Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Castile soap is a plant-based soap, traditionally made from olive oil, that is now often formulated with a variety of vegetable oils. It is widely used for general skin cleansing due to its mildness and biodegradable nature. The scientific support for its use in general skin care comes mainly from its gentle surfactant properties and its lack of harsh synthetic additives, fragrances, and preservatives found in many commercial soaps. Studies and dermatological guidelines recognize that mild, non-detergent cleansers are preferable for maintaining healthy skin barrier function, especially for individuals with sensitive or dry skin. Castile soap typically has a simple ingredient list, reducing the risk of irritation and allergic reactions. However, there are limited direct clinical trials specifically evaluating Castile soap for skin care. Most evidence is extrapolated from studies of mild soaps and anecdotal reports. Its alkaline pH may be less than ideal for skin (which is naturally slightly acidic), but for most people, it is well-tolerated and does not cause significant disruption of the skin barrier when used appropriately. Overall, Castile soap is considered a reasonable choice for gentle skin cleansing, but more robust scientific studies are needed to further substantiate its specific benefits for skin health beyond general cleansing.

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