Artisan Soap Bar Vs. Shower Gel: Which Should You Use?
Table of Contents
Why It Matters What You Wash With
Your skin is your largest organ, and it absorbs more than you might think. What you cleanse with daily can either protect or strip your skin’s moisture barrier.
For Sophie Langston and women like her—minimalist, conscious, dry-skin prone—the choice between artisan soap and shower gel isn't just personal. It's a wellness decision.
What Is Artisan Soap?
Artisan soap is made by hand in small batches, often using traditional methods like cold process. Each bar is a mix of plant-based oils, butters, and nourishing extras.
Josspure’s artisan soaps are:
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Cold processed and cured for 4–6 weeks
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Scented with essential oils and natural fragrances
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Rich in glycerin (a natural skin humectant)
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Superfatted for added moisture
Shop the Artisan Soap Bars collection
What Is Shower Gel?
Shower gel is a liquid cleanser that often comes in plastic bottles and contains water, synthetic detergents, and preservatives. While it can smell nice and lather quickly, it's typically more drying.
Common shower gel ingredients include:
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Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) or other foaming agents
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Synthetic fragrance
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Water as the main base
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Emulsifiers and chemical preservatives
Ingredients Breakdown
| Feature | Artisan Soap Bar | Shower Gel |
|---|---|---|
| Moisture Retention | High: Glycerin + Oils + Butters | Low: Often includes drying agents |
| Fragrance Source | Essential Oils / Natural Fragrance | Synthetic Fragrance + Additives |
| Preservatives Needed | None (solid formula) | Yes (due to water content) |
| Packaging | Minimal, often plastic-free | Usually plastic bottle |
| Shelf Life | 12 months or more | 12-18 months once opened |
Which Is Better for Sensitive Skin?
Artisan soap bars—especially cold processed and superfatted ones—are ideal for dry or sensitive skin. They cleanse without stripping natural oils and leave behind moisture-supporting ingredients like:
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Shea butter
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Olive oil
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Coconut milk
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Chamomile
Shower gels, while convenient, often contain harsh surfactants and synthetic fragrances that can irritate sensitive skin or trigger flare-ups.
Explore soap bars for dry, sensitive skin
Environmental Impact
Artisan soaps are more sustainable:
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Less water usage in production
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Plastic-free packaging
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Lower carbon footprint for shipping (less water weight)
Shower gels:
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Typically come in plastic bottles
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Require preservatives to avoid bacteria growth
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Ship heavier due to water base
Which Is More Cost-Effective?
A 4 oz Josspure bar offers around 60–80 washes, depending on how it's stored. That makes it surprisingly cost-effective—especially when you consider how concentrated each bar is.
Shower gel may seem cheaper per bottle, but you’re paying for a lot of water. It also runs out faster.
Final Thoughts: Which Should You Choose?
If you crave a gentle, nourishing, and environmentally conscious cleanse, artisan soap wins. Especially if you:
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Have dry or sensitive skin
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Prefer clean, plant-based formulas
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Value ritual over rush
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Want to reduce plastic and waste
For an everyday moment of wellness, Josspure’s artisan soap bars offer something shower gels can’t:
A slow beauty experience that puts your skin—and your values—first.
FAQs
Q: Will artisan soap lather as much as shower gel?
A: Yes—especially when used with a washcloth or sponge.
Q: Can I use Josspure’s soap bars on my face?
A: Absolutely. They’re formulated to be gentle enough for facial use.
Q: Are your soaps vegan and cruelty-free?
A: Yes! No animal fats. No animal testing. Ever.
Q: How do I store a soap bar to make it last longer?
A: Keep it dry between uses with a draining soap dish.
References
Summary
Is an artisan soap bar better than shower gel?
Yes. Artisan soap bars are more nourishing, gentle on sensitive skin, and sustainable. They contain natural oils and essential oils without harsh detergents or plastic waste.
✨ Ready to swap your shower gel for something gentler?
Discover your new favorite bar here
