr. Mack notes, help to replenish the skin barrier.

Lu, tester: “My skin felt nice, smooth, hydrated, and radiant after using it; I was especially glad I didn’t need to lotion my body right after drying myself with a towel. I encountered no irritation.”

02of 08

What We Like

  • Affordable price point

  • Nondrying formula

  • Dermatologist-recommended

What to Consider

  • Contains synthetic fragrance

Key Ingredients: Cocamidopropyl betaine, palm kernelate | Size: 3.8 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

While bar soaps are having a resurgence, Dove's beauty bar has been winning over editors and skin experts for decades thanks to how it effectively cleanses and moisturizes the skin. According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Hadley King, M.D., cleansers should be gentle and free of harsh detergents that strip natural oils from the skin and should contain moisturizing ingredients. This one checks both boxes. While the original bar has fragrance, you can also opt for the sensitive skin version, which is fragrance-free.

03of 08

What We Like

  • Gently cleans skin without irritants

  • Itch-relieving

  • Contains calming ingredients

What to Consider

  • Does not foam as much as some others

Key Ingredients: Oat flour, oat oil, oat extract, glycerin | Size: 33 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

Containing oat flour, oil, and extract, this hefty 33-ounce pump bottle from Aveeno pulls out all the stops to soothe dry, itchy skin while gently cleansing your body. It cleanses, offers itch relief, and leaves skin feeling much more hydrated after use. If you enjoy a lot of bubbles, just be prepared that this one doesn't produce as many.

These Derm-Approved Body Washes for Eczema Soothe and Cleanse Itchy Skin (9)

Anna, tester: “A little goes a long way in this formula. The packaging is a large squeeze bottle, which makes it easy to control how much comes out. My skin felt hydrated with natural oils in place, but not greasy.”

04of 08

What We Like

  • Hydrating and smoothing

  • Contains plenty of skin-loving ingredients

  • Pump bottle for easy, slip-free application

What to Consider

  • The firming claims weren’t as noticeable.

Key Ingredients: Collagen, niacinamide, glycerin, petrolatum | Size: 17.9 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

Looking for a body wash with all of the benefits of your skincare ingredients? Look no further. "Olay Body Wash contains a vitamin B3 pro-glycerin complex that helps the skin absorb moisture and petrolatum to lock in moisture," says Dr. King. "It's formulated to cleanse gently, removing dirt and grime but not beneficial skin lipids." While the brand claims the body wash increases since firmness, we didn't notice that ourselves, which isn't a dealbreaker for us.

05of 08

What We Like

  • Natural formula calms irritation

  • Impressive itch relief

  • Moisturizing ingredients

What to Consider

  • Can be difficult to squeeze product out of the bottle

Key Ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal, coconut oil | Size: 8 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

If you're looking for something that provides itch relief and ample moisture, go with Honest. Formulated specifically for eczema-prone skin, this plant-based body wash combines colloidal oatmeal with coconut oil to soothe, hydrate, and gently cleanse.This body wash is also free of parabens and sulfates. Our only complaint is that it can be difficult to squeeze the product out of the bottle.

Caitlyn Martyn, associate commerce editor: “The creamy, milky consistency isn't super thick and easily disperses across the skin. It cleansed my body gently and effectively without drying out my skin or causing a reaction.”

06of 08

What We Like

  • Doesn't strip or dry out skin

  • Can be used on the face and body

  • Dermatologist-recommended

What to Consider

  • Not everyone loves the scent

Key Ingredients: Prebiotic Thermal Water, shea butter, glycerin, niacinamide | Size: 13.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

La Roche-Posay's Lipikar AP+ Body & Face Wash is a wonderful option for individuals suffering from dry, eczema-plagued skin. It's Packed with niacinamide (vitamin B3) and the brand's proprietary Prebiotic Thermal Water (naturally rich in minerals with scientifically demonstrated antioxidant properties) to soothe dry, itchy skin.

  • These Derm-Approved Body Washes for Eczema Soothe and Cleanse Itchy Skin (13)

  • These Derm-Approved Body Washes for Eczema Soothe and Cleanse Itchy Skin (14)

  • These Derm-Approved Body Washes for Eczema Soothe and Cleanse Itchy Skin (15)

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Rachel, tester: “This body wash was soft and smooth. It did not leave any feelings of dryness or tightness on my skin. One full pump was enough for my entire body. I experienced results very quickly!”

07of 08

What We Like

  • Instantly calms itchiness and dry patches

  • Contains moisturizing ingredients

  • Free of parabens and sulfates

What to Consider

  • Some reviewers noted lack of suds when lathering

Key Ingredients: Lauric acid, water, soybean oil, shea butter, avocado oil | Size: 20 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

If you’re dealing with dry, sensitive skin, Cetaphil Moisturizing Relief Body Wash might be your new shower essential. It has a creamy, rich texture that feels amazing while using it, and it immediately leaves your skin feeling silky and soft. Packed with moisturizing ingredients like glycerin, shea butter, and soybean oil, it locks in hydration for 24 hours, so you don’t have to worry about that tight, dry feeling after your shower. Plus, it’s dermatologist-tested and totally free of fragrance, parabens, and sulfates.

  • These Derm-Approved Body Washes for Eczema Soothe and Cleanse Itchy Skin (18)

  • These Derm-Approved Body Washes for Eczema Soothe and Cleanse Itchy Skin (19)

  • These Derm-Approved Body Washes for Eczema Soothe and Cleanse Itchy Skin (20)

  • These Derm-Approved Body Washes for Eczema Soothe and Cleanse Itchy Skin (21)

Lauren Pardee, senior commerce editor: “I would describe this body wash as ‘milky’ and the consistency as ‘light but not runny.’ When dispensed into your hand, it holds its shape and smooths nicely over the skin. The huge container lasts a long time, and I like the pump because it's easy to use and mess-free.”

08of 08

What We Like

  • Moisturizing and comforting

  • Made with natural ingredients

  • No residue after use

What to Consider

  • Some reviewers cite frustration with the pump getting stuck

Key Ingredients: Honey, aloe vera juice, calendula extract, colloidal oatmeal | Size: 13 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Eczema Honey's Soothing Body Wash is a game-changer for those with sensitive skin. The formula is very mild, so it cleanses without stripping away your skin’s natural oils. The result? Clean, soft, and hydrated skin that feels cared for, not irritated. The lather is luxurious, and this product is packed with nourishing ingredients like aloe vera, jojoba seed oil, and lavender oil, which hydrate and leave your skin feeling pampered. And the best part? It’s safe, nontoxic, cruelty-free, and made right here in the USA—so you can feel good about what you're using.

These Derm-Approved Body Washes for Eczema Soothe and Cleanse Itchy Skin (23)

Courtney, tester: “This body wash was nourishing enough that if I forgot to put on lotion after the shower, my skin wouldn't be tight or flaky for a day. It's hydrating—not enough to ditch the lotion altogether, but pretty solid for a body wash, especially at this price point.”

What to Look for When Buying Body Wash for Eczema

  • Soothing Ingredients: It's best to choose body wash formulas containing colloidal oatmeal or its derivatives, such as beta-glucan. These ingredients relieve itchiness and soothe the skin. Other soothing and anti-inflammatory ingredients like chamomile, aloe vera, white tea, witch hazel, rose water, and niacinamide can also help relieve itch and restore your skin after an eczema flare-up.
  • Humectants: Formulas containing humectants (like ceramides and fatty acids) repair the skin barrier by preventing water loss. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, squalane, collagen, and niacinamide.
  • Occlusives: Occlusives such as petrolatum assist the skin in holding the moisture it already has, preventing loss. Ingredients to seek out are: dimethicone, silicone, mineral oil, and certain plant oils.

How We Tested Eczema Body Washes

We believe in using the products we recommend, so we prioritize testing them in real-life settings and in our NY-based Lab.

  • Testing Period: Six weeks
  • Methodology: Body washes for eczema were tested on people with various skin types—dry, oily, normal, and combination. Each tester experiences sensitive skin.
  • Factors Considered: Ingredients, packaging, intended purpose, consistency, hydration level, skin irritation, and overall results.

FAQ

  • How often should you use body washes for eczema?

    Use body washes for eczema each time you bathe or shower. These body washes will repair and protect your skin to relieve and prevent flare-ups. Wetting and cleaning your skin is essential for those with eczema to avoid bacteria growth and worsening outbreaks. Avoid hot water and moisturize immediately with a lotion for eczema.

  • What triggers eczema?

    Different people can have eczema triggered by various sources, but according to the National Eczema Association, one of the top things that can cause a flare-up is the climate. Drastic temperatures, such as extreme cold or heat, can trigger eczema, as can humidity and altitude.

Meet Our Experts

We consulted with several skin experts to learn more about body washes for eczema and to help us evaluate the formulas we tested.

  • Dr. Lian A. Mack, M.D., is a board-certified dermatologist in New York City specializing in skin conditions as they apply to people of color, along with various aesthetic enhancements, including laser treatments and injectables.
  • Dr. Hadley King, M.D., is a board-certified dermatologist specializing in medical and cosmetic skincare treatments.

Why Trust Byrdie

Austen Tosone is a contributing writer at Byrdie and a beauty content creator based in NYC. She tests dozens of skincare, hair and makeup products every month and is always searching for the best recommendations to share with Byrdie readers. As a girl with dry skin that gets itchy in the winter months, she knows which soothing ingredients to look out for in an eczema-fighting product.

Theresa Holland is a freelance commerce writer specializing in wellness and lifestyle. Theresa is a regular contributor at Byrdie, where she covers apparel, hair care, and cosmetics.

According to our Diversity Pledge, 15% of products in our newly-published market roundups will feature Black-owned and/or Black-founded brands. At the time of publishing, we were not able to find enough eczema body washes from a Black-owned and/or Black-founded business to meet this percentage. If you know of one we should consider, please email us at contact@byrdie.com, and we will evaluate the product ASAP.

Edited byCaitlyn Martyn

Article Sources

Byrdie takes every opportunity to use high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.

    1. Sobhan M, et al.The Efficacy of Colloidal Oatmeal Cream 1% as Add-on Therapy in the Management of Chronic Irritant Hand Eczema: A Double-Blind Study.Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2020;13: 241–251. doi: 10.2147/CCID.S246021
    1. Varma SR, Sivaprakasam TO, Arumugam I, Dilip N, Raghuraman M, Pavan KB, Rafiq M, Paramesh R.Invitroanti-inflammatory and skin protective properties of Virgin coconut oil.J Tradit Complement Med. 9(1):5-14. doi: 10.1016/j.jtcme.2017.06.012. PMID: 30671361; PMCID: PMC6335493.
    1. Thring TS, Hili P, Naughton DP.Antioxidant and potential anti-inflammatory activity of extracts and formulations of white tea, rose, and witch hazel on primary human dermal fibroblast cells.J Inflamm (Lond). 8(1):27. doi: 10.1186/1476-9255-8-27. PMID: 21995704; PMCID: PMC3214789.
These Derm-Approved Body Washes for Eczema Soothe and Cleanse Itchy Skin (2024)
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