Most people use synthetically produced antibacterial soap thinking that it will keep them, their children, and their family, protected from illness and lingering bacteria. However, it may surprise you to know that these soaps are not actually all it is advertised to be, and these soaps contain synthetic chemicals. In fact, you are better off using natural organic based soaps and warm water to keep your hands clean and bacteria free and save environment.
Protect your Skin
These synthetically made soaps that you purchase from the supermarket are too rough on their skin, or their skin doesn’t react well to the chemicals that are found in the soap. In fact, the FDA recognizes and announced that these soaps contain certain chemical ingredients, including Triclosan an anti-bacterial chemical often found in soaps and toothpaste can cause skin irritation. Formaldehyde, a preservative found in many soaps and cosmetics is usually found in small concentrations, however, it can cause allergic reactions and skin rashes. These chemicals have not been deemed safe for daily use over an extended period of time, especially for children. Even if you are not experiencing these issues using these soaps, the chemicals that are found in it can cause your skin to become incredibly dry over time which leads to the skin cracking, especially in the winter months.
Parabens are preservatives commonly found in personal care products and beauty products, including soaps. Manufacturers love them because they prevent mold and bacteria from building up in the product allowing it to last longer. Parabens have been shown as a potential danger in animal studies.
Harsh Sulfates – SLS (Sodium lauryl sulfate), SLES, Ammonium lauryl sulfate, Myreth sulfate, Olefin sulfonate (deodorized kerosene) are chemicals reported by the American Journal of Contact Dermatitis to cause irritation. They are added to soaps because of their cheap and effective bubbling properties.
Avoid Animal Cruelty
Unless these synthetic soaps say “vegan” or “cruelty-free” on the label, you can’t be sure that animals are not harmed during the production or testing processes. Neither the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) nor the U.S Consumer Product Safety Commission requires that household products be tested on animals. The good news is that many eco-friendly brands are beginning to stand up and do the humane thing and produce personal care products without harming animals. Look for “vegan” AND “cruelty-free” on the label to be sure no animals were harmed during the ingredient sourcing, production process, and testing.
Protect Our Water sources and Marine Life
When soap is washed down the drain it can end up in our lakes, rivers, and oceans. These synthetic-based chemicals can wreak havoc. A detergent or surfactant breaks the surface tension of water which can make it for small creatures that get around on the surface of the water. When the surface tension is lower, it will reduce the oxygen levels of the water, causing harm to fish and other marine dwelling wildlife. Phosphates in soaps or detergents can cause freshwater algal blooms that release toxins and ultimately depletes oxygen for aquatic life.
Soap Bar vs Liquid Soap
By using an eco-friendly soap, which is typically produced in bar form, you will be preventing 1 bottle of plastic from being produced and then disposed of. It may not seem like a lot, but over several generations in a household, this can be a significant step towards reducing your plastic waste and helping resolve the global problem of plastic pollution.
Natural Antibacterial Qualities
Many of the natural oils that are found in natural and organic based soap contain antibacterial and anti-fungal properties of their own. These work as nature intended and are completely natural, so no risk of exposure to synthetic chemicals.
Castile soaps that are made exclusively from plant oils and do not contain animal-derived sources, are common in most leading brand-name soaps.
Organic soaps are suitable for any type of skin, for children, especially for people with sensitive skin. Not only is natural soap a lot healthier for the skin, it is gentle, and it also helps with moisturizing, making it look firmer, removing the dead cells and helps it stay acne and toxin free.
Natural Ingredients originating from ancient Ayurveda (“Ayur” which means life and “veda” which means knowledge) for soaps
- Almonds – rich in proteins and antioxidants and have been known to refresh, nourish and soothe the skin from itchiness as well as redness. Because almonds also have Vitamin E it allows to eventually have healthy, beautiful and glowing skin.
- Aloe Vera – for cooling the skin or providing relief from a burning sensation. According to Kim Chang, an aesthetician and expert at the Baylor College of Medicine, Aloe Vera can help skin that is free from redness or irritation.
- Turmeric – capable of detoxifying your body to give off pure skin as a result. One of the amazing skin health benefits of Turmeric includes natural treatment for some skin problems like acne. Turmeric has been known for centuries for its natural anti-bacterial property, so when added as an ingredient in Soaps, it battles the acne first before bringing the skin back to its healthy glow.
- Jasmine – It is widely known for the quality smell of their flowers which is used as fragrance so it can serve as a natural stress reliever. Also has antiviral, antibacterial and antiseptic properties that enhance the immunity of the skin to maintain its healthy glow.
- Strawberry – gives you a lot more benefits than just the scent because it is packed with Folic acid and the fruit’s antioxidant properties are capable of enhancing the skin’s immune system.
- Oatmeal – reduce skin rashes and itches that resulted from sunburn, eczema, chicken pox and even contact with the poison ivy plant. Oatmeal serves as a great skin cleanser, gentle exfoliator, and moisturizer that is suitable to all skin types.
- Sandalwood – has antiseptic and antimicrobial properties that can give remedy to skin conditions, either big or small. Sandalwood Soap will help in resolving dry skin and acne problems. It also has anti-aging properties and can control facial hair.
- Neem – ideal skin cleanser capable of deep cleansing the pores. Those with Oily-Normal skin types can use Soaps that has Neem to cleanse and purify the blemished or oily skin especially during the summer season.
- Multani Mitti (clay) – type of clay that has a cooling effect. It is used to clean and exfoliate the skin in to attain a skin that’s free from blemishes. It has active elements that absorb oil, dirt, and sweat on your skin.
- Lemon – packed with Vitamin C and citric acid that cleans, brighten and lighten the skin when frequently used. Lemon helps get rid of dark patches on certain body parts like the elbows or the knees.
In summary, an eco-friendly soap should be Chemical-free, Sulphate free, Paraben free, Vegan, Cruelty-free and made from only natural plant or oil-based ingredients which are biodegradable and will not disrupt the natural eco-system of the environment and your skin and health.