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How Do I Choose the Best Sensitive Skin Body Wash?

Erin J. Hill
Erin J. Hill

When choosing a sensitive skin body wash, it's important to avoid harsh chemicals, strong fragrances, and dyes. There are items on the market sold specifically for sensitive skin types, so this is a good place to start. Choosing an organic body wash can also be beneficial, since the makers of organic products avoid using damaging or irritating chemicals. You can also use a product intended for infants if you have very sensitive skin, as these items are usually much milder than products aimed at adults.

The best way to go about choosing a good sensitive skin body wash is by trying various items to determine which ones irritate your skin. When you find an item that does cause irritation, do a little research on the ingredients it contains to determine which ones might be causing a problem. That way you'll know what to avoid as you try different formulas and brands.

Bottles of pink and orange body wash.
Bottles of pink and orange body wash.

If you want to avoid chemicals altogether, you should probably go with a mild organic sensitive skin body wash. Organic products usually avoid using anything that isn't natural and gentle anyway, so you'll have to check labels less frequently. That's not to say that certain organic formulas might not cause skin irritation as well, but the risk is lowered. You can also choose an organic body wash that contains a naturally soothing skin agent, such as organic cocoa butter or tea tree oil. That way your skin will be covered in healing substances and irritation may lessen.

Scented fabric softeners cay cause skin problems.
Scented fabric softeners cay cause skin problems.

Using sensitive skin body wash intended for children may also be beneficial, as they are usually designed to be very gentle and mild. Babies have exceptionally sensitive skin, so product made for them will likely help with your own skin. Although selection used to be limited, there is now a wide range of infant body wash options. There is body wash with no scent, moisturizing body wash, and ultra sensitive skin body wash for babies with skin more sensitive than others.

Most body washes designed for sensitive skin are fragrance-free.
Most body washes designed for sensitive skin are fragrance-free.

If you continue using any body wash and skin irritation continues, you should be checked by a dermatologist. You may need a recommendation for a good sensitive skin body wash, or you may have an underlying skin or health condition that requires further treatment. Your doctor can examine any existing irritation to make a proper diagnosis, and he may also prescribe medication to alleviate any discomfort.

It may also be that your body wash isn't the culprit for irritation. If you are using scented laundry soap or fabric softener, these may cause skin problems as well. Use a mild or scent-free laundry detergent for all clothing and blankets.

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    • Bottles of pink and orange body wash.
      By: Dessie
      Bottles of pink and orange body wash.
    • Scented fabric softeners cay cause skin problems.
      By: Unclesam
      Scented fabric softeners cay cause skin problems.
    • Most body washes designed for sensitive skin are fragrance-free.
      By: Iurii Sokolov
      Most body washes designed for sensitive skin are fragrance-free.
    • Babies have very sensitive skin, so detergents should be as mild as possible.
      By: JackF
      Babies have very sensitive skin, so detergents should be as mild as possible.