Health Myths And Facts: How Much Soap Can Be Used On Face And Should You Change The Soap Brand Often? See What Experts Say

ABP Live sought the opinion of experts who told us the harmful effects of using too much soap, the duration for which a soap cake should be used and how often should one change soap brands.

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New Delhi: Bar soap and other facial cleansers are intended to remove dirt and oils from the skin. They do so by using compounds known as surfactants, which surround and dissolve dirt and oil so that water can easily wash it away, and remove dead skin cells from the epidermis (the skin's outermost layer). However, the amount of soap that should be used is also a matter of concern. Too much soap on the face can strip the skin of its natural oils and result in dryness. Not just that, it is also important to note how often should we change our soap brands. 

To answer these questions, ABP Live sought the opinion of experts who told us the harmful effects of using too much soap, the duration for which a soap cake should be used and how often should one change soap brands.

Can Excessive Use Of Face Wash Or Soap On The Face Can Harm Your Skin?

 

Excessive use of facial cleansers or soap can strip the skin of its natural oils and lead to dryness, irritation and even inflammation.

 

According to Dr Gitika Biyani who is a Dermatologist, Cosmetologist & Trichologist at Dr LH Hiranandani Hospital, Powai, Mumbai, "While proper cleansing is important to remove dirt, oil and impurities, overdoing it can disrupt the skin's natural balance and lead to several problems. This can damage the skin's protective barrier, leading to increased sensitivity. It can also cause the skin to produce more oil in response to excessive dryness, resulting in an imbalance that can lead to acne breakouts or other skin conditions."

 

"In addition, some face washes or soaps contain harsh ingredients that can over-dry or irritate the skin, exacerbating the negative effects of overuse. It is important to choose gentle cleansers specifically designed for use on the face and avoid those with harsh chemicals or fragrances that can further irritate the skin.", she further added.

 

Instead of over-cleansing, she suggested a gentle skincare routine of cleansing the face twice a day— once in the morning and once at night

 

1. Use normal or lukewarm water and a mild, pH-balanced cleanser that is appropriate for your skin type. 

2. Avoid vigorously scrubbing the skin, instead do gentle, massaging motions. 

3. Hydrate the skin after cleansing to compensate for moisture loss and maintain moisture levels. 

Should Soap Be Used Twice In A Day?

As a general overview, the frequency of using soap depends on various factors such as personal hygiene habits, skin type, and daily activities.

"In most cases using soap once during a shower or bath is sufficient for maintaining proper hygiene," said S.C Sharma, who is a Co-ordinator Therapist and Naturopath.

"However, there may be instances where using soap twice is recommended especially if you engage in activities that expose your skin to dirt sweat or environmental pollutants. It is important to strike a balance as excessive use of soap can strip the skin of its natural oils and disrupt the skin's pH balance.", he further added. 

How Often Should You Change The Soap Brand?

Everyone's skin is unique, and different people may have different sensitivities or reactions to particular chemicals. If you have a history of skin sensitivities or allergies, you should consult an expert to find out which soap ingredients to avoid. This precaution can help to avoid allergic reactions and ensure a more successful and comfortable experience with your preferred soap brand.

S.C Sharma said, "When trying a new soap brand, it is recommended to use it consistently for a period of two to four weeks. This duration allows your skin to adjust to the new product and provides a reasonable timeframe for observing any potential adverse reactions or irritations. If you experience any negative effects, such as redness, itching, or dryness, it may indicate an incompatibility with the soap brand and one can discontinue using the soap"

"The effectiveness of a soap brand can also be assessed by evaluating its cleansing ability and its impact on your overall skin health. Consider factors such as how well the soap removes dirt and oil, how your skin feels after use (whether it feels dry or moisturized), and if it addresses any specific skin concerns you may have (e.g., acne, dryness, or excessive oiliness). Regularly monitoring these aspects can help you determine if the soap brand continues to meet your expectations and effectively supports your personal hygiene routine.", he further continued.

Talking about whether to try natural or organic soap brands which utilize botanical extracts, essential oils, and other nourishing ingredients he said that one must make sure to read the product labels carefully and select brands that align with your values and preferences.

As a result, there is no set regularity for changing soap brands. It is mostly determined by your skin's reaction and the efficacy of the soap in addressing your hygiene needs. By considering individual sensitivities, monitoring skin reactions, evaluating soap performance, and seeking professional advice when needed, you can make informed decisions to select the most effective soap brand for your unique needs.

How Long Should A Soap Cake Be Used?

The duration for which a bar of soap should be used depends on a variety of factors, including the size of the soap, frequency of usage, and personal choice. A regular bar of soap, on the other hand, can last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.

Dr Sarthak Bhatia, Dept of General Medicine, SGT Hospital, Gurugram said, "It's a matter of personal preference and usage habits. As the soap bar diminishes in size and becomes less convenient to handle, or when it reaches a point where it no longer provides satisfactory lathering or cleansing, it may be time to replace it with a fresh bar."