Previously, we crafted age-defying eye cream in our journey toward financial prudence and reduced chemical exposure. Today, we expand our do-it-yourself personal care product line into the realm of body soap.
In this article, we explore the potential dangers of chemicals found in some store-bought body soaps and the advantages of formulating your own. An all-natural recipe is provided.
Unmasking the Perils of Conventional Body Soaps
Here are some of the harmful chemicals commonly found in store-bought options:Methylisothiazolinone (MIT)
A widely used preservative in personal care products, methylisothiazolinone (MIT) is a biocide used industrially to control microbial growth. However, MIT has been associated with inflammation and may be toxic to neurons.
A 2020 study published in PLoS One reported that MIT applied topically triggered local inflammation and persistent tactile sensitivity in mice. A 2002 study in the Journal of Neuroscience reported acute and chronic exposure to MIT caused neuronal cell death in rat cells. The researchers concluded that “a significant portion of the general population is being constantly exposed to low levels of these compounds, which are potent neurotoxins.”
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
Sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) is a surfactant commonly used in soap for its foaming capabilities. Nonetheless, a study published in the Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences reported that SLS can penetrate the skin, resulting in irritation. In fact, SLS is a common target in cosmetic research because of its skin-irritating properties. SLS was shown to disrupt skin barrier function and shift the skin microbiota balance toward dysbiosis, according to a study in Cosmetics. SLS can also strip skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness.
Parabens
As synthetic preservatives, parabens extend the lifespan of soap. However, research has established a connection between parabens and hormone disruption because of their ability to mimic estrogen within the human body, which has raised concerns about their potential involvement in the development of breast cancer and impaired fertility.
A 2004 study published in the Journal of Applied Toxicology detected parabens in 90 percent of the breast tumors examined. Additionally, a study published in Pharmacological Reports shed light on parabens’ capacity to alter the expression of estrogen-responsive genes in human breast cancer cells. Furthermore, maternal exposure to parabens has been associated with reduced gestational age, birth weight, and body length, as highlighted in a 2017 review article published in the Journal of Endocrinology.
Artificial Fragrances
The alluring scents in soaps often originate from synthetic ingredients. Fragrances can consist of dozens of chemicals that aren’t required to be disclosed on the product label, but can trigger allergic reactions and dermatitis. Some fragrances have shown endocrine-disrupting or neurotoxic effects, according to a 2021 review article in Current Treatment Options in Allergy. Fragrance ingredients, such as benzophenone and styrene, are listed as possible carcinogens by the International Agency for Research on Cancer and the National Toxicology Program.
Phthalates
While phthalates function as stabilizers and solvents in soap, they’re plasticizers that are associated with numerous health effects. A 2022 review article in Environmental Research reported an association between phthalate exposure in personal care products and obesity, hypertension, and reproductive and endocrine disorders.
Artificial Dye
Sometimes added to soaps to achieve desired colors, these synthetic chemicals are commonly made from coal tar. According to a 2012 review article in the International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health, “all nine currently U.S.-approved dyes raise health concerns of varying degrees” ranging from hypersensitivity reactions to carcinogenicity.
You can avoid these harmful chemicals and protect your health from potential risks associated with long-term exposure by making your own body soap.
Benefits of Making Your Own Body Soap
By incorporating natural body soap into your cleansing ritual, you bestow upon your skin a host of benefits beyond chemical-free assurance, such as:Customizable Cost Savings
Natural ingredients used in homemade body soap are often more affordable when purchased in bulk, plus you lock into today’s prices. Reusing containers further reduces costs.
This article includes a recipe for natural body soap made using organic ingredients. Using today’s bulk pricing, it costs 48 cents per ounce, which is less expensive than many organic store-bought versions. It’s comparable in price to many conventional brands, however; because this recipe includes only organic ingredients, you'd pay a similar price for a higher-quality product.
By experimenting with natural ingredients, such as essential oils, you can also tailor your body soap to fit your unique needs and preferences.
Natural ingredients, such as beeswax and shea butter, are also inherently healthy and nourishing. While commercial products will put photos of these ingredients on the label, the products you make yourself will include them in much greater quantities.
DIY Body Soap Recipe
Included here is a recipe that harnesses the power of natural ingredients to promote skin health, including:Aloe Vera
This unique plant has been treasured for its medicinal qualities since ancient times. Aloe keeps skin moist, according to a study published in the International Research Journal of Plant Science. It has also been studied for its effects on wound healing, and a review of research on the plant published in Molecules in 2020 notes its research on its “anti-cancer action, skin and digestive protective activity, and antimicrobial properties” and suggests that it should be more studied for its effects “particularly on bone protection, cancer, and diabetes.”
Beeswax
One of the oldest raw ingredients used in skin care, beeswax is produced by honeybees. Ointments based on beeswax were reported in the Ebers Papyrus (roughly 1550 B.C.) to remedy skin wounds and burns. Beeswax is also known as an Ayurvedic remedy for inflammation, cracked heels, and burns.
Beeswax is antibacterial and contains vitamin A, which helps to regenerate the skin when damaged, according to a 2020 study published in Molecules. By forming a protective barrier on the surface of the skin, beeswax locks in moisture while protecting the skin from environmental irritants and harsh weather.
Castile soap
Named for a region of Spain where a form of it was popularized, Castile soap was originally made from olive oil. Today, it’s made from a variety of plant-derived oils, such as olive, coconut, jojoba, hemp, avocado, or walnut oil. While surfactants, such as SLS, can leave the skin dry, Castile soap contains natural fats that can help to condition the skin.
Honey
Known for its ability to heal wounds and burns, honey has been used for its therapeutic properties dating back to at least 2000 B.C. Honey contains antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiparasitic, and anti-inflammatory activity, according to a 2017 study in Frontiers in Pharmacology.
Honey can modulate the skin’s immune system and promote tissue repair, according to a 2016 study in the Central Asian Journal of Global Health. A constituent of honey, caffeic acid phenethyl ester contains strong inhibitory potential against several types of cancer, including skin cancer, according to a 2019 study in Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy.
Shea Butter
Because of its fatty acid content, including linoleic, oleic, stearic, and palmitic acids, shea butter is naturally moisturizing. According to a 2010 study published in the Journal of Oleo Science, shea butter is a “significant source of anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor promoting compounds.” Specifically, several components of shea butter inhibited tumor promoters, and one compound in particular, lupeol cinnamate, inhibited skin tumor promotion in vivo. According to a 2014 study published in Phytochemistry, some constituents of shea butter also demonstrate potent inhibitory activity against melanoma cells (skin cancer).
Essential Oil*
These natural oils add desirable aroma to soap while providing health benefits. Rosemary essential oil, for example, contains antimicrobial and antiseptic properties that can extend the shelf life of soap by staving off microbial growth. Rosemary also contains anti-inflammatory, wound-healing, and anticancer activities for the skin, according to a study published in March in Antioxidants.
A Word on Ingredient Quality
If possible, use organic ingredients that weren’t genetically modified or sprayed with synthetic fertilizers or pesticides. Also, select essential oil products that are 100 percent pure, cold-pressed, and unrefined.Essential oils are sometimes adulterated by adding a similar but cheaper oil or diluting the natural oil with various solvent oils in order to reduce costs. Therefore, choose essential oils that are 100 percent pure, don’t contain additives or synthetic chemicals, and have been tested for heavy metals, microbes, and glyphosate.
DIY Personal Care Products
Part 1
Crafting Your Own Natural Body Lotion: An Affordable Yet Luxurious Treat for Your Skin
Part 2
Crafting Your Own Natural Shampoo
Part 3
Crafting Your Own Premium Natural Toothpaste
Par 4
Crafting Your Own Age-Defying Eye Cream
Part 5
Crafting Your Own Natural Body Soap
Part 6
Crafting Your Own Face Cream
Part 7
Crafting Your Own Natural Deodorant
Part 8
Crafting Your Own Natural Lip Balm
Part 9
Crafting Your Own Whipped Body Butter
More from this series
Recipe: Body Soap
Ingredients:- 4 tablespoons shea butter
- 2 teaspoons beeswax
- 1 tablespoon pure aloe vera gel or 2-inch piece of fresh aloe with the outer coating removed.
- 4 teaspoons viscous (thick) honey
- 1 cup liquid pure Castile soap, unscented
- 10–15 drops essential oil* (For aromatic purposes, I enjoy 2 drops rosemary and 10 drops vanilla essential oil; For dry skin, I enjoy 2 drops rosemary and 10 drops sandalwood or chamomile essential oil).
- In a glass bowl, add shea butter and beeswax.
- Melt the mixture over medium-low heat using a double boiler, stirring until well combined. If you don’t have a double boiler, use the glass bowl and a large pot as a substitute. When choosing the size of the pot, the glass bowl should fit comfortably over the top of the pot, almost like a lid, but leave enough space between the bottom of the glass bowl and the pot to ensure that steam can flow between them. Place water in the bottom of the pot, place the glass bowl containing the ingredients on top of the pot, and simmer until the water steams.
- Once all ingredients are melted, remove from heat and allow to cool to the touch.
- Add aloe vera, and mix using a hand blender until combined.
- Add honey, Castile soap, and essential oil. Mix with a hand blender until combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a foaming soap dispenser, which will thicken the soap. Alternatively, transfer the mixture to an old shampoo or soap bottle, or reusable bottle or container. Make sure that the container has a secure lid so water doesn’t enter, which could promote microbial growth.
- Shake the container before each use. Apply a small amount to your hand, rub together to lather, and gently massage on your body.
Contraindications and Precautions
*Pregnant or breastfeeding women, children under the age of 2, and anyone consuming prescription medications should consult their health care provider before using essential oils. Essential oils may irritate the skin. People with high blood pressure or epilepsy should avoid rosemary essential oil.Before using the recipes in this article, consult with your health care provider to ensure that the ingredients are aligned with your specific health needs. Always check for sensitivities or adverse reactions by applying a small amount of product. Don’t use these recipes if you’re allergic or sensitive to any of the ingredients.
Final Thoughts
During the exciting journey of creating your own body soap, remember to tailor your ingredients to your unique skin care needs, ensuring a personalized and effective solution. Not only does this endeavor save you money, it also lightens the chemical load on your body, promoting a healthier approach to self-care.Create a luxurious, nourishing face moisturizer.
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