Why can soap cause dry skin?
Handwashing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs and diseases. Regular handwashing with soap is particularly important in healthcare settings and during disease outbreaks. However, frequent handwashing with soap can lead to dry, cracked, and irritated skin. In this article, we will explore why using soap can cause dryness, and how natural soap bars can help to keep your hands moisturized and healthy.
How many people have dry skin?
Dry skin is a common condition that affects many people in the UK. According to a survey conducted by the British Skin Foundation, 61% of the UK population suffers from some form of skin condition. Dry skin is one of the most prevalent conditions, with around 20% of people reporting dry or cracked skin on their hands, feet, or body.
In addition, a study published in the British Journal of Dermatology found that 44% of people who regularly wash their hands with soap and water experience skin dryness or irritation. This highlights the importance of using gentle and moisturising soap, as well as adopting a regular skincare routine to help prevent and alleviate dry skin.
Dry skin can be caused by a variety of factors, including cold weather, low humidity, hot showers, and harsh chemicals in skincare products. It can also be a symptom of underlying medical conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, or thyroid disorders. It is important to consult a healthcare professional if you experience persistent or severe dry skin symptoms.
Why Does Soap Cause Dryness?
Soap is an essential component of handwashing because it helps to remove dirt, oil, and microorganisms from the skin surface. However, the same properties that make soap effective at cleaning can also strip the skin of its natural oils and moisture. The outermost layer of the skin, called the stratum corneum, contains a mixture of lipids, including ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids. These lipids form a protective barrier that helps to retain water in the skin and prevent evaporation. When soap is applied to the skin, it disrupts the lipid barrier and removes some of the natural oils and moisture. This can lead to dryness, itching, and irritation.
The pH of soap can also contribute to dryness. The skin's pH is slightly acidic, ranging from 4.5 to 5.5. Soap, on the other hand, is typically alkaline with a pH between 9 and 10.5. When alkaline soap is applied to the skin, it can disrupt the natural pH balance, leading to dryness and irritation.
How Can Natural Soap Bars Help?
Natural soap bars can help to alleviate the dryness caused by conventional soap by using ingredients that are gentle and moisturising. Natural soap bars are typically made from plant-based oils, such as almond oil and cacao butter, which contain fatty acids that help to nourish and hydrate the skin. They also contain natural glycerin, a humectant that attracts and retains moisture in the skin.
Natural soap bars are also formulated to have a pH that is closer to the skin's natural pH, which helps to maintain the integrity of the lipid barrier and prevent dryness. Some natural soap bars also contain additional moisturising ingredients, such as aloe vera, honey, and oatmeal, which can soothe and hydrate dry and irritated skin.
Why Choose Vegan-Friendly and Handmade Soap Bars?
In addition to being natural and moisturising, vegan-friendly and handmade soap bars have additional benefits for the skin and the environment. Vegan-friendly soap bars are free from animal products and by-products, such as tallow, which is commonly used in conventional soap. This makes them a cruelty-free and sustainable option for those who are concerned about animal welfare and the environment.
Handmade soap bars are also unique because they are crafted in small batches using traditional methods. This allows the soap maker to control the ingredients and ensure that only high-quality and natural ingredients are used. Handmade soap bars are also typically cured for several weeks, which helps to create a harder and longer-lasting bar that is gentle on the skin.
Our products
Our natural soap bars are all hand made in the South West using vegan and cruelty free ingredients. They all come in fully recyclable packaging, so you can be sure you are doing your bit for the environment.
Explore our range of natural soap bars
You can also explore our whipped soap.