The difference between
true soap and synthetic detergent

The history of soap

The origin of soap

According to one theory, soap traces its origin to about 10,000 years ago.

Humans learned to use fire and began cooking and eating animal meat.

It is said that during this time, they discovered that the ash from burning wood mixed with the fat dripping from the meat created a substance in the soil that could remove dirt.

This is believed to be the beginning of soap.

The simplest form of soap, created from the reaction between fats and alkaline substances, is what we refer to as "true soap" or additive-free soap.

The Birth of Regular Soap (Synthetic Detergents)

The history of synthetic detergents is less than 100 years old.

During World War I, Germany faced a shortage of the fats and oils needed to produce soap, making traditional soap manufacturing impossible. In response, synthetic detergents made from petroleum were developed.

After World War II, in the United States, the increase in petroleum production, the spread of electric washing machines, and concerns about the shortcomings of soap—such as soap scum in hard water areas of the U.S. and Europe—led to the rapid rise of synthetic detergents.

In the decades since, various environmental and health issues associated with synthetic detergents have been brought to light. Nevertheless, synthetic detergents continue to be widely used even today.

True Soap vs. "Regular Soap" (Synthetic Detergents)

While both serve as cleaning agents for the body and other items...
In reality, they are completely different.

True soap is exceptionally simple

As the origin of soap is said to date back more than thousands of years, true soap is so simple that it can be recreated without industrial facilities.
This simplicity is evident even from its ingredient list.
Moreover, with its long history, true soap is integrated into the natural cycle.
Even when washed away, it is quickly broken down by aquatic life, making it less likely to pollute the ocean.
Regular soap (synthetic detergents) is quite complex

Many regular soaps (synthetic detergents) are produced in large manufacturing facilities using petroleum-derived ingredients. They undergo complex chemical processes and have additional components added to boost their cleaning power.
Complex chemicals that did not exist in nature for millennia have, in just a few decades since their development, spread throughout the world's oceans.
Aquatic life has no means of breaking down these substances, so synthetic detergents linger in the ocean for long periods, contributing to ongoing pollution.

When you think about what’s best for your skin and the environment, which choice feels right to you?

At Shabondama Soap, we believe that natural soap is the best choice, especially when it’s additive-free. This belief drives our dedication to maintaining the highest standards in every bar we create.

About True Soap