top of page

What's in Your Soap? Ingredients to Steer Clear Of.

Updated: Aug 27




Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS): Known skin irritant, strips natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. May exacerbate conditions like eczema and acne.


Parabens:  Disrupt endocrine system, potentially linked to hormone disruption and skin irritation. Some studies suggest links to breast cancer.


Synthetic Fragrances: Often contain phthalates, which can disrupt hormone balance and cause skin irritation, headaches, and allergic reactions.


Triclosan:  Can disrupt hormone balance, may contribute to antibiotic resistance, and has been linked to skin irritation and allergic reactions.


Formaldehyde:  Known carcinogen, can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and respiratory issues. Linked to cancer with long-term exposure. |





1. Disruption of Microbiome: Antibacterial soaps contain ingredients like triclosan or triclocarban, which not only kill harmful bacteria but also strip away beneficial bacteria that are essential for maintaining a healthy skin microbiome. This disruption can lead to imbalances, making the skin more susceptible to infections and inflammation.


With the banning of triclosan by the FDA since 2017, many commercial companies have found ways around by using alternatives to triclosan that include: benzalkonium chloride, benzethonium chloride, chloroxylenol, and chlorhexidine. These ingredients still pose threats to the skin causing irritant and allergic contact dermatitis. 


2. Antibiotic Resistance: Prolonged use of antibacterial products contributes to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, posing a significant public health risk. When bacteria become resistant to antibiotics, it becomes harder to treat infections internal and external effectively.


3. Hormonal Disruption: Some antibacterial agents like triclosan have been shown to disrupt hormone balance in the body, potentially leading to reproductive issues and other health concerns.


4. Skin Irritation: Antibacterial ingredients can be harsh and drying on the skin, leading to irritation, redness, and even allergic reactions in some individuals.


Sometimes these soaps may initially feel like they are doing the trick for your skin. That’s just it, it tricks you into thinking you may have found a solution to your skin care needs. When it is doing the opposite and creating another. Being a “bandage “ for the problem only covers it instead of solving it. Many times creating another problem.








Natural soap is better for external skincare because it doesn’t incorporate harsh chemicals that can strip the skin of its natural oils and lead to irritation. When choosing natural soap know that it promotes overall health by minimizing exposure to synthetic ingredients that may have detrimental effects on your internal systems when absorbed through the skin.



Why Natural Ingredients are Better:


1. Gentle on Skin: Natural ingredients like plant oils, butters, and botanical extracts are often milder and less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions compared to synthetic chemicals.


2. Nourishing: Many natural ingredients contain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that nourish and protect the skin, promoting its health and resilience.


3. Environmental Benefits: Natural ingredients are typically biodegradable and less harmful to the environment compared to synthetic chemicals, reducing pollution and ecological damage.


4. Free from Harmful Chemicals: Synthetic ingredients can be harsh on the skin, causing irritation, dryness, and allergic reactions. By using natural ingredients like essential oils, herbs, and natural fats, handmade soaps provide a gentler cleansing experience, reducing the risk of skin problems and promoting overall skin health.


5. Rich in Glycerin: Glycerin is a powerful humectant, meaning it attracts moisture to the skin. This helps keep the skin hydrated, soft, and supple. Retaining glycerin in handmade soaps ensures they are naturally moisturizing, which is particularly beneficial for people with dry or sensitive skin.


6. Nourishing Ingredients: Ingredients like plant-based oils (olive, coconut, almond), butters (shea, cocoa), and essential oils. These ingredients are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that nourish the skin. These nourishing components can help improve skin texture, tone, and overall appearance.


7. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable: By choosing handmade soaps, you support sustainable practices and contribute to the health of the planet, which indirectly benefits your overall well-being by reducing exposure to environmental toxins.


8. Healthier for Your Organs: The skin is the body’s largest organ and acts as a barrier to protect internal organs from external toxins and potentially enter. the bloodstream. However, the skin can absorb harmful chemicals from products applied to it. Natural handmade soaps, free from toxic chemicals, minimize this risk.



In the world of skincare, natural soap reigns supreme as the champion of gentle cleansing and skin nourishment. So, why settle for anything less? Make the switch to natural soap and let your skin revel in its newfound glow, because when it comes to skincare, nature knows best!










33 views0 comments

Comments


bottom of page