What can people with eczema use for bathing?
Nov 29, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, suitable bathing products or methods for people with eczema include gentle, soap-free body washes, lukewarm water, oatmeal bath products, mildly acidic cleansers, and fragrance-free moisturizing shower gels. These body washes are free of soap-based ingredients, which helps preserve the skin's natural oil barrier. They cleanse gently without irritation, making them ideal for daily use in the routine hygiene of individuals with eczema.
Generally, suitable bathing products or methods for individuals with eczema include gentle, soap-free body washes, lukewarm water, oat-based bath products, mildly acidic cleansers, and fragrance-free moisturizing shower gels. The details are as follows:
1. Gentle, soap-free body wash: These body washes do not contain soap-based ingredients, so they do not disrupt the skin's natural oil barrier. They cleanse gently without irritation, minimizing friction and discomfort to eczema-prone skin. After use, the skin is less likely to feel dry or tight, making them ideal for daily cleansing in people with eczema.
2. Lukewarm water: Eczema patients should bathe using lukewarm water, ideally at a temperature between 37°C and 40°C. This prevents excessive dryness and itching caused by overly hot water, effectively removes surface dirt, avoids discomfort from cold water, and helps maintain stable skin condition.
3. Oat-based bath products: Containing natural oat ingredients, these products have soothing and moisturizing properties. They help relieve symptoms of itching and redness associated with eczema. When dissolved in lukewarm bathwater, they form a protective film on the skin’s surface, reducing external irritation and helping rehydrate the skin.
4. Mildly acidic cleansers: Human skin is naturally slightly acidic. Mildly acidic body washes have a pH level close to that of the skin, allowing better compatibility with the skin's environment. They help maintain the skin’s acid-base balance, reduce irritation to sensitive, eczema-affected skin, and support overall skin health after washing.
5. Fragrance-free moisturizing shower gel: These gels do not contain irritants such as fragrances or alcohol and are enriched with moisturizing ingredients. While cleansing, they help replenish skin moisture, alleviate dryness associated with eczema, and reduce the likelihood of itching triggered by dry skin.
Eczema patients should limit bathing time to no more than 10 minutes per session to avoid over-cleansing. Frequent bathing should be avoided; bathing frequency should be adjusted according to individual skin condition. If the skin shows signs of broken areas or infection, prompt medical attention is necessary.
