The Truth About Commercial Soap: Why Handmade is the Better Choice

Walk down the soap aisle at any store, and you’ll see a wall of colorful bars promising to cleanse, hydrate, and refresh your skin. But have you ever looked at the ingredient list on a commercial soap bar? The truth is, most mass-produced soaps aren’t actually soap at all—they’re synthetic detergents loaded with harsh chemicals. Let’s break down why many store-bought soaps are tough on your skin and why handmade soap is the superior choice.

What’s Really in Commercial Soap?

Most big-brand “soaps” are actually detergents made with synthetic ingredients designed for deep cleansing but not necessarily for skin health. Here are a few common ingredients you’ll find in commercial soap:

  • Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) & Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES): These industrial-strength detergents strip away natural oils, leaving skin dry and irritated.

  • Parabens & Preservatives: Used to extend shelf life, these chemicals have been linked to skin sensitivity and potential health concerns.

  • Artificial Fragrances & Dyes: Synthetic scents and colorants can trigger allergies, cause irritation, and offer no skin benefits.

  • Tallow or Animal Fats: While not inherently bad, many commercial soaps use low-quality fats processed with chemicals, which can be less nourishing than plant-based alternatives.

Why Handmade Soap is Better for Your Skin

Handmade soap, like the bars we craft at Stench Soap, is made with high-quality, natural ingredients designed to cleanse while nourishing your skin. Here’s why it’s the better choice:

1. Natural Oils & Butters

Handmade soap is formulated with skin-loving oils like olive oil, coconut oil, and shea butter, which provide deep hydration and nourishment. These ingredients create a gentle cleanse without stripping away your skin’s natural moisture.

2. No Harsh Chemicals

Our soaps are free from sulfates, parabens, and artificial additives. Instead, we use natural essential oils for scent, plant-based colorants, and botanicals to enhance each bar’s benefits.

3. Glycerin Retention for Superior Hydration

Commercial soap manufacturers often remove glycerin—a natural byproduct of soapmaking—because it’s valuable for other skincare products. Handmade soap retains glycerin, helping your skin stay soft and hydrated.

4. Gentle on Sensitive Skin

If you struggle with dryness, irritation, or sensitive skin, handmade soap is a game-changer. With no synthetic additives, it cleanses while being kind to your skin.

Final Thoughts

Switching to handmade soap isn’t just about luxury—it’s about giving your skin the care it deserves. Ditch the mass-produced detergent bars and choose a product made with real ingredients and real benefits. Your skin (and the planet) will thank you!

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