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Best Detergents For Sensitive Skin (2024 Updated)

If you're looking for detergents for sensitive skin, you probably know how difficult it can be to find a product that works for you. Your skin needs special care, and using the wrong detergent can cause major discomfort. But, before you start searching for a specific detergent, there are a few factors you should consider.

First, think about the type of laundry you do regularly. If you primarily wash clothes that are heavily soiled, you might need a stronger detergent than someone who only washes lightly soiled items. You should also think about any allergies or sensitivities you have beyond your skin, as some detergents contain fragrances, dyes, or other ingredients that could cause a reaction.

When it comes to detergents for sensitive skin, there are a lot of questions to ask yourself. For example, what ingredients should you look for or avoid? How do you know if your skin is actually sensitive? What should you look for on the label of a detergent? By answering these questions and doing some careful research, you can find a detergent that is gentle on your skin and tough on stains. Keep reading to learn more about how to protect your sensitive skin while still getting your clothes clean.

10 Best Detergents For Sensitive Skin

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This laundry detergent is ideal for those who have sensitive skin and want a product that is free of irritants.
2
Ideal for people with sensitive skin or skin conditions, recommended by dermatologists and contains no irritating detergents.
3
This product is ideal for individuals with sensitive skin who prefer organic, non-toxic body wash made from plant extracts.
4
This product is ideal for individuals with very sensitive skin as it contains no SLS, detergents or parabens.
5
J.R.LIGGETT'S Shaving Foam is ideal for providing a close, smooth shave and nourishing moisture while being safe for sensitive skin.
6
This laundry detergent is ideal for sensitive skin and can handle up to 378 loads.
7
Ideal for sensitive skin conditions, hypoallergenic and recommended by dermatologists. No detergents that may irritate.
8
Ideal for individuals with sensitive skin as it is unscented, hypoallergenic, and free of dyes and perfumes.
9
Ideal for people with sensitive skin who want a hypoallergenic laundry detergent without dyes or perfumes.
10
This product is ideal for cleansing the face without harsh detergents, dyes, or hardeners, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
This laundry detergent is ideal for those who have sensitive skin and want a product that is free of irritants.
Ideal for people with sensitive skin or skin conditions, recommended by dermatologists and contains no irritating detergents.
This product is ideal for individuals with sensitive skin who prefer organic, non-toxic body wash made from plant extracts.
This product is ideal for individuals with very sensitive skin as it contains no SLS, detergents or parabens.
J.R.LIGGETT'S Shaving Foam is ideal for providing a close, smooth shave and nourishing moisture while being safe for sensitive skin.
This laundry detergent is ideal for sensitive skin and can handle up to 378 loads.
Ideal for sensitive skin conditions, hypoallergenic and recommended by dermatologists. No detergents that may irritate.
Ideal for individuals with sensitive skin as it is unscented, hypoallergenic, and free of dyes and perfumes.
Ideal for people with sensitive skin who want a hypoallergenic laundry detergent without dyes or perfumes.
This product is ideal for cleansing the face without harsh detergents, dyes, or hardeners, making it suitable for sensitive skin.

1. All Liquid Laundry Detergent, Free Clear For Sensitive Skin, (Free Clear, 237 Fluid Ounces)

Looking for a laundry detergent that can effectively remove allergens from your clothes? Look no further than All Free Clear, a hypoallergenic detergent that is 100% free of perfumes and dyes. With its powerful formula, this detergent can remove up to 99% of the most common everyday and seasonal allergens, including dog and cat dander, dust mite matter, ragweed pollen, and grass/tree pollen.

Please note that while All Free Clear can help reduce exposure to allergens, it is not intended to prevent or treat allergies. For best results, it is recommended to pre-treat stains by rubbing a small amount of detergent directly onto the affected area before washing.

Overall, if you're looking for a detergent that is gentle on sensitive skin and can help reduce allergen exposure, All Free Clear is an excellent choice.

Pros

  • Hypoallergenic and 100% free of perfumes and dyes
  • Effectively removes up to 99% of common everyday and seasonal allergens
  • Can be used to pre-treat stains for best results

2. Sebamed Sensitive Skin Bar – Dermatologist Approved!

The Sensitive Skin Cleansing Bar is an ideal cleansing solution that keeps your skin hydrated and supple without drying it out. It has a pH value of 5.5, which is the same as that of healthy skin, and is recommended by dermatologists for people with sensitive skin. This hypoallergenic cleansing bar contains mild Panthenol that helps to regenerate the skin and does not contain any detergents that may irritate skin conditions. In addition, it has no soap and alkali ingredients, making it mild and gentle.

This cleansing bar contains natural skin-related insulin and amino acid-based wash active substance Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate that creates a 'creamy' foam and provides an improved skin feeling. It also contains skin care agents that help maintain and stabilize the skin's moisture balance. The mild hydrating cleanser gently removes pore-clogging lipids and surface build-up, leaving your face and body soft and supple.

Sebamed products are 100% soap and alkali-free and are formulated with a unique vitamin blend, and moisturizing complex Allantoin and Pentavitin. The cleansing bar cleanses, moisturizes, and washes away completely to support the skin's natural healing process. This product is perfect for people with sensitive skin and supports healthy skin pH balance. Healthy skin has an acidic hydrolipid barrier, known as the acid mantle, which has an average pH value of 5.5. Sebamed products are formulated to the same pH balance for optimal support of skin's barrier functions. This helps protect the skin against infection, disease, and toxins.

Pros

  • Hypoallergenic and recommended by dermatologists for people with sensitive skin
  • Mild and gentle with no detergents that may irritate skin conditions
  • Contains natural skin-related insulin and amino acid-based wash active substance
  • Supports the skin's moisture balance and provides an improved skin feeling
  • Cleanses, moisturizes, and washes away completely to support the skin's natural healing process
  • Formulated to the same pH balance as healthy skin for optimal support of skin's barrier functions

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for people with extremely sensitive skin

3. Pure Organic Body Wash – Sensitive Skin Solution

Peak Performance Body Wash is a certified organic body wash that is free from harmful chemicals and is perfect for sensitive skin. It is made from pure, vegan, and unscented natural ingredients that are USDA certified organic. The body wash is formulated with organic aloe juice, organic saponified oils, organic shea butter, organic calendula extract, and organic rosemary extract, among other certified organic ingredients.

The body wash is free of soy, milk, egg, shellfish, corn, wheat, peanuts, gluten, and preservatives. It is manufactured in the USA under the highest quality GMP regulations and standards. With over 500,000 happy customers, Peak Performance is dedicated to providing the best organic body wash for their customers.

In addition to their commitment to quality, Peak Performance also has a 1-for-1 donation match program in partnership with the nonprofit Vitamin Angels. For every unit purchased, they will supply a child at risk of malnutrition with vitamins for a year. So not only are you taking care of your skin, but you're also helping to change a child's life!

Pros

  • USDA certified organic body wash free from harmful chemicals.
  • Perfect for sensitive skin.
  • Vegan formulated and free from common allergens.
  • Manufactured in the USA under the highest quality GMP regulations and standards.
  • Over 500,000 happy customers.
  • 1-for-1 donation match program to help children in need.

4. African Black Soap: Nourish Sensitive Skin Naturally!

Experience the gentle and nourishing cleansing of the Traditional formula African Black Soap from Ghana. Made with 100% natural ingredients, this soap is biodegradable and free from synthetic ingredients, preservatives, parabens, SLS, and detergents. Its mild formula produces a creamy and gentle lather that leaves the skin feeling cleansed and moisturized.

Enriched with high levels of skin-nourishing pure unrefined shea butter and virgin coconut oil, this soap is ideal for very sensitive to normal skin types. It can also aid in the treatment of eczema, dry skin, and damaged skin. This soap is supplied in a 1kg tamper-evident tub that keeps it fresh and hygienic. Customers love that the soap is easy to use and requires very little product to create suds.

By choosing this soap, you are supporting a fairly traded cooperative in Ghana that sources the ingredients for this soap. Experience the benefits of African Black Soap and give your skin the nourishment it deserves.

Pros

  • Made with 100% natural ingredients
  • Contains high levels of pure unrefined shea butter and virgin coconut oil
  • Ideal for sensitive to normal skin types
  • Can aid in the treatment of eczema, dry skin, and damaged skin
  • Supplied in a 1kg tamper-evident tub that keeps it fresh and hygienic
  • Easy to use and requires very little product to create suds
  • Supports a fairly traded cooperative in Ghana

5. Liggett's Smooth Shave Foam – Natural, Safe, Nourishing".

Upgrade your daily routine with J.R.LIGGETT’S shaving cream! Formulated with Olive and Coconut Oil, this rich shaving lather allows the razor to glide across the skin, enabling a much closer cut with minimal tugging for silky-smooth results. With a blend rich in Vitamin E and Hemp and Almond Oil, this foam shaving cream moisturizes and rejuvenates dry skin, delivering a dose of minerals and antioxidants. It has a mild clean scent derived from essential oils that leave you feeling refreshed and renewed.

This moisturizing shaving cream is a must-have for those with sensitive skin! It is SLS-free and hypoallergenic, making it anti-inflammatory and gentle. Castor and Almond Oil relieve itchy redness with their soothing properties, so you can enjoy a smooth, comfortable shave without any discomfort. Thanks to unique pump packaging, this very mild shaving cream creates a luxurious foam with no aerosols needed, making it environmentally-friendly. Mechanically driven, it won’t add any chemicals to the ozone or the environment and is even 100% recyclable.

Hand-cut and made using a centuries-old recipe, J.R.LIGGETT’S shaving cream is handmade in Cornish, NH. No two shaving creams are exactly alike, ensuring that you get a unique, high-quality product every time. Shoppers trust J.R.LIGGETT’S, which has been making these shaving creams the way they did over 100 years ago here in New England.

Pros

  • Formulated with Olive and Coconut Oil for a smooth, comfortable shave
  • Moisturizes and rejuvenates dry skin with Vitamin E and Hemp and Almond Oil
  • SLS-free and hypoallergenic, making it safe for sensitive skin
  • Anti-inflammatory ingredients like Castor and Almond Oil relieve itchy redness
  • Environmentally-friendly design with unique pump packaging
  • Handmade in Cornish, NH with a centuries-old recipe

6. Arm & Hammer Sensitive Skin Free & Clear, 378 Loads, Liquid Laundry Detergent, 510.4 Fl Oz

ARM & HAMMER Sensitive Skin Free & Clear is a powerful liquid laundry detergent that is perfect for people with sensitive skin. It is specially formulated with 2x powerful stain fighters in every drop, making it more effective than leading bargain detergents. This concentrated formula uses less water than the previous formula, ensuring that you get gentle-on-skin cleaning power with every bottle. It delivers great results on wash day and is gentle on sensitive skin.

This dermatologist-tested and hypoallergenic washing detergent is free of perfumes, preservatives, and dyes. It is a concentrated formula that provides more stain-fighting power in every load. It is an ideal sensitive skin laundry detergent that is gentle on skin and tough on stains.

ARM & HAMMER Sensitive Skin Free & Clear is certified 100% by SkinSAFE. This free & gentle liquid laundry detergent is a sensitive skin detergent that has earned a “100%” rating from SkinSAFE. Developed in partnership with the Mayo Clinic, SkinSAFE uses clinical ingredient data to help people with sensitive skin find products that meet their sensitive-skin needs and avoid products that don’t.

This perfume-free, fragrance-free, and dye-free liquid laundry detergent has been clinically tested for sensitive skin. It has been reviewed and verified by healthcare professionals, and evaluated by dermatologists. It has passed four different clinical tests, making it a hypoallergenic washing liquid detergent that’s gentle on skin yet tough on stains.

ARM & HAMMER Sensitive Skin Free & Clear is a powerful clean that's gentle on skin. It is a sensitive skin liquid laundry detergent with no dyes and no perfumes. It is still tough on odors, dirt, and stains, giving you a fresh clean you can count on without dyes and fragrances that impact people with sensitive skin who need a hypoallergenic washing detergent.

Pros

  • Concentrated formula with 2x powerful stain fighters in every drop
  • Gentle-on-skin cleaning power
  • Great results on wash day
  • Free of perfumes, preservatives, and dyes
  • Certified 100% by SkinSAFE
  • Clinically tested for sensitive skin
  • Hypoallergenic washing liquid detergent that's gentle on skin yet tough on stains

7. Sebamed Sensi Bar Trio: Gentle Cleanse, Happy Skin

The Sensitive Skin Cleansing Bar is a dermatologist-recommended product designed for individuals with sensitive skin. It is a mild and gentle cleansing bar that thoroughly cleanses without drying out the skin. It has a pH value of 5.5 which is similar to the pH of healthy skin. The bar contains mild panthenol which helps regenerate the skin and combat pimples, blackheads, and skin impurities. The cleansing bar is hypoallergenic and does not contain any detergents that may irritate skin conditions. Additionally, it does not contain any soap or alkali ingredients, making it mild and gentle on the skin. The amino acid-based wash active substance Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate produces a 'creamy' foam and improves skin feeling. The bar is enriched with skin care agents, including natural skin-related insulin, which helps maintain and stabilize the skin's moisture balance. With the Sensitive Skin Cleansing Bar, you can achieve smooth and healthy skin.

Pros

  • Dermatologist-recommended for sensitive skin
  • Thoroughly cleanses without drying out the skin
  • pH value of 5.5 which is similar to the pH of healthy skin
  • Hypoallergenic and does not contain any detergents that may irritate skin conditions
  • Enriched with skin care agents, including natural skin-related insulin, which helps maintain and stabilize the skin's moisture balance
  • Mild and gentle on the skin
  • Contains mild panthenol which helps regenerate the skin and combat pimples, blackheads, and skin impurities
  • Amino acid-based wash active substance Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate produces a 'creamy' foam and improves skin feeling

8. Gentle Clean For Sensitive Skin.

Tide Pods Free & Gentle is a remarkable laundry detergent that offers a hypoallergenic and dye-free formula. It is dermatologist tested and safe for sensitive skin. The 3 in 1 technology of Tide Pods Free & Gentle includes detergent, stain remover, and color protector that provide an exceptional clean to your clothes. It can dissolve effectively in both hot and cold water.

Tide Pods Free & Gentle can provide a deeper clean in comparison to the leading Free detergent. It is perfect for regular loads of laundry where one laundry pac is required, and for large loads, two pacs are recommended. For extra-large loads, three pacs are needed.

This laundry detergent is a fantastic value for your money. It comes in bulk quantities, and you don't want to miss out on this great deal. Tide Pods Free & Gentle is the first and only laundry detergent accepted by both NEA and NPF (National Eczema Association and National Psoriasis Foundation). It is a must-have for people who have sensitive skin and for those who prefer a gentle yet powerful laundry detergent.

Pros

  • Hypoallergenic and dye-free formula
  • Dermatologist tested and safe for sensitive skin
  • Includes detergent, stain remover, and color protector
  • Can dissolve effectively in both hot and cold water
  • Provides a deeper clean in comparison to the leading Free detergent
  • Great value for your money
  • Accepted by both NEA and NPF

9. Tide Hypoallergenic Liquid Laundry Detergent, 96 Loads

If you're looking for a detergent that is gentle on your skin and the environment, the Tide Free & Gentle Smarter Package is an excellent choice. This detergent is recognized by both the NEA and NPF, so you can trust that it meets their high standards for safety and effectiveness.

One of the standout features of this product is the packaging. The Smarter Package uses 60% less plastic per ounce compared to three 46oz bottles. This means you can feel good about your purchase knowing that you're reducing your environmental impact.

In terms of performance, the Tide Free & Gentle Smarter Package is 30% more effective at providing a gentle clean per drop. This means you can use less detergent while still achieving the same great results.

The compact size of the packaging also makes it easy to store and transport. Whether you're headed to the laundromat or just need to fit your detergent in a small space, the Tide Free & Gentle Smarter Package has you covered.

Pros

  • Recognized by NEA & NPF for safety and effectiveness
  • Smarter Package uses 60% less plastic per oz vs. 3 x 46oz bottles
  • 30% more gentle clean per drop
  • Compact size for easy storage and transport

10. Pure Glycerin Face Cleansing Bar By Neutrogena

The Neutrogena Facial Cleansing Bar is a gentle, fragrance-free formula designed for daily facial cleansing. This dermatologist-recommended skin care brand is suitable for all skin types and lathers up to remove excess oil and dirt from the skin. The pure cleansing bar is glycerin-rich, attracting moisture to keep the skin hydrated. It does not contain any harsh detergents, dyes or hardeners that can irritate the skin, making it exceptionally clean-rinsing without leaving any pore-clogging residue. The facial soap bar is hypoallergenic and fragrance-free, making it ideal for daily use.

The Neutrogena Facial Cleansing Bar is a great choice for those looking for a gentle, fragrance-free facial cleansing bar. It is suitable for all skin types and lathers up nicely to remove excess oil and dirt from the skin. The bar is glycerin-rich, which helps to keep the skin hydrated, and it does not contain any harsh detergents, dyes or hardeners that can irritate the skin. It is hypoallergenic and fragrance-free, making it perfect for daily use. The bar is exceptionally clean-rinsing, leaving behind no residue and promoting clear, healthier-looking skin.

Pros

  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Lathers up nicely to remove excess oil and dirt from the skin
  • Glycerin-rich formula attracts moisture to keep the skin hydrated
  • Does not contain any harsh detergents, dyes or hardeners that can irritate the skin
  • Exceptionally clean-rinsing, leaving behind no residue
  • Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free, making it perfect for daily use
  • Dermatologist-recommended skin care brand

Cons

  • – May not be as effective for heavy makeup removal
  • – May not be ideal for those who prefer scented products

Best Detergents For Sensitive Skin FAQs

Are natural or organic detergents better for sensitive skin?

Natural or organic detergents are often considered better for sensitive skin because they are made with ingredients that are less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions. These types of detergents are usually free from harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and artificial colors, which can all be potential irritants.

Organic detergents also tend to be biodegradable and environmentally friendly, which is another advantage. They do not contain harsh additives that can harm delicate fabrics or contribute to water pollution.

However, it's important to note that not all natural or organic detergents are created equal. Some may still contain ingredients that can cause skin irritation, so it's important to read labels carefully and choose products that are specifically marketed for sensitive skin.

Ultimately, the best detergent for sensitive skin will depend on an individual's specific needs and preferences. It may require some trial and error to find the right product, but choosing a natural or organic option is a good place to start.

Can detergents for sensitive skin effectively remove stains and odors?

Yes, detergents designed for sensitive skin can effectively remove stains and odors just like regular detergents. The main difference is that they are formulated with milder ingredients that are less likely to irritate or cause allergic reactions on sensitive skin. These detergents are usually free from harsh chemicals, fragrances and dyes that can trigger skin irritation, itchiness or rashes. Instead, they contain natural or organic ingredients that are gentle on the skin while still being tough on dirt and stains.

In fact, many people with sensitive skin prefer to use these detergents because they are less likely to cause skin problems. They are also safe for children and babies who have delicate skin. However, it is important to note that not all detergents labeled as "sensitive" are created equal. Some may still contain irritants that can cause skin reactions. It is best to check the label and ingredients list before buying a detergent for sensitive skin, and to do a patch test before using the product on a larger area of the skin.

How can I tell if a detergent is safe for sensitive skin?

When it comes to choosing a detergent for sensitive skin, it's important to look for specific ingredients that can cause irritation or allergic reactions. One of the first things to consider is whether the detergent is fragrance-free, as fragrances are a common irritant for sensitive skin. Additionally, you should look for detergents that are labeled as hypoallergenic or designed for sensitive skin. These products typically contain fewer harsh chemicals and are less likely to cause irritation.

It's also a good idea to read the ingredient list and avoid detergents that contain ingredients such as dyes, enzymes, and optical brighteners. These ingredients can be harsh and irritating to sensitive skin. If you're still unsure about whether a detergent is safe for your skin, consider doing a patch test by applying a small amount to a small area of your skin and waiting 24 hours to see if there is any reaction.

Overall, choosing a detergent for sensitive skin requires a bit of research and attention to detail. By looking for fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and gentle formulas, you can help prevent irritation and keep your skin feeling healthy and comfortable.

What are the best detergents for sensitive skin?

Sensitive skin can be a real challenge when it comes to choosing the right detergent. Harsh chemicals and fragrances can cause irritation, itching, and rashes. Therefore, it is essential to opt for a detergent that is specifically designed for sensitive skin. Some of the best detergents for sensitive skin are those that are free of harsh chemicals and fragrances.

One of the top choices for sensitive skin is the Tide Free & Gentle Liquid Laundry Detergent. This detergent is hypoallergenic and free from dyes and perfumes. It is specially formulated to be gentle on skin and tough on stains. Another great option is the Seventh Generation Ultra Power Plus Laundry Detergent. It is free from dyes, fragrances, and harsh chemicals.

The Puracy Natural Liquid Laundry Detergent is another popular choice for sensitive skin. It is plant-based and free from harsh chemicals, fragrances, and dyes. The ECOS Liquid Laundry Detergent is also a great option for sensitive skin as it is made from natural ingredients and is free from harsh chemicals, dyes, and fragrances.

Overall, when looking for the best detergents for sensitive skin, it's important to choose products that are free from harsh chemicals, fragrances, and dyes. Always read labels carefully and opt for detergents that are specifically formulated for sensitive skin.

What ingredients should I avoid in detergents for sensitive skin?

If you have sensitive skin, you are probably aware of the discomfort that can be caused by harsh chemicals found in some detergents. It is important to choose a detergent that is gentle on your skin, and free from certain ingredients that can trigger irritation or allergic reactions.

One of the most common irritants found in detergents is fragrances. Synthetic fragrances can contain dozens of different chemicals, many of which can be irritating to sensitive skin. Look for detergents that are fragrance-free, or use natural fragrances that are derived from essential oils.

Another ingredient to avoid is sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS). This is a foaming agent that is often added to detergents, but it can be harsh on the skin and cause dryness or irritation. Instead, look for detergents that use milder ingredients such as coconut oil-based surfactants.

Other ingredients to avoid include phthalates, which are often found in fragrances and can be hormone disruptors, and optical brighteners, which can cause skin irritation and are not biodegradable.

When choosing a detergent for sensitive skin, always read the label carefully and look for products that are specifically formulated for sensitive skin. This will help ensure that you are using a safe and effective product that won't cause discomfort or irritation.

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