11 Best Organic & Natural Soap Brands For Gentle Cleansing

natural soap ingredients

03/24/2024

Danielle Alvarado

Now Trending:
Just For You:
Welcome To SKL!

My name is Danielle and I am a mother of two, wife, CEO, and lover of vintage treasures. I created SKL in 2020 to help our community in their need for well-researched and trust-worthy articles, listicles and guides to live a more sustainable and healthy life. So happy to have you here! (Click to learn more).

hello,

Sign Up For Our Free E-mail List That Folks Are Raving About!

Sign Me UP!

Our amazing newsletter is beloved by our SKL community and offers tips on living more sustainable, books to read, podcasts to listen to, inspiring conscious leaders to follow, discount codes from the best brands out there, and more!

SKL is reader supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn affiliate commission. Learn more here.

Looking for the best natural soap brands with certified organic ingredients that are super gentle and nourishing for your skin? We know the struggle!

I personally had a bad taste in my mouth when it came to soap bars after years of using drugstore soap bars that my father would buy in bulk when I was a kid. As an adult, I was pretty stuck in my plastic bottle liquid body soap obsession.

That was until I found the world of super nourishing 100% natural soap bars!

Our family made the switch to these soap bars 5 years ago (chamomile is my favorite) and haven’t looked back since. When you choose top-quality organic soap brands, like the ones we are listing below, you will not be disappointed.

They work better than any liquid body wash on the market – hands down.

Rest assured that no synthetic fragrances, colorants, parabens, sulfates, or animal products managed to find their way into those organic soap bars. Let’s begin!

P.S. Don’t forget to check out The 11 Best Organic Drugstore Shampoo Brands.

natural soap

Best Natural Soap Bars With Organic Ingredients!

Unlike their mass-produced counterparts laden with synthetic additives, all-natural soaps for women and men are made with the best organic ingredients, like soothing herbs and essential oils. 

And let me tell you, they do wonders for all skin types! 

Ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and aloe vera are fantastic sources of nourishment for your skin

These plant-based extracts hydrate, rejuvenate and soothe our complexion.

Not to mention that organic soap bars, infused with antioxidant-rich components like tea tree oil or vitamin E can defend our skin against free radicals which are notorious for causing premature skin aging.  

My sensitive skin swears by aloe vera. It helps my blood flow better and fights off yucky bacteria that can make my skin VERY unhappy.

Another amazing benefit of choosing all-natural soap bars is that they are more eco-friendly. Bars don’t leave behind weird stuff when they break down, unlike some harmful chemicals in liquid formulas.  

To top it all off, organic soap bars easily outlast their liquid counterparts, so in the long run, you’ll spend less money. 

To put how much money you’ll say into perspective, one 4 oz organic soap bar can replace up to two plastic body wash bottles. This makes complete sense if you think that zero-waste natural soap bars are not mostly water-like liquid soap!

Plus, they can stand on their own, so no plastic is needed. That means you save money because you’re not paying for all that extra water and packaging.

Read on to find the best natural soap for men and women to take care of your skin and be a friend to the planet at the same time.

What are the best natural soap ingredients for the skin?

Olive Oil: Bursting with antioxidants and healthy fats, zero-waste soap bars with olive oil not only hydrate and nourish but also leave behind a silky, supple feel. It’s gentle, and safe for all skin types – particularly for folks with dry or sensitive skin. 

Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is a skin-loving ingredient that boasts abundant fatty acids. This natural oil offers deep hydration to your skin and wields its antimicrobial powers to combat pesky infections. Suitable for all skin types, coconut oil natural soap bars work wonders on dry and acne-prone skin.

Shea Butter: Shea butter is a decadent moisturizer that soothes and maintains skin elasticity, leaving your skin replenished and resilient. Whether you have dry or sensitive skin, shea butter will be your new favorite ingredient.

Aloe Vera: Aloe vera is the perfect calming solution for irritated skin with remarkable anti-inflammatory properties. In fact, it contains 6 antiseptic agents: Lupeol, salicylic acid, urea nitrogen, cinnamonic acid, phenols, and sulfur. Suitable for all skin types, aloe vera-infused organic soap bars are ideal for folks with sensitive or sun-damaged skin. 

Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil is a natural warrior against acne and inflammation. With powerful antibacterial properties, it becomes a targeted solution for oily and acne-prone skin. Many studies suggest that “a person can treat acne, athlete’s foot, contact dermatitis or head lice using tea tree oil.”

Chamomile: Chamomile (our CEO’s personal favorite!), the beloved botanical gem, carries anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Ideal for all skin types, chamomile-enriched all-natural soap helps heal sensitive or inflamed skin thanks to its soothing benefits. 

6 Toxic Chemicals to Avoid in Conventional Soaps 

Parabens: Parabens are widely used as preservatives to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold in cosmetic products, extending their shelf life. However, experts have found that parabens can mimic estrogen in the body, potentially disrupting the endocrine system and contributing to hormonal imbalances.  

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES): SLS and SLES are surfactants that create lather and help remove dirt and oil from the skin. But, these chemicals also have a dark side. Both are notorious for stripping the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Additionally, SLES may be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a known carcinogen.

Triclosan: Triclosan is added to soaps for its antibacterial properties, intended to kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria. Nonetheless, these chemicals have been linked to hormonal disruption, and their overuse may contribute to antibiotic resistance. 

Phthalates: Phthalates are commonly used to enhance fragrances in soaps and improve their stability. Unsurprisingly, these chemicals can interfere with the endocrine system and have been associated with reproductive and developmental issues. Some phthalates are classified as potential human carcinogens.

Formaldehyde: Formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing agents are used as preservatives in some cosmetic products. However, like most ingredients on this list, it is a known carcinogen and can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. Prolonged exposure may pose health risks, and products containing formaldehyde are often associated with skin sensitivities.


The Best Organic & Natural Soaps For The Entire Family:


1. Chagrin Valley

best natural soap for men

Chagrin Valley’s super gentle natural soap bars are ethically crafted by hand, using the cold-processed method to maintain the freshness and consistency of each and every bar. 

Most importantly, the company oversees the entire production process to ensure that you’ll get the same magnificent lather that leaves your skin feeling clean, soft, and radiantly healthy time after time. 

That’s easy for them because all recipe recipes are invented, created, and manufactured in Chagrin Valley’s USA-based facility. 

In their catalog, you can find 20+ organic soap bars with vegan, cruelty-free, non-GMO, USDA, and (mostly) Fair Trade Certified ingredients.

Think bamboo charcoal, avocado-ginger-oatmeal, adzuki bean powder, kaolin clay, Castile and shea butter, chamomile, and calendula

Whether you have acne, rosacea, eczema-prone complexion, dry or mature skin, or sensitive skin, they will have the perfect option for you.

Price: From $7.50+ 

Notable Features: Certified organic, vegan, non-GMO, handmade in the USA

Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide 


Our Favorites from Chagrin Valley:


2. EcoRoots

Cheap natural soap

EcoRoots, one of the best zero waste shampoo and plastic free conditioner brands, creates an array of body and bath products for every skin type. 

Today, we’ll focus on their best natural soap for women and men. 

Handcrafted in small batches in the USA through a cold-pressed process, this organic soap bar boasts a clean formula free from synthetic fragrances, colorants, parabens, sulfates, and animal products. 

The ingredients of choice? All-natural herbs, and oils that leave your skin feeling nourished, healthy, and irresistibly soft. Plus, it comes in 6+ amazing scents. 

What’s even more amazing? This plastic-free soap can replace up to two plastic body wash bottles.

Price: $12.97 

Notable Features: Organic ingredients, vegan, handmade in the USA 

Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide 


Our Favorites from Eco Roots:


3. MamaSuds

natural antibacterials soap

From non-toxic body wash to an amazing vegan, all-natural soap for women and men, MamaSuds offers an array of no-frills, back-to-basics formulas for the naturalist in you. 

This is the bar version of the beloved liquid Castile soap that boasts a super-hydrating combination of lye and olive oil. 

Of course, like most MamaSuds products, this one is also SLS-free, dye-free, and phthalate-free. The bar doubles as a body wash and hair soap!

We love that this natural and biodegradable formula is suitable for children (though not tear-free), and can easily maintain its potency over time. 

Our Favorites from MamaSuds:  

Price: $9 one-time purchase | $7.65 with subscription 

Notable Features: Vegan, non-GMO, made in the USA  

Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide 


4. Zero Waste Store

natural soap base

The Zero Waste Store’s virtual shelves are packed with fantastic all-natural body soap and face soap options for extra sensitive skin. 

With 6 different scents to choose from, the toxic-chemical-free soap bars are filled with nourishing oils and ingredients to leave the skin soft, clean, and fresh. 

You can also find a vegan, detoxifying facial bar made of charcoal! 

This natural gem is known for binding itself to toxins, drawing dirt and excess sebum to the surface while soothing oatmeal and exfoliating it away. 

What’s more, the plastic-free bar soap also features mango, shea, and coconut for extra moisture without clogging the pores.

Our Favorites from Zero Waste Store: 

Price: Varies from $6.99+ 

Notable Features: Organic ingredients, vegan 

Location/Shipping: United States, ships to Canada 


5. Public Goods

best natural soap

Public Goods is one of the best alternatives to Amazon for all things body and skincare. 

If you’re obsessed with the essential oils of orange, geranium, cinnamon, mandarin, nutmeg, petitgrain, and rosewood, then you’ll fall in love with this natural body soap. 

It’s a mild, all-in-one, gentle cleanser, ideal for both hands and body. 

What’s more, Public Goods stay away from all nasties, including parabens, synthetic fragrances, sodium lauryl sulfates, phthalates, and anything from formaldehyde.

And while you’re there, don’t forget to check out the refillable body wash options as well.

Price: $3.95 one-time purchase | $3.76 with subscription 

Notable Features: Vegan, non-GMO, made in the USA 

Location/Shipping: United States 


6. Ursa Major

natural soap for men

Ursa Major is a fantastic non-toxic skincare brand with an array of options – from cleansers and moisturizers to deodorants and all-natural soap packs. 

The B-certified corporation uses the most organic ingredients to create an energizing bar soap that gives you a delightful clean while exfoliating, soothing, and hydrating your skin. 

The creamy lather and gritty texture is exactly what you need at the end of a long day. 

You can thank the volcanic rock for its scrubby exfoliating properties.

The ingredient list also includes coconut, honey, and shea butter.

As for the scent, imagine a rephrasing, crisp, cool blend of peppermint, eucalyptus, and rosemary. 

Plus, this organic soap is vegan & cruelty-free.

Our Favorites from Ursa Major: 

Price: $42 (3-Pack) 

Notable Features: Organic ingredients, vegan, made in the USA 

Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide 


7. Moon Valley Organics

natural body soap

Made with sustainably harvested beeswax that is collected in a way that protects the pollinators, the Moon Valley Organics natural soap for women and men creates a gentle, soft lather that cleanses and pampers your skin. 

The B-certified corporation opts for USDA and WSDA-certified organic ingredients such as calendula, safflower oil, and non-toxic essential oils, and thus, this bar is suitable for all skin types and ages. 

What’s more, their palm oil is Palm Done Right Certified which is amazing.

Also, the organic soap bar is made locally, in the USA with absolutely no chemicals or preservatives.  

Lastly, the bar is neatly packaged in post-consumer recycled content and completely free of plastic.

Price: $6.49

Notable Features: Certified organic, non-GMO, made in Washington State, USA 

Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide 


8. Meliora

natural soap

Organic laundry detergents, safe home cleaning products, and all-natural soap bars for men and women – Meliora is the ultimate destination for all things ethical and safe. 

This zero waste online shop is a proud B-certified corporation that solely produces Leaping Bunny and MADE SAFE® Certified products locally in the USA. 

Thanks to the power of all-natural ingredients like organic coconut and sunflower oil, this bar soap is ideal for your shower and bath rituals, catering to even the most sensitive skin. 

Also, this plastic-free, non-toxic soap comes in two different options: Unscented or with a touch of lemongrass essential oil for an extra refreshing twist.

As an added bonus, Meliora pledged to donate at least 2% of all sales to nonprofits like Women’s Voices for the Earth. 

Price: $20.99 one-time purchase | $18.89 with subscription 

Notable Features: Organic ingredients, vegan, made in Chicago, Illinois, USA

Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide 


9. Meow Meow Tweet

natural soap bars

Meow Meow Tweet is the mecca of affordable organic skincare and body care products. 

Think non-toxic bug sprays, refillable products like deodorants, cleansing oils, and natural soap for women and men. 

Infused with natural coconut cacao, their organic soap bar is extremely soothing and moisturizing with a gentle lather. 

This formula is not only a treat for your skin but also a perfect choice for babies and those with sensitive and easily irritated skin. 

To top it all off, the brand only opts for certified organic and fair trade ingredients.

Our Favorites from Meow Meow Tweet: 

Price: $10 one-time purchase | $9 with subscription 

Notable Features: Certified organic, vegan, non-GMO, handmade in California, USA 

Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide 


10. Suds & Co

natural soap for women

The woman-owned company Suds & Co offers amazing, zero-waste aromatherapy soap bars for the body and face. 

Packed with nourishing oils and ingredients, these organic bars promise to leave your skin soft, clean, and refreshingly fresh. 

Every bar is ethically made in the USA with all-natural, nutrient-packed ingredients that leave you and the environment impeccably cleaner.

Our Favorites from Suds & Co: 

Price: $10.49 one-time purchase | $9.44 with subscription 

Notable Features: Organic ingredients, vegan, handmade in the USA 

Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide 


11. Bathing Culture

all natural soap

Bathing Culture’s best natural soap for men and women offers a lavish, ultra-creamy lather with certified organic ingredients, including nourishing chlorella and soothing herbs, comfrey root, and aloe. 

Designed to moisturize, soothe, and soften your body, hands, and face, this biodegradable bar is suitable for all skin types. 

I’ve been using chlorella-infused soaps for quite a while, and they work wonders on my dry skin. 

They also use freshwater algae that are known to help the skin build collagen, improve skin tone, and fight sun damage.

Even the packaging is made of 100% recycled kraft paper board to help minimize waste.

Price: $16 

Notable Features: Certified organic, vegan, made in San Francisco, USA 

Location/Shipping: United States 


What’s the benefit of using organic soap bars?

Organic soap bars are way better than traditional options because they are completely free from synthetic fragrances, colors, and harsh chemicals. 

This means that natural soap ingredients are way gentler on sensitive skin which reduces the risk of irritation.

Plus, in addition to being plastic-free, brands are also prioritizing cruelty-free and vegan formulations to keep our Earth and all its inhabitants safe.

What certifications should I be looking out for with all-natural body soaps? 

USDA Organic: The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Organic certification verifies that the soap meets strict organic standards and is created without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.

NSF/ANSI 305: This certification focuses specifically on personal care products, including body soaps. To be obtained, the natural soap brand should use a significant proportion of organic ingredients and adhere to certain environmental and sustainability standards.

EcoCert: A global certification, EcoCert verifies the natural and organic origin of ingredients, emphasizing ecological and environmentally friendly production processes.

Natural Products Association (NPA): The NPA certification sets criteria for natural ingredients and production processes, helping consumers identify organic body soaps that meet specific natural standards.

Leaping Bunny: While not specifically for natural ingredients, Leaping Bunny certification assures that the product is cruelty-free.

What is a “natural soap base”?

When brands say “natural soap base,” they refer to the foundational substance used in the creation of soap that consists of natural and often plant-derived ingredients. 

This base is a starting point for soapmakers to add additional elements, such as essential oils, herbs, or other natural additives, to tailor the soap’s properties and fragrance.

Natural soap bases commonly incorporate oils and fats such as olive oil, coconut oil, palm oil, or shea butter.  


This was your full guide to finding the perfect natural soap bar.

We hope this list of all-natural soap brands for men and women helped you find the absolute best formula for your skin type. 

Unlike their toxic counterparts, organic soap bars are infused with wholesome ingredients like olive oil, coconut oil, and shea butter to provide deep hydration with every lather. 

Especially if you have sensitive skin like me, those gentle ingredients will leave you feeling fresh, clean, and hydrated without relying on nasties. 

Plus, you won’t accumulate any more plastic bottles in your bathroom, so no more guilt about contributing to landfills.

Each one of these chemical-free soap bars is warped in eco-friendly packaging that leaves behind absolutely no waste. 


This post was graciously sponsored by Chagrin Valley. As always, we only work with brands that we have fully vetted and stand behind. Would you like to sponsor one of our sustainable round-ups? Contact us here.


If you enjoyed this article, check out these other community favorites below!

natural soap

+ show Comments

- Hide Comments

add a comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.