Tired of Harsh Chemicals in Mass-Manufactured Soaps?
When it comes to caring for your skin, what you put on it matters just as much as what you put in your body. Unfortunately, the mainstream soap and skincare industry regularly use cheap, harsh chemicals designed to boost foam, fragrance, and shelf life — but at the cost of your skin’s health.
We understand how confusing the beauty industry can be, so to help you take care of your body, we’ve developed a simple list of ingredients to avoid — ingredients that we avoid too.
1. Parabens
Parabens are preservatives widely used in cosmetics to prevent bacteria growth and extend shelf life. Parabens have been linked to hormone disruption and skin irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin or allergies. Because they can mimic estrogen, their long-term safety is questioned by many researchers.
2. Synthetic Fragrances
Artificial fragrances are complex chemical blends often derived from petroleum, and many contain allergens such as phthalates, which can cause skin redness, itching, and inflammation. For people with eczema, psoriasis, or sensitive skin, synthetic fragrances can trigger severe flare-ups. Instead, we choose to use natural essential oils for their therapeutic properties.
3. Sulfates (e.g., Sodium Lauryl Sulfate - SLS)
Sulfates are detergents responsible for the rich lather in soaps and shampoos. However, they can strip away the skin’s natural oils, leaving it dry, tight, and more prone to sensitivity or breakouts. Sulfates are particularly harsh for those with eczema or rosacea.
4. Microbeads and Synthetic Exfoliants
Microbeads are tiny plastic particles once common in scrubs and cleansers. They don’t biodegrade, pollute waterways, and can irritate the skin by being overly abrasive. In this case, we have created our soaps with only natural exfoliants; from clays and salt, to botanicals such as oats and lavender. For our best natural exfoliating soap, try out Foot Loose.
5. Phthalates
Phthalates are chemicals often hidden in “fragrance” labels and used to make scents last longer. They are associated with hormone disruption and allergic reactions.
6. Formaldehyde Releasers
These preservatives slowly release formaldehyde to kill bacteria, but formaldehyde is a known carcinogen and skin irritant. Common names include DMDM hydantoin and quaternium-15.
7. Propylene Glycol
Often used to retain moisture, propylene glycol can sometimes cause allergic reactions or irritation, particularly in sensitive skin types.
8. Triclosan
An antibacterial agent often found in soaps, triclosan has been linked to hormone disruption and bacterial resistance. It also poses risks to the environment.
9. Synthetic Colors and Dyes
Artificial dyes serve only aesthetic purposes and are common allergens. They can cause irritation and are unnecessary in natural skincare. We choose to use natural clays and powders to keep our soaps both healthy and beautiful. Try Morning Glory, which uses spirulina to brighten and tone your skin, whilst giving the soap a beautiful rich green colour.
10. PEGs (Polyethylene Glycols)
PEGs act as thickeners or softeners but may be contaminated with harmful impurities like ethylene oxide or 1,4-dioxane, which are carcinogenic.
Why Choose Us?... We Make Skin-Loving Soaps by Hand
Skin thrives on simplicity, nourishment, and kindness. By choosing a natural soap free from the above chemicals, you’re giving your skin the gentle, effective care it deserves—without unnecessary irritants, allergens, or toxins.
Your skin is resilient but deserves respect and gentle care. Avoiding these common harmful chemicals is one of the simplest ways to support your skin’s health, reduce irritation, and maintain a natural, healthy glow.
Make the switch today. Your skin—and the planet—will thank you.
