Why Natural Body Soap Is Better Than Commercial Body Wash?
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I used to buy any brand of commercial body soap because they looked luxurious and smelled good. They were easy to find at any store for a good price. Then one day, I tried a natural body soap bar that a friend had given me as a gift. I immediately noticed my skin felt softer and after a few days the rosacea on my nose began to fade. I was so excited, I started to research the benefits of natural soaps and how you can handcraft natural soaps with the highest quality ingredients.
Differences in ingredient composition
| Commercial Body Wash | Natural Body Soap |
| Synthetic detergents (syndets) like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) or sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) | Alkali salts of fatty acids derived from plant-based oils and butters (e.g., olive oil, coconut oil, shea butter, etc.) |
| Glycerin, a natural byproduct of natural soap-making is often removed for use in other products like lotions. | Glycerin is retained in the final product, acting as a natural humectant that draws moisture to the skin. |
| Contains synthetic fragrances, artificial dyes, parabens, and thickeners for sensory appeal and longer shelf life. | Uses natural colorants (like clays, herbs, micas) and non synthetic fragrances and essential oils with therapeutic benefits. |
Skin and Environmental Impact
Skin Effects: Commercial body washes can strip the skin of its natural oils, potentially causing dryness, tightness, and irritation, especially for sensitive skin types. Natural soaps are gentler, nourishing the skin's moisture barrier and often suitable for those with conditions like eczema or contact dermatitis.
Production and Environmental Impact: Natural soaps are typically made in small batches, are biodegradable, use minimal and often plastic-free packaging, and involve sustainable sourcing of renewable ingredients. Commercial body washes are mass-produced with a higher environmental impact, using synthetic chemicals that can pollute waterways and relying on plastic packaging that contributes to landfill waste.
User Experience
Lather: Commercial products use synthetic foaming agents (like SLS) to create a rich abundant lather. Natural soaps produce a creamier, gentler lather through the natural oils used, which is equally effective for cleansing.
Hygiene: While there is a common myth that bar soap could harbor bacteria, studies shows it does not transfer to the skin in significant amounts to cause any harm. Body wash, on the other hand, often requires a loofah or sponge, which can trap moisture and bacteria if not cleaned properly.
The choice between the two ultimately depends on individual skin sensibilities, environmental considerations, and personal preference for ingredients or convenience. It was an easy choice for me to switch to using natural body soaps because of the endless benefits my skin has experienced. Just nature's cleansing touch in every natural bar.