Better for Your Skin, Better for the Planet: Why Handmade Soaps Are the Greener Choice
At Suffuse, our commitment to gentle skincare goes hand-in-hand with our commitment to the environment. One of the most impactful choices you can make is switching from mass-produced, detergent-based soaps to cold process soaps made with nourishing oils, lye, and skin-loving additives. Here’s why:
1. Biodegradable Ingredients
Handmade soaps are created using natural oils (like coconut, sunflower, castor, and olive), lye, and natural additives. Once rinsed off, these ingredients break down harmlessly in water systems, unlike synthetic detergents and surfactants like SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate), which can remain in the environment and harm aquatic life.
2. No Harsh Chemicals
Synthetic surfactants used in commercial soaps often come with stabilizers, foaming agents, and artificial preservatives. These can be harsh on your skin, and equally harsh on waterways. Handmade soaps skip the synthetic build-up and rely on traditional methods that don’t pollute.
3. Minimal Processing
Cold process soapmaking uses simple chemical reactions and low energy. There’s no need for large-scale industrial processes or intensive refining, making it a low-impact alternative to factory-made cleansers.
4. Less Plastic, More Thoughtful Packaging
Most handmade soapmakers (including us) prioritize recyclable, minimal, or biodegradable packaging, unlike many commercial soap brands that rely on plastic wraps and bottles. This reduces landfill waste and encourages mindful consumption.
5. Supporting Ethical Supply Chains
We choose oils and ingredients that are responsibly sourced, and make our soaps in small batches to reduce excess. When you buy handmade, you’re often supporting makers who prioritize sustainable practices, not just profit margins.
In short, handmade soaps are as gentle on the earth as they are on your skin. By choosing cold process soaps made with natural ingredients, you’re making a small switch with big ripple effects, for yourself, and for the planet.