In recent years, the increased interest in veganism has expanded and people are starting to see that veganism is a lifestyle that goes beyond the plate. It's surprising to learn that some products that we use daily may contain animal products. Even the most practical of items can contain animal products in them. One such product that has gained attention is vegan soap. However, there are many misconceptions and myths surrounding this animal-friendly alternative to traditional soaps. But don't worry, we are here to help "wash away" the myths surrounding vegan soap bars and shed light on the truths behind cruelty-free cleansing.
Is Soap Vegan-Friendly?
Sadly not all soap is vegan-friendly. Some soap bars may contain animal-derived ingredients such as beeswax or tallow. Fortunately, there are many vegan-friendly soap options available in the market that are made from plant-based ingredients. We would always recommend checking the ingredients list before purchasing any soap product to ensure that it is vegan
What Is Vegan Soap Made Of?
Vegan soap is not made from tofu or kale, as some may think. Instead, it is made from natural ingredients that avoid animal products and derivatives. These plant-based ingredients have natural properties that are great for your skin as well as the environment.
What ingredients Are Used In Vegan Soap
Vegan soaps are made without using any animal products or derivatives. They are created using plant-based ingredients such as coconut oil, rapeseed oil and essential oils. These oils are naturally used to produce gentle and nourishing soaps that are free from animal products.
Natural colourants are commonly used in vegan soap, these often don’t just make them look good but they can often make them smell great and provide health benefits for the skin. These colourants can be derived from a variety of sources such as herbs, spices and fruits. Turmeric is a popular natural colourant that not only creates a beautiful golden-yellow hue but is also said to have anti-inflammatory properties.
So, plant-based oils and natural colourants work together to make vegan soap not only good for the environment and the animals but also good for your skin.
Is Vegan Soap Good for Your Skin?
Absolutely! Vegan soaps are often rich in natural moisturisers and antioxidants, promoting healthier and more radiant skin. Vegan soap will often be free from harsh chemicals commonly found in non-vegan soaps such as SLS and Parabens. This can reduce the risk of skin irritations and allergies, making vegan soap a gentler and more soothing choice for all skin types.
Does Vegan Soap Kill Germs?
Yes, vegan soaps are as effective at killing germs as their non-vegan counterparts. The key lies in the soap's ability to break down and remove dirt and bacteria from the skin. Vegan soaps containing antimicrobial essential oils, such as our tea tree soap bar, can provide an extra layer of protection without compromising on cruelty-free principles.
What Makes Soap Not Vegan?
Non-vegan soaps often contain animal fats or derivatives, such as tallow, which is rendered beef or mutton fat, as well as other animal-derived ingredients like goat milk, lanolin from sheep's wool, and honey. Additionally, some colourants and fragrances in traditional soaps may also be derived from animal sources. Vegan soap eliminates all of these ingredients, ensuring a completely plant-based formula.
Is Vegan Soap Tested on Animals?
The short answer is no, vegan soap should never be tested on animals. However, it is worth noting that if you purchase from a larger brand that creates other products that are tested on animals. Therefore, to ensure that the soap you purchase is 100% cruelty-free, we recommend buying from brands that solely produce vegan and cruelty-free products.
It is also worth noting that animal testing for cosmetics has been banned in the UK since 2013. However, in some other countries, many cosmetic brands still carry out animal testing. To ensure that your soap is cruelty-free, we recommend looking for accreditation on the packaging, such as the leaping bunny logo.
Is Vegan Soap Environmentally Friendly?
Yes, indeed. Vegan soaps are often more environmentally friendly than their non-vegan counterparts. The plant-based ingredients used in vegan soaps tend to have a lower environmental impact, and many vegan soap brands prioritise sustainable packaging to reduce their carbon footprint further. At Friendly Soap, we believe that small choices can lead to big change. This is why everything we create is vegan, plastic-free and cruelty-free.
Does Vegan Soap Contain Lye?
Lye itself is a vegan ingredient and is commonly used in soap-making regardless of whether the soap is vegan or not. While it's true that the traditional soap-making process involves lye, the final product, including vegan soap, does not contain lye as it is completely transformed during the saponification process. In other words, lye is used as a necessary ingredient to create soap, but it is not present in the final product.
Why Choose Vegan Soap?
Choosing vegan soap isn't just about aligning with a plant-based lifestyle; it's a conscious decision for your well-being, animal welfare, and the planet. Vegan soaps offer an abundance of benefits, from nourishing your skin with natural ingredients to contributing to a cruelty-free and sustainable future.
At Friendly Soap, we are passionate about creating all of our vegan soap bars by hand using only the best plant-based ingredients. Our soaps are also free from plastic and harmful chemicals. We have specifically designed them this way to be kind to your skin, animals, and the environment. By choosing our vegan soap, you not only get a product that is gentle on your skin but also contributes to a more ethical and sustainable world. Our commitment to cruelty-free cleansing is reflected in everything we do, and we urge you to join us in making a positive impact on the planet.