Is soap with natural ingredients better for the skin?
Soap is a fundamental component of personal hygiene, with a history dating back thousands of years. Today, consumers are increasingly interested in the natural origin and purity of their products, including their soap. The question remains: is soap with natural ingredients better for the skin? This article will explore the scientific evidence behind this question.
To start, it is important to understand the difference between synthetic and natural ingredients in soap. Synthetic ingredients, also known as chemicals or lab-created substances, are commonly used in soaps for their ability to clean, lather, and preserve the product. Examples of synthetic ingredients include sodium lauryl sulfate, triclosan, and artificial fragrances.
On the other hand, natural ingredients are derived from plantsor minerals. Examples of natural ingredients include olive oil, coconut oil, honey, and essential oils. These ingredients are often added to soaps for their moisturizing, healing, and antibacterial properties.
Now, let's delve into the scientific evidence behind the effectiveness of natural soap ingredients for the skin.
Moisturising properties
One of the most significant benefits of using soap with natural ingredients is their moisturising properties. Natural oils, such as almond oil, are known for their ability to hydrate and nourish the skin. Studies have shown that natural oils can help improve skin barrier function, preventing water loss and promoting healthy skin hydration.
For example, a 2017 study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences found that coconut oil is effective in moisturizing and improving the skin barrier function in people with atopic dermatitis, a common skin condition characterized by dry, itchy skin. Another study from 2019 published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science showed that a soap containing olive oil had significant moisturizing effects on the skin compared to a control soap.
Antibacterial properties
Another benefit of using soap with natural ingredients is their potential antibacterial properties. Some natural ingredients, such as tea tree oil, have been shown to have antimicrobial properties, which can help prevent the growth of bacteria on the skin.
A 2018 study published in the Journal of Applied Microbiology found that tea tree oil was effective in inhibiting the growth of Staphylococcus aureus, a common bacteria found on the skin. Another study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science in 2015 showed that a soap containing tea tree oil had greater antibacterial effects than a control soap.
However, it is important to note that not all natural ingredients have antibacterial properties. Additionally, using antibacterial soap on a regular basis can lead to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which is a growing concern in public health.
Sensitivity and allergies
One potential benefit of using soap with natural ingredients is its suitability for people with sensitive skin or allergies. Synthetic ingredients, such as fragrances and preservatives, can cause irritation and allergic reactions in some people.
A 2017 study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology found that exposure to common synthetic fragrance chemicals in personal care products was associated with allergic contact dermatitis, a skin condition characterized by redness, itching, and blistering. Natural ingredients, on the other hand, are less likely to cause adverse reactions in people with sensitive skin or allergies.
Environmental impact
Finally, the use of soap with natural ingredients can have a positive impact on the environment. Synthetic ingredients can be harmful to aquatic life and contribute to water pollution. In contrast, natural ingredients are biodegradable and less harmful to the environment.
Our Natural Soap Bar Collection
Our Natural Soap Bars are the best choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, environmentally-friendly soap option. Handmade in small batches in the UK, these soaps are carefully crafted to ensure that they meet our strict standards for quality and sustainability. By using traditional soap-making techniques and only the best natural ingredients, our soap bars are gentle on the skin and good for the environment.
One of the key features of our Natural Soap Bars is that they are vegan friendly. We understand the importance of choosing products that align with your values, which is why we have ensured our soap bars using only plant-based ingredients. This means that our soaps are free from animal products such as tallow, which is commonly used in traditional soap-making.
In addition, our soap bars are cold pressed, which means that they retain more of the natural benefits of the ingredients used in their creation. Cold pressing is a gentle process that helps to preserve the nutrients and properties of the oils and botanicals, resulting in a soap that is nourishing and moisturising for the skin.
Finally, we are proud to say that our Natural Soap Bars come in fully recyclable packaging. We believe that it's essential to consider the impact of our products on the environment and have taken steps to minimise any negative effects. Our soap bars are packaged in eco-friendly materials that can be easily recycled, reducing waste and ensuring that our products have a minimal environmental impact.
Overall, our Natural Soap Bars are the perfect choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, sustainable soap option. Handmade in the UK in small batches, vegan friendly, cold pressed, and packaged in fully recyclable materials, our soap bars are a fantastic addition to any skincare routine.
Shop our Natural Soap Bars