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My Reward PointsIn the present times, the market is flooded with a wide variety of cleansers for every skin type. However, there are generally two types of cleansers available.
One is soap-based, and the other is a synthetic detergent, also known as a syndet. But many of us get confused, saying aren't both soap and synthetic the same?
So the answer is No. In this blog, we are going to explore the details on Syndet Bar vs Soap so that you can make an informed decision for your skin health. Let's dive in.
What is a Syndet Bar?
The term Syndet is a short way to refer to synthetic detergents. These bars are formulated with mild synthetic detergents that cleanse the skin without stripping its protective barrier.
Some of the common ingredients found in Syndet bar are:
- Surfactants like Sodium cocoyl isethionate,
- Oils and Emollients
- synthetic compounds like humectants, fillers, pH adjusters, and more.
What is Traditional Soap?
When we talk of a traditional soap, it is made through the process of saponification. This means combining fat and oil with an alkali. It helps remove dirt, but it also strips your skin of natural oils.
Some of the common ingredients found in traditional soap are:
- Fats/Oils
- Water
- Lye
- Colorants
- Surfactants
How Soap is Made?
Traditional soap is made through saponification. This is a process where we combine fats or oils with an alkali. It is a different process from the syndet bar, as it is not made through saponification.
Ingredients in Soap
- Base of Oils
- Water
- Botanical oils
- Essential oils
Key Differences Between Syndet Bars and Soap
Now that we understand both syndet bars and soap bars, it's time to discuss the key differences between them.
1. pH Levels and Skin Sensitivity
Syndet bars and soaps differ in pH: syndet bars are around 5.5, while traditional soaps are about pH 9-10.
2. Moisturizing Benefits
Syndet bars are made with mild surfactants, which make them more moisturizing than traditional soaps that strip moisture from the skin.
3. Ingredients and Their Impact on Skin
The ingredients in syndet bars are much subtler than those in traditional soap bars. This means if you have dry or sensitive skin, then syndet bars are always a better option.
Pros and Cons of Syndet Bars
Syndet bars are gentle pH-balanced cleansers that are less drying. There are certain pros and cons associated with them; let's discuss them in detail.
Pros of Syndet Bars
- They are less drying than traditional soaps
- pH balanced
- Better for sensitive skin
- Support the hydration of the skin
- Suitable for both face and body
Drawbacks of Syndet Bars
- Downsides of syndet bars are:
- More expensive than traditional soap bars
- Quite slippery because of mild surfactant
- Lack of lathering or foaming
- Limited availability in the market
Pros and Cons of Traditional Soap
Now that we know the pros and cons of syndet bars, it's time we also know about the pros and cons of traditional soap. Let's dive in.
Pros of Traditional Soap
- Made from natural fats and oils
- Gives rich lather or foam
- Affordable and widely available
- Retains extra oils
Drawbacks of Traditional Soap
- High alkaline pH disrupts skin health
- Strips away natural oils from the skin, causing irritation
- Residue buildup in hard water
- Harsh additives in some soaps
- Less suitable for the face
Syndet Bar vs Soap: Which is Better for Your Skin?
When we compare the Syndet bar vs soap, the answer is quite simple. Syndet bars are always a better choice for cleansing in the modern skincare regime.
1. Syndet Bar for Sensitive Skin
These soap bars effectively cleanse your skin while maintaining its natural moisture levels, unlike traditional soap bars. This is why they are great for sensitive skin.
2. Soap for Normal to Oily Skin
For people with normal to oily skin, traditional soap bars might be a better choice because they have a higher pH, which helps them cleanse more effectively.
3. Consider Your Skin Type and Needs
In the end, it all depends on the person's skin type and needs. So it's always better to choose the right product, whether a syndet bar or soap, based on your skin concerns.
How to Choose Between a Syndet Bar and Soap?
Choosing between a syndet bar and soap depends on skin type, pH needs, and individual preferences.
Opt for syndet bars if you have sensitive or dry skin that needs pH balance; choose traditional soap for natural ingredients, lather, and budget-friendly, eco-friendly options for normal skin.
1. Look at Ingredients
Scan labels for allergens like fragrances or sulfates in syndets, harsh lye in soaps, or beneficial additions like oils and emollients that match your skin's needs and avoid irritants.
2. Consider pH Balance and Moisturization
Select syndets with skin-like pH (around 5.5) and built-in moisturizers for hydration; pick superfatted soaps if you tolerate higher pH but need gentle oil retention for normal skin.
3. Experiment and Find What Works Best
Test both on a small skin patch over a week—note dryness, irritation, or comfort—to discover what cleans effectively without tightness, tailoring to your unique skin response and lifestyle.
Conclusion
Syndet bars are ideal for people with sensitive, dry, or eczema-prone skin because they have a balanced pH and leave skin less dry than traditional soaps.
Traditional soaps are best for those looking for a natural product that produces a rich lather at an affordable price while being gentle on resilient skin.
When choosing between a syndet and soap, consider your skin type, your intended purpose, and ingredient preferences, as well as how each type interacts with your skin. In the comments below, share your experience with both types of soap!
