Acne Care - Soap

Soap is defined as a cleansing agent. The first evidence that soap has existed for many centuries came when clay pots containing soap, dating back to 2800BC, were found in Babylon. There now exists many types of soap in the form of bars, granules, flakes and liquids. There is a wide variety of soap contents. It is now manufactured using as main ingredients, plants, grains, trees, herbs, flowers, oils, essential oils, seaweed, Dead Sea minerals, vitamins, clays, honey, silver and chemicals. So the choice is very wide. Some soaps can be prescribed by your GP if he/she feels your skin would benefit from specially formulated soaps, which sometimes contain Benzoyle peroxide, a compound, which kills bacteria, or a zinc compound, which is good for removing oils, soothes and heals. Soap containing silver, is very useful for baby acne. The silver disables the oxygen metabolism in single cell organisms, therefore killing the bacteria, only in infected tissue.

As a general rule, if you have an acne condition go for a soap which is mild and gentle on the skin, water soluble, has antiseptic properties and is hypoallergenic. Skin conditions can be exacerbated by using harsh soaps containing lots of chemicals, so when buying your soap always read the label to find out what it contains. So, find a soap which suits your skin - no two people are alike, and what suits one person, may not be suitable for another. Take into account the smell, ease of use, thickness, rinse ability, softness, gentleness and moisturising properties, to leave a soothing and clean feeling.

Washing meets the basic need of hygiene, cosmetics and medical requirements. It is a social, cultural and often a religious function. It contributes to the feelings of well being and improves the appearance and smell of the skin which is acceptable to both you and others.

Always wash using warm water as this opens the pores of the skin and enables the cleaning agents to penetrate. Wash the affected areas very gently using the finger tips and rinse well. Pat dry with a towel which is only used by you. Over washing can dry out the skin so it is recommended to limit washing to twice a day.

As a general guide, you may find the list below useful:

Aromatherapy Soaps - These are pure therapeutic grade essential oils. Calendula is derived from Marigolds, it has antioxidant and healing properties. Bergamot is derived from Oranges, and has antibacterial and antiseptic properties. Chamomile, is soothing, has anti-inflammatory properties. Lavender has antiseptic properties. Rose Buds, nourish skin, and is suitable for dry, sensitive skin.

Chemicals - Acid Salycilic, is more commonly known as Aspirin. This soap should not be used as a treatment for Acne breakouts. It is designed more for prevention. It softens and lightens the skin. Benzoyle Peroxide soap, should be used for non inflamed skin. It dries out the skin, decreases bacteria and removes dead cells. Sulphur soaps, contain minerals, are known to be used in Homeopathy. They have antiseptic and fungicidal qualities. Lye is Caustic Soda, which is alkaline and cleanses.

Clays - Soap containing Terramin is good for absorbing heavy metals. Kaolin, Betonite and Rhassoul absorb oils and impurities on the skin. Soothing and healing.

Dead Sea Minerals - Soap made from mud and water. Nourishing and healing for skin.

Flowers - Hibiscus is healing. Marshmallow has emollient properties, softens and sooths.

Grains - Oatstraw and Oatmeal are used in soap as exfoliants, they sooth and soften.

Herbs - Chickweed, has a an anti inflammatory effect on skin irritations.The active ingredient in Comfrey is Allantoin, used to sooth, more of a preventative, cleansing soap. Nettle soap contains minerals and vitamins, it is reputed to be antiseptic and anti inflammatory. Parsley has healing properties.

Honey - This is a natural humectant (draws moisture in), it is a soothing emollient, cleanses, has antibacterial, anti-microbial, antioxidant and anti inflammatory properties.

Oils - Castor oil, lubricates the skin. Coconut oil tends to absorb into the skin and has antiseptic and anti fungal qualities. Jojoba oil, has healing properties. Soya bean oil conditions the skin. Tea tree oil has antiseptic properties.

Plants - Aloe Vera, improves hydration, is an anti inflammatory and healing. Bamboo, regulates moisture. Ginger has anti inflammatory properties. Grape root is anti fungal and antibacterial. Lemon grass, has astringent qualities. Olive leaves have antibacterial, antiviral and antiparasitic properties. Witch Hazel has astringent properties.

Trees - African black soap, is derived from Ash bark and is a good exfoliant for sensitive skin. Charcoal, absorbs poisons, such as lead and mercury, and is good for inflammation. Cinnamon is reputed for it's antibacterial and anti fungal properties. Neem is purifying, antibacterial and good for Acne cysts.

Seaweed - Contains lots of vitamins and minerals, absorbs heavy metals, soothing and healing.

The list above is by no means exhaustive. It is given an indication of the wide range of ingredients which go into the making of soap.

Information written and supplied by Christine Burden - TalkAcne Web Site Manager