11 Best Baby Lotions To Keep Your Baby’s Skin Smooth
These gentle and hydrating lotions are the answers to your little one’s skin needs.
Dr. Schwarzburg is a leading authority in the field of minimally invasive cosmetic and laser medicine in New York City. He is an Ivy League school graduate with 7 years of experience in cosmetic dermatology and regenerative medicine.
Read full bio of Dr. Schwarzburg
Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Experience: 3 yearsKrati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of experience in writing and editing for different niches.
Read full bio of Krati Darak
Experience: 5 yearsMedha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.
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If you are losing your sleep over wondering how to take good care of your baby’s fragile and delicate skin, you must set your heart on the best baby lotion available in the market. Regular ones can irritate and damage your little one’s skin. But don’t worry! Below, we have made a list of the 11 most effective lotions for babies that are dermatologically approved and have top customer reviews.
In This Article
11 Best Recommended Baby Lotions For Every Skin Type
1. Best Gentle Formula:baby Dove Sensitive Skin Care Hypoallergenic Lotion
This lotion from Dove is infused with 100 percent natural nutrients that lock in moisture to hydrate and nourish your baby’s skin throughout the day. The nutrients are similar to those naturally found in your toddler’s skin. This baby lotion contains aqua that helps moisturize the skin. Glycerin is a prebiotic moisturizer, while stearic acid nourishes the delicate baby skin. Dr. Schwarzburg, Cosmetic Physician at Skinly Aesthetics, says, “Baby Dove sensitive skin care lotion contains stearic acid, which is an emollient. Emollients moisturize the skin and lock in hydration, making this ingredient a great addition to the aqua and glycerin contained in the product. It is fragrance-free, ideal for your baby’s sensitive skin.” The mild formula tested for safety and is suitable for newborns and eczema-prone skin.
Pros
- Soothes irritated skin
- Delightful scent
- Gentle
- Pediatrician-tested
- Dermatologist-tested
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
- Dye-free
- Phthalate-free
- Value for money
- Suitable for daily use
Cons
- Contains petrolatum
"This lotion is a reliable choice for my baby's delicate skin needs. It's unscented and not greasy. It absorbs quickly without leaving a sticky residue. It does a stellar job of keeping the skin moisturized and calm, even soothing conditions like eczema. It's a go-to for regular use."
2. Best Quick-Absorbing:Johnson’s Baby Lotion
The Johnson’s Baby Lotion has a renowned clinically-tested formula specifically crafted for very dry skin. The fast-absorbing formula contains rich emollients like coconut oil to hydrate and nourish even the most chapped skin throughout the day. This lotion balances and replenishes lost moisture to your little one’s skin, leaving it super soft and smooth.
Pros
- Gentle
- Hypoallergenic
- Smells good
- Fast-absorbing
- Professional-grade
- Dermatologist-tested
- Pediatrician-tested
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Dye-free
- Fragrance-free
- Sulfate-free
Cons
- None
"The signature floral and powdery scent of this baby lotion has remained the same over the years. This lotion deeply moisturizes without irritating, making it a go-to for sensitive skin across all ages. The formula offers that soft velvet touch and is a gentle, hypoallergenic staple in my baby's routines."
StyleCraze Says
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 13,679 reviews and is a top choice all around the world.
3. Best For Sensitive Skin:THE HONEST CO. Face + Body Lotion
The Face + Body Lotion by THE HONEST CO. is ideal for babies with sensitive skin. It is infused with chamomile, lavender, calendula, aloe vera, olive oil, shea butter, and jojoba oil. The organic shea butter, olive oil, and jojoba oil nourish and balance the skin’s natural moisture. Chamomile, aloe vera, and calendula extracts soothe and calm your baby’s skin. The calming organic lavender essential oil ensures a good night’s sleep. This non-greasy lotion has proven efficacy in ensuring adequate hydration, leaving your baby’s skin soft and supple.
Pros
- Non-greasy
- Lightweight
- Absorbed quickly
- Gentle
- Hypoallergenic
- Dermatologist-tested
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Silicone-free
- Synthetic fragrance-free
- Dye-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- PEG-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Unpleasant scent
| baby Dove Sensitive Skin Care Hypoallergenic Lotion Best Gentle Formula | Johnson’s Baby Lotion Best Quick-Absorbing | THE HONEST CO. Face + Body Lotion Best For Sensitive Skin | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 2.26 x 4.53 x 9.42 inches | 2.23 x 4.76 x 9.34 inches | 1.96 x 1.96 x 8.54 inches |
| Weight | 1.39 Pounds | 1.75 Pounds. | 9.6 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 18,677 | 13,679 | 3,649 |
| Price | $7.72 | $6.98 | $9.98 |
4. Best For Eczema-Prone Skin:CeraVe Baby Moisturizing Lotion
The Baby Moisturizing Lotion by CeraVe is specifically formulated for sensitive baby skin. It contains dimethicone, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides 1, 3, 6-II that are naturally found in our skin. These ceramides restore the skin’s natural barrier and lock in moisture for deep hydration. Dimethicone relieves cracked, chapped, and dehydrated skin, while hyaluronic acid hydrates and replenishes the skin’s lost moisture. Niacinamide strengthens the skin barrier and soothes the skin. Dr. Schwarzburg, Cosmetic Physician at Skinly Aesthetics, adds, “Babies often experience minor baby eczema outbreaks, dry skin, and rashes which sometimes are out of your control. CeraVe’s Baby Moisturizing Lotion is a soothing lotion containing ingredients designed to hydrate and calm the skin. If your baby does have more severe patches of dry or irritated skin, it is best to see a physician to confirm which products are safe to use.” This minimal-ingredient baby product has proven to deliver visible results and is accepted by the National Eczema Association to soothe eczema-prone skin in babies and toddlers.
Pros
- Gentle
- Smells good
- Hypoallergenic
- Safety-tested
- Dermatologist-tested
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Dye-free
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Not suitable for very dry skin.
"This lotion is nurturing for my baby's sensitive skin without causing irritation or rashes. It’s light and easily absorbed, ideal for year-round use. But, it might not be the most moisturizing for severe dryness. Always wise to consult your doctor and patch test first, but overall, it's a good choice for gentle baby care needs."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Almost 7,159 happy users have mentioned the value and quality of this product.
5. Best Newborn-Safe:Mustela Hydra Bebe Body Lotion
The Hydra Bebe Body Lotion by Mustela is a baby moisturizing lotion suitable for all skin types. It contains 97% natural plant-based natural ingredients like shea butter, sweet almond oil, glycerin, vitamin E, vitamin F, jojoba oil, sunflower oil, and avocado perseose. The avocado perseose provides immediate hydration that lasts all day, protects the skin against dryness, and keeps your baby’s skin super soft.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Newborn-safe
- Non-greasy
- Hypoallergenic
- Gentle
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Dye-free
- Non-toxic
- Phenoxyethanol-free
- Safety-tested
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons
- Strong scent
Did you know?6. Best Skin Soothing:earth mama Calming Lavender Baby Body Lotion
The Calming Lavender Baby Body Lotion by earth mama has natural ingredients like aloe vera, olive oil, shea butter, lavender oil, vanilla extract, calendula extract, and hydrolyzed oat protein. These organic herbs and oils deeply moisturize your baby’s skin. The calendula and shea butter nourish and soothe skin irritation. The calming lavender and vanilla essential oils induce sound sleep. This scientifically formulated fragrance-free baby lotion is certified to the NSF/ANSI 305 standard for personal care products containing organic ingredients.
Pros
- Gentle
- Hypoallergenic
- Dermatologically tested
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Dye-free
- Artificial fragrance-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Petroleum-free
- Clinically-tested
- Phenoxyethanol-free
Cons
- Overpowering scent
"Loving the hydrating qualities and clean ingredient list of this product for my child's skin care. It's gentle on sensitive skin and has a soothing lavender scent. It absorbs well, leaving the skin soft without any greasy residue."
7. Best Lightweight:puracy Organic Baby Lotion
No products found.
The Organic Baby Lotion by puracy is a lightweight moisturizer with plant-based natural ingredients like sunflower oil, aloe vera extract, jojoba seed oil, shea butter, grapefruit oil, lavender essential oil, and glycerin. The rich hydrating ingredients and clinical-grade vitamins will make your baby’s skin soft, smooth, and supple. The formula treats eczema, cradle cap, and super dry, itchy skin. Dr. Schwarzburg, Cosmetic Physician at Skinly Aesthetics, adds, “Puracy’s baby lotion contains lavender, a calming ingredient that can help relax your baby after bath time and before bedtime. Note that babies can be sensitive to strong scents, and that lavender may be a bit intense for some. Dermatologist and pediatrician-tested, this baby lotion is safe to use even on babies with very sensitive skin.”
Pros
- Lightweight
- Developed by doctors
- Pediatrician-tested
- Dermatologist-tested
- Non-toxic
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Cruelty-free
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons
- Unpleasant smell
8. Best Non-Greasy:babo BOTANICALS Moisturising Baby Lotion
No products found.
This gentle baby lotion from babo BOTANICALS is specifically formulated for sensitive and dry skin. It is enriched with Babo’s organic Nutri-Soothe, which is rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory ingredients that comfort and soothe the skin. This Suitable for daily use also contains potent ingredients like organic calendula, organic chamomile, jojoba oil, shea butter, colloidal oatmeal, and coconut oil.
Shea butter has anti-inflammatory properties that moisturize and soften the baby’s skin. The natural coconut oil soothes the skin and locks in moisture. Calendula extracts soothe cradle cap, dry skin, and eczema. Colloidal oatmeal is a natural moisturizing agent that replenishes lost moisture while eliminating scaly skin, eczema, itchiness, irritation, and severe dryness.
Pros
- Safe for newborns
- Non-greasy
- Hypoallergenic
- Gluten-free
- Soy-free
- Dairy-free
- Nut-free
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Gluten-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Strong scent
"This lotion is a gentle, non-toxic moisturizer, especially suitable for sensitive skin types. It calms dryness and itchiness effectively giving lasting moisture, without a greasy feel. Less is more — overworking it can lead to streakiness. It's also versatile, doubling as a hand cream for adults."
Quick tip9. Best Cruelty-Free:burt’s bees BABY Nourishing Lotion – Original
The BABY Nourishing Lotion by burt’s bees is made with 99% natural ingredients like sunflower seed oil, shea butter, and buttermilk. Shea butter and sunflower seed oil soothe and gently hydrate sensitive skin. Buttermilk is rich in emollients and fats that nourish and moisturize the skin. The gentle, clinically-proven hypoallergenic formula keeps your baby’s skin moisturized for up to 24 hours and makes it super soft and smooth.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Gentle
- Pediatrician-tested
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free SLS-free
- Petrolatum-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Overwhelming scent
"After using this Burt's Bees lotion for my baby care I can say it's reliable for handling chapped skin. It absorbs quickly into the skin and comes in a subtle scent. A little goes a long way, making even a small tube quite long-lasting."
10. Best Fragrance:SHOOSHA BABY Organic Sensitive Skin Face & Body Lotion
This lotion from SHOOSHA BABY is infused with calming and nourishing ingredients like aloe vera, sunflower oil, cocoa butter, vitamin E, shea butter, colloidal oatmeal, and coconut oil. Shea butter moisturizes and softens the baby’s skin, while coconut oil soothes the skin and locks in moisture. Colloidal oatmeal moisturizes and soothes scaly skin, itching, rashes, irritation, severe dryness, and redness. This all-natural lotion is safe for both babies and adults.
Pros
- Cerified USDA organic
- Hypoallergenic
- Smells good
- Absorbed quickly
- BPA-free
- GMO-free
- Dairy-free
- Nut-free
- Gluten-free
- Vegan-friendly
- Chemical-free
Cons
- None
"This organic baby lotion is quite effective with its natural scent and quality ingredients. It gives healthy results for both the little ones and adults. While it may feel a bit sticky initially, it absorbs well, leaving the skin supple without a greasy after-feel."
11. Best Hypoallergenic:Baby Magic Gentle Baby Lotion
The Gentle Baby Lotion from Baby Magic is a rich and creamy formula with aloe vera and vitamins A and E that help the skin retain moisture. It conditions, protects, and nourishes your baby’s delicate skin. The super-hydrating lotion is gentle, hypoallergenic, absorbed easily into the skin, and leaves it smooth and soft.
Pros
- Gentle
- Absorbed easily
- Non-greasy
- Hypoallergenic
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Dye-free
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons
- Unpleasant scent
"This lotion is a comforting choice for my kids' sensitive skin. It works for both newborns and toddlers. Its non-greasy formula and mild scent do not irritate the kids. It's also more than just a baby lotion, it can also be used by adults to keep the skin soft and calm without irritation."
A baby lotion is integral to your baby’s skin care regimen. If you are wondering about the right time to use it, read ahead to know more.
When To Use Baby Lotion
- Post-bath: Soaps and body washes may dehydrate your baby’s delicate skin. Thus, use a lotion after drying your baby post-bath.
- Eczema-prone skin: Baby skin prone to eczema may need extra care. In this case, you can apply the lotion when it feels dry.
- Diaper Change: Some lotions have medicinal and antibacterial properties, and you can apply them after changing diapers to prevent irritation and diaper rash.
There are a lot of aspects that you have to keep in mind while buying a lotion for your little one. Here are a few things to consider.
Things To Consider Before Buying A Baby Lotion
- Ingredients: Check the ingredients list cautiously. Steer clear of products containing parabens, sulfates, mineral oils, phthalates, additives, artificial preservatives, fragrances, and silicones, as they might irritate the delicate skin of your baby.
- Allergies: To ensure no harm comes your child’s way, check whether the product is checked and tested for hypersensitivities. Go for products free of unsafe synthetic ingredients and allergens, so your child’s skin will remain protected.
- Organic/Natural Ingredients: Opt for baby lotions that contain natural ingredients like shea butter, milk, olive oil, sweet almond oil, coconut oil, and other natural emollients.
- Dermatologically Tested: Check if the lotion is approved and tested by dermatologists and pediatricians to ensure safety. You should look for “pediatrician recommended” on the label before you buy.
- Skin Type: Some toddlers may have specific allergies or dry skin. It is wise to choose a baby lotion that is specifically formulated for repairing and soothing your baby’s skin.
The Bottom Line
Baby’s skin is delicate, and with the use of soap bars or during a diaper change or due to eczema tendencies, the skin might turn dry. But it is a must to keep their skin hydrated to eliminate dryness and itching. And a baby lotion can be a great savior. Unlike regular lotions, baby lotions are specially formulated with carefully picked ingredients to keep the skin moisturized and nourished. The baby Dove Sensitive Skin Care Hypoallergenic Lotion is a gentle and fragrance-free option for sensitive skin, the CeraVe Baby Moisturizing Lotion contains essential nutrients for skin hydration and barrier repair, and the Mustela Hydra Bebe Body Lotion offers a nourishing formula with plant-based ingredients for healthy skin. These favorite baby skin care help keep the skin soft, and smooth, and calm the irritation. Consider investing in baby lotions that are packed with Vitamin E, aloe vera, shea butter, and other essential oils for day-long hydration. Steer clear the lotions formulated with harmful chemicals as they ruin the skin. Opt for mild refreshing scents that do not trigger discomfort or allergies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do babies need lotion?
Yes, they do! Lotions help retain the moisture of your little one’s skin after a wash. It also prevents allergies, diaper rash, severe dryness, cradle cap, itching, and eczema.
What is better – baby oil or lotion?
Lotions are meant to hydrate and moisturize your baby’s skin. Oils are good for massages but they cannot be used as moisturizers as they are not absorbed well by newborn skin.
When should you start using lotion on a baby?
Start using lotion on a baby when they are four to six weeks old.
Should you use a lotion on your baby’s face?
Yes, if your baby’s delicate facial skin is too dry, use a gentle lotion.
How often should you use lotion on a newborn?
Put lotion on a newborn as often as you can. Try to keep their skin as soft and supple as possible.
Which is the best baby lotion for winters?
The Baby Dove Sensitive Skin Care Hypoallergenic Lotion comes with a gentle formulation and is best for every season.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author of this article, Shiboli Chakraborti, is a certified skin care coach. Her interest in skin care motivates her to study more about ingredients and products suitable for everyone. She has gone through several online forums to curate the list of the best baby lotions available on the market. These baby lotions hydrate and nourish your baby’s skin throughout the day.
Read full bio of Dr. Schwarzburg
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