The Ultimate Guide: Commercial Store-Bought Soap vs. Traditional Handcrafted Soap Bars

by Nicola Bennett December 08, 2024

The Ultimate Guide: Commercial Store-Bought Soap vs. Traditional Handcrafted Soap Bars

Soap is an essential part of daily life, but have you ever wondered what goes into the bar of soap you use every day? The differences between commercial store-bought soap and traditional handcrafted soap bars go beyond appearance and price. In this blog, we’ll explore these differences and why many people are making the switch to handcrafted soap for a more nourishing and sustainable skincare routine.

1. Ingredients: What’s Inside Your Soap?

Commercial Soap: Store-bought soaps are often made with synthetic detergents rather than true soap. Ingredients like sulfates, parabens, and artificial fragrances are common. While these compounds create a rich lather and strong scent, they can strip your skin of its natural oils and cause dryness or irritation.
Handcrafted Soap: Traditional handcrafted soap bars are made using natural ingredients like plant-based oils (olive, coconut, and castor) and butters (shea, cocoa). These ingredients provide gentle cleansing while nourishing the skin. Many handcrafted soaps also include essential oils for natural fragrance and botanicals for added benefits.

Benefits: Handcrafted soaps avoid harsh chemicals, making them a better choice for sensitive skin or those prone to conditions like eczema and dryness.

2. The Glycerin Factor

Commercial Soap: During manufacturing, glycerin—a natural byproduct of soapmaking—is often removed from commercial soaps to be used in lotions and other products. Without glycerin, commercial soaps can leave skin feeling dry and tight.
Handcrafted Soap: In traditional soapmaking, glycerin remains intact. This natural humectant attracts moisture to your skin, leaving it soft and hydrated.

Benefits: Handcrafted soaps are naturally moisturizing, reducing the need for additional skincare products like lotions.

3. Production Process and Environmental Impact

Commercial Soap: Mass-produced soaps are made in factories with synthetic additives to extend shelf life. These processes can contribute to environmental pollution and often rely on non-renewable resources.
Handcrafted Soap: Handcrafted soaps are typically made in small batches using traditional methods, such as cold or hot process soapmaking. Many artisans prioritize sustainability by using eco-friendly packaging and sourcing ingredients responsibly.

Benefits: Choosing handcrafted soap supports sustainable practices and small businesses, reducing your carbon footprint.

4. Skin Benefits and Customization

Commercial Soap: Designed for mass appeal, commercial soaps often prioritize strong scents and high lather over skin benefits. However, the artificial ingredients may irritate or damage sensitive skin.
Handcrafted Soap: Artisanal soaps can be customized to address specific skin needs. For instance, salt bars provide exfoliation and detoxification, while charcoal soaps can help with oily or acne-prone skin. Handcrafted soapmakers often include nourishing additives like essential oils, botanicals, and clays for a luxurious skincare experience.

Benefits: You can find a handcrafted soap tailored to your skin type and preferences.

5. A Sensory Experience

Commercial Soap: Standardized and uniform, commercial soaps lack the unique textures, colors, and scents found in artisanal varieties.
Handcrafted Soap: Each bar is unique, often beautifully decorated with swirls, botanicals, or natural dyes. Handcrafted soap offers a sensory experience that elevates your daily routine, making it feel more like self-care.

Benefits: Using handcrafted soap can transform mundane tasks into moments of indulgence.

Why Make the Switch?

Switching to traditional handcrafted soap bars means choosing:

Healthier Skin: Nourishing ingredients and retained glycerin for hydration.
Sustainability: Eco-friendly production and packaging.
Variety: Tailored solutions for your skincare needs.
Support for Artisans: Backing small businesses and local makers.

At Homaroma, our handcrafted soaps are made with love and care, using only the finest natural ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a soothing Lavender Salt Bar or an invigorating Grapefruit Salt Bar, we have something for every skin type.

Ready to Experience the Difference?

Check out our Soap Collection and discover the perfect bar for your skin today. Say goodbye to synthetic detergents and hello to naturally radiant skin with handcrafted soap!