Many liquid and bar soaps found in stores are made with additives containing harsh or irritating chemicals that can lead to various skin problems. Here are some common issues caused by chemicals in soap bars:
Dryness: Harsh chemicals can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dry and flaky skin. This can cause discomfort and irritation.
Allergic Reactions: Certain chemicals in soap bars, such as fragrances and preservatives, can trigger allergic reactions in some individuals. Symptoms may include redness, itching, swelling, and hives.
Contact Dermatitis: This condition occurs when the skin comes into contact with an irritant or allergen, causing redness, itching, and sometimes blisters. Chemicals in soap bars can be common culprits for contact dermatitis.
Eczema Flare-ups: People with eczema have sensitive skin, and the chemicals in soap bars can aggravate their condition, leading to eczema flare-ups characterized by itchy, inflamed, and red skin.
Psoriasis Aggravation: Similar to eczema, psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes cells to build up rapidly on the surface of the skin. Harsh chemicals can worsen psoriasis symptoms, leading to thicker plaques and increased discomfort.
Disruption of the Skin’s pH Balance: Soap bars with high pH levels can disrupt the natural pH balance of the skin. This disruption can lead to various issues, including dryness, irritation, and an increased susceptibility to infections.
Clogged Pores: Soap bars containing heavy moisturizers or pore-clogging ingredients can lead to clogged pores, causing blackheads, whiteheads, and acne breakouts.
Skin Sensitization: Prolonged use of soap bars with irritating chemicals can sensitize the skin over time, making it more prone to reactions from other products or environmental factors.
To avoid these problems, it’s essential to choose soaps bars that are mild, and made only with natural oils, essential oils or phthalates-free fragrances, natural additives and contain no artificial preservatives.