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  • 10 Best Body Washes for Sensitive Skin UK 2024 | Aveeno, Cetaphil and More 1
  • 10 Best Body Washes for Sensitive Skin UK 2024 | Aveeno, Cetaphil and More 2
  • 10 Best Body Washes for Sensitive Skin UK 2024 | Aveeno, Cetaphil and More 3
  • 10 Best Body Washes for Sensitive Skin UK 2024 | Aveeno, Cetaphil and More 4
  • 10 Best Body Washes for Sensitive Skin UK 2024 | Aveeno, Cetaphil and More 5

10 Best Body Washes for Sensitive Skin UK 2024 | Aveeno, Cetaphil and More

Showering is one of the most basic forms of self-care, but for those with sensitive skin, finding a body wash that won't cause irritation can be a challenge. Luckily, we're here to help, whether you're after a dermatologically tested shower cream for eczema, or an SLS-free body wash for dry skin.


We've done the research to find out which ingredients people with sensitive skin should look for and avoid when shopping for a body wash - including the 10 best body washes for sensitive skin in the UK!

Last updated 27/03/2024

Quick List - Top Body Washes for Sensitive Skin

1

Faith In Nature

Fragrance Free Body Wash for Sensitive Skin400 ml
Fragrance Free Body Wash for Sensitive Skin

Fragrance, Sulphate and Alcohol Free Vegan Body Wash for Sensitive Skin

2

Bioderma

Atoderm Shower Oil for Very Dry Sensitive Skin1 L
Atoderm Shower Oil for Very Dry Sensitive Skin

Nourishing Shower Oil With Visible Results After Only 1 Week

3

Tree to Tub

pH 5.5 Balanced Sensitive Skin Body Wash250 ml
pH 5.5 Balanced Sensitive Skin Body Wash

pH Balanced With Aloe Vera and Chamomile to Calm Sensitive Skin

4

Cetaphil

PRO Hydrating Body Wash for sensitive skin295 ml
PRO Hydrating Body Wash for sensitive skin

Body Wash With Shea Butter and Niacinamide for Extremely Dry and Eczema-Prone Skin

5

Healsporin

Hydrating Body Wash for Psoriasis and Sensitive Skin
Hydrating Body Wash for Psoriasis and Sensitive Skin

Formulated to Relieve Symptoms of Painful, Dry and Flaky Skin

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Table of Contents

How to Choose a Body Wash for Sensitive Skin

Key Points to Consider
  1. Avoid Potentially Irritating Ingredients Like Fragrance, SLS, Alcohol and Essential Oils
  2. Seek Out Key Ingredients Like Shea Butter, Aloe Vera and Oat to Soothe and Moisturise Sensitive Skin
  3. Choose pH-Balanced Products Between 4.5 to 5.5 for Sensitive Skin
  4. Check the Label to Verify if Your Body Wash Is Vegan Friendly and Cruelty Free
1

Avoid Potentially Irritating Ingredients Like Fragrance, SLS, Alcohol and Certain Essential Oils

Avoid Potentially Irritating Ingredients Like Fragrance, SLS, Alcohol and Certain Essential Oils

If you spot any, or worse, a combination of these ingredients on the label, proceed with caution. This is especially if they appear higher up on the list, as this means the product contains a high concentration of it):


  • Fragrance: Flare-ups can be triggered by the addition of any fragrance. If a product is heavily scented, it may contain harsh ingredients that irritate the skin, causing a reaction. When looking for body washes without fragrance, go for ones that are labelled "fragrance-free" rather than "unscented" as scents can be naturally occurring, rather than the result of an ingredient that was added to mask the smell of the product. 

  • Sulphates: Because of its foaming properties, sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) can help a product to cleanse the skin more effectively. However, it does so at the expense of stripping the skin of a little more oil than necessary. Be aware that this is not to be confused with sodium Laureth sulphate (SLES), which is milder and much less irritating.

  • Alcohol: Alcohol, or ethanol, is another ingredient that can cause inflammation for sensitive skin. It's incredibly drying for the skin and can affect how the skin repairs or regenerates, which is an important process, especially for rebuilding damaged dry and sensitive skin. 

  • Essential oils: While essential oils have a positive appeal, some may trigger an allergic reaction in those who are prone to sensitivities. For example, citrus oils such as orange and bergamot are photo-toxic, reacting with UV light, causing the skin to burn and blister. Similarly, cinnamon bark, peppermint, jasmine oils, lemongrass and clove are also known to sensitise the skin. 
2

Seek Out Key Ingredients Like Shea Butter, Aloe Vera and Oat to Soothe and Moisturise Sensitive Skin

Seek Out Key Ingredients Like Shea Butter, Aloe Vera and Oat to Soothe and Moisturise Sensitive Skin

The fewer the amount of ingredients in a body wash, the lesser the chance of it containing elements that could trigger a reaction. Now that you know which ingredients to avoid, here are some that you want to look out for to effectively moisturise, soothe and strengthen sensitive skin:


  • Glycerin: Glycerin is a natural moisturiser that's also found in our skin. It's great for treating severely dry complexions and helps to maintain healthy skin lipids by protecting them against irritation and strengthening the skin barrier. 

  • Niacinamide: This is a multifunctional ingredient that can help to improve skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis and rosacea. It helps to boost ceramide synthesis, resulting in a stronger, healthier skin barrier with improved moisture retention.

  • Oat: Oat and its constituents have long been lauded for their efficacy in treating a variety of skin disorders including eczema and psoriasis. By controlling the bacterial ecosystem on the skin, it helps to strengthen the skin barrier, as well as soothing and moisturising.  

After cleansing, try using a body oil to nurture sensitive skin and lock in moisture. 


  • Shea butter: As an emollient, shea butter softens and nourishes skin. Lineoleic, oleic, palmitic and stearic acids are among the fatty acids found in this nourishing ingredient, which help strengthen the skin's natural barrier, while also shielding it from environmental aggressors like pollution.

  • Vitamin E: Vitamin E is an antioxidant that's known to be beneficial in the treatment of sensitive skin conditions. Additionally, it's a reparative ingredient, aiding in different types of cellular regeneration, from sun damage to healing burns and scars.

  • Almond oil: Almond oil is high in anti-inflammatory fatty acids and vitamins A and E, all of which help to calm inflamed, irritated and sensitive skin. It can also aid in the restoration of damaged skin.

  • Aloe vera: With cooling and anti-fungal properties, aloe vera is a dream ingredient for sensitive skin. This is because it works to calm redness, infections and itchiness, as well as aiding in the repair of inflammatory skin problems. 

  • Green tea: The anti-inflammatory benefits of green tea can help alleviate skin irritation, redness, and inflammation. It has been shown to relieve irritation and itching associated with psoriasis, dermatitis, and rosacea.

  • Chamomile and cucumber: Chamomile is an ingredient that can penetrate the skin, delivering nutrients to the cells deep within. Cucumber is not only naturally relaxing, but can also help to reduce puffiness.

3

Choose pH-Balanced Products Between 4.5 to 5.5 for Sensitive Skin

Choose pH-Balanced Products Between 4.5 to 5.5 for Sensitive Skin

pH is one of several factors that contribute to healthy skin. A high pH value can be too drying and depleting for the skin, which damages the acid mantle and skin barrier. 


Your skin is the healthiest when the pH is balanced, between 4.5 and 5.5. To cultivate an ideal pH environment for the skin, especially if it is already sensitive, it's important to look for body washes that are between this range. 


Not every sunscreen is suitable for those with sensitive skin-types, which is why we've ranked the 10 best sunscreens for sensitive skin!

4

Check the Label to Verify if Your Body Wash Is Vegan Friendly and Cruelty Free

Check the Label to Verify if Your Body Wash Is Vegan Friendly and Cruelty Free

It can often be difficult to discern whether a product is vegan or cruelty-free, by simply reading the ingredients list. For example, there is some controversy over whether glycerin is vegan and cruelty-free. However, a large portion of glycerin is derived from plants, so its inclusion does not necessarily mean that you should skip the product entirely.


To be completely sure, always check if the product is explicitly marked as suitable for vegans and cruelty-free by looking on the label or going to the company's website. Cruelty-free products will usually have the leaping bunny logo somewhere on the packaging, which shouldn't be too hard to miss. We've also included this information in our spec table to help you out.


Click here to view our ranking for the best 10 cruelty-free foundations in the UK!

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10 Best Body Washes for Sensitive Skin

Here are the best Body Washes for Sensitive Skin, ranked according to the points mentioned in our thoroughly researched buying guide (as of 16-01-2023). The products are ranked independently by mybest.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Key features
1

Faith In Nature

Fragrance Free Body Wash for Sensitive Skin400 ml

Faith In Nature Fragrance Free Body Wash for Sensitive Skin 1

Fragrance, Sulphate and Alcohol Free Vegan Body Wash for Sensitive Skin

2

Bioderma

Atoderm Shower Oil for Very Dry Sensitive Skin1 L

Bioderma Atoderm Shower Oil for Very Dry Sensitive Skin 1

Nourishing Shower Oil With Visible Results After Only 1 Week

3

Tree to Tub

pH 5.5 Balanced Sensitive Skin Body Wash250 ml

Tree to Tub pH 5.5 Balanced Sensitive Skin Body Wash 1

pH Balanced With Aloe Vera and Chamomile to Calm Sensitive Skin

4

Cetaphil

PRO Hydrating Body Wash for sensitive skin295 ml

Cetaphil PRO Hydrating Body Wash for sensitive skin 1

Body Wash With Shea Butter and Niacinamide for Extremely Dry and Eczema-Prone Skin

5

Healsporin

Hydrating Body Wash for Psoriasis and Sensitive Skin

Healsporin Hydrating Body Wash for Psoriasis and Sensitive Skin 1

Formulated to Relieve Symptoms of Painful, Dry and Flaky Skin

6

Sukin

Sensitive Soap Free Body Wash500 ml

Sukin Sensitive Soap Free Body Wash 1

Soap-Free, Natural Body Wash for Sensitive Skin

7

La Roche-Posay

Lipikar Syndet Lipikar Syndet AP+ Body Wash400 ml

La Roche-Posay Lipikar Syndet Lipikar Syndet AP+ Body Wash 1

Ultra-Gentle Body Wash That Can Be Used on the Face

8

Aveeno

Skin Relief Moisturising Body Wash500 ml

Aveeno Skin Relief Moisturising Body Wash 1

Dermatologist Tested, Moisturising Body Wash for Sensitive Skin

9

Aveeno

Skin Relief Gentle Scent Body Wash For Sensitive Skin354 ml

Aveeno Skin Relief Gentle Scent Body Wash For Sensitive Skin 1

Lightly Scented Body Wash With Oat and Coconut Oil

10

Weleda

Almond Sensitive Skin Body Wash200 ml

Weleda Almond Sensitive Skin Body Wash 1

Body Wash With Organic Almond Oil to Balance Skin Moisture Levels

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Faith In Nature
Fragrance Free Body Wash for Sensitive Skin400 ml

Fragrance Free Body Wash for Sensitive Skin 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£5.50
Low
Reference price
£5.50
Low

Fragrance, Sulphate and Alcohol Free Vegan Body Wash for Sensitive Skin

Formulated without fragrance, essential oils, SLS, or colouring, Faith in Nature's pure and simple body wash is great for gently cleansing and rejuvenating sensitive skin. 99% of the ingredients are derived from natural origins, and it contains hydrating elements such as glycerin.


Although it's SLS-free, this body wash will still lather up into a luxurious foam that you can also use in the bath. Better yet, this body wash is vegan society approved, cruelty-free and the entire bottle is recyclable. So not only is it good for the skin, it's good for the environment too!

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No.2

Bioderma
Atoderm Shower Oil for Very Dry Sensitive Skin1 L

Atoderm Shower Oil for Very Dry Sensitive Skin 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£15.60
High Mid
Reference price
£15.60
High Mid

Nourishing Shower Oil With Visible Results After Only 1 Week

A little goes a long way with this indulgent shower oil from Bioderma. It has a mild foaming action for gentle cleansing, and soothing formula for dry, chapped and sensitive skin.


Vegetal biolipids help repair skin by forming a protective barrier, with die-hard users claiming that you can see visible results after just one week. Plus, the oil base means that it's not always necessary to follow up with a lotion as the skin will remain hydrated for up to 24 hours - great if you're always in a rush!

No.3

Tree to Tub
pH 5.5 Balanced Sensitive Skin Body Wash250 ml

pH 5.5 Balanced Sensitive Skin Body Wash 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£17.99
High Mid
Reference price
£17.99
High Mid

pH Balanced With Aloe Vera and Chamomile to Calm Sensitive Skin

Satisfy your body's thirst and allow it to heal with this gentle, pH-balanced cleanser. It contains wild-grown soapberries to clean and refresh, without causing irritation, and a calming blend of organic botanicals for softer skin.


Shea butter nourishes, aloe vera hydrates and calms, while cucumber and chamomile soothes in this body wash that has a subtle yet refreshing citrus aroma. Free of toxins, SLS, silicone, gluten and artificial additives, this product is even delicate enough to use on babies.

No.4

Cetaphil
PRO Hydrating Body Wash for sensitive skin295 ml

PRO Hydrating Body Wash for sensitive skin 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£10.00
Mid
Reference price
£10.00
Mid

Body Wash With Shea Butter and Niacinamide for Extremely Dry and Eczema-Prone Skin

If you have severely dehydrated skin or eczema, this mild body wash from Cetaphil will be a godsend. It gently cleanses while preserving the skin's natural barrier, alongside moisturising ingredients like shea butter and niacinamide to nourish and restore dry skin.


This dermatologist recommended body wash does not contain any irritants that may aggravate sensitive skin. It's hypoallergenic, and free from fragrances, SLS, alcohol, parabens, and essential oils. Cruelty-free and vegan friendly too, this body wash can be used by a wide range of folks with sensitive skin!

No.5

Healsporin
Hydrating Body Wash for Psoriasis and Sensitive Skin

Hydrating Body Wash for Psoriasis and Sensitive Skin 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£16.47
High Mid
Reference price
£16.47
High Mid

Formulated to Relieve Symptoms of Painful, Dry and Flaky Skin

Dermosoft Decalact is a potent antibacterial included in this body wash from Healsporin. It helps to ward off microorganisms that commonly cause skin problems, without irritation. Together with anti-inflammatory Arnica and calming chamomile, it works to reinforce the skin's protective barrier, preventing inflammation and infection.


Using gentle exfoliation, it's effective for even the most sensitive skin. Capable of both repairing and replenishing damaged skin, whether you're looking to treat eczema, relieve psoriasis, or simply get rid of dry and scaly skin once and for all, this body wash could be your answer!

No.6

Sukin
Sensitive Soap Free Body Wash500 ml

Sensitive Soap Free Body Wash 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£7.99
Low Mid

Soap-Free, Natural Body Wash for Sensitive Skin

Sukin's sensitive body wash is made with a calming botanical blend, including green tea to gently cleanse and refresh sensitive skin. This soap-free body wash is designed to be non-drying, which is great for replenishing and soothing very dry skin with a combination of aloe vera, cucumber and chamomile.


While it's suitable for all skin types, it's formulated without any sensitising ingredients, making it mild enough for even the most inflamed and sensitive skin. For the price, you get a decent sized bottle. Plus, it's cruelty-free and vegan friendly!

No.7

La Roche-Posay
Lipikar Syndet Lipikar Syndet AP+ Body Wash400 ml

Reference price
£12.36
Mid

Ultra-Gentle Body Wash That Can Be Used on the Face

Right off the bat, you can tell this body wash is ultra-gentle as it can be used on both the body and face. In fact, La Roche-Posay's Lipikar Wash AP+ is formulated for extremely dry and sensitive skin. A great choice for the entire family, it's even suitable for babies and children. 


Packed with nourishing ingredients, including shea butter, glycerin, niacinamide and La Roche-Posay thermal water, it can be lathered up into a glorious foam to cleanse skin effectively, leaving it moisturised for up to 24 hours!

No.8

Aveeno
Skin Relief Moisturising Body Wash500 ml

Reference price
£6.65
Low Mid

Dermatologist Tested, Moisturising Body Wash for Sensitive Skin

Aveeno's Skin Relief Moisturising Body Wash has been clinically proven to effectively cleanse the skin whilst protecting against dryness. More importantly, it's been formulated and tested to reduce the risk of allergic reactions, which is ideal for those who are prone to skin sensitivities.


Using a prebiotic triple oat complex, which consists of oat flour, extract and oil, it works by balancing the skin's natural microbiome to promote healthy skin. The addition of glycerin further helps to strengthen the skin's natural barrier, limiting water loss for improved hydration and resilience. 

No.9

Aveeno
Skin Relief Gentle Scent Body Wash For Sensitive Skin354 ml

Skin Relief Gentle Scent Body Wash For Sensitive Skin 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£12.14
Mid
Reference price
£12.14
Mid

Lightly Scented Body Wash With Oat and Coconut Oil

With soothing oatmeal and a wonderful chamomile aroma, this unique dermatologically tested blend is clinically proven to be as soothing on sensitive skin as many fragrance-free products. Plus, it's soap-free, dye-free and allergy-tested, so you can rest assured that it will not cause any negative reactions.


The body wash contains glyerin and coconut oil to nourish and treat itchy, dry and sensitive skin types. That said, despite the mild scent not causing any irritation, some users have commented that it does take some getting used to.

No.10

Weleda
Almond Sensitive Skin Body Wash200 ml

Almond Sensitive Skin Body Wash 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£8.00
Low Mid
Reference price
£8.00
Low Mid

Body Wash With Organic Almond Oil to Balance Skin Moisture Levels

Weleda has long been a go-to brand for folks with sensitive skin, and this creamy body wash is no exception! The almond aroma is lovely, and will leave your skin feeling soft and supple. On days when you're pressed for time, using this body wash alone can offer sufficient, long-lasting moisture. 


This soap-free formulation uses mild, plant-based surfactants to gently cleanse, while shea butter nourishes the lipid layer, aiding in the regulation of the skin's natural moisture balance. The reason it's so low in our ranking is because it does contain fragrance and alcohol, which could be too irritating for some. 

Written and researched by Audrey Tan

Top 5 Body Washes for Sensitive Skin

No. 1: Faith In NatureFragrance Free Body Wash for Sensitive Skin400 ml

No. 2: BiodermaAtoderm Shower Oil for Very Dry Sensitive Skin1 L

No. 3: Tree to TubpH 5.5 Balanced Sensitive Skin Body Wash250 ml

No. 4: CetaphilPRO Hydrating Body Wash for sensitive skin295 ml

No. 5: HealsporinHydrating Body Wash for Psoriasis and Sensitive Skin

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.

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