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Best Baby Eczema Creams of 2025 

Updated
Soothe raw and irritated skin with these (mom-approved!) best baby eczema creams. 
Seeing your baby’s soft skin turn red and patchy is stressful. You are not alone; eczema affects one in ten babies (1). While there is no magic cure, the right cream can provide massive relief.

Finding that cream, however, is tricky. The aisle is packed with lotions, ointments, and balms. How do you choose?

We consulted experts and experienced moms to find the most effective, safe, and soothing eczema creams for your baby.

Our Top Picks

We independently research, assess and evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on the links we provide, we may receive compensation.
Best Fragrance-Free Eczema Cream: Eucerin Baby Eczema Relief Steroid & Fragrance-Free Body Cream
  • Steroid-free for baby's safety
  • Fragrance-free for sensitive skin
  • Trusted dermatologist-recommended
Best Affordable Baby Eczema Cream: Johnson's Baby Oil Enriched With Shea & Cocoa Butter
  • Hypoallergenic, dermatologist-tested
  • More effective than lotion
  • Entire family can use daily
Best Anti-Itch Baby Eczema Cream: Clearbody Organics Manuka Relief Soothing Baby Eczema Cream
  • All-natural organic medical grade honey
  • Made in the US with quality ingredients
  • Eco-friendly, Climate Pledge-Friendly
Best Overnight Baby Eczema Cream: Aveeno Baby Eczema Therapy Nighttime Moisturizing Balm
  • Award-winning eczema product
  • Works at night for maximum impact
  • Hypoallergenic colloidal oatmeal formula
Best for Sensitive Skin: Era Organics Healing Ointment for Babies
  • USDA certified organic
  • Hypoallergenic ingredients
  • Award-winning family-owned brand
Best Cruelty-Free Baby Eczema Cream: TruBaby Soothing Skin Eczema Cream
  • Peta-certified animal cruelty-free
  • Steroid-free dermatologist-tested
  • Small amount goes a long way
Best for Cradle Cap: T is for Tame – Cradle Cap Treatment for Babies, Toddlers & Kids
  • Safe & effective product
  • Organic calendula soothes irritation
  • Works as quick as three days
Best Organic Eczema Bath Treatment: Aveeno Baby Eczema Therapy Soothing Bath Treatment
  • Fragrance-, steroid-, tear-free formula
  • Soap-free bath for quick relief
  • Full body treatment
Best Organic Baby Eczema Body Wash: Baby Dove Eczema Care Soothing Baby Wash
  • 100% natural treatment
  • Recognized by National Eczema Assoc.
  • Provides 24-hour moisture barrier
Best Baby Eczema Shampoo: Cetaphil Baby Wash & Shampoo with Organic Calendula
  • Reasonably priced
  • 2-in-1 product saves counter space
  • Hypoallergenic, tear-, mineral oil-free

How to Choose the Right Baby Eczema Product

We need to discuss key ingredients, hypoallergenic labels, and official certifications. From budget-friendly drugstore lotions to heavy-duty ointments, here is what you need to know.

Type

Skin treatments vary in texture and oil content. Understanding the difference between a cream and an ointment will help you pick the right tool for the job.

Ointment

Ointments have the highest oil content. They create a seal over the skin (occlusive effect) rather than absorbing instantly.

This is your best bet for extremely dry, chapped patches. It works well on hands and feet because it stays put. Ointments effectively trap moisture, and they rarely sting when applied to raw skin.

Cream

Creams contain more water than ointments, so they absorb quickly. They are easy to spread and won’t leave a greasy residue on your clothes or sheets.

If your baby has dry skin over large areas, a cream is ideal. Many parents use a cream for all-over maintenance and an ointment for specific flare-ups.

Lotion

Lotion is the thinnest option. It has a high water content and very little oil. While creams usually come in jars or tubes, lotions often come in pump bottles.

Lotions absorb fast, which is great for summer. However, they evaporate quickly and may not provide a strong enough barrier for severe eczema.

Gel

Gels are usually a blend of water, cellulose, and alcohol. They are oil-free and leave no residue. Aloe vera is the most common gel used to soothe inflammation, though it does not provide the fatty barrier that eczema-prone skin usually needs.

Certification

Marketing terms can be vague, so certifications matter. FDA approval and non-profit seals offer peace of mind.

The FDA classifies over-the-counter eczema treatments as drugs, not cosmetics (2). This ensures a baseline of safety and regulation.

For specific eczema endorsements, look for the National Eczema Association (NEA) Seal of Acceptance. This seal indicates the product has passed strict criteria for sensitivity and ingredients.

Note that some great smaller brands might not have the budget for the NEA seal. In those cases, check the ingredient list yourself.

Main Ingredients

You will see many ingredients listed on the back of the bottle. Here are the ones that actually help.

Colloidal Oatmeal

This is the gold standard. Colloidal oatmeal is finely ground oat kernels that coat the skin, lock in moisture, and soothe itching (3). The FDA actually categorizes it as a skin protectant.

Ceramides

Ceramides are lipids (fats) naturally found in skin cells. Eczema-prone skin is often deficient in them. Adding them back helps restore the skin barrier and retain moisture (4).

Aloe Vera

Aloe is famous for cooling burns, but it also helps eczema. It is antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory (5), making it a good choice for preventing infection in cracked skin.

Calendula

Derived from marigold flowers, calendula oil has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It is a popular ingredient in natural and organic skincare lines.

Hypoallergenic & Fragrance-Free

This is the golden rule: avoid fragrance. “Unscented” and “Fragrance-Free” are different terms. “Unscented” may still contain masking fragrances to hide chemical smells. Always look for “Fragrance-Free” and “Hypoallergenic” to minimize the risk of a reaction (6).

OTC vs. Prescription

Start with over-the-counter (OTC) products. Doctors typically recommend gentle moisturizing and barrier repair before moving to prescription steroids.

When To See The Doctor For Baby Eczema

If you see yellow crusts, blisters, or pus, see a doctor immediately. These are signs of infection (7). If the skin is just red and dry, OTC creams are the right place to start.

Budget

Prices vary wildy. Remember to calculate the price per use. A thick ointment costs more upfront but lasts longer than a watery lotion. Our list focuses on value; most picks fall between $5 and $20.


Product Reviews

We analyzed ingredients, texture, and feedback from real parents to find the best relief for your little one’s delicate skin.

Eucerin Baby Eczema Relief Steroid & Fragrance-Free Body Cream

Best Fragrance-Free Baby Eczema Cream

This cream is a powerhouse for babies three months and older. It combines colloidal oatmeal for protection with ceramide-3 to repair the skin barrier. The addition of licorice root extract helps soothe the redness that often upsets parents.

It is designed for daily maintenance. The formula provides 24-hour hydration, which helps break the itch-scratch cycle. Eucerin states that 4 out of 5 children remained flare-free after 6 months of use.

While it is steroid and fragrance-free, always patch-test first. It contains benzyl alcohol, which can sting very sensitive skin.

Pros

  • Steroid-free for safe use (3+ months).
  • Fragrance-free formula.
  • Contains ceramides and colloidal oatmeal.

Cons

  • Contains benzyl alcohol; potential irritant.

Product Specs

Active Ingredients Colloidal oatmeal, ceramide-3, and licorice root extract
Frequency of Use Daily
Age Group 3 months and over
Medication Type Cream
Allergy Notes Steroid and fragrance-free

Our Ratings

Effectiveness
4.5 / 5
Safety
4 / 5
Ingredients
4.5 / 5
Ease of Application
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Johnson's Baby Oil Enriched With Shea & Cocoa Butter

Best Affordable Baby Eczema Cream

Sometimes the old-school methods work best. Baby oil is an excellent occlusive moisturizer, meaning it locks moisture into the skin better than many lotions.

Dermatologists note that mineral oil is highly effective for eczema (8). It creates a barrier that prevents water loss. Johnson & Johnson claims it locks in up to ten times more moisture than standard lotion on wet skin.

Be careful during application; it makes babies incredibly slippery. It is best to apply this while the skin is still damp from the bath to seal in that hydration.

Pros

  • Locks in moisture effectively.
  • Hypoallergenic and affordable.
  • Great for the whole family.

Cons

  • Fragrance may irritate some.
  • Leaves oily residue on clothes.

Product Specs

Active Ingredients Mineral oil, shea butter, cocoa butter
Frequency of Use After baths
Age Group All ages
Medication Type Oil
Allergy Notes Allergy-tested

Our Ratings

Effectiveness
4 / 5
Safety
4.5 / 5
Ingredients
3.5 / 5
Ease of Application
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Clearbody Organics Manuka Relief Soothing Baby Eczema Cream

Best Anti-Itch Baby Eczema Cream

If you want to avoid hydrocortisone for itching, Manuka honey is a fascinating alternative. This cream uses organic medical-grade Manuka honey to soothe raw, itchy skin naturally.

It is made in the USA, non-GMO, and free from artificial fragrances. The brand is also Climate Pledge Friendly, meaning they have removed excess air and water from the product to reduce packaging waste (9).

This is a versatile balm that works on eczema, cradle cap, and random rashes. However, remember that honey is a potential allergen, so monitor your baby closely during the first few uses.

Pros

  • Uses organic medical-grade Manuka Honey.
  • Climate Pledge Friendly certified.
  • No artificial fragrances.

Cons

  • Honey can be an allergen.
  • Pricey per ounce.

Product Specs

Active Ingredients Manuka honey, colloidal oatmeal
Frequency of Use Daily or as needed
Age Group All ages
Medication Type Cream
Allergy Notes No artificial fragrances, honey may be irritating

Our Ratings

Effectiveness
4.5 / 5
Safety
4.5 / 5
Ingredients
5 / 5
Ease of Application
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

Aveeno Baby Eczema Therapy Nighttime Moisturizing Balm

Best Overnight Baby Eczema Cream

Nighttime is when skin repair happens, and this balm is designed to maximize that window. It is the only nighttime balm with the National Eczema Association Seal formulated specifically for babies.

The texture is thick, creating a substantial barrier without the mess of pure petroleum jelly. It uses colloidal oatmeal to soothe and is free from steroids, parabens, and fragrances.

Because skin permeability is higher at night (10), this balm prevents the skin from drying out while your baby sleeps. It is a favorite among parents for preventing those morning flare-ups.

Pros

  • Awarded NEA Seal of Acceptance.
  • Thick formula for overnight protection.
  • Colloidal oatmeal soothes itching.

Cons

  • Contains alcohol (can sting).
  • Harder to spread than lotion.

Product Specs

Active Ingredients Colloidal oatmeal, ceramide
Frequency of Use Nightly
Age Group All ages
Medication Type Balm
Allergy Notes Free from steroids, fragrances, parabens, phthalates, and phenoxyethanol

Our Ratings

Effectiveness
5 / 5
Safety
4.5 / 5
Ingredients
4.5 / 5
Ease of Application
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Era Organics Healing Ointment for Babies

Best Baby Eczema Cream for Sensitive Skin

If “organic” is your top priority, Era Organics is a strong contender. This USDA-certified organic ointment treats everything from eczema to cradle cap and hives.

The ingredient list reads like a nature walk: chamomile, beeswax, cocoa butter, coconut oil, and avocado oil. It avoids mineral oil, parabens, and phthalates completely.

The texture is unique; it can feel grainy at first but melts into an oil as you rub it in. Because it is packed with plant-based ingredients, doing a patch test is vital to rule out botanical allergies.

Pros

  • USDA Certified Organic.
  • Versatile: treats cradle cap and rashes too.
  • No mineral oil or petrolatum.

Cons

  • Expensive.
  • Grainy texture requires warming up.

Product Specs

Active Ingredients Chamomile, calendula, cocoa butter, beeswax, coconut oil, avocado oil
Frequency of Use At least twice a day
Age Group All ages
Medication Type Balm
Allergy Notes Hypoallergenic food-grade

Our Ratings

Effectiveness
4 / 5
Safety
4 / 5
Ingredients
5 / 5
Ease of Application
3 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

TruBaby Soothing Skin Eczema Cream

Best Cruelty-Free Baby Eczema Cream

TruBaby is a fantastic choice for eco-conscious families. It is PETA-certified cruelty-free and comes in 100% recyclable, BPA-free packaging.

The cream itself is accepted by the National Eczema Association. It is unscented, steroid-free, and formulated specifically for delicate baby skin. A little goes a long way, which helps justify the price point.

One trade-off for the natural formulation is the preservative system. Some users have reported mold issues if the product sits unused for too long or gets water inside. Keep the lid tight and use it regularly.

Pros

  • PETA-certified cruelty-free.
  • Eco-friendly packaging.
  • Accepted by the NEA.

Cons

  • Natural preservatives may allow spoilage.
  • Higher price point.

Product Specs

Active Ingredients Ceramide
Frequency of Use Daily
Age Group All ages
Medication Type Cream
Allergy Notes Unscented

Our Ratings

Effectiveness
4 / 5
Safety
4.5 / 5
Ingredients
4.5 / 5
Ease of Application
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

T is for Tame, Cradle Cap Treatment for Babies, Toddlers & Kids

Best Baby Eczema Cream for Cradle Cap

Eczema and cradle cap (seborrheic dermatitis) often appear together. If your baby has red, flaky patches on their scalp or eyebrows, this cream targets both issues.

Created by a mom of twins, this formula uses organic calendula to soothe irritation. It is designed to be rubbed into the scalp to loosen flakes and reduce redness.

We love supporting small, female-owned businesses, especially when the product solves a specific problem. It is a specialized tool, so you might still need a general body cream, but for the scalp, it is a winner.

Pros

  • Targets cradle cap and eczema.
  • Mom-created business.
  • Contains organic calendula.

Cons

  • Mixed results for some users.

Product Specs

Active Ingredients Calendula, coconut oil, jojoba oil
Frequency of Use For three days after irritation
Age Group All ages
Medication Type Cream
Allergy Notes Unscented

Our Ratings

Effectiveness
4 / 5
Safety
4.5 / 5
Ingredients
4 / 5
Ease of Application
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Aveeno Baby Eczema Therapy Soothing Bath Treatment

Best Organic Baby Eczema Bath Treatment

Sometimes you need to treat the whole body at once. These bath packets turn the water into a soothing, milky soak. It is perfect for babies with widespread irritation, poison ivy, or insect bites.

The powder is made of colloidal oatmeal and is free of soaps, parabens, and tears. A 15-minute soak can calm the skin significantly. It leaves a thin, protective layer on the skin after the bath.

Note that this is a “treatment,” not a soap. It won’t scrub away dirt, but it will help hydrate. Some parents find it messy to clean the tub afterward, as oatmeal can settle.

Pros

  • Treats the entire body at once.
  • Soap-free and tear-free.
  • High concentration of colloidal oatmeal.

Cons

  • Can be messy to clean up.
  • Not a cleanser; solely a treatment.

Product Specs

Active Ingredients Colloidal oatmeal
Frequency of Use Bathtime
Age Group 6 months to 4 years
Medication Type Soothing bath
Allergy Notes Soap-free

Our Ratings

Effectiveness
3.5 / 5
Safety
4.5 / 5
Ingredients
4 / 5
Ease of Application
5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Baby Dove Eczema Care Soothing Baby Wash

Best Organic Baby Eczema Body Wash

Your choice of soap matters as much as your choice of cream. Harsh soaps can strip the skin barrier, undoing all your hard work. Baby Dove Eczema Care is a wash designed to clean without stripping.

It holds the NEA Seal of Acceptance and is free from sulfates, dyes, and fragrance. The formula includes colloidal oatmeal to start soothing while you wash.

This is a preventive step. It won’t cure eczema on its own, but it sets the stage for your moisturizer to work effectively. It’s thick and creamy, making bath time feel luxurious rather than medicinal.

Pros

  • NEA Seal of Acceptance.
  • Cleans without stripping natural oils.
  • Contains colloidal oatmeal.

Cons

  • Expensive for a body wash.
  • Must be paired with a cream for results.

Product Specs

Active Ingredients Colloidal oatmeal, probiotic moisture
Frequency of Use Daily
Age Group All ages
Medication Type Body wash cream
Allergy Notes Gently formulated

Our Ratings

Effectiveness
4 / 5
Safety
5 / 5
Ingredients
4.5 / 5
Ease of Application
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Cetaphil Baby Wash & Shampoo with Organic Calendula

Best Baby Eczema Shampoo

Streamlining your bath routine helps when you are juggling a slippery, fussy baby. This Cetaphil product works as both a shampoo and body wash, saving you a bottle on the ledge.

It features organic calendula, a natural extract known for calming inflammation. The formula is hypoallergenic and free from mineral oil and parabens.

However, check the label: this specific version does contain fragrance (“parfum”). While many babies tolerate it fine, true eczema purists might want to stick to the fragrance-free options higher on this list.

Pros

  • 2-in-1 formula saves time and space.
  • Contains soothing calendula.
  • More affordable than niche brands.

Cons

  • Contains fragrance.
  • Not completely tear-free for all babies.

Product Specs

Active Ingredients Organic calendula
Frequency of Use Daily
Age Group All Ages
Medication Type Body wash and shampoo
Allergy Notes Has fragrance

Our Ratings

Effectiveness
4 / 5
Safety
4 / 5
Ingredients
4 / 5
Ease of Application
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Product Comparison Chart

Product Best Active Ingredients Frequency of Use Age Group Medication Type Allergy Notes
Eucerin Baby Eczema Relief Steroid & Fragrance-Free Body Cream Best Fragrance-Free Colloidal oatmeal, ceramide-3, & licorice root extract Daily 3 months & over Cream Steroid & fragrance-free
Johnson’s Baby Oil Enriched With Shea & Cocoa Butter Most Affordable Mineral oil, shea butter, cocoa butter After baths All ages Oil Allergy-tested
Clearbody Organics Manuka Relief Soothing Baby Eczema Cream Best Anti-Itch Manuka honey, colloidal oatmeal Daily or as needed All ages Cream No artificial fragrances, honey may be irritating
Aveeno Baby Eczema Therapy Nighttime Moisturizing Balm Best Overnight Cream Colloidal oatmeal, ceramide Nightly All ages Balm Free from steroids, fragrances, parabens, phthalates, & phenoxyethanol
Era Organics Healing Ointment for Babies Best for Sensitive Skin Chamomile, calendula, cocoa butter, beeswax, coconut oil, avocado oil At least twice a day All ages Balm Hypoallergenic food-grade
TruBaby Soothing Skin Eczema Cream Best Cruelty-Free Ceramide Daily All ages Cream Unscented
T is for Tame – Cradle Cap Treatment for Babies, Toddlers & Kids Best for Cradle Cap Calendula, coconut oil, jojoba oil Three days All ages Cream Unscented
Aveeno Baby Eczema Therapy Soothing Bath Treatment Best Bath Treatment Colloidal oatmeal Bathtime 6 months – 4 years Soothing bath Soap-free
Baby Dove Eczema Care Soothing Baby Wash Best Body Wash Colloidal oatmeal, probiotic moisture Daily All ages Body wash cream Gently formulated
Cetaphil Baby Wash & Shampoo with Organic Calendula Best Shampoo Organic calendula Daily All Ages Body wash & shampoo Has fragrance

FAQs About Eczema in Babies

Now that you have your shopping list, let’s answer the most common questions regarding baby eczema.

How Often Should You Bathe a Baby With Eczema?

Old advice said to avoid baths, but new guidelines suggest “soak and seal.” Daily baths can actually help hydrate the skin if done correctly. Keep the water lukewarm, limit the time to 10 minutes, and apply moisturizer within 3 minutes of getting out (11).

What Triggers Eczema In Babies?

Triggers vary by child. Common environmental culprits include harsh soaps, laundry detergents, dust mites, pet dander, and extreme temperatures. Dry winter air is a major enemy. Identifying and removing these triggers is half the battle (12).

Is Coconut Oil Good for Baby Eczema?

Yes, usually. Virgin coconut oil has antimicrobial properties that can reduce staph bacteria on the skin. Virgin sunflower seed oil is also effective. However, olive oil can damage the skin barrier and should generally be avoided for eczema (13).

What Foods Trigger Eczema in Babies?

Food allergies play a role in about 30% of severe cases. Common allergens include cow’s milk, eggs, peanuts, soy, and wheat. If you notice a flare-up immediately after eating, consult an allergist. Do not eliminate food groups without doctor supervision (14).

Is Baby Eczema Contagious?

No. You cannot catch eczema from another person, and your baby cannot give it to anyone else. It is a genetic condition related to the immune system and skin barrier, not an infection.

Will My Baby Grow Out of Eczema?

There is good news here. Many children outgrow eczema by the time they start school. While some continue to have dry skin or tendencies toward allergies (asthma/hay fever), severe flare-ups often decrease with age.

How to Apply Eczema Creams the Right Way

Technique matters. Always apply moisturizer immediately after a bath while the skin is damp. This traps the water inside.

Be generous with the product. Do not try to rub it until it disappears completely; leaving a thin, shiny layer is actually good. Apply in smooth, downward strokes rather than rubbing back and forth, which can trigger itching (15).


Managing Baby Eczema

Managing eczema is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires a consistent daily routine of bathing, moisturizing, and avoiding triggers.

Start with a gentle, fragrance-free cream from our list. Be diligent with applications, especially after baths. If the skin doesn’t improve or looks infected, team up with your pediatrician to find the next step.

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