The Ultimate Guide to Gluten-Free Body Care and Household Products

Understanding Gluten in Personal Care & Household Products

Living gluten-free isn’t just about food—gluten can also be present in shampoos, lotions, cosmetics, household cleaners, and even laundry detergent. While gluten cannot be absorbed through the skin, some individuals experience contact dermatitis, eczema, or irritation from personal care products containing wheat, barley, or rye derivatives. For those with wheat allergies or heightened sensitivities, gluten-containing lotions, shampoos, and cosmetics may lead to redness, itching, or rashes. If you notice persistent skin irritation, switching to gluten-free personal care products may help alleviate symptoms.

Many people with celiac disease, an autoimmune condition, also experience sensitivities to fragrances and chemicals found in personal and household products. This can include perfumes, dyes, and preservatives in shampoos, lotions, soaps, and cleaning supplies. While not directly linked to gluten, these sensitivities may be more common among those with celiac disease and other autoimmune conditions. If you experience skin irritation, breathing difficulties, or headaches after exposure to certain products, switching to fragrance-free and gluten-free alternatives may be beneficial.

Individuals diagnosed with gluten sensitivity often report respiratory issues like asthma and skin conditions such as dermatitis. If you notice adverse reactions to gluten, it’s advisable to scrutinize the ingredients in your cosmetics, soaps, and hair care products. Commonly overlooked items that may contain hidden gluten include:

• Shampoo
• Soap
• Facial Cleansers
• Toothpaste
• Lipstick
• Lotions
• Shaving gels
• Hair spray

Hidden Gluten in Personal Care Products & Overlooked Items

Gluten hides in personal care products under many names, making it tricky for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity to avoid.

Wheat-based ingredients, such as Triticum vulgare (wheat germ extract), hydrolyzed wheat protein, and wheat starch, are commonly found in lotions, shampoos, and hair styling products.

Barley-derived ingredients, like Hordeum vulgare extract, malt extract, or maltodextrin (if derived from barley), often show up in hair products, soaps, and facial scrubs.

While rye is less common in cosmetics, Secale cereale extract can occasionally appear in specialty soaps and shampoos.

Other sneaky sources include brewer’s yeast (which can be derived from barley), hydrolyzed vegetable protein (sometimes made from wheat), and oat-based ingredients, which may be cross-contaminated if not labeled gluten-free. If you spot any of these ingredients, it’s best to check with the manufacturer or choose a certified gluten-free brand to stay safe!

Gluten-Free Personal Care: Safe Options for Everyday Use

Gluten-Free Skincare: Lotions, Sunscreens & Face Products

Many lotions, sunscreens, and facial care products contain hydrolyzed wheat protein for moisturizing benefits. While some people may tolerate these ingredients without issue, others with gluten sensitivities or wheat allergies may experience skin irritation, redness, or dermatitis. Additionally, gluten in skincare products can be a concern if transferred to your mouth.

Gluten-Free Skincare Brands:

• Vanicream (free of gluten, fragrance, and dyes)
• Acure (gluten-free and natural skincare)
• Derma E (certified gluten-free)
• 7 Cream by Robin Logan (free of gluten, fragrance, and dyes)

Tip: Always wash your hands after applying lotion to avoid accidental gluten ingestion.

Gluten-Free Hair Care: Shampoo & Conditioner

Shampoos and conditioners often contain wheat-based proteins to help with hair strength and moisture. The biggest risk? Rinsing your hair in the shower and accidentally getting gluten in your mouth.

Gluten-Free Shampoo & Conditioner Brands:

• Free & Clear (dermatologist-recommended, no gluten)
• Avalon Organics (select products are GF)
• Desert Essence (certified gluten-free options)

Tip: If you experience scalp irritation or eczema, switching to gluten-free shampoo may help.

Gluten-Free Oral Care: Toothpaste, Mouthwash & Lip Balm

Toothpaste, mouthwash, and lip balms are among the biggest concerns because they are directly ingested. Some toothpaste brands use wheat-derived thickeners or flavorings.

Gluten-Free Oral Care Brands:

• Tom’s of Maine (select products are GF)
• Hello Toothpaste (certified gluten-free)
• Redmond Earthpaste (GF and natural) Gluten-Free Lip Balms & Lipsticks:
• Red Apple Lipstick (certified GF)
• Burt’s Bees (many products are GF, but always check labels)
• Eos Lip Balms (many are GF, but not all—check packaging)

Tip: If you have frequent mouth ulcers or irritation, switching to a gluten-free toothpaste and lip balm may help.

Gluten-Free Household Cleaners, Laundry Products & Room Fresheners

Going gluten-free isn’t just about food and body care—household cleaning products can also be a hidden concern.

Are Household Cleaners a Concern for Celiacs?

Most household cleaning products are not ingested, but there are some cases where gluten exposure could occur: ✔ Dish soap & dishwashing detergents – Residue on dishes could lead to ingestion. ✔ Multi-purpose cleaners & disinfecting wipes – Can leave residue on kitchen counters and food prep surfaces. ✔ Air fresheners & room sprays – Aerosolized particles could be inhaled or settle on food surfaces.

Gluten-Free Household Cleaning Brands:

• Better Life (gluten-free, plant-based cleaners)
• Seventh Generation (most products are gluten-free, but always check labels)
• Ecover (safe for gluten-free homes)

Navigating gluten-free personal care and household products may seem overwhelming at first, but with a little knowledge and attention to ingredient labels, you can create a safer environment for yourself and your family. While gluten cannot be absorbed through the skin, those with sensitivities or celiac disease should be mindful of products that come into contact with their mouth, such as lip balms, toothpaste, and hand lotions. Additionally, hidden gluten in shampoos, household cleaners, and detergents can be an issue for those prone to skin irritation or allergic reactions.

By choosing certified gluten-free brands, avoiding questionable ingredients, and opting for fragrance-free alternatives when necessary, you can minimize the risk of exposure and feel confident in your daily self-care and cleaning routines.

Going gluten-free isn’t just about food and body care—household cleaning products can also be a hidden concern.