Bar Soap vs. Shower Gel: Which Is Better for Your Skin?
Bar soap or shower gel? People ask me this all the time. The honest answer is that what's inside matters more than the shape it comes in. But here's what I've learned.
What's the Difference?
A true bar soap is made by mixing oils and butters with lye. When it's made right, the lye is all used up, and what's left is soap plus natural glycerin, which helps skin stay soft.
Most shower gels are made with detergents, water and thickeners. Some are gentle. Many use sulfates, which make big bubbles but can leave skin feeling tight and dry.
Why I Like Bar Soap
- Simple ingredients. Every bar we make has shea butter, coconut milk and kaolin clay, and no sulfates.
- Less plastic. No bottle to throw away.
- It lasts. A bar has no added water, so you're not paying for water.
- It travels easy. No leaks in your suitcase.
When Shower Gel Makes Sense
Some people just like a pump. If you share a shower with a lot of people, or you love a creamy wash, that's okay. Just read the label and skip anything heavy on sulfates.
If you want something in between, try our 2-in-1 Whipped Shea Butter Body Wash & Shaving Cream. It's soft and fluffy like a cream, and you can use it to shave, too.
Our Tip
Pay attention to how your skin feels 10 minutes after your shower. If it feels tight or itchy, your cleanser might be too harsh. If it feels soft and comfortable, you've found a good one.
Ready to make the switch? Browse our handmade soaps and find a scent you love.
A little about us: I'm Gracie, a third-generation soap maker. My grandmother started our family's soap making, and I'm proud to carry it on. We're a small, faith-centered family business in Waddell, Arizona, and we make everything by hand in small batches.
