The Great Slippery Soap Debate

The great soap debate lingers on: Which is better, liquid soap or bar soap? The verdict is in: When it comes to personal hygiene, both liquid and bar soap are up to the task and get the job done. However, neither the proponents of liquid soap nor the supporters of bar soap have an open-shut case since both soaps have their pros and cons. What's the bottom line? It's up to you, the consumer, to decide which type of soap offers the most benefits in your situation and for your personal skin type. To help you gain some clarity on this 'slippery' issue and to decide what is best for you here are some of the facts.

Skin type
Liquid soap contains a lower ph level than bar soap and is therefore gentler and suitable for people with sensitive skin. Because it is also able to retain more than 30% of the skin’s natural moisture, it is really good for dry skin. Bar soap on the other hand, can dry the skin and cause breakouts. However, this doesn’t mean that all types of bar soap are bad for our skin. Bar soap that contains glycerin is good for people with sensitive skin, eczema and psoriasis as this ingredient has healing properties as well as the ability of attracting water to the skin, leaving it feeling soft and hydrated. In addition, bars soaps formulated with glycerin combined with natural oils moisturize skin without drying it. There are lots of bar soaps that don’t contain fragrance, which can be irritating. Most liquid soaps on the other hand are scented, but you can still find some that are fragrance-free.

Efficiency
The liquid type can be used with a washcloth and it produces lather faster than bar soaps, which instead feel nice and creamy in your hands.

Convenience
Because liquid soaps come in a packaging with a pump dispenser, they are very practical to use in the shower, but it is easy to overestimate the amount of soap you need. Soap bars, on the other hand, turns slimy and slips everywhere but you only use the needed amount.

Health risk
Because bar soap is left exposed to moisture, it is more likely to grow small amounts of bacteria. While the risk of getting a disease from the soap is quite remote, it is better not to share it with a large amount of people. Liquid soap, on the other hand, is pumped from the packaging so it is less likely to grow bacteria. However, if you use it with a washcloth, make sure you dry it properly, as it could harbor bacteria otherwise.

Packaging
Liquid soap usually comes in a bottle with a pump dispenser. Refillers are also available so that you don’t need to buy a whole new package. Instead, bar soaps usually come wrapped in paper or cardboard. The packaging is easier to recycle.

Scum
Unlike liquid soap, bars leave a soap scum in the shower, so that you need to clean the tub more often.

Cost
Cost is another determining factor, as liquid soap is substantially more expensive than bar soap. If money is an issue, consider placing a liquid soap dispenser in public areas - for both decorative and hygienic purposes - and using a bar soap when you bathe or shower.

 Finally
In actuality, there is no right or wrong answer. Which type of soap you use is a personal choice based on your skin type, on your skin's reactions to certain additives (i.e., moisturizers and fragrances), and on your knowledge of the pros and cons of liquid soap versus bar soap.

Centella Herbal Liquid Soap

You can purchase both types of soap at our on line store www.amazingthaibeauty.com . Why not try one of our new range of herbal liquid soaps which include our exclusive Centella Herbal Liquid Soap.