We Tested Dozens of Dermatologist-Recommended Lotions for Psoriasis — These Were the Best

It can be tough to find an after-shower moisturizer that actually absorbs into the skin and doesn’t just sit on the surface, which is why Curél HydraTherapy Wet Skin Moisturizer is our top pick for your post-shower routine. This lotion has a lightweight, nongreasy texture that absorbs quickly — locking in hydration and soothing irritated skin.

As part of Curél’s Wet Skin line of products, this lotion is meant to be applied immediately after showering and before toweling off, while your skin is still wet. Users have described the in-shower application as convenient and effective, but they also noted that the lotion’s watery consistency can make hands and feet slick, potentially increasing the risk of slipping as you exit the shower.

Rich in ceramides, this lotion is formulated to restore moisture, strengthen the skin barrier, and relieve the dryness and inflammation commonly associated with psoriasis. It’s also recognized by the National Psoriasis Foundation for its ability to soften thick scales, soothe itching, and support lasting skin comfort.

However, in our research of online reviews, users didn’t like the relatively small tube size — just 3.4 oz, to be exact — and while this is a great travel size to throw in your bag or carry around in a purse, at about $10 to $12 a tube, it can feel a bit pricey for the amount of product you are actually getting.

Utilizing a gentle formula free of fragrances, dyes, and parabens, Eucerin Itch Relief Intensive Calming Lotion is our top choice for sensitive skin. Enriched with ceramides and natural colloidal oatmeal, this lotion helps restore and strengthen the skin’s protective barrier without irritating or drying out the skin. It also contains menthol for a light, cooling sensation that offers a near-instant cooling comfort without the use of steroids, making it safe for daily use — even on delicate skin.

Based on our research, many online buyers say that this lotion provides relief that lasts for hours, and they appreciate how quickly it absorbs into the skin without leaving behind a greasy or sticky film. It’s also especially helpful for nighttime use, when itchiness may start to interfere with sleep. However, because this lotion is fragrance-free and formulated for sensitive skin, buyers have pointed out its unpleasant scent and its watery consistency, which could make application a bit of a mess.

Unlike steroid creams, which are only meant for short-term use, this lotion can be used daily and long-term as part of a sensitive-skin routine. It’s ideal for managing mild to moderate symptoms of dry, itchy skin and can also be used alongside medicated treatments during psoriasis flare-ups. If you’re looking for a nonsteroidal option with both immediate and lasting relief, Eucerin’s calming lotion is a smart choice for sensitive skin.

I was able to personally test out this lotion over the course of a month, and I appreciated its fast-absorbing texture — making it comfortable for both day and night use. It did not do much to reduce the redness and inflammation I was experiencing, but I did notice relief from dryness and flaking within just a few uses.

In my opinion, one of the biggest advantages of this Aveeno lotion is that it’s gentle enough for everyday use. Unlike steroid creams or medicated treatments that have usage limits, this formula can be used freely on the whole body, making it a great go-to for maintaining skin health and preventing flare-ups. If you’re looking for a reliable, no-fuss lotion that keeps skin feeling moisturized and nourished, this one definitely earns a spot on your bathroom shelf.

If you struggle with both eczema and psoriasis, Dermarest Eczema Medicated Lotion offers relief that can help manage the symptoms of both conditions. While eczema and psoriasis are different in origin, they both share key symptoms like itchiness, inflammation, and dry, irritated skin.

The main ingredient in Dermarest Eczema Medicated Lotion is 1-percent hydrocortisone, a mild topical steroid that delivers up to 24 hours of itch relief and reduces inflammation quickly. The nongreasy, fragrance‑free formula also absorbs easily, making it perfect for fast comfort and relief without leaving a heavy residue.

Unlike many basic moisturizers, Dermarest also includes a zinc complex, panthenol (provitamin B5), glycerin, dimethicone, green tea, and safflower oil to help reinforce the skin barrier, soothe irritated patches, and prevent recurring dryness.

However, the one major drawback of this lotion is that its main ingredient, hydrocortisone, is only intended for short-term relief and not long-term control. For chronic psoriasis and eczema, you may need stronger treatments like salicylic acid, coal tar, or prescription biologics. Always check with a healthcare provider before using Dermarest Eczema Medicated Lotion beyond seven days and to discuss possible long-term treatment options if you are still experiencing persistent symptoms.

Of all the lotions I tested while building this list, Abundant Natural Health Ocean Soothe Lotion offered the highest salicylic acid content, making it ideal for targeting red, scaly patches and increasing cell turnover. I found that it also absorbed quickly and delivered targeted relief without feeling heavy.

This lotion contains 1.8-percent salicylic acid, which can help gently exfoliate thick scales and reduce flaking, alongside added minerals like magnesium and sodium chloride sourced from ocean salts, which help calm inflammation and relieve itching. Infused with olive oil, shea butter, cucumber, and aloe vera, it’s both hydrating and nurturing for dry, irritated skin.

Like other fragrance-free lotions, Abundant Natural Health Ocean Soothe Lotion also doesn’t smell the greatest, but I found that the aroma didn’t linger too long after application. Overall, I can report that this lotion was very effective during my testing period, but at $19.99 for just 4 oz of product, this lotion is one of the pricier ones on our list. It’s likely to make it a less desirable option for those seeking a bigger bang for their buck.

With all that said, this lotion is definitely a good fit for anyone who prefers a clean, mineral-rich skin-care option without having to sacrifice on effectiveness.

Powered by 1-percent pramoxine hydrochloride, a gentle anesthetic that helps reduce itch and discomfort, paired with 0.5-percent menthol for an instant, refreshing cooling effect, Sarna Calm + Cool Anti-Itch Lotion is an obvious choice for the best lotion for cooling.

But what really makes this lotion stand out is its soothing, nongreasy formula that infuses aloe vera and witch hazel to help reduce inflammation and dryness, leaving your skin feeling soft and definitely not sticky.

In our research of online reviews, users said this lotion delivers long-lasting comfort and is a great value, especially compared to more expensive steroid creams. It also absorbs quickly, making it easy to apply during the day without worrying about residue on clothes or skin.

That said, there are a few downsides to consider as well. Some people find the menthol scent a bit strong or unpleasant, and the lotion’s thicker consistency can take a little effort to spread evenly. Also, the pump dispenser, while convenient, can also make it tricky to get every last bit of product out as you near the end of the bottle.

Vanicream is one of the biggest and most well-known brands in skin care and is often recommended by dermatologists. After trying and comparing the benefits of several different lotions to make this list, I can confidently say that Vanicream Moisturizing Lotion made the most visible reduction in the redness of my psoriasis and didn’t feel heavy or sticky after application. It works primarily by reinforcing the skin’s natural barrier, locking in moisture, and helping to reduce redness over time.

“For skin barrier repair, my go-to brand is Vanicream,” said Rachel Day, a board-certified dermatologist and chief medical officer at Zest Health, a virtual dermatology clinic specializing in psoriasis and eczema. “It’s free of dyes, fragrances, and other common irritants, making it ideal for sensitive or inflamed skin. Vanicream helps restore a damaged skin barrier, which is critical for anyone managing psoriasis.”

One of the things I like most about this lotion is its nongreasy, fast-absorbing formula — which means I can apply it throughout the day, even under clothes or makeup. I also have acne-prone skin that easily breaks out with heavy skin-care products, so I was excited to see that this lotion didn’t clog my pores.

While Vanicream is beloved for its gentle touch, it does come with a few trade-offs, too. The lotion’s thick consistency makes it a bit harder to spread, especially over large areas. And unlike psoriasis-specific treatments, it doesn’t contain specialized ingredients like retinol or salicylic acid, which are often used to target scaling or promote cell turnover.

Still, for anyone seeking a simple, nonirritating moisturizer to calm redness and support daily skin health, Vanicream will absolutely hit the mark. It’s a great everyday lotion for sensitive skin, especially when paired with other psoriasis treatments or used between flare-ups to maintain hydration and minimize discomfort.