There are many reasons to avoid commercial produced detergent bars that are commonly dressed up as “soap”.
For a start, the glycerine that is a naturally occurring by-product in the soap making process is removed by manufacturers and sold to other companies in the beauty industry as a lucrative side-line. Glycerine helps stop the skin drying out so it is a vital component of any product being put on your skin. Secondly, there are synthetic lathering agents used in commercial soap as well as other chemicals and artificial colours. At best they are just harsh on your skin, at worst exposure to some of these chemicals has been linked to cancer.
The skin is porous and absorbs creams, water and any substance that is put on it. We know it is bad for our health to consume manufactured and processed food, and the same can be said for using commercial soaps. Aside from the negative effects on our health, these chemically filled commercial soaps are bad for the environment too, filling the eco-system with pollutants and toxic substances.
The alternative is all natural, organic handmade soap that is good for your skin and kind on the environment. People think all ‘soap’ is bad for our skin - that is simply not true. It is the detergent style soap bars that are bad for our skin, the ones containing the chemicals and toxins. When looking to purchase a pleasant and natural soap, look for those that are made with pure or essential oils and fats. Any plants that have been used in the soap should be certified as organic and avoid anything with artificial colour or fragrances. The label will provide all the information you need so make sure you have a quick check over the ingredients list and product information found on it before purchase.
If any of you have noticed a difference between commercial and homemade natural soap bars, send in your comments here.
