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Bar Soap 101 | Everything You Need to Know | Basin

18th Mar 2020

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Multiple studies over the years have proven again and again that simple soap and water is the best way to fight off harmful germs and bacteria. But, how can this be when bacteria could be thriving on a piece of bar soap? Here are the facts!

Bar soap does not cause illness.

Yes, bacteria is probably living on the surface slime of your soap. Understand though, that bacteria lives on anything and everything. This bacteria, however, probably belongs to you and your family members. Just because you come into contact with germs doesn't mean you will automatically get sick. If this was the case, we would all be sick all the time. The top layer of soap is easy to disinfect. Just rinse it before use. Surfactants in soap (the stuff that makes it lather) physically remove the dirt and germs from your skin. If you want to be extra cautious, apply the soap directly to the skin rather than using a sponge or loofah, which can trap germs in nooks and crannies.

Not all bacteria is harmful.

Tons of bacteria live on you already. They make up your skin's natural microbiome, which protects against invading pathogens. Pathogens are disease-causing microorganisms, like bacteria or viruses. Antibacterial products can kill off these protective bacteria, and that's the opposite of what we want. Any skin cleansing product that has antibacterial properties will contain bacteria-killing chemicals. These offer no additional health benefits.

Bar soap does not dry out the skin.

Any skincare product that does not contain the right ingredients will, of course, dry out your skin and cause irritation. Basin soaps, both glycerin and oil, are made with simple, nourishing ingredients that your skin craves. Vegetable glycerin is naturally moisturizing and gentle for the majority of skin types. Our oil soaps are all designed for a different purpose, and some are made specifically for those with dry, sensitive skin.

Bar soap requires limited care.

The number one piece of advice we can give you is to keep your bar soaps dry between uses. Germs love a moist environment, so it's important that you utilize a soap dish or shower rack. Because bar soaps dissolve down to nothing, you don't need to worry about recycling bulky wet plastics. So not only is bar soap better for you, it's better for the environment.