Ah, babies. They have the softest, most delicate skin and choosing the right skin care products for them can be difficult. There so many brands and products making all sorts of promises. But what is really safe? Which one really helps prevent rashes and dry skin? And what ingredients can you really trust? I’ve done the research and conducted plenty of trial and error tests on my own two babes under 4, and I have some winners that you can feel good about using on your own little ones.

From moisturizer to diaper cream to baby oil, here’s a roundup of baby skin care essentials you’ll need to keep your little one’s skin soft and healthy.


Noodle and Boo soothing body wash

Noodle and Boo soothing body wash

This top-rated formula was developed by a mama whose little ones struggled with eczema and extremely sensitive skin, so it’s no wonder it’s a favorite for delicate newborns. Because it’s soap-free, it gently cleanses without stripping skin and leaves it feeling soft and moisturized. Even better? You don’t have to be baby to use it. The soothing formula is great for sensitive and irritated skin of any age.

Pleni Naturals apple + broccoli hair and body wash

Pleni Naturals apple + broccoli hair and body wash

This one is fantastic for children who are a little older. Keep in mind that it is not technically tear-free—no truly non-toxic baby shampoos are, but my kiddo has never complained (and that’s saying something!) What I love about this product is that a little goes a long way; all you need is a dime-sized amount for lots of lather (from an apple-based cleansing agent, not a harsh industrial grade surfactant), and it rinses clean while still leaving hair and skin moisturized. Oh, and it smells like creamsicles!

Dandydill way wild hawthorn berry cleansing mousse

Dandydill way wild hawthorn berry cleansing mousse

Why aren’t more baby soaps made in mousse form? They’re easy to apply, don’t make everything quite as slippery and seem easier to keep out of their eyes. (Not to mention, they make bath time more fun for the protesting toddlers. Win!) I’m a big fan of this gentle formula that’s packed with sweet-smelling botanical extract of antioxidant-rich, wild-grown hawthorn berry, which smells like a perfect day at the beach.

Little Butterfly London bedtime bath milk

Little Butterfly London bedtime bath milk

Little Butterfly London dominated the 2020 Beauty Shortlist—and for good reason. Their baby and mama products are incredibly luxe, made from the highest-quality ingredients and gently effective. This rich bath milk is ideal for nightly routines for babies, toddlers, and even kids and has a sweet, almost citrusy scent that soothes and calms as they wind down.

Lhamour baby balm

Lhamour baby balm

From soothing diaper rash to knocking out eczema, this rich and creamy balm is a total lifesaver. The 100% natural blend was developed in Mongolia and uses ethically and sustainably sourced ingredients, including beeswax and tallow, which has been used for centuries to protect against the harsh climate. I love the way it melts right in when applied but also manages to create a barrier of protection. Another bonus? It’s awesome for overly washed and chapped hands.

Vivaiodays olive oil all purpose rescue balm gel

Vivaiodays olive oil all purpose rescue balm gel

Simple and soothing, this cream is a changing table and medicine cabinet must-have. It’s ideal for treating everything from diaper rash to cradle cap for babies or cracked nipples, and any chapped skin mama (or any family member!) may be struggling with. I love the jelly-like consistency since it allows it to absorb quickly and completely without being greasy. And since it’s organic and fragrance-free, it doesn’t sting when applied to irritated skin. Once healed, it’s fantastic for prevention.

beb organic diaper cream

beb organic diaper cream

beb organic is the only natural and organic baby care developed specifically for preemies—which doesn’t mean it’s not excellent for all sorts of baby bottoms! As a clinical skincare brand, made with meticulously sourced natural ingredients, they’ve created a super-effective diaper cream packed with zinc, green tea and marigold that heals as much as it protects.

Evereden soothing baby massage oil

Everden soothing baby massage oil

Baby massage is a powerful thing. Physical touch increases your bond, but therapeutic touch can help relieve the pain and discomfort of teething, aid their digestion and soothe crying jags. Like the massage itself, this five-ingredient natural oil is simple and gentle. It’s also totally fragrance-free, which has always been my preference for baby care because let’s be honest, what smells better than baby skin?

Noleo diaper cleanser

Noleo diaper cleanser

One of Motherly’s editors recently referred to this diaper cleanser as a “poop eraser.” Designed to replace traditional wipes, you just squirt it on a cotton pad or washcloth to expertly cleanse and moisturize at every diaper change. The real magic is how it balances the pH of your baby’s skin to help prevent diaper rash before it even starts.

Eco pea bamboo wipes

Eco pea bamboo wipes

Made from sustainable and luxe bamboo, these make great face wipes, diaper wipes, sticky-finger wipes and clean-up wipes. And I like to use them after the gym or to remove makeup. To be honest, they’re so soft and high-quality, I feel guilty not using every last inch.

Noodle and Boo instant hand sanitizer

Noodle and Boo instant hand sanitizer

Even in 2020, it feels weird and uncomfortable putting something like Purell on a baby. Luckily Noodle and Boo makes an alternative mamas can feel good about. It effectively kills 99% of germs, but with added vegetable glycerin, it also moisturizes in the process. It’s gently scented with their signature Crème Douce fragrance, which makes it all the more pleasant.

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