Are you looking for the best soaps in India? Or, If you are a male, you might be looking for the best soaps for men in India? In the case of females, you might be looking for the best soaps for women in India? Then, this blog will answer all your questions and more.
This Ultimate Buyers’ Guide is a curation of the best soaps for men and women in India 2021. I highly recommend you to read the entire blog. Which would ensure you get a comprehensive and holistic understanding of the topic.
Most of us, especially males, don’t choose soap. We pick up any soaps that are lying around. But don’t you think that you should know a bit of the thing that you’re putting on your body and face?
The purpose of this blog would be to answer all your related questions and more.
Blog read time: 12.35 mins
In this blog, you will find:
– What is soap and its different kinds.
– My recommended soaps for men and women in India in different categories.
I hope you learn from our research and findings. And by the end, you would be able to choose the best soap for yourself.
Additional read
– Review: Best face wash and cleansers for men and women in India
– Review: Best face cream and moisturisers for men and women in India
Best soaps in India
Before I share my recommendations on the best soaps in India, let’s first understand the basics.
What is soap?
A soap is a salt of fatty acids. They are used for cleaning surfaces and primarily used for personal hygiene.
They can be classified based on the type of surfaces they can clean.
How is soap made?
You can make a bar of soap from the following ingredients.
- Lye: The reaction between lye and oils is what produces soap. This process is called saponification. The type of lye is either sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide.
- Water: Lye is mixed in water before mixing into the oil.
- Colour: not needed for making soap. But if you want your soap to look attractive, then you can mix a plant-based dye.
- Scent: not needed for making soap. But if you want to have some smell in it, then you can mix some essential oils.
- Preservatives: natural soaps don’t need it. But you can add it to make liquid soap.
- Ready-made soap bases: are needed for melting the soap before pouring into a mould.
But we don’t make soaps at home. We buy them from the markets. So the next question is, what are the different types of soaps available?
Categories of soaps in India by usage
Following are some of the top-level categories of soaps in India, based on their usage.
Toilet soap
It’s a type of soap that contains a high quantity of Total Fatty Material (T.F.M.). The higher the percentage of T.F.M., the more moisturising and cleaning properties.
Bathing soap
It’s a type of soap with low Total Fatty Material (T.F.M.). So they have low-cleaning property.
Glycerine soap
They contain the most moisturising property, which makes them suitable for all skin types. These can be 100% natural.
Medicated soaps
These have medicinal properties and are used for treating skin problems. The ingredients can differ based on the kind of issue it is medicating.
For example:
- Antibacterial soaps – These help in fighting bacterial infections. They contain antibacterial agents like triclosan, triclocarban, PCMX, tetrasodium EDTA, etc.
- Antifungal soaps – They help in fighting fungal infections. They contain extracts from organic medicinal plants and essential oils. They also have vitamin E, sulfur, natural glycerin, tea tree oil, zinc oxide, etc.
- Others – they help in fighting issues like acne, clogged pores, excess cellulite. Some can also help with dehydrated skin.
Laundry Soap
They are detergents and not soap because they are made from synthetic materials. They have surfactants, i.e. they contain surface-active ingredients. These surfactants help in pulling out dirt from the laundry.
Dish soap
These are also detergents that contain a higher quantity of surfactants. So they can cut oils and greases also.
Non-toilet soap
These are used for cleaning tough stains and grease. They are also called lithium soap because they contain lithium salt of fatty acid.
Transparent soaps like pears, etc., are made by mixing soap material in a hot alcohol solution. These particles remain undissolved in alcohol and are filtered out. Hence, forming a transparent soap.
Categories of soaps in India by ingredients
We can also define categories based on the type of material they are made from.
Following are some of the categories based on their ingredients type.
Animal soap
These are made of oils extracted from animal fats.
Milk soap
These soaps are made of milk, primarily goat’s milk. They are the softest type of soap and are recommended for infants.
Flavoured soap
They are made of plant extracts like peppermint, vanilla, seaweed, lemongrass, tea tree, etc.
Perfumed soap
They have extra fragrance compared to ordinary soaps. Therefore they are primarily used in spas and salons, for example.
Luxury soap
They are made of premium ingredients like sandalwood, almonds, and chocolates. These can also be beneficial for the skin based on the type of ingredients in them.
What’s the difference between hand-made soaps, bar soaps and liquid soaps?
Following is the difference between the three types
Hand-made soap
These are made organically, and so they don’t have any synthetic chemicals in them. Therefore are gentler on sensitive skin.
They are made from base oils like palm oil, olive oil, coconut oil, and shea butter. Because of these ingredients, they are rich in antioxidants, nutrients, and vitamins. These properties are essential for your skin’s health.
These are costlier as compared to factory-made soap.
Bar soap
These are made in commercially producing factories. They include all kinds of soap made in the form of a bar.
Liquid soap
It is soap available in liquid form, e.g. body wash, hand wash, dishwashing liquids, etc.
Are all-natural or organic soaps good?
Authentic organic or naturally made soaps are the best. But nowadays, many soaps try to capitalise on the words “natural” and “organic” when they are not.
So always safeguard yourself against such deception by doing the following checks.
- Avoid soaps that don’t have any description of ingredients on their packaging.
- Glycerin is essential for soaps. But make sure it’s natural glycerin.
- Avoid soaps with artificial colours because they can harm your skin.
- Avoid soaps with synthetic perfumes. These can also damage your skin.
- Parabens can be dangerous to your health. So avoid any soaps that have them.
Are the best soaps for men in India different from other types?
Now we know about soaps and their different kinds. The next question is, are the best soaps available for men in India different from other types of soaps? The short answer is, Yes!
Men’s skin is different. It has its specific properties.
Men have thick skin.
Thick skin causes dead skin cells buildup. So the soap for men should have ingredients that help in getting rid of these dead skin cells.
Men’s skin produces more sweat and oil.
Because of the extra sweat, more oil is secreted. This secretion mixed with pollution sticks to your skin and leads to acne problems in men. So men should be washing their skin more regularly.
Once the extra oils and sweat have been cleaned, then the skin gets exposed to the elements. So the soap for men should have a good moisturiser like glycerine.
Naturally made soap or soaps with the least amount of ingredients are the best soaps. Since they don’t contain any chemicals, they are suitable for all skin types.
Soaps for men have more power.
Well, these are marketing gimmicks. Big brands use such advertising because they want their soap to be more appealing to men. Therefore men’s soaps have more robust coloured packaging. Even their ads present these soaps as masculine. 🤨
Are the best soaps for women in India different from other types?
As we have learned above, the best soaps for men are different. Similarly, the best soaps for women available in India are also distinctive. Soaps for women have properties that are more specific to their gender’s needs.
Women have smoother skin.
Since their skin is smoother, female soaps don’t need harsh cleansing properties.
Women have less hair on their body.
Therefore female soaps have more moisturiser and milder cleansing properties.
Soap for women is more fragrant.
Soap for women is perfumed differently. Mostly they have more floral and fruity flavours.
Thought: I love the way my wife smells after she takes a bath with her favourite soap. But I don’t feel equally good after I bathe with the same soap brand. Why? 🤔
Buyer’s Guide: Things to remember while picking the best soap for yourself
If you have read the above content, then by now, you’re well equipped to make the best judgement for yourself. If you’re a male, then you can pick up the best soaps for men in India. And if you’re a female, then you should find the best soaps for women in India.
Following is a quick summary of things to keep in mind when choosing the best soap for yourself.
Essential soap buying guide
- The lower the number of ingredients, the better is the quality of soap.
- Natural or organic is better than chemical.
- Choose a soap that suits your needs and purpose.
- Face soaps are different from hand soaps.
- More expensive is not always better.
Top things to remember when choosing the best soap for men in India
- It should have good cleansing qualities.
- Choose a fragrance that makes you feel energised.
- Pick a soap that suits your skin type.
- All soaps are not the same, so spend time finding the best soap for you.
Top things to remember when choosing the best soap for women in India
- It should have good quality moisturiser.
- It should have milder cleansing properties.
- Choose a perfume that makes you feel fresh and happy.
- Find a soap that suits the type of skin that you have.
3 best soaps for your daily use (men and women)
The following are the best soaps for men and women in India. These can be used daily.
1. Irish spring original deodorant soap
This soap is one of the best soaps that give long-lasting freshness. It can be used daily by men and women in India.
- It contains glycerin, coconut acid and hydrogenated tallow acid.
- Therefore it helps in retaining natural moisture.
What did we like?
- It has a good lathering quality.
- It also has antibacterial properties.
- The natural fragrance is magnificent, and it lasts for a long duration also.
What did we not like?
- Recently, the price has gone up a bit.
2. L’Occitane shea butter soap
This one is enriched with hydrating shea butter. This soap will help in keeping both males’ and females’ skin firm and soft.
- It can help in reducing wrinkle lines and blemishes.
- Also, its aroma is of lemon and herbs. Mystical!
What did we like?
- It is made from a 100% vegetable base.
- It also has a smooth texture, and the fragrance is divine.
- It’s long-lasting and does not melt away quickly. Which makes it great value for money.
What did we not like?
- The price is on the premium side.
3. Fiama gel bars
A bar of soap with natural goodness and unique ingredients. Another great option for daily usage for men and women in India.
- Gel-based soap.
- Refreshing scents.
What did we like?
- A refreshing fragrance. It makes you feel fresh and also energised.
- Packaging is of good quality.
- Available in many types of fragrances.
What did we not like?
- A little expensive than others, but the combo package is a good value.
5 best soaps for dry skin in India (men and women)
Are you looking for the best soap men and women in India for dry skin? We got you covered!
Dry skin can be a problem, especially in the hot weather in India. We need to take extra care of dry skin problems. This skin problem can happen to both men and women. So these soap recommendations work for both men and women in India.
Following are our top picks of the best soap for dry skin in India.
1. Mirah Belle – organic shea kokum butter soap
It is an organic, vegan, hand-crafted soap. Both male and female can use it.
- Made of shea butter, kokum butter, cocoa butter, mango butter and organic soap base.
- It is best for dry and sensitive skin.
What did we like?
- It is helpful in soothing burns and rashes. So great for summer!
- Since all ingredients are organic, it is suitable for all skin types.
What did we not like?
- Nothing worthy of complaining.
2. Bombay Shaving Company shea butter soap
This soap is another top choice for both males’ and females’ dry skin.
- This soap is paraben-free hand-made soap.
- It also contains shea butter and natural honey.
- It’s organic therefore suitable for all skin types.
What did we like?
- It has a mild and soothing fragrance.
- It also works excellently as an exfoliant.
What did we not like?
- This soap does not lather quickly.
3. Nivea – creme soft
If suffering from dry skin, then this is the best soap for you. It is very gentle on the skin because of the high moisturiser content.
- This soap contains almond oil.
- It also has a mild fragrance.
- More than 75% of T.F.M. Great!
What did we like?
- Gentle on the skin, so no allergic reactions.
- Dermatologist recommends these.
What did we not like?
- It can melt away faster if kept in water, so keep it dry after use.
4. Mirah Belle- rosehip bar soap
These are hand-crafted soaps with anti-ageing and healing properties. So it’s suitable for all adults.
- This soap is a natural, organic, and vegan soap.
- Works best for dry and rough skin. So an absolute must-have in the winter season.
What did we like?
- It has an exotic rose scent.
- This soap is paraben, GMO and sulphate free.
What did we not like?
- Price is on the expensive side.
5. Medimix lakshadi and aloe vera soap
This soap is excellent! It contains a unique combination of lakshadi oil, aloe vera and glycerine.
- It works great for dry skin types because it is enriched with glycerine.
What did we like?
- It’s an excellent value for money.
- This soap helps in keeping your skin hydrated.
- It also has long-lasting freshness.
What did we not like?
- I didn’t find anything to complain about.
4 best soaps for oily skin in India (men and women)
Oily skin has its own set of problems, especially with the amount of pollution in India.
Men and women both have oily skin. So we have covered the best soaps for men’s oily skin and the best soaps for women’s oily skin here.
Following are the recommended soaps in India for oily skin.
1. SebaMed cleansing bar soap
One of the best soap for effectively reducing pimples and blackheads. Works for both men and women.
- It helps in removing excess sebum.
- Useful for both oily and normal skin types.
What did we like?
- It helps in combating pimples, blackheads and skin impurities also.
- It has a pH of 5.5, which is excellent.
What did we not like?
- This soap doesn’t produce much lather.
2. Mirah Belle – mens’ soap
These soaps are hand-crafted and work well for acne-prone skin. This property is what makes it one of the best soaps for men in India.
- It is natural, organic and also vegan.
- It is perfect for normalising dry and oily skin.
What did we like?
- It is sulphate-free, paraben-free and GMO-free also.
- Suitable for all male skin types.
What did we not like?
- I didn’t find anything to complain about.
3. Getrid – salicylic acid and sulphur soap
This soap is known for its powerful exfoliation. It also helps in removing dry scales from the skin.
- Helpful in removing sebum and also in unclogging pores.
- It is also beneficial in treating Athlete’s foot disease.
What did we like?
- It is enriched with Jojoba oil. Jojoba oil helps in keeping your skin healthy and also moist.
- Daily usage can help in preventing acne and pimples.
What did we not like?
- It has a chemical composition. So don’t overuse it.
4. The Man Company Chaar-Cool bars
This bar of soap is enriched with activated charcoal. This property makes it another excellent soap for male skin.
- It has antibacterial properties.
- It is also helpful in removing blackheads.
- The anti-pollution property will also keep your male skin cleansed.
What did we like?
- Nice quality packaging.
- It is excellent for banishing blemishes, thus giving your skin a smoother texture.
What did we not like?
- Excessive usage might leave your skin dry. So don’t overuse it.
- The price is also on the higher side.
Our top 5 soap picks for men and women with sensitive skin.
Again, both men and women can have sensitive skin. So we have covered the best soaps for both genders here.
1. Dove – sensitive skin unscented bar soap
The soap is best suited for the sensitive skin of men and women.
- This soap is unscented, so no additional chemicals for fragrance.
- Ideal for sensitive skin types. Works on both male and female skin.
What did we like?
- It is free from any irritants.
- Very helpful for people with skin problems. Therefore works excellent on sensitive skin.
What did we not like?
- I didn’t find anything to complain about.
2. Lavender goat milk soap bar
The soap is known to be helpful for people suffering from eczema, psoriasis, dry and sensitive skin.
- It is a hand-made soap that is gentle on the face and body.
- 100% natural soap with lavender fragrance.
What did we like?
- It is suitable for all skin types.
- It also gives excellent lather. So it works for a long duration.
- Lavender fragrance gives a soothing feeling.
What did we not like?
- Price is on the expensive side.
3. Mysore sandal soap
This soap is one of the best moisturising soap. It has proven long term skin benefits. Suitable for both men and women.
- It is also known to decrease skin ailments.
- This soap has a natural sandalwood fragrance.
What did we like?
- It is economically priced, so a great value for money.
- T.F.M. level is 80%. Fantastic!
What did we not like?
- I didn’t find anything to complain about.
4. Alpen secrets goat milk moisturising soap
The texture of the soap is rich and creamy. Both men and women will benefit from this soap.
- It contains sodium palmate.
- Made from goat’s milk, so the texture is very smooth.
What did we like?
- It has a light scent, thus making you feel rejuvenated.
- This soap does not melt away quickly. So it lasts for a long time.
What did we not like?
- I didn’t find anything to complain about.
5. Pre de Provence soap
They are known for their fruity and floral scents. It’s a great choice of soap for men and women in India.
- Made in France.
- Free of ethyl alcohol and sodium lauryl sulfate.
What did we like?
- It has a fantastic scent. Also available in multiple varieties.
- Great fragrance and also has a rich lather. It gives you a feeling of pure luxury.
What did we not like?
- Price is on the expensive side.
7 of the best soap for fairness and tan removal in India (men and women)
Are you looking for the best soap for men’s fairness in India? Or the best soap for women’s fairness in India? Then following are our recommendation.
The following list of soaps helps remove tan and pigmentation of the skin.
Always read the ingredients of the soaps that you would like to use. Especially the ones that promise skin whitening and tan removal properties. Remember, natural is better!
1. Vaadi herbals soap
This soap is one of the best soaps for skin lightening. It lightens and brightens both male and female skin.
- It is additionally enriched with saffron.
- They are made from goat’s milk. So it has extra smoothness.
What did we like?
- It contains multi-mineral rich saffron. Therefore it’s excellent for your skin tone.
- Free from harsh chemicals. So suitable for all skin types.
What did we not like?
- The scent doesn’t last long.
2. TNW potato rice soap
These soaps are natural and hand-made. Potato and rice’s goodness can enrich both male and female skin.
- Its ingredients help in reducing skin tan. It also helps in removing extra oil from the skin.
- It is also rich in Vitamin B6 & Vitamin C that helps to give glowing skin.
What did we like?
- These are hand-made soaps that can be used on the face and body.
- It leaves your skin softer and hydrated.
- This soap is paraben-free and sulphate-free. It also has a pleasant subtle smell.
What did we not like?
- I didn’t find anything to complain about.
3. Lever Ayush natural fairness saffron soap
This soap contains the goodness of Saffron (Kesar) & Kumkumadi Tailam. Works well on male skin type and also female skin type.
- It does not melt away quickly. So it works for a long time.
- Kumkumadi Tailam is known to cure marks. So great for removing blemishes.
What did we like?
- Great value for money.
- It helps in removing tan from your skin for both female and male.
- It also has a great fragrance of saffron.
What did we not like?
- It might dry out sensitive skin.
4. LA Organo Glutathione skin whitening soap
This soap is the best Glutathione containing soap. Since it is rich in high antioxidants, it helps in making your skin look brighter.
- Regular use can make your skin glow.
- It also helps in reducing skin pigmentation.
What did we like?
- It is natural because it is derived from plants.
- It makes your skin glow and also looks bright.
What did we not like?
- I didn’t find anything to complain about.
5. Sara’s Dharayitri – Fresh papaya soap
This soap is one of the best natural soaps. Since it is 100% natural and hand-crafted soap, it’s an excellent choice for both women and men.
- It has a great scent of lemongrass. So refreshing!
- This soap is sulphate-free and paraben-free.
What did we like?
- It can help cure eczema.
- Works great in removing suntan. So it can be used daily.
- Since it has a low chemical proportion, it can work for all skin types.
What did we not like?
- I didn’t find anything to complain about.
6. Medimix ayurvedic soap
This soap is an all-skin type soap, suitable for both men and women.
- It is an Ayurveda based product, so no harmful chemicals in it.
- Made of 18 traditional herbs thus is very good for all skin types.
What did we like?
- It is excellent for fading away pimple scars. Also, it removes blemishes.
- It has an exotic herbal fragrance, and therefore it gives you a refreshing feeling.
What did we not like?
- It is known to melt away quickly. So keep it dry after use.
7. Sage apothecary 100% premium hand-made soap
If you’re looking for aloe vera based soap, this is one of the best aloe vera hand-made soap.
- 100% natural ingredients. So suitable for all skin types of men and women.
What did we like?
- It has a natural, long-lasting fragrance.
- It also helps to nourish your skin.
What did we not like?
- Price is on the expensive side.
5 of the best soaps for acne in India (men and women)
The hair follicles on your skin can get blocked by the oils and dead skin cells, which causes whiteheads, blackheads and pimples. This disease is called acne. It can happen to both men and women of all ages.
A good quality soap can help you with your acne and pimple problems. Following are our recommendations.
1. Dial gold antibacterial deodorant soap
A must-try antibacterial soap. Works for both men and women.
- It contains triclocarban.
What did we like?
- It helps in keeping your skin healthy and also hydrated.
What did we not like?
- Price is on the expensive side.
2. Dudu Osun black soap
It is the best soap for getting shiny and radiant skin. Both men and women can use it.
- It helps in restoring damaged skin. Also, it assists with many skin problems.
- Camwood is the main ingredient.
What did we like?
- Lemon juice gives antibacterial properties. So it helps in fighting pimples.
- Also valuable for clearing skin tone.
What did we not like?
- Price is on the expensive side.
3. Our Earth’s Secrets Raw African black soap
This soap is one of the best 100% natural raw African Black soap. Both male and female can use it.
- It contains palm-kennel oil, coconut oil and also shea butter.
What did we like?
- It helps in reducing scarring.
- It also helps in reducing hyperpigmentation.
What did we not like?
- Price is on the expensive side.
4. Dr Bronner’s Pure Castile bar soap
This soap is one of the best soaps for acne-prone skin for men and women.
- It is biodegradable
- Non-GMO and also vegan.
What did we like?
- It is enriched with tea tree oil. Therefore it has a fresh fragrance.
- Recycled packaging. So great for the environment.
What did we not like?
- Price is on the expensive side.
5. Dead Sea mud soap bars
It is a remedial skin soap with activated charcoal. Works for both male and female skin types.
- It is made of all-natural ingredients.
- It is excellent for dry and sensitive skin.
What did we like?
- This soap doesn’t melt quickly, so it goes on for a long time.
- It is enriched with coconut and olive oil. So leaves your skin smooth and hydrated.
What did we not like?
- Price is on the expensive side.
FAQs
Following are some of the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use hand soap to wash my face?
It would be best if you did not use hand soaps to wash your face. The skin on your face is more sensitive than on your hands. So hand soaps are not equipped to handle such sensitive skin. If you use hand soaps on your face, then the skin on your face will feel dry and tight.
Should I avoid parabens within soaps?
Parabens are synthetic compounds. They are used in a host of products as preservatives. They prevent bacteria and fungus growth. Although non-toxic, parabens might cause rashes in some cases. So, look for alternatives to paraben if you have sensitive skin.
Are bar soaps unsanitary?
No. Bar soaps do not transmit disease from one user to another. But wash the soap thoroughly before each use.
Unscented vs fragrance-free, which is better for sensitive skin?
Unscented products typically have fragrance added to them. This is done so that it neutralises the original smell of the ingredients. Masking or suppressing natural smell can be harmful. Also, unscented does not mean fragrance-free. So, it’s better to go for fragrance-free.
Bar-Soap vs Body wash, which is better?
Both are the same if they are made of the same ingredients. But it’s better to use body wash or shower gel if your skin feels dry or flaky after a shower. Also, body wash is more convenient to use and store.
Should we choose low lather forming soaps?
If the soap doesn’t make lather, then it could mean that it’s free from chemicals. So a beneficial and safe product can be the one that forms low lather. Organic and natural are the best.
Additional read
– Review: Best face wash and cleansers for men and women in India
– Review: Best face cream and moisturisers for men and women in India
Bottom Line
This blog has been long and comprehensive. Key takeaways would be to choose a soap that suits your skin type. Different soaps serve different needs. Always read the ingredients of the soap that you’re planning to use.
I hope you benefit from my recommendation. I might not have covered all types of soaps out there, so if I missed anyone, please let me know.
Check out our review of the Best Face Cream and Moisturiser for Men and Women in India.
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Let me know your thoughts in the comments section below.