For people with eczema, it is important to choose a soap that does not aggravate a rash and even promotes healing, which can be challenging since washing can dry the skin more and make the condition worse. To choose the best soap for eczema, sufferers should typically look for those designed for sensitive skin. They should try to avoid harsh soaps, or ones that contain ingredients which irritate their skin; a natural soap may be a good alternative, as they generally do not contain chemicals. Soaps that are designed to moisturize the skin may also be beneficial.
Using soap specifically designed for sensitive skin is typically the best choice for most eczema patients. There are a variety of soaps readily available designed to be gentle on the skin. Sufferers may want to consult with a doctor or pharmacist to determine the best products to choose from. They may also need to try different soaps over a period of time to find the one which works best with their skin. Some popular brands often recommended as good soaps for eczema include Dove, Caress, and Ivory.
Another possible choice of soap for eczema is a natural soap. Commercial soaps often contain chemicals, scents, and other ingredients that are hard on the skin, which can aggravate an eczema rash and lead to further inflammation. Choosing a natural or organic soap allows eczema patients to avoid those harsh products. Natural soaps often contain elements designed to nourish the skin, such as vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. They may also contain ingredients specifically designed to soothe irritated skin like herbs or essential oils.
When deciding on the best soap for eczema, the product's moisturizing properties are often an important factor. Keeping the skin adequately moisturized is often a challenge for patients with eczema, and washing can often strip away natural oils in the skin and make dryness worse. Finding a soap designed to add moisture to the skin while washing may be a good strategy for some patients. Some commercially produced soaps have moisturizers added to them, though they may not always be ideal, as they can contain scents or other ingredients that may aggravate an eczema rash. Some natural soaps containing moisturizing components such as goat's milk or olive oil may be a good alternative in these cases.