Why We Said “No Thanks” to Phosphates, SLS, Parabens, Palm Oil and More: The Truth Behind Our Ingredients
When it comes to what you put on your skin, we believe in keeping things simple, clean, and above all, “good.” That’s why we’ve made some deliberate choices about what doesn’t go into our soaps. You won’t find phosphates, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), parabens, palm oil, mica, or synthetic fragrances in our products. Here’s why we’re saying “no thanks” to these common ingredients—and why your skin (and the planet) will thank you too.
No Phosphates, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), or Parabens
Let’s start with the big three: phosphates, SLS, and parabens. These ingredients are lurking in way too many products, but not ours. Why? Because phosphates can clog up waterways, causing all sorts of environmental issues. SLS? It’s a known skin irritant, and for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin, it can make matters worse, leading to more breakouts and irritation. And parabens? They’ve been shown to mess with our endocrine systems—think hormonal imbalances and more. We don’t think that’s something you should be slathering on your skin every day. Our Founder Anna, has battled with hormonal imbalances and is the mother of two daughters, and her partner also has two teenage girls. As a scientist she knows what we put on our skin can impact our health and wellbeing so has developed the formulas for our soap with this and the planet, always at the forefront.
No Palm Oil
Palm oil is a tricky one. As an ingredient it makes a soap bar harder and therefore last longer so it can be a cheap and easy component in many soap makers formulas and there is no indications it is tough on us. However, even “sustainable” palm oil has a dark side. The entire industry is a major driver of deforestation, destroying the natural habitats of orangutans and countless other species. One single plantation on the Malaysian Peninsula stretches over 811,000 hectares—that’s a lot of lost wilderness. Palm oil might make for a harder soap bar, but we made a conscious and much discussed decision that we are not willing to pay that environmental price. Some of our bars might be a little softer, and sure, they might need to be kept away from puddles, but we use natural salt to help harden them up so they last longer for you—without the ecological guilt.
No Micas
We get it—mica adds those stunning colors that make soaps and cosmetics pop. But there’s a hidden cost: much of the mica used in products today is mined in third-world areas where child labor is rampant. We can’t ever hand on heart guarantee that any mica we source would be ethically produced, so we decided to leave it out altogether. We think our soaps are beautiful just the way they are and they don't need sparkly extras or rainbow colours.
No Synthetic Fragrance
Here’s the thing about synthetic fragrances: some release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other compounds into the atmosphere and waterways. Sounds harmless? Think again. Scientific studies have shown that these compounds can have major side effects on humans, particularly when it comes to the endocrine and hormonal systems. Hormonal imbalances are something nearly everyone experiences at some point. That’s why we’ve chosen to scent our soaps with minimal essential oils and plant extracts instead of synthetic fragrances, Our soaps are not made to scent your drawers, they're made to be used to clean off the dirt and the day. It’s a choice that’s kinder to your body and the planet.
No Animal Cruelty
The heading says it all. It is not necessary to involve animals in any way to make soap.
Thoughtful Packaging
We don’t just stop at the ingredients. Our commitment to being “good” extends to our packaging too. I don't know about you, but sometimes a gift box can contain so much plastic and plastic coated packaging, it kind of takes the 'gloss' off the gift. So we've taken the glossy packaging off for you right at the start. We’re constantly auditing our materials to ensure we’re using the most recyclable and compostable products available. This mindfulness even extends to our suppliers—we’re working with those who share our commitment to sustainability. Most recently we've found biodegradable glues for our soap wraps. Because every little bit counts.
Our Philosophy
We’re not saying all these ingredients are evil, and we're not saying the people who make beautiful products with them should change what they're doing. But for our soap company, we’ve made a conscious choice to leave them out. We’re dedicated to keeping things simple, natural, and as good for you as they are for the environment. Because when it comes to your skin, “good” should never be compromised.