We all use a bar of soap everyday without even thinking about it. Probably the biggest question on our mind when we buy a bar of soap is whether the smell is nice or not. Or whether it will dry our skin out. But the question we SHOULD be asking is – what is IN this bar of soap? Are the ingredients derived from animal by-products? Or are the ingredients even good for us?
What is soap?
Soap, by definition, is a product used for cleaning with water that is created from fats and oils and an alkali. Traditionally, the fats used in soap come from animals. The alkali forms the “water loving” component and the fats/oils form the “water hating” component. When used together, they trap the grease and dirt by suspending it within the water particles therefore allowing them to be rinsed off with water.
Traditional Soap vs. Vegan Soap
Next time you’re shopping for soap, have a quick look at the ingredients listed. Don’t be surprised to find items that are derived from animals (such as stearic acid and glycerin) or from palm oil (such as sodium palmitate). Additionally, not only are these items harvested from animals, but they also have no real added benefits to you and some are even borderline toxic. While some of these ingredients may aid with cleaning, some of them have been shown to irritate the skin and cause other side effects. Why risk it when you can opt for a natural, healthier and cruelty-free alternative? Vegan soaps are plant based and use naturally occurring ingredients to form the same water loving/hating properties. Instead of using animal fats, they incorporate nut oils, such as cashews or macadamias, or olive oil, which have the same cleaning properties and are healthier for you and your skin.
What’s your thoughts on traditional and vegan soap? Will you be trying an all natural vegan soap the next time you buy one? Do you have a favourite?
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