Soap
Soap is defined as a cleansing agent. 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.
 |
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 and has antioxidant and healing properties. Bergamot is derived from oranges, and has antibacterial and antiseptic properties. Chamomile is soothing and has anti-inflammatory properties. Lavender has antiseptic properties.
Dead sea minerals - Soap made from mud and water. Nourishing and healing for skin.
Flowers - Hibiscus is healing. Marshmallow has emollient properties, softens and soothes.
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. 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) and 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 derived from Ash bark is a good exfoliant for sensitive skin. Charcoal, absorbs poisons, such as lead and mercury, and is good for inflammation. Cinnamon is reputed for its 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 as an indication of the wide range of ingredients which go into the making of soap.
Information written by the talkhealth medical panel
Last Reviewed: 4 March 2011
Next Review Date: 2 November 2013
