When it comes to skincare, I always prefer natural, gentle products that don’t contain harsh chemicals. That’s why I decided to try out the 365 by Whole Foods Market Glycerine Soap. It’s a budget-friendly option that promises to be mild, moisturizing, and free from artificial ingredients. But does it actually live up to these claims? In this review, I’ll go over everything from the packaging and scent to effectiveness and overall value, so you can decide whether it’s worth trying.
Packaging
The 365 Glycerine Soap comes in a simple, clear plastic wrapper, allowing you to see the soap inside before purchasing. While the packaging isn’t fancy or unique, it does the job. The label includes essential information, such as the scent, ingredients, and the 365 by Whole Foods Market logo. It’s easy to open, and the transparency makes it convenient for those who like to see what they’re getting before they buy. However, I do wish the packaging was more eco-friendly, as plastic wrapping isn’t the most sustainable option.
Ingredients
One of the standout features of this soap is its natural ingredient list. It’s made with glycerin, a well-known moisturizing agent, and is free from artificial colors, fragrances, and preservatives. It’s also hypoallergenic and Leaping Bunny certified, meaning it’s not tested on animals. The pH level of 5.5 is close to the skin’s natural pH, making it gentle for daily use. Though the soap doesn’t contain exfoliants or special additives, it’s a good option for all skin types, including sensitive skin. However, it’s not certified organic, which may be a downside for those who prefer strictly organic products.
Scent
The soap comes in several scents, including lavender, cucumber, olive oil, grapefruit, and vitamin E. There’s also a fragrance-free version for those with sensitivities. I personally tried the Vitamin E variant, which has a very mild scent—almost undetectable. While this is great for people who prefer unscented products, those looking for a stronger fragrance might be disappointed. The lavender scent seems to be the most well-liked, described as authentic and calming. Unfortunately, the scent doesn’t linger long after washing, which could be a pro or con depending on your preference.
Effectiveness
The first thing I noticed when using this soap was its creamy, rich lather. Unlike some natural soaps that struggle to foam, this one lathers up quickly and abundantly, even in hard water. It cleanses well without leaving any residue, and it rinses off easily. Since glycerin is a humectant, the soap does provide a slight moisturizing effect. However, if you have very dry skin, you might still need to apply a moisturizer afterward. It’s gentle enough for sensitive skin, and some users even use it as a facial cleanser or for shaving. While it’s not specifically formulated for acne-prone skin, it doesn’t seem to clog pores, making it a decent option for most skin types.
Size and Lifespan
The soap comes in a 4 oz (113 g) bar, which is a standard size for glycerin soaps. It’s hard and durable, meaning it doesn’t melt away too quickly. I found that it lasts a decent amount of time, especially if kept on a well-draining soap dish. However, if left in standing water, it softens quickly, so proper storage is essential. Some users extend its lifespan by cutting it in half, using one piece at a time. While it’s not available in travel-size versions, the current size is fairly compact and easy to take on trips.
Brand Reputation
365 by Whole Foods Market is a well-known private-label brand that focuses on affordable, high-quality products. The brand is known for its commitment to natural ingredients, ethical sourcing, and sustainability. The soap is manufactured in the USA and follows strict quality standards. It’s also Leaping Bunny certified, ensuring that no animal testing is involved. Additionally, the brand’s transparency about ingredients and its environmental responsibility makes it a trustworthy choice for conscious consumers. However, as a private-label product, it may not have the same cult following as some boutique natural soap brands.
Price and Value
At around $3.99 per bar, this soap is affordable compared to many natural glycerin soaps on the market. Given its high-quality ingredients and longevity, I’d say it offers great value for the price. Whole Foods often runs sales and discounts, so you can sometimes grab it for even less. Compared to brands like Dove, it provides a cleaner ingredient list without breaking the bank. However, its price can fluctuate between stores and online, so it’s worth checking for deals.
Availability
The 365 Glycerine Soap is widely available in Whole Foods Market stores and online through Amazon and Whole Foods’ website. However, it’s not typically found in other specialty or drug stores. Stock availability is generally good, though certain scents might sell out faster than others. The fact that it’s available online is a plus, as it provides more purchasing flexibility.
- Natural ingredients with no artificial colors, fragrances, or preservatives.
- Hypoallergenic and gentle on sensitive skin.
- Great lather and effective cleansing.
- Affordable compared to other natural glycerin soaps.
- Multiple scent options, plus a fragrance-free version.
- Plastic packaging isn’t the most eco-friendly.
- Not certified organic, though ingredients are natural.
- Scent doesn’t linger after washing.
- Can melt quickly if not stored properly.
- Limited availability outside Whole Foods Market.
Overall Rating
After thoroughly testing the 365 by Whole Foods Market Glycerine Soap, I’d rate it 4.5 out of 5 stars. It’s a fantastic choice for those looking for a natural, gentle, and affordable soap that cleanses well while remaining mild on the skin. The lack of harsh chemicals and animal testing is a huge plus. While it has minor downsides—like the plastic packaging and short-lived scent—its effectiveness, affordability, and skin-friendly formula make it a great everyday soap. I’d definitely recommend it, especially for those with sensitive or dry skin!
