Watching your baby struggle with irritated, itchy skin can be heartbreaking—especially when you’re not sure how to relieve their discomfort. If your baby has eczema, you’re certainly not alone. Infant eczema is a common skin condition that affects many babies and toddlers, often causing dry, inflamed, and red patches on delicate skin. Although it can feel overwhelming, there are effective, gentle ways to soothe and protect eczema-prone skin—and this guide is here to help you explore what might work best for your little one.

Eczema can appear anywhere on a baby’s body, but it’s most commonly found on the cheeks, scalp, arms, legs, and behind the knees. Because baby skin is more sensitive, everyday irritants like bath products, synthetic fabrics, or even changes in temperature and humidity can trigger flare-ups. The good news? With the right skincare routine and baby-safe products, you can help manage symptoms and minimize discomfort.

As a mom of two children with sensitive skin, I’ve been through the ups and downs of baby eczema firsthand. My oldest started showing signs of eczema at just a few weeks old, and my youngest continues to experience occasional flare-ups. Over the years, we’ve tested countless remedies—from gentle body washes to dermatologist-approved moisturizers—and learned a lot along the way.

Best Baby Shampoos & Washes for Eczema-Prone Skin

Top Eczema Shampoos for Babies and Toddlers

Choosing the right shampoo for babies and toddlers with eczema is crucial in managing the condition effectively. Below are some of the top eczema shampoos formulated to be gentle, soothing, and effective for sensitive, eczema-prone skin.

1: Aveeno Baby Cleansing Therapy Moisturizing Wash

• Description: This shampoo is colloidal oatmeal-based and fragrance-free, making it a gentle option for babies. Pediatricians recommend it for its soothing properties.
• Benefits: The colloidal oatmeal helps to moisturize and soothe dry, irritated skin, reducing the discomfort associated with eczema. This wash is designed to cleanse without stripping the skin of its natural moisture.
• Suitable for: Babies with mild to moderate eczema will benefit most from this moisturizing wash, providing gentle cleansing while protecting the skin’s natural barrier.

2: CeraVe Baby Wash & Shampoo

• Description: This wash and shampoo set, free of sulfates and parabens and containing vital ceramides, is suitable for everyday use on delicate skin.
• Benefits: Including ceramides helps restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier, which is crucial for eczema-prone skin. This product gently cleanses while locking in moisture, preventing dryness and irritation.
• Suitable for: Infants with eczema and sensitive skin, particularly those needing a mild, one-product solution for their body and hair.

3: Eucerin Baby Eczema Relief Cream Body Wash

• Description: Enriched with colloidal oatmeal and ceramides, this body wash is designed to relieve eczema symptoms.
• Benefits: This body wash relieves itchiness and dryness, common issues for babies with eczema. Colloidal oatmeal and ceramides help soothe and protect the skin.
• Suitable for: Babies with dry, eczema-prone skin, particularly those who experience frequent flare-ups and need a product that provides both cleansing and relief.

4: Mustela Stelatopia Foam Shampoo

• Description: This plant-based formula is fragrance-free and soap-free, making it ideal for babies with delicate, eczema-prone skin, including those with cradle cap.
• Benefits: The foam shampoo removes natural oils from the skin and cleanses the scalp softly without irritating it. It also helps to soothe and protect the scalp, which is especially important for babies with eczema and cradle cap.
• Suitable for: Cradle cap and eczema-affected babies should use this product, as it provides a mild, calming cleansing for the scalp.

5: California Baby Therapeutic Relief Eczema Shampoo & Bodywash

• Description: Made with natural ingredients, this shampoo and body wash are free from synthetic fragrances and contain calendula, which is known for its healing properties.
• Benefits: This product reduces the redness and irritation associated with eczema. Because of its natural ingredients, it is safe to use on sensitive skin and offers therapeutic comfort during the cleansing process.
• Suitable for: Infants with delicate skin prone to eczema, especially those who might react to harsh chemicals or synthetic compounds.

Ingredients to Look for in Eczema Shampoos

When selecting an eczema shampoo for babies and toddlers, the ingredients play a crucial role in determining the product’s effectiveness and safety. Below are vital ingredients to look for, each offering unique benefits to soothe and protect eczema-prone skin.

1. Colloidal Oatmeal: Colloidal oatmeal is a common and influential ingredient in eczema shampoos. It covers the skin’s surface to form a barrier that helps retain moisture and prevent additional dryness. Its anti-inflammatory qualities also lessen redness and irritation, making it essential for infants and young children with eczema.
2. Ceramides: Ceramides are critical for maintaining the skin’s natural barrier. This barrier is often compromised in babies with eczema, leading to increased moisture loss and irritant vulnerability. Shampoos containing ceramides help replenish these essential lipids, strengthening the skin’s defenses and reducing the risk of flare-ups.
3. Aloe Vera: Aloe vera has calming and cooling effects on the skin. It gives moisture without leaving a greasy aftertaste and soothes sensitive skin. This makes it an ideal ingredient for eczema shampoos, especially for babies uncomfortable with inflamed or itchy skin.
4. Calendula: Calendula is a natural ingredient with gentle healing properties. It works very well to lessen eczema-related redness and swelling. Moreover, its mild nature makes it safe for babies, providing relief without causing further irritation.
5. Glycerin: Glycerin is a powerful humectant, attracting water to the skin. This property is crucial for eczema-prone skin, which tends to be dry and needs constant hydration. By helping to maintain moisture levels in the skin, glycerin can prevent the drying and cracking that often accompanies eczema.

Tips for Using Eczema Shampoo on Babies and Toddlers

Managing eczema in babies and toddlers requires careful attention to their skincare routine, particularly when washing their hair. Here are some essential tips for using eczema shampoo effectively to ensure your child’s comfort and skin health.

Frequency of Washing

Proper Application Techniques

• Gentle Massage: When applying the shampoo, gently massage your fingertips into the scalp. Avoid scrubbing or excessive pressure, which can aggravate the skin and worsen eczema symptoms. A gentle, circular motion helps to cleanse without irritating.
• Use Lukewarm Water: Warm water should always be used, as hot water can cause skin dryness and eczema flare-ups. Lukewarm water is soothing and helps maintain the skin’s moisture balance.

Post-Wash Care

• Immediate Moisturizing: After washing, it’s crucial to moisturize your baby’s skin immediately while it’s still slightly damp. This helps to lock in moisture and reinforces the skin’s barrier, preventing dryness and irritation. Choose a thick, fragrance-free moisturizer or an emollient designed for eczema-prone skin.
• Focus on Problem Areas: Pay extra attention to areas prone to dryness and eczema, such as behind the ears, the neck, and around the hairline. These areas may require additional moisturizing or a thicker application.

Patch Testing

Avoiding Triggers

• Heat and Sweat: Heat and sweat can exacerbate eczema symptoms. After washing, ensure your baby’s scalp is thoroughly dried, and avoid overdressing them to prevent sweating. Keeping your baby cool and comfortable can help reduce the likelihood of flare-ups.
• Harsh Fabrics: Clothing and bedding made from rough or synthetic fabrics can irritate sensitive skin. Choose breathable, soft materials like cotton instead of ones that could lead to overheating or friction.
• Fragrance-Free Products: Fragrances, even those labeled as “natural,” can irritate eczema-prone skin. Always choose fragrance-free shampoos and other skin care products to minimize the risk of irritation.

FAQs

Can I use regular baby shampoo on my child with eczema?

Frequently used infant shampoos could include chemicals that aggravate skin prone to eczema. It’s best to use shampoos formulated explicitly for eczema.

How often should I wash my baby’s hair if they have eczema?

It’s recommended to wash your baby’s hair 2-3 times a week with a gentle, eczema-friendly shampoo to prevent dryness.

Are eczema shampoos safe for newborns?

Many eczema shampoos are safe for newborns, but it’s essential to check the age recommendations on the product and consult with your pediatrician.

What should I do if my baby’s eczema worsens after using a new shampoo?

Stop using the shampoo immediately and consult with your pediatrician. They may recommend a different product or treatment.

Can I also use eczema shampoo on my baby’s body?

Some eczema shampoos are formulated as both shampoo and body wash. Check the product label for such usage recommendations.

Managing eczema in babies and toddlers requires a delicate balance of proper skincare practices and careful product selection. The right eczema shampoo, enriched with soothing and moisturizing ingredients like colloidal oatmeal, ceramides, and aloe vera, can significantly alleviate discomfort and reduce flare-ups. Parents can protect their child’s sensitive skin by following recommended washing frequencies, gentle application techniques, and consistent post-wash care. Additionally, avoiding common eczema triggers and performing patch tests on new products are essential to ensure your baby’s skin’s ongoing health and comfort. The right approach makes managing eczema more manageable, allowing your child to enjoy healthier, happier skin.