The pH of solid soap: is it really safe for skin?

Saponification is the chemical process underlying the production of solid soaps. When performed correctly, it produces an effective cleansing product that is gentle on the skin, stable over time , and long-lasting, contributing to a more conscious and sustainable personal care routine.

But what is the pH of a solid soap ? Is it really safe for the skin?

The skin's pH: a precious balance

The surface of human skin has a slightly acidic pH , around 5. This balance is known as the acid mantle and is essential for protecting our body from external agents, contributing to the health of the skin microbiota and the "barrier" function of the epidermis.

It should be noted, however, that the skin's pH is not uniform : in the deeper layers, it tends to be neutral. The acidification of the skin's surface is regulated by complex exogenous and endogenous processes—and it reminds us what an incredible machine the human body is!

Furthermore, the skin has a natural buffering power , that is, the ability to quickly re-establish its physiological pH even following temporary changes — such as the use of a slightly alkaline soap.

Natural soap and its pH

All "natural" soaps are naturally alkaline compounds with a pH between 8 and 10 , and contrary to what some industrial soaps would have you believe, it is not possible to obtain a soap with a "neutral" pH. Adding pH adjusters (acids, in this case) to lower the soap's alkalinity would prevent the saponification reaction from occurring, and therefore the soap would never be born!

Coccoon solid soap has a pH of approximately 8, making it slightly alkaline (basic). This value is checked for each batch in the Loliettoo® cosmetic laboratory.
Although it is higher than the skin's pH, the soap is dermatologically tested even on sensitive skin , proving to be very delicate, gentle and safe .

Our body is perfectly capable of re-establishing its physiological pH after use, without risks to the health of the skin.

How is Coccoon solid soap made and why is it unique and different?

To better understand and read labels scientifically, a pinch of chemistry is needed!

During the saponification process, a triglyceride (fat) is reacted with sodium hydroxide (caustic soda).

In the Coccoon soap recipe there are only three ingredients:

• Pure coconut oil (60%) — triglycerides/fat
• Waterfall
• Sodium hydroxide

During the chemical reaction between the vegetable fat (triglyceride) and the caustic soda , glycerol (also called glycerin - moisturizing component) and sodium salt (soap) are formed.

This is the basic formula for making soap!

Unlike other similar soaps, Coccoon uses only high quality pure coconut oil in a high percentage (60%) , rich in saturated fatty acids (about 90%) which guarantee:

• Excellent foaming and cleansing power
• Long product life
• Delicacy of use, thanks to the low alkalinity of its salts

No excess soda = no dry skin

Natural soap is often associated with the feeling of dry, tight skin. This happens when unreacted caustic soda remains in the finished product.

The Loliettoo® cosmetic laboratory, in addition to guaranteeing a safe and delicate product, free from unreacted soda , has the skills and experience to also operate with reduced dosages of soda , reducing the quantities necessary so as to leave a small fraction of unsaponified oil and increase the softness and delicacy of the soap.

Natural glycerin: an ally of the skin

Unlike many conventional soaps that contain added industrial glycerin, Coccoon produces it naturally during saponification.
This ingredient has notable properties:

• Antioxidants and hydrators
• Emollients and sebum-regulating agents
• Strengthening and protective

Why choose a pH-controlled solid soap?

A well-formulated soap with a controlled pH , such as the one from the Coccoon line, guarantees:

• Effective cleansing
• Gentle even on sensitive skin
• Longer product life and stability
• Waste reduction
• An eco-minimalist approach that respects the skin and the environment

The skin deserves attention and awareness

Learning to read labels and understand the chemistry behind a product helps us make better choices. Remember: what we put on our bodies is food for our skin . And it deserves the same care and attention we give to our diet.

Discover Coccoon solid soap and transform your routine into a simple, sustainable and daily gesture of well-being.

Our goal: natural well-being

Sustainability, simplicity, and health are the pillars of our project.
In our blog , you will find articles on:

• eco-minimalism
• conscious well-being
• intimate hygiene
• and many other sustainable choices

Join our community and choose more conscious personal care .

Have questions? Talk to us in the online chat or via the contact form , or leave a comment below.