Soaps That Can Cause Psoriasis Flare-Ups (And What to Use Instead)
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that causes red, scaly, and often painful patches on the skin. While genetics and immune response are the primary causes, certain soaps and skincare products can trigger or worsen flare-ups. If you're using the wrong soap, you might be making your symptoms worse without even realizing it.
Knowing what ingredients to avoid—and what alternatives work best—can help you manage psoriasis and keep your skin calm, clean, and healthy.
Soaps That Can Trigger Psoriasis or Eczema Flare-Ups
Many commercial soaps contain harsh ingredients that can irritate or strip the skin’s protective barrier. If you have psoriasis, you should avoid:
- Irish Spring – Contains strong fragrances and detergents that can dry out skin
- Dial Antibacterial Bar – Includes triclocarban and strong synthetic cleansers
- Lever 2000 – Known for its strong scent and chemical surfactants
- Zest and Coast – Both contain high levels of artificial fragrance and preservatives
- Ivory Bar Soap – Marketed as gentle, but its high pH and lack of moisturizing agents may worsen dryness
- Bath & Body Works Foaming Soaps – Often loaded with fragrance, alcohol, and sulfates
Common ingredients to avoid:
- Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)
- Synthetic fragrance or “parfum”
- Alcohol-based cleansers
- Dyes and artificial colors
- Antibacterial agents like triclosan
These ingredients can disrupt the skin barrier, increasing inflammation and triggering flare-ups, especially in people with psoriasis or eczema.
Safe Soaps and Cleansers for Psoriasis and Eczema
When shopping for soap, look for unscented, moisturizing, and pH-balanced formulas made specifically for sensitive or compromised skin. Here are some of the best options:
- Cetaphil Gentle Cleansing Bar
- Fragrance-free, dermatologist-recommended, and non-soap formula
- Doesn’t strip moisture from the skin
- Dove Sensitive Skin Beauty Bar
- Hypoallergenic and mild
- Contains moisturizing cream to help soothe dry skin
- CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser Bar
- Includes ceramides and hyaluronic acid to restore the skin barrier
- Non-irritating and ideal for daily use
- Vanicream Cleansing Bar
- Free from dyes, fragrances, lanolin, and formaldehyde
- Safe for both psoriasis and eczema-prone skin
- Dead Sea Salt Soap (Fragrance-Free)
- Naturally mineral-rich and gentle exfoliant
- Can help reduce scaling and inflammation
- Eucerin Advanced Cleansing Body and Face Cleanser
- Soap-free and extremely gentle
- Suitable for adults and children with chronic dry skin
If you’re unsure, always go for fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and dermatologist-tested products.
Extra Skincare Tips for Psoriasis
- Use lukewarm water (not hot) when showering or bathing
- Pat skin dry, don’t rub
- Moisturize immediately after washing with an ointment or thick cream
- Limit exfoliation, especially during flare-ups
- Test new products on a small patch of skin before full use
Conclusion
Choosing the right soap is one of the simplest yet most powerful ways to manage psoriasis and eczema. Avoiding harsh, scented, and antibacterial soaps can significantly reduce flare-ups, while using gentle, nourishing alternatives helps keep your skin barrier intact and your symptoms under control. With the right approach, you can feel cleaner—and more comfortable—in your skin every day.