Avoid These Hidden Chemicals In Commercial Soaps

When most people reach for a bar of soap at the store, they assume it’s a simple product designed to clean the skin. But the truth is, many commercial soaps aren’t really “soap” at all—they’re often made with synthetic detergents, harsh chemicals, and artificial additives that can strip the skin of its natural moisture and even cause irritation.

Let’s take a closer look at what’s hiding in those mass-produced bars, and then compare them with what goes into a natural, cold process soap like mine.

Common Hidden Chemicals in Commercial Soaps

• Synthetic Fragrances Fragrance may sound harmless, but the word often hides a cocktail of dozens—even hundreds—of undisclosed chemicals. These can include phthalates, which are linked to hormone disruption, and other irritants that can cause allergic reactions or skin sensitivity.

• Artificial Dyes and Colorants Bright blues, neon pinks, and sparkling swirls might look appealing, but these colors are usually created with synthetic dyes or mica coated in chemicals. Some artificial dyes are derived from petroleum and can be irritating to sensitive skin.

• Parabens and Preservatives Parabens are commonly used in skincare and soaps to extend shelf life. Unfortunately, they’ve also been linked to potential hormone disruption and may contribute to long-term health concerns.

• Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Other Harsh Surfactants This foaming agent is what gives many commercial soaps and body washes that bubbly lather. But SLS can be extremely drying, stripping the skin of its protective barrier and leaving it tight, itchy, or irritated—especially for those with sensitive or dry skin.

• Petroleum By-Products Some soaps include ingredients derived from petroleum, such as mineral oil or paraffin. These don’t nourish the skin—instead, they form a coating that can clog pores and interfere with the skin’s natural ability to breathe.

What I Use Instead

In contrast, my cold process soaps are handcrafted with pure, plant-based ingredients designed to cleanse gently while nourishing the skin. Here’s what makes them different:

• Plant-Based Oils and Butters – Coconut oil, shea butter, mango butter, olive oil, and other botanicals provide rich lather, hydration, and essential nutrients for healthy skin.

• Natural Colorants – Instead of synthetic dyes, I use clays, herbs, and botanicals such as French green clay, turmeric, cocoa powder, and indigo for natural, earthy hues.

• Essential Oils – Scented only with pure essential oils like lavender, peppermint, rosemary, and citrus, my soaps provide aromatherapy benefits without hidden chemicals.

These ingredients work together to create a bar of soap that’s safe, effective, and nourishing—without the harsh additives you’ll find in commercial products.

Why It Matters

Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and what you put on it matters. Choosing natural, plant-based soaps means:

• No hidden chemical irritants
• Gentle cleansing without dryness
• Added vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from natural oils and butters
• Aromatherapy benefits from real essential oils

Switching from commercial soap to natural cold process soap is a small but powerful way to care for your skin and overall wellness.

Ready to experience the difference? Try one of my all-natural, plant-based soaps and feel how nourishing clean can be!