Eczema is a common skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin, and can be especially troublesome on the hands. Using the wrong hand soap can exacerbate eczema symptoms, causing further irritation and discomfort. That’s why it’s essential to choose the right hand soap for eczema-prone skin.
When shopping for the best hand soap for eczema, there are a few critical things to consider. The first is the soap’s ingredients. Look for hand soaps that are free from harsh chemicals, fragrances, and dyes that can irritate sensitive skin. It’s also important to choose a soap that contains moisturizing ingredients like shea butter, aloe vera, or glycerin to help soothe and hydrate dry skin.
Another important factor to consider is the soap’s pH level. Eczema-prone skin tends to have a higher pH level, which can make it more susceptible to irritation. Look for hand soaps with a pH level between 4.5 and 6.5, which is closer to the skin’s natural pH level and less likely to cause irritation.
At our testing facility, we spent hours researching and testing various hand soaps to identify the best hand soap for eczema. We considered factors like ingredients, pH level, and effectiveness at soothing dry, itchy skin. In the following sections, we’ll share our top picks for the best hand soap for eczema and what makes them stand out from the rest.
Best Hand Soaps for Eczema
As someone who has struggled with eczema, we know how important it is to find a hand soap that won’t irritate or dry out our skin. After researching and testing various products, we’ve compiled a list of the best hand soaps for eczema. These soaps are gentle, moisturizing, and effective at cleansing without causing any flare-ups. Check out our top picks below.
1. ATTITUDE Soothing Hand Soap for Sensitive Skin
If you’re looking for a gentle hand soap that is safe for sensitive skin, ATTITUDE’s Soothing & Calming Hand Soap is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Enriched with oatmeal and chamomile, it will stimulate your senses and soothe your sensitive skin.
- Free of irritants and synthetic fragrance, our natural hand soap won’ t dry out your sensitive skin.
- PETA Approved – Proudly Vegan because our products are never tested on animals.
Cons
- Some users might find the scent too mild.
- The bottle might be too big to fit in some soap dispensers.
- The price might be slightly higher compared to other hand soaps.
We’ve been using this hand soap for a while now, and we’re really happy with it. It’s gentle on our skin, and it doesn’t dry it out or cause any irritation. The oatmeal and chamomile extract make it very soothing and refreshing, and we love the fact that it’s EWG VERIFIED™, hypoallergenic and dermatologically tested.
The fact that it’s free of Dyes, SLS, SLES, Parabens, Formaldehyde, and synthetic fragrances or perfume gives us complete peace of mind. We also appreciate that it’s eco-friendly, vegan, and cruelty-free.
The only downside we’ve noticed is that some users might find the scent too mild. Also, the bottle might be too big to fit in some soap dispensers, and the price might be slightly higher compared to other hand soaps. However, we think that the benefits of using this hand soap outweigh the cons, and we would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a gentle and effective hand soap for sensitive skin.
In summary, if you’re looking for a hand soap that is gentle, safe, and effective for sensitive skin, ATTITUDE’s Soothing & Calming Hand Soap is definitely worth trying out.
2. Allenburys Gentle Oatmeal & Coconut Oil Bar Soap
If you’re looking for a gentle and natural cleansing option, Allenburys Gentle Oatmeal & Coconut Oil Bar Soap is a great choice.
Pros
- The natural ingredients in this soap are known for healing sensitive skin.
- The oatmeal and coconut formula soothes irritated skin while moisturizing it.
- This unscented bar soap is safe for every member of the family.
Cons
- The bar may not last as long as some other soaps.
- The soap may not lather as much as some people prefer.
- Some people may find the soap to be a bit drying.
We recently tried Allenburys Gentle Oatmeal & Coconut Oil Bar Soap and were impressed with its gentle cleansing properties. The oatmeal and coconut formula left our skin feeling clean and soft, without any irritation. We also appreciated that the soap is unscented and free from harmful additives like parabens, dairy, and phthalates.
While the soap does not produce as much lather as some other options, we found that it still provided an effective clean. Some people may find the soap to be a bit drying, but we did not experience this issue. Overall, we would recommend Allenburys Gentle Oatmeal & Coconut Oil Bar Soap to anyone looking for a gentle, natural, and effective hand soap for eczema-prone skin.
3. Dove Dryness Relief Beauty Bar
If you’re looking for a soap that’s gentle on your skin and helps with eczema, Dove Dryness Relief Beauty Bar is a great option.
Pros
- The oatmeal and rice milk scent is calming and soothing.
- The soap is gentle and doesn’t dry out your skin.
- It effectively washes away bacteria and nourishes your dry skin.
Cons
- The scent can be too strong for some people.
- It’s not the most affordable option.
- The bar can get slimy if it’s left in water.
We’ve been using this soap for a while now and it’s been great for our dry, sensitive skin. The oatmeal and rice milk scent is very pleasant and calming, making it perfect for a relaxing shower. The soap lathers up nicely and doesn’t leave your skin feeling tight or dry after use.
One of the things we appreciate about this soap is that it effectively washes away bacteria while still being gentle on your skin. It contains ¼ moisturizing cream, which helps to nourish and moisturize dry skin while it works. We’ve noticed that our skin feels softer and smoother after using this soap regularly.
However, the scent can be too strong for some people, so if you’re sensitive to fragrances, this might not be the best option for you. Additionally, it’s not the most affordable soap on the market, so it might not be the best choice if you’re on a tight budget. Finally, the bar can get slimy if it’s left in water, so make sure to store it in a dry place between uses.
Overall, we would recommend Dove Dryness Relief Beauty Bar to anyone looking for a gentle, effective soap that helps with eczema. It’s a bit pricier than some other options, but we think it’s worth it for the quality and effectiveness of the product.
4. ATTITUDE Super leaves Unscented Liquid Hand Soap
If you’re looking for a hand soap that is gentle on your skin and the planet, then ATTITUDE Super leaves Unscented Liquid Hand Soap is worth considering.
Pros
- The formula is free from synthetic fragrances, parabens, and formaldehyde, making it a safe choice for those with eczema-prone skin.
- The hand soap is EWG VERIFIED, PETA Certified, and ECOLOGO Certified, so you can feel good about using it.
- The blueberry leaves extract and moringa seed extract in the formula help to soothe and protect your skin, leaving your hands feeling soft and conditioned.
Cons
- Some users report that the soap leaves a slightly sticky feeling on their skin after use.
- A few people have reported being allergic to the sodium benzoate in the formula.
- The unscented formula may not be appealing to those who prefer a scented hand soap.
We’ve been using ATTITUDE Super leaves Unscented Liquid Hand Soap for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its gentle yet effective cleaning power. The soap lathers well and rinses off easily, leaving our hands feeling clean and soft. We appreciate that the formula is free from harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances, which can be irritating to eczema-prone skin.
The blueberry leaves extract and moringa seed extract in the formula provide additional benefits for our skin, helping to soothe and protect it from environmental stressors. We also like that the hand soap is EWG VERIFIED, PETA Certified, and ECOLOGO Certified, which means it meets high standards for sustainability and safety.
While some users have reported that the soap leaves a slightly sticky feeling on their hands after use, we haven’t experienced this issue ourselves. However, we do acknowledge that the unscented formula may not be everyone’s cup of tea. Overall, we think ATTITUDE Super leaves Unscented Liquid Hand Soap is a great choice for those looking for a gentle, eco-friendly hand soap that is safe for eczema-prone skin.
5. Dial Clean & Gentle Foaming Hand Wash
If you’re looking for a gentle and effective hand soap that won’t irritate your eczema, Dial Clean & Gentle Foaming Hand Wash is a great option.
Pros
- The SkinSmart formula leaves hands feeling smooth, soft, and silky.
- It’s free from unwanted ingredients such as dyes, parabens, phthalates, and silicones.
- The pH balanced and vegan formula is gentle on all skin types.
Cons
- The fragrance-free formula may not be appealing to those who prefer scented soaps.
- It may not lather as much as other hand soaps.
- The bottle size may not be ideal for those who use a lot of hand soap.
We have been using Dial Clean & Gentle Foaming Hand Wash for a few weeks now and have noticed a significant improvement in our skin’s hydration and overall health. The soap is gentle and doesn’t leave our hands feeling dry or irritated like some other hand soaps can. We appreciate that it’s free from unwanted ingredients and is vegan.
The SkinSmart formula is effective in cleaning our hands without stripping them of their natural oils. It leaves our hands feeling smooth, soft, and silky. The pH balanced formula is gentle on all skin types, making it a great option for those with eczema or sensitive skin.
One downside to this soap is that it’s fragrance-free, which may not be appealing to those who prefer scented soaps. Additionally, it may not lather as much as other hand soaps, which could be a concern for some users. The bottle size is also on the smaller side, so it may not be ideal for those who use a lot of hand soap.
Overall, we would recommend Dial Clean & Gentle Foaming Hand Wash to anyone looking for a gentle and effective hand soap that won’t irritate their eczema. It’s a great option for those who are conscious about the ingredients in their personal care products and want a soap that’s free from unwanted additives.
6. Aleva Naturals Foaming Hand Wash
If you’re looking for a gentle and effective hand soap for your little ones with eczema, Aleva Naturals Foaming Hand Wash is a great option.
Pros
- The foaming action makes it easy to lather for a thorough and baby-safe clean.
- Enriched with ingredients derived from coconut oil that help clean messy hands, while the organic aloe vera soothes skin and leaves it feeling soft.
- The refreshing Water Lily scent leaves hands smelling fresh.
Cons
- The foam disappears quickly, so it may not feel as substantial as other foaming soap products.
- The scent may be too strong for some people.
- Some may find it a bit expensive compared to other hand soaps.
We’ve been using this hand soap for our toddler with eczema, and it has worked wonders. The foaming action makes it easy for her to wash her hands, and the formula is gentle enough not to irritate her sensitive skin. Plus, the Water Lily scent is refreshing and not overpowering.
We also love that it’s made with natural ingredients and is hypoallergenic, SLS/SLES-free, dioxane-free, and chlorine-free. It’s perfect for toddlers and children with sensitive skin.
Overall, we highly recommend Aleva Naturals Foaming Hand Wash for anyone looking for a gentle and effective hand soap for their little ones.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best hand soap for eczema, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Ingredients
The first thing to look at is the ingredients. Avoid soaps that contain harsh chemicals like sulfates, parabens, and fragrances, as these can irritate eczema-prone skin. Look for soaps that are made with natural ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and calendula, which can help soothe and moisturize the skin.
Moisturizing Properties
Eczema-prone skin is often dry and itchy, so it’s important to choose a soap that will help moisturize the skin. Look for soaps that contain ingredients like glycerin, shea butter, and coconut oil, which can help keep the skin hydrated and prevent further irritation.
pH Balance
The pH level of a soap can also affect the skin’s moisture balance. Look for soaps that have a pH level of around 5.5, which is similar to the pH level of the skin. This can help maintain the skin’s natural moisture barrier and prevent further irritation.
Formulation
There are several different types of hand soap formulations to choose from, including liquid, foam, and bar soaps. Liquid and foam soaps are generally more moisturizing than bar soaps, but they can also be more expensive. Bar soaps are often more affordable and convenient, but they can be drying if they contain harsh ingredients.
Packaging
Finally, consider the packaging of the soap. Look for soaps that come in pump bottles or other dispensers, as these are more hygienic than bar soaps. Additionally, choose soaps that come in recyclable or biodegradable packaging to reduce your environmental impact.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some recommended hand soaps for those with eczema?
We recommend using gentle, fragrance-free hand soaps that are specifically formulated for sensitive skin. Some popular options include Cetaphil Gentle Cleansing Bar, Dove Sensitive Skin Beauty Bar, and Eucerin Skin Calming Body Wash.
What ingredients should I look for in a hand soap for eczema-prone skin?
Look for hand soaps that contain moisturizing ingredients like glycerin, shea butter, and aloe vera. Avoid harsh ingredients like sulfates, fragrances, and alcohol, as these can irritate and dry out the skin.
Can using the wrong hand soap worsen eczema symptoms?
Yes, using the wrong hand soap can worsen eczema symptoms. Harsh ingredients in hand soaps can strip the skin of its natural oils and cause dryness and irritation, which can exacerbate eczema symptoms.
Are there any natural or organic hand soaps that are safe for eczema?
Yes, there are many natural and organic hand soaps that are safe for eczema. Look for products that are free from synthetic fragrances, sulfates, and other harsh ingredients. Some good options include Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Liquid Soap, Seventh Generation Free & Clean Hand Wash, and Puracy Natural Foaming Hand Soap.
What are some common irritants found in hand soaps that should be avoided for eczema?
Common irritants found in hand soaps include fragrances, sulfates, parabens, and alcohol. These ingredients can dry out the skin and cause irritation, which can worsen eczema symptoms.
Is there a specific pH level that hand soap should have for those with eczema?
Ideally, hand soap for those with eczema should have a pH level between 5 and 7, which is considered to be neutral or slightly acidic. This pH range is less likely to disrupt the skin’s natural barrier and cause irritation.
