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How Do I Choose the Best Shampoo for Eczema?

Nicole Etolen
Nicole Etolen

Eczema is a skin condition that causes dry, scaly patches on the skin and scalp. The condition can affect people of all ages, but is especially common in babies. The best type of shampoo for eczema is one that contains gentle, mild ingredients and is free of extra additives such as fragrance or dyes. Most shampoos for the condition are available over the counter, and vary in price depending on the brand name rather than active ingredients.

Talking to a dermatologist before you begin shopping for an eczema shampoo is a good idea. First, you want to make sure that your condition is actually eczema and not some other skin condition. Although it may not make much of a difference in choosing your shampoo, different conditions may require different forms of treatment. Your dermatologist may also be able to give you some advice on the best shampoo ingredients to look for.

Gentle shampoos work best on scalps with eczema.
Gentle shampoos work best on scalps with eczema.

A shampoo specially designed for those with dandruff can also work well as a shampoo for eczema. The coal tar ingredients found in these shampoos help relieve dry skin and remove dead cells. You will need to leave it on for a few minutes to allow it to work, and then make sure you rinse it completely away. This requires spending a few extra minutes in the shower, but it should help relieve some of the condition.

Eczema is characterized by dry, scaly patches on the skin.
Eczema is characterized by dry, scaly patches on the skin.

Baby shampoo designed for cradle cap is not just good for babies; it is good for adults with eczema too. One great thing about this type of shampoo for eczema is its mildness. Typically, it doesn’t contain any unnecessary extra ingredients such as fragrances or dyes. You can find it in the baby section of stores.

If you prefer to use natural remedies in your shampoo for eczema, look for one that contains tea tree oil. Numerous studies indicate that this Australian essential oil is beneficial for many skin conditions, including eczema. Just be sure to talk to your dermatologist before using products that include it, as some people are allergic to the oil. It should not be used by pregnant women.

Some adults with eczema have found good results after using baby shampoo.
Some adults with eczema have found good results after using baby shampoo.

How you wash your hair is just as important to treating the condition as choosing the right shampoo for eczema. Do not shower in extremely hot water. Although it may feel good on your scalp at first, it can actually make your condition worse in the long run. Keep your head or other affected body parts under the water only as long as necessary. If your condition becomes worse at any point, stop using the shampoo and contact your dermatologist.

Discussion Comments

anon994106

You need to use a shampoo that does not have chemicals and has only soothing ingredients. I tried a lot of them - finding one without chemicals is hard. Aloe Vera is soothing and coconut oil is soothing. These are the ingredients you should be looking for in a shampoo. For the last month, I have been using the Somaluxe Shampoo, and it has been great cause its super moisturizing, and doesn't have any chemicals that aggravate my eczema.

Talentryto

@raynbow- Yes, lavender oil is known for its healing properties, so it is often used in shampoos, conditioners, and lotions for all types of skin problems. It also smells great, and doubles as a form of aroma therapy for most people.

Raynbow

Does anyone know if lavender oil is good for eczema? I noticed that it is a key ingredient in many shampoos, so I was curious if it might have healing benefits.

Heavanet

I do most of my shopping at natural food stores, and many of them carry a large line of natural shampoos and conditioners. Whether you have eczema, a sensitive scalp, or allergic reactions to artificial ingredients, natural products are the best choices because they are much less irritating.

Shampoos that contain natural ingredients also help to soothe the scalp and promote healing. This is not the case with hair care products that contain petroleum-based ingredients, artificial colors, and heavy perfumes, because they can be very irritating to skin that is already dry, itchy, and inflamed.

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    • Gentle shampoos work best on scalps with eczema.
      By: meryll
      Gentle shampoos work best on scalps with eczema.
    • Eczema is characterized by dry, scaly patches on the skin.
      By: quayside
      Eczema is characterized by dry, scaly patches on the skin.
    • Some adults with eczema have found good results after using baby shampoo.
      By: Africa Studio
      Some adults with eczema have found good results after using baby shampoo.
    • Shampoos designed for those with dandruff can also be used for someone with eczema.
      By: Alliance
      Shampoos designed for those with dandruff can also be used for someone with eczema.