Skin Relief Body Wash
Skin Relief Body Wash
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, fragrance-free body wash formulated with Aveeno's Triple Oat Complex — combining oat flour, oat extract, and oat oil — to cleanse without stripping moisture. Designed for itchy, dry, and sensitive skin, this dermatologist-recommended wash helps preserve the skin's natural moisture barrier while soothing irritation. 93% of users reported their skin felt soothed and moisturized after use.
Triple Oat Complex
A blend of oat flour, oat extract, and oat oil that soothes, protects, and nourishes dry, irritated skin while cleansing.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTriple Oat Complex
A blend of oat flour, oat extract, and oat oil that soothes, protects, and nourishes dry, irritated skin while cleansing.
Moisture Barrier Protection
Formulated to help preserve the skin's natural moisture barrier, preventing dryness even after rinsing.
Glycerin-Enriched
Contains glycerin as a key humectant to draw moisture into skin and keep it hydrated throughout the day.
Dermatologist Recommended
From a brand recommended by dermatologists for over 70 years. Allergy-tested and formulated for sensitive skin.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains Glycol Distearate (a fatty acid ester) and Avena Sativa Kernel Oil which can feed Malassezia yeast. Not recommended for those with active fungal acne on the body.
As a rinse-off product, comedogenic risk is minimal. No heavy pore-clogging oils or waxes remain on skin after rinsing.
Formulated without common allergens. Free of fragrances, parabens, dyes, and soap. However, those with oat allergies should avoid this product.
Colloidal oatmeal is an FDA-recognized skin protectant. Gentle enough for daily use on eczema-prone and irritated skin.
Contains Sodium Laureth Sulfate, a common mild surfactant. While generally well-tolerated, those with extremely sensitive or compromised skin barriers may prefer sulfate-free alternatives.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAvena Sativa (Oat) Kernel FlourProven
Finely ground oat flour rich in beta-glucan, lipids, and avenanthramides. Recognized by the FDA as an active skin protectant ingredient. Provides anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and skin-soothing properties.
- FDA Status: Approved as an OTC Skin Protectant under the FDA monograph
- Key Compounds: Contains ~5% beta-glucan (soothing), 3-11% lipids (barrier-repairing), plus phenolic avenanthramides
- Clinical Evidence: Numerous studies confirm colloidal oatmeal reduces itching, dryness, and inflammation in eczema and dermatitis
Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel OilProven
The lipid-rich oil extracted from oat kernels. Provides essential fatty acids including linoleic acid and oleic acid to nourish and soften dry skin while reinforcing the moisture barrier.
- Composition: Rich in omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids for barrier repair
- Function: Acts as an emollient to soften and smooth rough, flaky skin
Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel ExtractProven
A concentrated extract from oat kernels, delivering high levels of avenanthramides — potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds unique to oats.
- Key Benefit: Avenanthramides reduce redness and histamine-related itching
- Synergy: Works with oat flour and oat oil to form the Triple Oat Complex
Glycerin High (2nd ingredient)Proven
A skin-identical humectant that draws moisture into the skin. Listed as the second ingredient, indicating a high concentration. Effective at moisturizing from as low as 3%, with enhanced benefits at higher levels.
- Research: A 2016 study found glycerin to be more effective as a humectant than AHAs and hyaluronic acid
- Skin Benefits: Maintains lipids in a healthy liquid crystal state, protects against irritation, and supports barrier restoration
- Safety: Comedogenicity rating of 0, irritancy rating of 0
Cocamidopropyl BetaineProven
A mild, coconut-derived surfactant that creates gentle, stable foam. Acts as a co-surfactant to balance the cleansing action and reduce overall irritation potential of the formula.
- Mildness: Highly biodegradable and gentle on skin when properly purified
- Function: Stabilizes foam and balances cleansing without over-stripping
17 ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Hydrolyzed Potato Starch Dodecenylsuccinate, Avena Sativa Kernel Flour, Avena Sativa Kernel Oil, Avena Sativa Kernel Extract, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Polyquaternium-10, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Glycol Distearate, Laureth-4, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Sodium Benzoate, Citric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse daily in the shower. Follow with Aveeno Skin Relief Moisturizing Lotion on damp skin for best results — locks in moisture for up to 48-72 hours.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Skin
Step into a warm (not hot) shower. Hot water strips natural oils and can worsen dry skin.
Apply Body Wash
Squeeze onto a wet pouf, washcloth, or hands. A small amount goes a long way due to the concentrated formula.
Lather Gently
Work into a rich, creamy lather over your body. Can also be applied by hand as a shaving wash for smooth legs.
Rinse & Moisturize
Rinse thoroughly. Pat skin dry (don't rub) and apply moisturizer within 3 minutes to lock in hydration while skin is still damp.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry, itchy, or irritated skin that needs soothing relief
- You suffer from eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis
- You want a fragrance-free body wash without triggering sensitivities
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe cleanser
- You prefer a simple, short-ingredient-list formula (only 17 ingredients)
- You want a body wash that doubles as a shaving cream
Consider alternatives if:
- You have active fungal acne (contains Glycol Distearate and oat oil)
- You have a known oat or gluten allergy
- You prefer a completely sulfate-free body wash
- You want a heavily scented shower experience
- You need a deep-cleansing wash for very oily skin
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThis is the primary target skin type. Triple Oat Complex and glycerin actively soothe and moisturize dry, flaky skin without stripping it.
Fragrance-free, allergy-tested, and soap-free. Designed specifically for sensitive and reactive skin types.
Cleanses well without over-drying, though those with very oily areas may want a more stripping wash for those zones.
May not provide enough deep cleansing for very oily skin. Better suited as a gentle option when skin is irritated or dehydrated.
Low comedogenic risk as a rinse-off product. However, not fungal acne safe due to Glycol Distearate and oat oil content.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Soothing Relief
Skin feels softer and less tight immediately after showering. Itching and irritation are noticeably calmer. No post-shower dryness or tightness.
93% noticed soothed, moisturized skinReduced Dryness & Flaking
Consistent daily use begins to visibly reduce dry patches and flaking. Skin feels smoother to the touch and retains moisture better throughout the day.
85% reported less drynessImproved Skin Comfort & Resilience
The skin's moisture barrier strengthens with continued use. Itching episodes become less frequent. Skin appears healthier, more resilient, and less reactive to environmental triggers.
91% said skin felt cleansed without dryingLong-Term Skin Health
Ongoing use supports a balanced skin microbiome. When paired with Aveeno Skin Relief Lotion, skin stays moisturized for up to 48-72 hours. Fewer flare-ups for eczema-prone users.
Long-term skin barrier improvementRatings by platform
32K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Immediately soothes dry, itchy skin — 93% of users confirm
- Completely fragrance-free with no hidden scent additives
- Dermatologist-recommended brand trusted for 70+ years
- Short ingredient list (only 17 ingredients) — minimal irritation risk
- Rich, creamy lather despite being soap-free
- Safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Available in multiple sizes including value 33 fl oz and 36 fl oz refill
- Doubles as a gentle shaving wash
Criticized
- Not fungal acne safe (contains Glycol Distearate and oat oil)
- Contains SLES — not fully sulfate-free
- Recent formula changes disappointed some long-time users
- Standard flip-top cap; no pump option available
- May not cleanse deeply enough for very oily skin
- Not ideal for those who prefer scented body washes
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free with NutriumMoisture technology. Slightly more moisturizing but lacks oat-based soothing benefits. Better for general sensitive skin, less targeted for eczema/itching.
Even simpler formula — free of dyes, fragrance, lanolin, parabens, and formaldehyde. No oat ingredients, so it lacks the soothing anti-itch benefits. Best for those who react to everything.
Uses ceramides and hyaluronic acid instead of oats for barrier repair and hydration. Better for general dry skin, but doesn't target itching as effectively. Slightly thicker, creamier texture.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. Keep in a dry area between uses. Shower humidity is fine for daily use.
Squeeze bottle with flip-top cap. Available in 12 oz, 18 oz, and 33 oz bottles, plus a 36 oz refill pouch. Contains post-consumer recycled plastic (PCR).
The 12 fl oz bottle exceeds TSA carry-on limits. Decant into a 3.4 oz travel container, or use the Aveeno 2 fl oz travel size (available separately).
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This body wash contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or any other ingredients of concern during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The formula is built around colloidal oatmeal and glycerin — both well-established as safe. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
No. This body wash contains Glycol Distearate (a fatty acid ester) and Avena Sativa Kernel Oil, both of which can feed Malassezia yeast. If you have active fungal acne on your body, consider alternatives like Vanicream Gentle Body Wash or a zinc pyrithione-based wash instead.
Yes. Since this is a gentle, rinse-off cleanser with no active exfoliants, it pairs well with any body treatment including retinol body lotions, AHA/BHA body exfoliants, and vitamin C serums. Its mild formula won't interfere with or counteract other active ingredients applied afterward.
It is best suited for dry, itchy, and sensitive skin — including those with eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis. It works well for combination skin and is adequate for normal skin types. It may not cleanse deeply enough for very oily skin. It's suitable for both men and women and safe for daily use.
Most users feel soothing relief from the very first use. Skin feels softer and less itchy immediately after showering. Visible improvements in dryness and flaking typically appear within 1-2 weeks of consistent daily use. Long-term moisture barrier improvement develops over 4-8 weeks.
It is the first step in your body care routine — used in the shower as your daily cleanser. After rinsing, pat dry and immediately apply body moisturizer (ideally within 3 minutes while skin is still damp). Aveeno recommends following with their Skin Relief Moisturizing Lotion for 48-72 hours of hydration.
The comedogenic risk is very low (rated 1/5). As a rinse-off product, the ingredients do not remain on the skin long enough to clog pores. Glycerin has a comedogenicity rating of 0, and the oat ingredients are not known pore-cloggers. It is generally safe for acne-prone skin on the body, but note it is not fungal acne safe.
The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. It is preserved with Sodium Benzoate and Citric Acid. Store at room temperature and keep the cap closed between uses to maintain freshness. The 33 oz bottle typically lasts 2-3 months with daily use for one person.
Verdict: Aveeno Skin Relief Body Wash is an outstanding everyday cleanser for anyone with dry, itchy, or sensitive skin. The Triple Oat Complex delivers meaningful soothing benefits backed by decades of dermatological research and FDA recognition. Its short ingredient list, fragrance-free formula, and allergy-tested status make it one of the safest options for reactive skin — including during pregnancy. The main drawbacks are that it is not fungal acne safe and contains SLES (though mild). For the price point, the 33 oz bottle offers excellent value. If your skin craves relief from dryness and irritation without harsh chemicals or overpowering fragrances, this is a trusted, dermatologist-backed choice.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 4 |
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 0 |
PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate
Surfactant, Hair Conditioning, Cleansing
|
|