We discuss the difference between bar soap and body wash and share the best non-toxic products.
We are discussing the differences between bar soap and body wash and the differences between non-toxic brands that are best to use! Or does it contain soap?
Have you caught the new Clean Natural Products series yet? After sharing the best natural skincare products, our team discussed what to use when taking a shower. Here’s what we know about bar soap and body wash and whether we want to consider it to be soap free.
Are you following our Clean Series? Head to posting clean natural products to discover more toxic swaps!
*I am not a scientist or a doctor. This information is based on my personal experience, research and opinions. You should always consult a healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen or if you have any questions.
Is bar soap better than body wash?
The general purpose of bar soap and body wash is essentially the same, but in my opinion there are some major differences between the two that make bar soap a better choice for your body and environment.
For starters, it is not possible to safely make liquid soaps without preservatives because they contain water. Preservatives are required to prevent mold, yeast, and bacteria from growing, to extend the shelf life of body cleaning and liquid soaps. Depending on the preservative, it can lead to skin problems and other major health concerns.
Bar soap does not require the use of preservatives. There are also many options on the market that you find safe to use. Bar soap is concentrated more than liquids, so bar soap lasts about 2-3 times longer than liquid soap. With cleaner materials, this means that the bar soap is more environmentally friendly and leaves little or no trace depending on where you buy the bar. Bar soaps are also travel-friendly and can provide more plant and healing benefits to your skin depending on your brand.
Check out what our team had to say about bar soap and body wash:
The majority of our team uses both bar soap and body wash, with the smallest number of team members using bar soap. Are most of us wrong? 😳
The good news is that as long as you are following proper physical hygiene, there are no really correct washing methods or the wrong way. b However, it is important to note that not all bar soaps are treated evenly.
These are just a few of the chemicals that are common in traditional soaps that you want to skip.
borates – compounds with various names including sodium borate (boric acid), boric acid, sodium perborate, perborate, and more. It is known to cause birth defects and have a negative effect on the reproductive organs. 🛑Butylated Hydroxyanisol (BHA) – Can destroy hormones and is associated with cancer. 🛑Formaldehyde – A known carcinogen that stimulates the eyes, nose and throat and is associated with cancer. 🛑Phosphate – Related to cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis 🛑Phosthalates – can affect natural hormones, increasing fertility, developmental issues, and risk of cancer. 🛑 Synthetic fragrances, “parfum,” or “scent,” can cause headaches, dyspnea, cardiovascular and neurological problems, mucosal irritability, and contact dermatitis. High risk of cancer.
Is there anything like a soapless body wash?
You may have heard of “no soap” before. Essentially, both soapless cleaners and soap are intended to clean debris from the skin. However, regular soaps will remove much more skin than you need. Therefore, using a soapless cleanser is especially ideal for people with sensitive skin, and it may be an option you’ve never thought of using!
Traditional soaps involve the reaction of fats (oils) with alkalis (such as sodium hydroxide) to create soap and glycerin. On the other hand, soap-free cleansers usually contain synthetic or plant-based surfactants rather than saponified fats. However, some soap-free cleansers can contain fats or oils as fats or conditioning agents, even if they are not used. So, while soapless cleansers do not use saponified fats, they can contain plant-based oils or fatty ingredients that contribute to hydration. The “Soap-free” option offers a more natural fumectant that helps healthier skin pH balance and naturally moisturized skin. Don’t forget that it doesn’t mean “no soap.” Be sure to check the label before purchasing.
The biggest takeaway here? Less SUDs can be comparable to better skin barriers when using the right products.
Below are top 3 recommendations for toxic bar soap, liquid soap, and soapless cleanser if you want to create a cleaner switch.
Shopping from a local soap maker that offers bar soaps with very minimal ingredients may be your best choice, but if you want something easier and more accessible, you’ll love this soap bar made by Dr. Bronner. It is non-toxic and does not contain synthetic preservatives, thickeners, or lathering agents such as liquid soaps. It also leaves a minimal footprint and our number one choice is 100% biodegradable, making it a great and environmentally friendly option.
This soap bar has many certifications, including Certified Organic, EWG Verification, and Certified Fair Trade. Dr. Bronner’s bar soap has many different scents, including unscented ingredients. It is also gentle on all skin types and moisturizing, making it perfect for shaving. Overall, Dr. Bronner offers the perfect bar of soap for all ages and skin types.
Here are the top 5 reasons why we like this bar soap:
✅100% certified organic ingredients (EWG verification)
Dr. Bronner’s Castile Soap – $15.99+
Storage Method: Dr. Bronner is rarely sold, so focus on flash sales or check out the refill station at your local cooperative grocery/market.
Dr. Bronner is not only the best option for body washes, but he even has an endless list of uses around the house. This soap is concentrated 2-3 times more than most traditional products, so you can dilute it to further stretch the dollar. This product is 100% biodegradable and thoughtfully packaged in 100% post-consumption recycled plastic (or you can grab a refill carton with 82% less plastic).
Dr. Bronner’s scented soap is made from certified organic fair trade oils and ingredients and is developed using sustainable harvesting. Each product has a large number of certifications, including non-GMO project verification, USDA certified organic, and certified vegan. Therefore, this body wash has preservatives, but don’t worry, they are safe for your body.
Hip Tips: When used as a shower or hand soap, Dr. Bronner’s liquid soap works best with foam soap devices.
This is the top 5 reasons why we love this body wash:
✅ 100% biodegradable ✅ Very gentle and versatile for many purposes (using 18-in-1) ✅ Thoughtful production and packaging cans
This plump bar is as pure as they get and does not compromise on the natural barriers of your skin like a harsh soap. With this primarily pure bar, you can expect healthy skin and a balanced microbiota. It is formulated with natural antibacterial and healing ingredients that support cell renewal and improve skin texture.
The pure, plump bars are primarily formulated with 100% biodegradable and 7 organic ingredients, sustainably and responsibly supplied. We love that their products are handmade in the United States (Southern California) and use the most valuable elements of nature. Really, if you want the most beneficial “soap” for your skin, we couldn’t love this brand more!
Although expensive, mostly pure pure also offers a dreamlike collection of soapless body washes formulated with the same good intentions.
Here are five reasons why I love this soap-free cleaner:
clute Naturally antibacterial and softens natural skin ✅ Organic & 100% biodegradable ingredients ✅ Don’t compromise on natural barriers of the skin
Create even more toxin-free swaps from the Clean Series.
