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A body wash for kids helps them clean while keeping the skin soft. You may want to invest in organic, vegan, and natural washes to prevent skin dryness and rashes. To provide you with the best picks, I have consulted Dr. Enrizza Factor, a clinical dermatologist, to choose the best kids’ body washes. This list contains products that both you and your child will love. The tried-and-tested products are free of artificial fragrances and chemicals, and contain essential oils that help soothe the skin and prevent dryness and flaking. Take a look at the list compiled for you.
Top Picks
19 Best Kids Body Washes
1. Best Hypoallergenic:Cetaphil Baby Wash & Shampoo
Colorant-, paraben-, tear-, and allergen-free, this body wash for kids is ideal for babies and children with sensitive skin. This mom’s choice body wash gently cleanses the child’s delicate skin and moisturizes it for a long time.
The calendula from the marigold flower helps soothe the skin and leaves a fresh scent. It is tested by dermatologists, is easy to rinse off, and doesn’t irritate your baby’s skin. You can also use this clinically tested product as a shampoo due to its novel two-in-one formula.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Suitable for daily use
- Lathers well
- Gentle and effective
Cons
- May not be tear-free as claimed
Review:A user writes, “This Cetaphil Baby Wash & Shampoo is a blessing for sensitive skin. Gentle, moisturizing, and pleasantly scented. While it’s effective for skin conditions, such as acne and eczema, the fragrance might bother some.”
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 19,922 independent reviewers on Amazon have acknowledged the product's durability and functionality.
Quick fact2. Best Anti-Fungal:Purely Northwest Tea Tree Oil Body Wash
This kids’ body wash is anti-fungal and contains tea tree oil that helps fight ringworm, athlete’s foot, jock itch, nail fungus, body odor, and acne. Further, this safety-tested body wash causes no skin irritation and rather moisturizes and hydrates the skin, leaving it soft and supple.
Pros
- Removes odor and sweat
- Gives a clean and refreshing feel
- Contains aloe vera and camphor that acts as soothing agents
- Reduces puffiness and skin irritation
Cons
- Has a watery consistency
Review:
According to a user, “This Purely Northwest Tea Tree Oil Body Wash is pure brilliance! As a parent, I’m thrilled. Goodbye to skin woes – no more itch, no more worries. It’s their armor against discomfort; truly magical for my little champs! However, I find it may be slightly slow in showing results.”
Quick tip3. Best For Sensitive Skin:Puracy Natural Body Wash
Made of 99.3% natural ingredients, including natural botanical extracts and natural preservatives, this baby wash for sensitive skin is suitable for children with sensitive skin. The gel-based body wash forms a creamy lather whenever your child uses it and cleans without stripping the skin’s natural moisture levels. Further, the coconut-based based body wash is free of sulfates, cruelty, perfumes, and harsh chemicals.
Pros
- Soothing citrus and sea salt scent
- Contains vegetable glycerine
- Softens the skin
- Ideal for daily use
Cons
- Might cause the skin to dry
Review:
A user writes, “Transitioning to hard water caused skin troubles, but this soap turned things around. The itching stopped, dryness disappeared, and my daughters’ eczema improved. Puracy Natural Body Wash has been a relief for us, though scent changes have been a drawback.”
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has garnered more than 11,732 positive reviews on Amazon.
Cetaphil Baby Wash & Shampoo Best Hypoallergenic | Purely Northwest Tea Tree Oil Body Wash Best Anti-Fungal | Puracy Natural Body Wash Best For Sensitive Skin | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 13.5 ounces | - | - |
| Dimensions | 7.48 x 3.34 x 1.89 inches | 2.25 x 2.36 x 5.39 inches | 2.1 x 7.7 x 2.1 inches |
| Skin Type | - | All, Oily, Sensitive, Dry, Normal | All |
| Weight | - | 10 Ounces | 12 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 19,922 | 24,491 | 11,732 |
| Price | $19.98 | $19.28 | $19.99 |
4. Best Fragrance-Free:CeraVe Body Wash
Formulated with three essential ceramides, namely 1, 3, and 6-II, this cleanser helps maintain and restore the skin’s natural protective barrier. It employs the patented MVE controlled-release technology that helps keep the skin hydrated throughout the day. It rinses off easily and keeps the skin fresh for hours. Furthermore, the product has salicylic acid that softens the skin and smoothens the texture.
Pros
- Does not irritate the skin
- Fragrance-free
- Free of parabens
- Dermatologist-tested
- Non-comedogenic—doesn’t clog pores
Cons
- Less quantity
Review:
A reviewer says, “I‘ve been using the CeraVe wash for a month. It was recommended to me by my dermatologist. It is non-drying and helps with acne. Unsure about exfoliation, but overall, a great product.”
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has earned its stripes, with over 22,609 reviews on Amazon.
5. Best Dermatologist-Recommended:Aveeno Baby Daily Moisture Gentle Bath Wash
This bubble bath hair and body wash contains natural oat extracts that nourish the baby’s skin gently and also clean the hair and face. It has a subtle, fresh fragrance, and the product is pH-balanced and does not contain soap, sulfate, parabens, and phenoxyethanol. Offered by a trusted brand, it is dermatologist- and pediatrician-recommended, and the dispenser makes it easy to use.
Also Recommended By: The experts at Zigzac Mania think highly of Aveeno [1]10 Best body washes for kids, Zigzac Mania https://zigzacmania.com/top-10-body-washes-for-kids-in-indian-market/
Pros
- Tear-free
- Ideal for normal and sensitive skin
- Contains five vital elements—lipids, vitamins, proteins, enzymes, and antioxidants
- Hypoallergenic
Cons
- Might not have a good fragrance
Review:
A parent writes, “Aveeno baby wash and shampoo is gentle, leaving hair smooth without reactions. Although the bottle’s weight can be tricky, placing it properly avoids accidents. The mild fragrance and easy-to-use pump bottle make bath time enjoyable for my little one.”
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 14,398 positive reviews on Amazon are proof that this product meets customers' expectations.
Do remember6. Best Cruelty-Free:Everyone 3-In-1 Kids Wash
The 3-in-one soap can be used as a body wash, shampoo, or bubble bath. It contains aloe vera and coconut to gently cleanse and hydrate the whole body. The fragrance of this product is sweet yet uplifting and has a hint of lavender. It is free of gluten, GMO, and cruelty and comes packaged in a recyclable bottle.
Pros
- Does not contain parabens
- Free of synthetic fragrances
- Contains essential oils and botanical extracts that hydrate the skin
- Cruelty-free
- Hypoallergenic
Cons
- Might not be tear-free
Review:
A user writes, “ With four kids, this soap’s lasting power and easy pump are lifesavers in summer. We enjoy its lovely scent and good bubbles, though the Orange Squeeze variant fell short.”
7. Best With Natural Fragrance:First Botany All Natural Tea Tree Body Wash
This non-drying body wash cum cleanser is formulated with the goodness of eucalyptus oil that gently cleanses the skin and removes impurities and dirt. The shower gel is plant-based and is infused with clinically proven ingredients that nourish the skin. It also soothes rough and itchy skin.
Pros
- Anti-fungal and anti-bacterial body wash
- Moisturizes skin
- Free of alcohol, parabens, and sulfates
- Cruelty-free
- Natural scent
Cons
- May not lather well
Review:
A parent writes, “I was initially unsure due to mixed reviews on the scent. However, the mild tea tree and eucalyptus aroma suit my child’s sensitive skin. First Botany All Natural Tea Tree Body Wash is now our preferred choice for a gentle, refreshing cleanse.”
8. Best For All Skin Types:Dial Kids 3-In-1 Body And Hair Wash
This 3-in-1 soap from Dial has a peach fragrance that your child will love. The body and hair wash comes in fun packaging and is suitable for children aged two years and above. It has been tested and pediatric- and dermatologically approved. The formulation does not contain harmful chemicals or toxic ingredients and is suitable for all skin and hair types.
Pros
- Free of synthetic fragrances
- Does not contain parabens, silicone, and dyes
- Tear-free and hypoallergenic
- pH balanced for children’s skin
- Gentle formula
- Recyclable bottle
Cons
- Some might find the fragrance unpleasant
Review:
A reviewer writes, “Discovering Dial Kids was a game changer. It swiftly resolved my child’s scalp and hair issues, leaving a delightful scent. It is ideal for sensitive skin, though the pump can be a bit finicky.”
9. Best To Moisturize Skin:The Honest Company Shampoo And Body Wash
The shampoo-cum-body wash by Honest is made of natural ingredients that moisturize the skin, leaving both the hair and skin soft. These natural ingredients include aloe, chamomile, calendula, coconut oil, jojoba protein, and quinoa extracts. Its pleasant fragrance is offered by a unique blend of sweet vanilla and orange. Moreover, this product has been tested by dermatologists.
The 2-in-1 formula is gentle on children’s sensitive skin and hair and leaves the whole body and scalp clean. Further, it is free of parabens, dyes, and synthetic ingredients.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Gentle formula
- Tear-free
Cons
- Container may not be user-friendly
Review:
A parent writes, “My kids have sensitive skin, but The Honest Company Shampoo And Body Wash causes no irritation, is tearless, and that Creamsicle scent is delightful. The only drawback is the faulty pump bottle, but the results are worth it.”
10. Best Tear-Free: Dove Foaming Body Wash For Kids
The hypoallergenic body washes with a berry smoothie scent gently cleanses your child’s body safely. Formulated with 100% skin-natural nutrients, this body wash is tear-free, dermatologist- and ophthalmologist-tested, and free of sulfate, paraben, and phthalate. This pack of four baby-friendly body washes contains a 13.5oz net quantity each.
Pros
- Pleasant fragrance
- Leaves skin soft and smooth
- Forms rich lather
- Ideal for sensitive skin
Cons
- Might be a little watery
- Might not moisturize the skin well
Review:
A user writes, “This Dove body wash pleasantly surprised me. Its foamy texture is gentle on my little one’s sensitive skin. Although the cotton candy smell is subtle, the foaming aspect greatly aids her ease of use.”
11. Best Skin Rejuvenation:Keep It Kind Fresh Kidz Body Wash
Say goodbye to your child’s dry skin with this hydrating body wash that is free of aluminum, paraben, alcohol, and harsh chemicals. The product is dermatologically tested and suitable for all skin types, and the natural ingredients keep the skin soft and supple.
Pros
- Includes two roll-on deodorants
- All-day freshness formula
- Prevents dry and chaffed skin
- Plant-based ingredients
- No artificial colors
Cons
- Scent may not last long
Review:
A reviewer says, “I’ve had a positive experience with Keep It Kind Fresh Kidz Body Wash. The scents are enjoyable, making shower time pleasant. The freshness feels subtle at times. Nonetheless, a refreshing addition to my child’s daily routine.”
12. Best Natural Exfoliation:TBH Kids Body Wash
The Kids’ body wash by TBH is formulated with natural ingredients including lemon, cedar bark, cucumber, nettle, cedar bark, and citrus extracts, which gently exfoliate, invigorate and hydrate the skin. This natural body wash for kids removes impurities and leaves the skin clean and fresh.
Pros
- Free of BPA, sulfates, and parabens
- Has a subtle fragrance
- Anti-bacterial body wash
- Anti-acne formula
Cons
- Might not be tear-free
Review:
A parent writes, “The TBH Kids Body Wash transformed our family routine. It effectively addresses various skin issues such as odors, oiliness, and dryness.”
13. Best Paraben-Free:Triswim Kids Scented Body Wash
This body wash by Triswim is gluten- and paraben-free and has a light playful scent. It is specifically formulated to neutralize the effects of hard water minerals, saltwater, bromine, and chlorine after swimming. The baby-friendly product leaves the skin refreshed and prevents pool rashes, eczema, and prickly dots.
Pros
- Contains essential vitamins such as vitamin E and ProVitamin B5
- Removes chemical odor from the skin
- Strengthens and repairs skin
- Hydrates the skin deeply
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Might not be great at removing chlorine
Review:
A reviewer says, “Triswim Kids Scented Body Wash is ideal for my granddaughter’s post-swim routine. It lathers up nicely and carries a pleasant fragrance. Dealing with heavy chlorine might require an extra application, but it’s a solid choice overall.”
14. Best Relief For Dry Skin:Ecolove Moisturizing Body Wash
Ecolove’s moisturizing body wash contains 95% natural ingredients, including herbs, essential oils, plant extracts, and Dead Sea minerals. The body wash refreshes, hydrates, and gently cleanses the skin and gives the body a relaxing feel. It is also helpful in relieving dry and itchy skin.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Has a light and a subtle fragrance
- Contains no petrochemicals and parabens
- Vegan product
Cons
- Fragrance might be overpowering for some
Review:
According to a tester, “Ecolove Moisturizing Body Wash is gentle and effective for my kids. It smells great and lathers well when used with a puff. Overall, I would recommend this body wash to other parents looking for a gentle, affordable option for their kids.”
15. Best Multi-Use Formula:Mountain Top All-In-One Baby Wash
Mountain Top’s All-In-One Baby Wash is a 100% tear-free and gentle formula to make bath time a fun, soothing, and relaxing experience for your little munchkin. The product is gentle on the eyes and body, making it suitable for babies and people with sensitive skin. It can also be used as a shampoo.
Pros
- No synthetic fragrance, sulfates, parabens, and dyes
- pH-balanced formula
- Soothing effect
- Made of natural ingredients
- Hypoallergenic
- Moisturizes the skin
Cons
- May be hard to rinse off
Review:
A user writes, “I was pleasantly surprised by the Mountain Top All-In-One Baby Wash body. It cleans effectively without over-drying, leaving a light lemony scent. It cleared up a rash on my leg and suited my kid’s sensitive skin. Highly recommended.”
16. Best Natural Nourishment:Nivea Refreshing White Peach And Jasmine Body Wash
Image: Nivea Store With a jasmine scent, this nourishing body wash from Nivea is suitable for children with dry skin. It contains a unique blend of plant-derived oils, vitamins, and essential lipids. The body wash serum hydrates the skin and keeps it moisturized all day long.
Pros
- Makes the skin soft and supple instantly
- Gently cleanses the skin
- Forms a creamy lather
- Can be used daily
Cons
- Some might not like the scent
Review:
A parent writes, “My child prefers subtle fruit scents, and this Nivea Refreshing Body Wash nails it. The peach hints are just right, leaving a gentle, lingering aroma. It’s smooth, moisturizing, and leaves no sticky residue.”
17. Best Peachy Freshness:Evereden Kids Body Wash
The Evereden Kids’ Body Wash is an extra-gentle foaming cleanser with a fresh peach scent. It contains glycerine, sunflower seed oil, ascorbic acid, and niacinamide to cleanse and hydrate the skin. The body wash is ideal for growing skin and balances the pH level of the skin. Its gentle formula has a 100% natural scent with base notes of sweet Darjeeling tea to keep children refreshed all day long.
Pros
- Non-toxic and hypoallergenic
- Dermatologist-tested
- Contains 12 amino acids and essential vitamins such as B7 and C
- Contains probiotics that are good for the skin
Cons
- Might not lather well
Review:
A reviewer says, “I love how Evereden Kids Body Wash transformed my children’s hair and skin. My daughter’s hair looks voluminous, and her scalp issues have greatly improved. The gentle scent is just right. The only setback is the pump’s durability.”
18. Best Kid-Friendly Fragrance:Suave Kids Body Wash Strawberry
Suave kids body wash is available in a pack of two, and its strawberry fragrance lingers on for long after a bath. This baby wash is soft on the skin and cleanses the body well. Moreover, the hypoallergenic formulation is ideal for children prone to skin allergies.
Pros
- Forms a creamy lather
- Can be incorporated into the child’s daily regime
- Dermatologist-tested
- Can be used by adults as well
- No tears formula
Cons
- May include artificial fragrance
Review:
According to a reviewer, “This body wash is a fragrant delight. My little one’s sensitive skin loves its silky feel. It’s a favorite for me and my 10-year-old, making every shower a joy.”
19. Best phthalates Free:Hello Bello Kid’s Shampoo & Body Wash
Available in a pack of two, this kids’ body wash and shampoo does not have an overpowering fragrance but just a light, natural scent of watermelon that lingers on for hours after a bath. It is suitable for sensitive skin and all hair types. Aloe root extracts, coconut, and marshmallow root have also been added to the product to soften, nourish, and moisturize the skin. The mommy-approved body wash is specifically formulated for babies and is ultra-gentle on the skin.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Free of synthetic fragrances
- Entirely plant-based
- Maintains the pH balance of the skin
Cons
- Pump may not be durable
Review:
A parent writes, “I adore this product! My daughter’s sensitive skin used to suffer, but Hello Bello solved it. Hair tangles are history, and the gentle scent is delightful. However, I do need to pump quite a bit for sufficient lather.”
Disclaimer: The information given in this section has been taken from manufacturers’ sources. MomJunction is not responsible for any of the claims made here. We recommend readers’ discretion.
How To Choose The Right Kids’ Body Wash?
Consider the following features before buying a body wash for kids.
- Ingredients: Always read the label, and ensure you buy a product with natural and organic ingredients that are gentle on the child’s skin. Moreover, do a patch test to prevent allergic reactions.
- Fragrances: Know your child’s choice of fragrance. Some children may like strong fragrances, while others may like products with subtle fragrances.
- Tear-free: You do not want bath time to be a crying session for your child. Choose a body wash with a pediatrician-recommended tear-free formula so that your child can enjoy bathing.
- Versatility: Most body washes can also be used as face wash and shampoo. This not only saves money but also saves time.
Dr. Enrizza Factor, a board-certified dermatologist, says, “Kids’ body washes are available in various formulations. Always read the label before making any purchase, and ensure that the product has natural, vegan, and organic ingredients. It should also be hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and dermatologically tested.”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why do natural body washes for kids sometimes have fragrances?
Fragrances in natural body washes generally come from the naturally scented essential oils such as lavender, peppermint, and chamomile. They help enrich the overall formula and are good alternatives to synthetic fragrances.
2. When should I upgrade from combination formulas to a separate body wash and shampoo for my kids?
You should consider using a separate hair shampoo and body wash when your child begins to grow thick hair, and this usually happens when the child is around eight to ten years old. If you feel your child is old enough to use a hair shampoo without letting the contents come in contact with the eyes, it is the right time to switch to a safe and effective product.
3. Are bubble baths safe for kids?
Bubble baths are fun but can pose a risk to your child’s sensitive skin, especially if your child is below three years of age. Thus, opt for a mom-approved or kid-friendly body wash to keep your child clean and fresh. However, if your child is interested in having a bubble bath, they can do so once or twice a week.
Why Trust MomJunction?
When choosing a skincare product for your little ones, you must be mindful and pick natural and child-friendly items. Vibha Navarathna, our in-house writer and reviewer of children’s skincare and hair care products, has curated this list of the best body washes available for kids that help maintain smooth, rash-free, and nourished skin. She has also included a buying guide and answered some FAQs to help you choose the right body wash for your child.
The Bottom Line
When looking for the best products for your children, you want to ensure they are safety-tested. The same applies to body washes, which are excellent alternatives to soap bars as they don’t dry out the skin or cause rashes but leave it feeling nourished and hydrated. Body washes formulated for children are tear-free, gentle on the skin, free of artificial fragrances, and infused with kid-friendly and soothing essential oils and natural or organic ingredients. Our recommendations include the soothing Cetaphil Baby Wash & Shampoo and the Purely Northwest Tea Tree Oil Body Wash with antifungal properties. The hydrating CeraVe Body Wash could also be an apt choice. Selecting a versatile body wash that doubles as a shampoo and face wash can also make it hassle-free to bathe the little one.
Infographic: Ingredients To Look For In A Children’s Body Wash
When selecting a body wash for children, it’s essential to consider their sensitive skin and choose gentle and hypoallergenic products. The infographic below includes a list of ingredients to look for when purchasing a body wash for your child. Keep this information in mind the next time you shop for a body wash for your little one to ensure that you choose a safe and suitable product for their delicate skin. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Babar Ali et al.;(2015); Essential Oils Used in Aromatherapy: A Systemic Review
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2221169115001033?via%3Dihub
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