If you struggle with dry or sensitive skin, finding the right soap can be a challenge. Many commercial soaps contain harsh chemicals and artificial fragrances that strip the skin of its natural oils, leaving it irritated and tight. That’s where olive oil soaps come in. Known for their gentle, moisturizing properties, they cleanse without causing irritation and often include minimal ingredients, making them a fantastic choice for those with delicate skin.
Over the past few months, I’ve tested various olive oil-based soaps, looking for ones that provide hydration, a pleasant lather, and overall skin benefits. I focused on ingredient quality, effectiveness, longevity, and user experience. Below are my top five picks, including both their pros and cons, to help you decide which one is best for your skin.
1. Olivella Face and Body Bar Soap
Made in Italy, this fragrance-free soap is a simple yet effective choice for daily use. It is crafted with 100% virgin olive oil, meaning it’s packed with skin-nourishing ingredients without unnecessary additives.
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Pros:
- Rich, creamy lather that cleans well without stripping moisture.
- Fragrance-free but has a mild natural scent.
- Hypoallergenic, making it great for sensitive skin.
- Long-lasting due to its hardness.
- Works well for both face and body.
- Cruelty-free and palm oil-free.
- Some users with eczema and acne-prone skin report relief.
- Dermatologically tested for safety.
Cons:
- The slightly alkaline pH (around 8) might not suit everyone.
- The bar stains slightly if left on surfaces.
- Some reviewers note a squeaky clean feeling, which may take some getting used to.
- Packaging is minimalist but not unique.
This soap is a solid option if you’re looking for something gentle, effective, and free of harsh ingredients.
2. Kiss My Face Olive Oil Fragrance-Free Bar Soap
This Greek-made soap is well-known for its simple, natural formulation, featuring 86% olive oil in its fragrance-free version. It’s a great option for those who want a minimal ingredient soap that deeply hydrates.
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Pros:
- Mild and non-irritating, suitable for all skin types.
- Lathers well despite the high olive oil content.
- Leaves skin feeling soft and nourished.
- Vegan and cruelty-free.
- Palm oil-free and free of artificial colors or dyes.
- Comes in two sizes (4 oz and 8 oz).
- Recyclable packaging with minimal waste.
- Cold-pressed olive oil retains natural nutrients.
Cons:
- Soft texture means it can dissolve quickly in water.
- No exfoliating properties, so those who like a scrubby texture might find it too mild.
- Not widely available in local stores—mostly found online.
This is an excellent option if you need a gentle, ultra-moisturizing soap that prioritizes natural ingredients and sustainability.
3. Papoutsanis Pure Olive Oil Bar Soap
A traditional Greek soap, this one is made with only four ingredients—olive oil, water, sea salt, and citric acid—making it one of the simplest and purest options available.
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Pros:
- Completely natural, with no synthetic additives.
- Mildly alkaline, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
- Offers gentle hydration without an oily residue.
- Works well in hard and soft water.
- Cruelty-free and vegan.
- Has a mild, earthy scent.
- Biodegradable and eco-friendly.
- Great for eczema and psoriasis-prone skin.
Cons:
- No exfoliating ingredients, which some people might prefer.
- Can feel slightly drying for those with very dry skin.
- Softens quickly if left in water—a well-draining soap dish is a must.
- Not as widely available as some other brands.
This soap is an excellent choice for those who want a truly simple, natural product that gently cleanses without irritation.
4. Marius Fabre Savon De Marseille Soap
A classic French soap, Marius Fabre’s Savon de Marseille follows a centuries-old recipe, containing 72% vegetable oils, primarily olive oil. It is handcrafted using traditional methods.
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Pros:
- Rich, creamy lather that provides deep cleansing.
- Long-lasting and extremely hard, making it a great value.
- No artificial fragrances, preservatives, or colorants.
- Highly versatile—can be used for body, face, and even household cleaning.
- Palm oil-free and biodegradable.
- Recognized for its high-quality craftsmanship.
- Mild antiseptic properties make it suitable for minor skin irritations.
Cons:
- The large cube shape can be unwieldy for some users.
- Has a mild but slightly medicinal scent, which may not appeal to everyone.
- Can leave a squeaky clean feeling, which some users dislike.
- Not as widely available in local stores, but can be found online.
This is a fantastic all-purpose soap that provides great value and aligns with sustainable, traditional soap-making methods.
5. Anatolia Daphne Olive Oil Soap
This handmade Turkish soap is a mild, nourishing option, crafted from olive oil and natural ingredients. It’s often compared to Aleppo soap, though without laurel oil.
Pros:
- Completely natural, with a gentle cleansing effect.
- Rich in antioxidants, making it beneficial for dry and sensitive skin.
- Biodegradable and eco-friendly.
- Works well as a facial cleanser.
- Minimal scent, great for those sensitive to fragrances.
- Durable and long-lasting.
- Great for reducing skin redness and irritation.
Cons:
- No exfoliating properties.
- Can feel slightly waxy at first use, but improves with time.
- Not as widely available as commercial brands.
- Lather is less foamy compared to conventional soaps.
For those who want a mild, traditional soap that is handcrafted with minimal ingredients, this is a wonderful choice.
Concluding Thoughts
Olive oil soaps are a fantastic alternative to conventional soaps, offering gentle cleansing and natural hydration. Each of these five options provides unique benefits, depending on what you’re looking for:
- If you need a fragrance-free, everyday soap, try Olivella Face and Body Soap.
- For a moisture-rich lather, Kiss My Face Olive Oil Soap is a great choice.
- If you prefer minimal ingredients, go for Papoutsanis Pure Olive Oil Soap.
- Looking for a traditional French soap? Marius Fabre’s Savon de Marseille is excellent.
- And if you want a handcrafted, all-natural option, Anatolia Daphne Olive Oil Soap is a great pick.
No matter which one you choose, olive oil-based soaps provide a skin-friendly, eco-conscious way to cleanse and nourish your skin!
