Using soap as a cleanser was once shunned by skincare pros for being too abrasive, but skincare bars are having a resurgence. The latest formulas are gentle, nourishing and hailed for their sustainability, typically lasting longer than liquid cleansers and creating far less waste.
“In the past, soaps had high pH levels and were made with alkaline and harsh detergents that stripped skin of its natural oils, leaving it dry, itchy and irritated,” says dermatologist Dr Dendy Engelman. “Today’s bars have a balanced pH and contain moisturising oils and soothing extracts to cleanse without compromising the skin barrier.” If you have dry or sensitive skin, stick with soap-free bars.
For the face, Dr Engelman recommends formulas with calming extracts, such as green tea, rose and aloe vera, plus hydrating oils such as argan and olive oil, which are high in antioxidants, vitamins and fatty acids. Rinse your bar after use and store in a slatted soap dish or fibre soap bag (which you can hang in the shower) to dry out.
Try these:
Cetaphil Gentle Cleansing Bar
Enriched with nourishing ingredients to help strengthen skin against sensitivity while also moisturising.
Ethique Bliss Bar
A luxurious cleanser with creamed coconut butter, vegetable glycerine and clay to suit even the most sensitive skin.
Dr Bronner's All-One Hemp Rose Pure-Castille Soap Bar
Formulated with organic extra virgin coconut oil, olive oil, jojoba and hemp oil, this moisturising soap can be used on face, body and hair.
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