Understanding Eczema and Choosing the Best Soap Ingredients
Eczema. If you’ve ever dealt with it, you know how much it can affect your daily life. Red, itchy, sometimes flaky skin that feels like it’s in a constant battle with itself. Whether you’ve been managing eczema for years or you’re just starting to figure it all out, one thing’s for sure—what you put on your skin matters.
So, let’s talk soap. At Owl Soapery, we’re big believers in using simple, natural ingredients that don’t just clean your skin but also support it. If you’re navigating eczema, here’s the lowdown on what ingredients to look for (and which ones to avoid) in your soaps.
What Causes Eczema?
Eczema—or atopic dermatitis—is a chronic skin condition. While the exact cause isn’t always clear, it often stems from a mix of genetics, an overactive immune system, and environmental triggers. Think allergens, stress, changes in weather, or even the wrong skincare products.
One key to managing eczema is maintaining your skin’s natural barrier—and that’s where your soap choice comes in.
Ingredients Your Skin Will Love
The goal here is gentle, soothing, and hydrating. The following ingredients are eczema-friendly and often included in our handmade soap recipes:
- Oatmeal: Colloidal oatmeal is a superstar for calming irritated skin. It helps to reduce redness and itchiness while creating a protective barrier on the skin.
- Aloe Vera: This natural hydrator is famous for its soothing properties. Aloe keeps your skin moisturized and happy without clogging pores.
- Shea Butter: Packed with vitamins A and E, shea butter is a fantastic moisturizer that nourishes dry skin and helps restore its natural barrier.
- Olive Oil: A gentle and nourishing base oil, olive oil hydrates deeply and doesn’t strip your skin of its natural oils.
- Calendula Extract: Known for its anti-inflammatory and skin-healing properties, calendula is like a hug for sensitive skin.
- Chamomile: Whether in essential oil or extract form, chamomile can help calm the itchiness and inflammation that come with eczema.
- Coconut Oil: Used in moderation, coconut oil can be incredibly soothing and hydrating—plus, it adds a creamy lather to your soap.
- Beeswax: While not a cleanser, beeswax helps lock in moisture, keeping your skin hydrated long after your shower.
Ingredients to Avoid
Just as important as what to include is what to leave out. Here are a few ingredients that can be harsh on eczema-prone skin:
- Sulfates: These are common in commercial soaps and can be incredibly drying. If you see “sodium lauryl sulfate” (SLS) on a label, steer clear.
- Synthetic Fragrances: Sure, they smell great, but they’re a big no-no for sensitive skin. Opt for soaps with essential oils instead.
- Alcohol: It’s drying and can exacerbate eczema symptoms.
- Harsh Exfoliants: Scrubby particles like walnut shells or apricot kernels can irritate already inflamed skin.
- Preservatives: Parabens and other chemical preservatives might trigger a reaction in sensitive skin.
Why Handmade Soaps?
Unlike mass-produced soaps, handmade soaps (like the ones we craft at Owl Soapery) retain their natural glycerin. Glycerin is a humectant, meaning it attracts moisture to your skin—something eczema-prone skin desperately needs.
Our soaps are made in small batches using the cold process method, which ensures that the good-for-you ingredients stay intact. Plus, we don’t use synthetic additives or unnecessary fillers—just the real stuff your skin craves.
Tips for Using Soap on Eczema-Prone Skin
- Lukewarm Water: Hot water might feel good, but it can dry out your skin. Stick to lukewarm showers.
- Pat, Don’t Rub: After washing, gently pat your skin dry with a towel to avoid irritation.
- Moisturize Immediately: Lock in moisture with a rich cream or balm while your skin is still damp.
- Patch Test: Always test new products on a small area first to make sure your skin approves.
Final Thoughts
Living with eczema can be a challenge, but finding the right soap doesn’t have to be. By choosing products with soothing, nourishing ingredients and avoiding irritants, you can take a big step toward healthier, happier skin.
At Owl Soapery, we’re here to make that journey a little easier—one bar of soap at a time. If you’ve got questions or need a personalized recommendation, reach out to us. We’re always happy to help!