Dermatologist-Recommended Body Wash for Psoriasis You Can Use

The best body wash for psoriasis is gentle, fragrance-free, and soap-free, with ingredients like ceramides, salicylic acid, or urea. Harsh soaps with sulfates, alcohol, or strong fragrances should be avoided to prevent flare-ups. 

Dermatologists may suggest specific cleansers for sensitive skin, facial psoriasis, or combined conditions. Brands like CeraVe, Aveeno, and Eucerin offer trusted options, though severe psoriasis still requires professional care.

Living with psoriasis means paying attention to the small choices that affect your skin daily. Choosing a dermatologist-recommended body wash for psoriasis is one of those choices. At DermonDemand, Dr. Hannah Kopelman and her team guide patients toward safe, effective cleansers that protect the skin barrier and reduce irritation.

Key Takeaways

• The best body wash for psoriasis is fragrance-free, soap-free, and contains dermatologist-trusted ingredients like ceramides, salicylic acid, or urea.
• Patients should avoid harsh soaps with sulfates, alcohol, or strong fragrances, as these can strip natural oils and worsen flare-ups.
• Dermatologists recommend different cleansers for specific skin conditions, including sensitive skin, facial psoriasis, and combined conditions such as psoriasis and eczema.
• Trusted brands such as CeraVe, Aveeno, and Eucerin offer dermatologist-recommended body wash options that strike a balance between gentle cleansing and barrier repair.
• A supportive body wash helps daily care, but persistent or severe psoriasis requires consultation with a dermatologist for personalized treatment.

Best Body Wash and Soap Options for Psoriasis

Dermatologist-approved cleansers focus on supporting the skin while reducing triggers. The best body wash for psoriasis gently cleanses and consistently hydrates the skin.

Best body wash for sensitive psoriasis skin

For sensitive skin, fragrance-free and soap-free formulas are essential. These options help reduce irritation and improve hydration, particularly for patients who shower daily or use topical medications.

1. CeraVe Hydrating Body Wash – Contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid to restore the barrier.
2. Aveeno Skin Relief Body Wash – Colloidal oatmeal calms sensitivity and relieves itching.
3. Eucerin Skin Calming Body Wash – Soap-free with omega oils to reduce irritation and dryness.

Best soap for psoriasis and eczema

Psoriasis and eczema both involve damaged skin barriers, so many cleansers are effective for both conditions. The best soaps for psoriasis and eczema typically include soothing agents such as colloidal oatmeal or ceramides.

1. Vanicream Cleansing Bar – Free from fragrance, dyes, and preservatives, safe for sensitive skin.
2. Dove Sensitive Skin Beauty Bar – Gentle, pH-balanced formula that cleans without stripping oils.
3. Cetaphil Gentle Cleansing Bar – Non-soap bar enriched with moisturizers for barrier support.

Best soap for psoriasis on the face

Facial skin is thinner and more prone to irritation. The best soap for psoriasis on the face should avoid harsh acids or scrubbing particles. Cream-based cleansers with moisturizers are the safest choice.

1. La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser – Cream-based, with niacinamide to calm sensitive skin.
2. Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Hydrating Cleanser – Soap-free and fragrance-free to minimize redness and dryness.
3. Eucerin Advanced Cleansing Face & Body Cleanser – Light formula safe for face, prevents tightness and irritation.

Dermatologist-trusted brands for psoriasis body wash

Dermatologists frequently recommend brands such as CeraVe, Eucerin, and Aveeno. CeraVe psoriasis body wash is often used for its combination of salicylic acid and ceramides. Other trusted options, like Eucerin and Aveeno, offer gentle hydration and skin-calming ingredients, making them reliable choices for daily use.

What Is the Best Psoriasis Body Wash?

Finding the best body wash for psoriasis starts with understanding how it supports skin health. Psoriasis makes the skin more sensitive, which means harsh soaps or heavily fragranced products can worsen symptoms. A dermatologist-recommended body wash is designed to cleanse gently while preserving moisture.

What do dermatologists recommend for psoriasis?

Dermatologists recommend gentle, fragrance-free cleansers that hydrate while cleansing. They advise avoiding products with sulfates, alcohol, or dyes. Dr. Kopelman emphasizes that while body wash can support skin health, prescription treatments are essential for controlling active psoriasis.

Key ingredients dermatologists trust

The ingredients most trusted by dermatologists include:

• Ceramides – restore the skin’s protective layer.
• Salicylic acid – helps soften plaques and improve scaling.
• Urea hydrates while reducing roughness.
• Glycerin – draws in moisture and prevents dryness.

These ingredients are safe for long-term use when guided by a dermatologist.

Soaps and ingredients to avoid

Patients with psoriasis should avoid antibacterial soaps, products with strong perfumes, and harsh sulfates. These strips’ natural oils trigger irritation. Dermatologists recommend mild, pH-balanced options that cleanse the skin without disrupting its barrier.

Body Wash for Different Needs

Different patients need different solutions. Gender, routine, and lifestyle affect which cleanser works best.

Women’s dermatologist-recommended body wash

Women often prefer lightweight textures that blend easily with moisturizers. Options with ceramides and urea are ideal because they hydrate without feeling greasy. These cleansers fit well into daily routines that may already include layered skincare products.

Men’s dermatologist-recommended body wash

Men tend to favor practical, multipurpose cleansers. The best men’s body wash for psoriasis should lather well and remain fragrance-free. Some dermatologist-approved products can be used on both body and scalp, reducing the need for multiple products.

Expert Tips for Washing with Psoriasis

Using the right cleanser is only part of daily care. Proper habits make a big difference.

How often to cleanse safely

Patients with psoriasis can shower daily if they use gentle products. Dermatologists recommend lukewarm water and limiting showers to 10 minutes. These steps prevent the skin from drying out.

Moisturizing after body wash or soap

Moisturizing after cleansing is critical. Thick, fragrance-free creams should be applied within five minutes of bathing to lock in hydration. This step supports barrier repair and helps the body wash work more effectively.

Daily habits that support psoriasis care

Simple adjustments can make cleansers more effective:

• Pat the skin dry with a towel instead of rubbing.
• Avoid long exposure to hot tubs or chlorinated pools during flares.
• Wear loose, breathable clothing to reduce friction.
• Stay consistent with prescription treatments.

Frequently Asked Questions