Written by Anoushka Sinha, Skincare Coach & WriterUpdated on Sep 23, 2023
The products curated for this article are independently chosen by the editorial team. If you make a purchase through the links mentioned below, we may receive a commission. Check out our product research & curation processTo protect and offer relief to eczema-prone skin, you need to use the best soaps for eczema. These soaps help treat the skin gently yet effectively. Eczema is a chronic skin condition that can cause a lot of discomfort. It leads to dry, itchy, and inflamed patches on the skin, which can be red and sometimes even swollen. These patches can vary in severity, from mild irritation to more intense itching and discomfort. Various factors can trigger the skin conditions like allergens, irritants, changes in weather, or even stress. Eczema can affect people of all ages, from infants to the elderly. It generally occurs on the face, hands, feet, and skin folds. There are ways to manage and alleviate eczema symptoms. Using the right soap is an important part of that.
Moisturizing soaps that are specifically formulated for sensitive skin and free from harsh chemicals, fragrances, and dyes work well for eczema. These kinds of soaps help soothe the skin, reduce inflammation, and prevent further irritation. Moisturizing shea butter, nurturing oatmeal, skin-soothing aloe vera, coconut oil, olive oil, etc. are some of the most popular natural ingredients used in these soaps. These soaps go above and beyond to nurture and support the skin's healing process. Let's explore some eczema-friendly soaps and discover the perfect match that can bring some relief to this often-bothersome skin condition.
Our top picks
13 Best Soaps for Eczema
First on the list is the eczema therapy soap from SheaMoisture. The soap gently cleanses and helps relieve mild eczema symptoms and itching. It is infused with natural ingredients like shea butter, glycerin, sunflower seed oil, willow bark extracts, coconut oil, and oats. The bar soap is gentle enough to be used every day as a body cleanser. It can also be used on your face. It effectively keeps the skin moisturized, thereby helping to heal mild dryness and inflammation caused by eczema. It also soothes your skin.
Pros
- Fights bacteria
- Natural ingredients
- Hydrating
- Moisturing
- Soothing
- Good for everyday use
- Aloe scented
Cons
- May not work for severe cases of eczema
2
Best Natural
One With Nature Dead Sea Salt Soap
This soap from One With Nature combines the mineral-rich properties of dead sea salt with the detoxifying benefits of activated charcoal. The result is a powerful cleansing experience that also revitalizes your skin. Its therapeutic properties help relieve mildly dry skin caused by eczema. The soap works wonders for unclogging pores, removing impurities, and promoting a clearer complexion. Dead sea salt is known to nourish and replenish the skin with its high concentration of minerals, such as magnesium, calcium, bromide, and potassium. Activated charcoal in the soap draws out toxins, excess oil, and other impurities, leaving your skin feeling fresh and rejuvenated. It helps regulate sebum production and prevents breakouts. The exfoliating properties gently remove dead skin cells, promoting a smoother and more radiant appearance. It is suitable for people with acne-prone skin, dry, normal, or combination skin. Don't worry if you have sensitive skin; you can still use it.
Pros
- Provides relief for common skin conditions
- Contains minerals
- Contains dead sea salts
- Exfoliates
- For all skin types
- Non-GMO
Cons
- May have a strong fragrance
3
Best for Oily Skin
MG217 Psoriasis Dead Sea Bar Soap
On the third spot on our list of best bar soaps for eczema is the MG217 exfoliating soap, specially formulated to help soothe and relieve psoriasis and eczema-affected skin. The soap contains natural ingredients like dead sea salt, mud, aloe vera, vitamin E, and rose geranium oil, which help moisturize and nourish the skin. Dead sea salt and mud are known for their high mineral content and therapeutic properties, which can help reduce inflammation and improve skin hydration. They also cleanse and remove impurities, thereby promoting healthier and glowing skin. The soap gently nourishes the skin, making it soft and supple. Aloe vera and rose geranium help reduce redness and irritation. No harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances have been used in the soap bar. It works best on oily skin and is also suitable for sensitive skin.
Pros
- Lifts away dead skin cells
- Provides gentle hydration
- Soothes inflammation
- Reduces redness
- Contains essential oils
- Can be used daily
Cons
- Only for oily skin
4
Best Overall
Southern Natural Goat Milk Bar
Next on the list is the goat milk soap for eczema from Southern Natural which is specially formulated for individuals with eczema, psoriasis, and dry, sensitive skin. The soap bar is made with natural ingredients known for their moisturizing and nourishing properties. Goat milk is rich in vitamins and minerals that can help soothe and heal dry and itchy skin. Natural ingredients like olive oil, coconut oil, and shea butter, work together to provide intense hydration to the skin. The bar effectively cleanses without stripping the natural oils of the skin, leaving it soft, supple, and refreshed. It is also cruelty-free and all-natural making it gentle enough to be used by the whole family, even babies. With a creamy lather and delicate scent, you will love the luxurious and indulgent bathing experience it has to offer.
Pros
- Specifically created for individuals with eczema and dry skin
- Contains pure essential oils
- Soothes itching
- Free from harsh chemicals
- Contains goat milk
5
Best Deodorizing Soap
L'Occitane Shea Verbena Extra-gentle Soap
Ideal for eczema-prone skin, this cleansing bar by L'Occitane features a no-nonsense formula that is free of harsh surfactants and buffering ingredients such as sulfates, propylene glycol, phthalates, etc. that your skin could do without! Instead, every little thing infused in this soap contributes something positive to your skin — shea butter to nourish and soften, verbena oil to tone and deodorize, etc. Hence, the product not only pampers your skin but also refrains from aggravating it or stripping off its natural moisture.
Pros
- Smells divine
- Vegan-friendly
- Low pH
- Replenishes skin barrier
- Very refreshing
- Smoothes skin texture
- Antioxidant-rich soap
Cons
- No extraordinary benefits
6
Jewett Naturals Colloidal Oatmeal Soap
Made with 100% natural ingredients, Jewett Naturals’ soap bars offer relief to people suffering from dry and itchy skin. The soap contains colloidal oatmeal, which is finely ground oatmeal known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. It is infused with premium butter and oils like cocoa butter, coconut oil, shea butter, and olive oil, which are known to help with skin irritations. Its 100% natural and has no fragrance. No chemicals or synthetics are used in the soap.
Pros
- May not be suitable for sensitive skin
- Moisturizing
- Soothing
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Vegan-friendly
- Cruelty-free
- Free from harsh chemicals
- Unscented
Cons
- May not be suitable for sensitive skin
7
Best Organic
Ancient Greek Organic Soap Bar
This luxurious soap bar from Ancient Greek Remedy is meticulously crafted to provide exceptional care for your skin and works as a treatment for acne, eczema, psoriasis, dark spots, and rosacea. This organic soap bar is carefully formulated using the finest natural ingredients for their nourishing and rejuvenating properties. Infused with the goodness of cold-pressed essential oils like castor oil, coconut oil, lavender oil, and olive oil, it gently cleanses and nourishes your skin. It can be used for both the face and body. It is water-free, and no preservatives have been added to the soap. This vegan soap is also animal-friendly, GMO-free, and organic, which means that this soap is not only a treat for your skin but also a conscious choice for the environment.
Pros
- 100% cold-pressed oils
- Preservatives free
- Organic
- Vegan
- No-GMO
- Cruelty-free
- All skin types
- Paraben free
Cons
- May have a strong smell
8
Best Body & Hair
Plant Guru Raw African Black Soap from Ghana
This handcrafted soap bar from Plant Guru is crafted using a traditional recipe. Created with 100% natural ingredients and infused with the power of extra virgin coconut oil, raw cocoa pods, palm kernel oil, and plantain skin ashes, it is suitable for all skin types. It helps prevent skin irritations and acne scars. It leaves your skin feeling soft and smooth and is also helpful for removing fine lines. This african black soap for eczema can also be used on hair, as it works to cleanse and heal the scalp. The high concentration of vitamins A and E helps reduce the dead skin cells known to be the cause of hair-follicle breakage.
Pros
- 100% natural ingredients
- Infused with essential oils
- Handcrafted
- Vitamin A and E
- Skin rejuvenating
- Helpful with skin irritants
- Helpful with acne scars
- Good for hair and scalp
Cons
- May not be suitable for sensitive skin
9
Best for Sensitive Skin
Essentials by atttire Black Soap
Pros
- 100% all-natural
- Handmade
- For face, body, and hair
- Exfoliates
- Nourishes
- Vegan
- Contains iron
- Promotes healthy skin and hair
Cons
- May have a strong smell
10
Best Healing
Ahuike- Pure Organic Black Soap
This African Black Soap from Ahuike is a rich, dark, and earthy-smelling soap that is made from a blend of African plants, including plantains, cocoa pods, palm tree leaves, and shea tree bark. The thick and creamy lather from the soap leaves the skin feeling soft, smooth, and hydrated. This soap is also called the 'ideal skin secret' for its skin-healing properties. It prevents the development of itchy, dry, and scaly skin while also cleaning pores and rejuvenating the skin. It also helps to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and age spots. The soap is free of harsh chemicals and artificial ingredients, making it safe to use for all skin types. It is also vegan and cruelty-free. Apart from the face and body, it can also be used on the hair. What makes this soap more special is that it's made using traditional methods. The ingredients are sun-dried and roasted, which gives them their rich, dark color and earthy smell. The ash is then mixed with water and oils.
Pros
- Handcrafted
- Deep cleansing properties
- Suitable for various skin concerns
- Gentle and moisturizing
- Natural and exotic scent
- Supports African traditions
Cons
- Some might find the smell strong
11
Best for Acne-Prone
Naturalo All-Natural Pine Tar Soap Bar
Immerse yourself in the earthy allure of the Pine Tar Soap from Naturalo. This soap transports you to a serene forest, enveloping your senses in the rich aroma of pine. Handcrafted with care, this soap pampers itchy, dry, and blemished skin so that it can feel soothed, rejuvenated, and breathe again. The soap is made using traditional methods, carefully blending natural pine tar with premium ingredients like olive oil, coconut oil, goat's milk, colloidal oatmeal, and shea butter. These elements harmonize to create a luxurious lather that indulges your skin in a gentle yet invigorating embrace. Pine tar is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help soothe and heal the skin [1], it works harmoniously with the nourishing oils to cleanse and moisturize your skin deeply.
Pros
- Natural ingredients
- Gentle on the skin
- Treats dry, itchy skin
- Exfoliates
- Replenish nutrients
- Helps improve skin appearance
- No harsh chemicals
Cons
- Suitable only for acne-prone skin
12
Choice of Nature Organic African Black Soap
Step into a world of pure indulgence with this black soap from Choice of Nature. As you hold the bar in your hands, its smooth texture and earthy aroma transport you to the sun-kissed lands of Africa. The soap is created with a traditional, old recipe, combining the ashes of locally sourced plantains, cocoa pods, shea butter, and nourishing cold-pressed oils like coconut oil and palm kernel oil. Whether you're dealing with acne, eczema, or dryness, this soap is a true skincare ally, addressing a range of concerns with its natural antibacterial and moisturizing properties. This 100% natural soap also prevents the appearance of wrinkles and dark spots. The soap is vegan-friendly and is not tested on animals. Let the ancient secrets of Africa caress your skin.
Pros
- 100% natural
- Cold-pressed oils
- Shea butter
- Heals dry skin
- Works on sun damage
- No sulfates
- Cruelty-free
- Natural scented
13
Naples Soap Company pH Balancing Soap Bar
The Sea Salt Soap Bar from Naples Soap Company is a natural and effective way to cleanse and care for your eczema, psoriasis, and acne-prone skin. The blend of sea salt, coconut oil, olive oil, and shea butter, helps exfoliate and moisturize, while also balancing the pH of your skin. The sea salt in the soap helps in removing dead skin cells and impurities, while the coconut oil and olive oil moisturize and nourish the skin. Shea butter helps protect the skin and keep it hydrated. The soap is free of harmful ingredients like parabens, formaldehyde, silicone, sulfate, etc. It also doesn't have any fragrance.
Pros
- Enriched with minerals
- Pamper and protect
- Helps in pH balancing
- Boost circulation
- Fragrance-free
- Enhance moisture
- Fights bacterial
How to choose the best soap for eczema?
Choosing the best soap for eczema involves several key considerations to ensure optimal relief and care for sensitive and irritated skin. Here is a breakdown of the factors to keep in mind when selecting a soap:
Skin Sensitivity and Allergies: The soap should be marked/labeled as "eczema-friendly" or suitable for sensitive skin. It should not have any harsh chemicals, fragrances, or dyes that can trigger allergic reactions and worsen eczema symptoms.
Moisturizing Properties: Prioritize soaps that offer moisturization to combat dryness, a common symptom of eczema. Make sure it has ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, or glycerin, which help hydrate and protect the skin's moisture barrier.
Gentle Cleansing: Choose soaps with gentle cleansing agents that effectively remove dirt and impurities without stripping the skin of natural oils. You should look for creamy or non-drying formulas that are less likely to exacerbate dryness and irritation.
pH-Balanced: Go for soaps with a pH balance close to that of the skin (around 5.5). A soap with the proper pH can help maintain the skin's natural protective barrier, preventing moisture loss and minimizing irritation.
Natural and Soothing Ingredients: The soap should have ingredients with calming and anti-inflammatory properties, such as oatmeal, aloe vera, coconut oil, etc. These ingredients can help soothe itching, reduce inflammation, and promote the healing of eczema patches.
Possible Irritants:
The skin is more irritable or sensitive when you have eczema. It is important to ensure that the soap does not contain any irritants. Avoid soaps that contain sulfates, parabens, synthetic fragrances, or other additives known to aggravate eczema symptoms. Still one should be careful before using any skin product. Our contributor Dr. Chaudhry, UK board-certified dermatologist explains, “Certain soaps designed for eczema can have potential side effects. These may include skin irritation, dryness, or allergic reactions. It's always advisable to perform a patch test before fully integrating a new soap into your routine.”
It's important to bear in mind that what may be effective for one individual might not yield the same results for another. You might have to try a few soaps to find the best match for your skin. In case you do not see any improvement in your skin condition, you may consult with a dermatologist for personalized recommendations for soaps based on your specific needs. As per our contributor Dr. Chaudhry, some signs that a soap may not be working well for eczema include an increase in itching, redness, dryness, or inflammation. He says, “It's best to look for soaps that are fragrance-free and hypoallergenic.”
Conclusion:
In a nutshell, when it comes to finding the best soaps for eczema, it's all about catering to your skin's unique needs. By considering factors like sensitivity, moisturization, gentle cleansing, and the ingredients used in the soap, you can make informed choices that will make a real difference in managing and alleviating your eczema symptoms. Hypoallergenic formulations and products with harsh chemicals definitely need to be avoided. With the right soap, you can provide your eczema-prone skin with the care and attention it deserves, leading to increased comfort, relief, and a healthier complexion. Do remember that it's crucial to establish a complete skincare routine of gentle cleansing, thorough moisturization, and targeted treatments for managing flare-ups effectively. This routine, along with some lifestyle adjustments and the right soap, will help soothe and heal your skin.
Contributor: Dr. Chaudhry, UK board-certified Dermatologist, Scandinavian Biolabs
FAQ's
Can using the right soap help with eczema?
Yes, using the right soap can help with eczema. Soaps that are made specifically for eczema conditions may help soothe the skin and reduce inflammation.
Are there specific ingredients I should avoid in a soap for eczema?
Yes, there are specific ingredients you should avoid in soap for eczema. Common irritants and allergens to steer clear of include sulfates, fragrances, dyes, and harsh chemicals. These ingredients can further aggravate eczema symptoms and cause skin irritation.
Can natural or organic soaps be beneficial for eczema?
Yes, natural or organic soaps can be beneficial for eczema. These soaps are generally prepared without any harsh chemicals or fragrances, which can irritate the skin.
How often should I use soap for eczema?
The frequency of soap usage for eczema depends on individual needs and preferences. It is generally recommended to limit soap use to once a day to avoid stripping the skin of its natural oils and further drying it out.
Why Trust Pinkvilla
Anoushka, our skincare expert, suggests using moisturizing and pH-balanced soaps for people with eczema. Being a skincare enthusiast, she knows that most soaps have irritants like parabens, sulfates, and artificial fragrances that might lead to skin allergies. Hence, she wanted to curate soaps for eczema that can help soothe and calm the skin. To achieve this goal, she contacted a few people who are dealing with the condition and asked them to test a few products that she had carefully selected based on the ingredients, formula, and dermatologist recommendations. After testing the products for a couple of weeks, she came up with this list of the 12 best soaps that help relieve the symptoms of eczema. SheaMoisture Bar Soap for Eczema was one soap that she found people truly loved because of its intense moisturization and nourishing capabilities.
Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!
Article Sources +
1. Antioxidant Potential of Pine Needles
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7827367/
Author BIO
Anoushka is certified in Professional Skincare and is a Mass Media (Journalism) graduate from Mumbai University. As a More
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