Quick Answer

Natural bar soap can be a great choice for your skin because it typically contains fewer synthetic ingredients, retains natural glycerin, and often uses plant-based oils that cleanse without stripping moisture. Look for bars made with simple, recognizable ingredients like olive oil, shea butter, or oatmeal, and choose a formula that matches your skin type—whether you need extra hydration or a deeper clean.

When you're standing in the shower aisle, the choice between a bar of soap and a bottle of body wash can feel overwhelming. But if you're looking for a straightforward, eco-friendly cleanse, natural bar soap deserves a second look. Unlike many liquid soaps that rely on synthetic detergents and added moisturizers, a well-made natural bar can offer a simpler, often more skin-friendly experience.

In this guide, we'll break down the benefits of switching to natural bar soap, what ingredients to seek out (and avoid), and how to decide if a bar is right for your daily routine. We'll also compare bar soap to body wash so you can make an informed choice for your skin.

What Makes Bar Soap 'Natural'?

Natural bar soap is typically made through a process called saponification, where fats and oils (like coconut, olive, or shea butter) react with an alkali to create soap. This traditional method naturally produces glycerin, a humectant that draws moisture to the skin. Many commercial soaps remove glycerin to use in more expensive lotions, but natural bars often retain it, leaving your skin feeling softer after washing.

When shopping for natural soap, check the ingredient list for plant-based oils, butters, and essential oils. Avoid bars with synthetic fragrances, sulfates (like SLS), parabens, or artificial colors. Instead, look for recognizable components like olive oil, coconut oil, shea butter, oatmeal, or clay. These ingredients not only cleanse but also provide benefits like gentle exfoliation or extra nourishment for dry skin.

  • Look for bars that list 'glycerin' as an ingredient—it's a sign that the natural moisturizing byproduct was kept in.
  • If you have sensitive skin, choose fragrance-free bars or those scented only with essential oils.

Bar Soap vs. Body Wash: Which Is Better for Your Skin?

The bar soap vs. body wash debate often comes down to ingredients and skin type. Traditional bar soaps can have a higher pH, which might be drying for some, but natural bars formulated with mild oils can be gentle enough for daily use. Body washes, on the other hand, often contain synthetic surfactants and added moisturizers, but they may also include sulfates that can strip the skin.

For many people, natural bar soap is a more sustainable choice—it typically comes with less packaging and lasts longer than liquid soap. However, if you have very dry skin or a condition like eczema, a hydrating body wash might be more comfortable. If you prefer the convenience of a pump bottle, look for natural liquid options that share similar ingredient principles.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your skin's needs and your personal preferences. If you enjoy the ritual of a bar and want to minimize waste, natural bar soap is a solid option. If you need extra moisture or have a sensitive skin condition, a gentle body wash might be the way to go.

  • If you have normal to oily skin, a natural bar soap can provide a thorough clean without over-drying.
  • For dry or sensitive skin, pair your bar soap with a moisturizer immediately after showering.

Key Ingredients to Look For in Natural Bar Soap

The best natural soap for your skin will depend on your skin type and concerns. For example, olive oil-based soaps are rich in antioxidants and are gentle, making them suitable for sensitive skin. Coconut oil produces a bubbly lather and can be cleansing, but it may be too drying for some if used in high amounts. Shea butter adds creaminess and helps moisturize, making it great for dry skin.

Oatmeal is another beneficial ingredient—it soothes irritation and provides gentle exfoliation. Clays like kaolin can help absorb excess oil, making them ideal for oily or acne-prone skin. Essential oils like tea tree or eucalyptus can offer antibacterial properties, but they can also be irritating if you're sensitive, so patch test first.

When in doubt, choose a bar with a short ingredient list. Fewer ingredients often mean fewer potential irritants. Also, look for certifications like 'organic' or 'cruelty-free' if those align with your values.

  • For oily skin: look for bars with clay, charcoal, or tea tree oil.
  • For dry skin: choose bars with shea butter, oatmeal, or olive oil.

Decision Rules for Choosing Natural Bar Soap

  • Check the ingredient list: Look for plant-based oils, butters, and essential oils. Avoid synthetic fragrances, sulfates, parabens, and artificial colors. If you can't pronounce it, it likely doesn't belong on your skin.
  • Match the soap to your skin type: Oily skin benefits from clay or charcoal; dry skin needs shea butter or oatmeal; sensitive skin does best with fragrance-free, olive oil-based bars. There's no one-size-fits-all, so choose based on your primary concern.
  • Consider your shower routine: If you prefer a single product that works for hair and body, an all-in-one wash might be more practical. If you enjoy a traditional lather and minimal packaging, a bar is ideal. Think about convenience vs. ritual when deciding.

Natural Soap Options from Rocky Mountain Barber Company

  • Body Wash Variety Pack: Our body wash variety pack includes our 8 fl oz bay rum, 8 fl oz birchwood, 8 fl oz cedar spice all-in-one body washes and are simplify your shower routine by combining a body wash, face wash & shampoo all into one convenient bottle. Since they're designed to be used on both your hair and skin, we've formulated our all-in-one body washes to provide a gentle cleanse without irritation. If you prefer the convenience of a liquid wash but still want a gentle, multi-purpose formula, this variety pack lets you try three natural scents without committing to one.
  • Natural Deodorant | Woodland Mint: Made in the USA. When developing our Woodland Mint Deodorant two pack, our mission was simple: find the world's best ingredients and pack them into a single stick to create the most effective natural deodorant possible. Featuring 10+ natural and plant-based ingredients including Safflower, Mango, Babassu, Cassava, Peppermint, Rice and Seaweed, our deodorant offers unparalleled protection against moisture. Pairing a natural deodorant with your bar soap routine helps you avoid synthetic chemicals under your arms, which is especially important if you're sensitive to aluminum or artificial fragrances.

Is Natural Bar Soap Right for You?

Best for

  • People who prefer minimal packaging and want a longer-lasting cleanse
  • Those with normal to oily skin who want a straightforward, no-fuss wash

Not for

  • Individuals with severe dry skin or eczema who need extra moisturizing from a liquid wash
  • Anyone who dislikes the feel of a bar or wants a product that doubles as shampoo and body wash

Natural bar soap can be a simple, effective way to care for your skin, provided you choose a formula that matches your skin type and ingredient preferences. By understanding what to look for and how it compares to body wash, you can make a confident choice that supports your skin and your values.