When it comes to skincare, I’m always on the lookout for products that promise to brighten my skin while keeping it smooth and healthy. One product that caught my attention recently is the Fair & White So White Exfoliating Soap. Marketed as a soap that not only cleanses but also exfoliates for radiant skin, it seemed like a great addition to my skincare routine. After using it for a while, I’ve gathered my honest thoughts—the good, the bad, and everything in between.
Packaging
First impressions matter, and Fair & White seems to understand that well. The soap comes in a pink-themed paper-based box, giving it a luxurious feel. The packaging is both attractive and functional, designed to keep the soap in good condition until you’re ready to use it. The label provides clear information about the ingredients, usage directions, and brand details.
The soap itself stands out with its unique flower shape, complete with six petals. It’s not just pretty to look at but also easy to grip while using. The pinkish hue of the soap complements the overall aesthetic. While the packaging certainly gives off a premium vibe, it’s worth noting that the flower-shaped edges can wear down quickly with frequent use. I also noticed that the colorants (CI 73360, CI 77491, CI 17200) used in the soap could potentially stain light surfaces if the wet soap is left sitting for too long.
Ingredients
One thing I always check before using any skincare product is the ingredient list. The Fair & White So White Exfoliating Soap contains a mix of natural and synthetic ingredients. The base includes sodium palmate and sodium palm kernelate, derived from palm oil. There are also exfoliating agents like synthetic wax and silica, which provide the gritty texture for scrubbing away dead skin cells.
For moisture, the soap contains glycerin, known for its skin-hydrating properties. However, it also has additives like fragrance, colorants, and preservatives (such as Tetrasodium EDTA and Tetrasodium Etidronate). These ingredients can be irritating for sensitive skin, so a patch test is a good idea before using it regularly. It’s also worth mentioning that the product isn’t labeled as hypoallergenic, so caution is advised if your skin is easily irritated.
While the presence of citral, geraniol, hexyl cinnamal, limonene, and linalool enhances the fragrance profile, these compounds are known allergens for some people. The pH level of the soap isn’t explicitly mentioned, so if you have sensitive skin, it’s best to proceed carefully.
Scent
The scent of the Fair & White So White Exfoliating Soap is quite noticeable. It has a heady, delicious fragrance that lingers on the skin for a while after washing. While some users might find this luxurious and refreshing, others—especially those sensitive to strong scents—may find it a bit overpowering.
The fragrance seems to be synthetically derived, and while it does add to the overall pampering experience, it’s something to keep in mind if you prefer milder or fragrance-free products.
Lather and Application
One thing I enjoyed about this soap is how quickly it lathers. A few rubs between the hands with water create a rich, creamy foam that feels luxurious on the skin. This abundant lather makes it easy to cover the entire body without using too much product.
The soap is easy to apply, whether you’re using your hands or a washcloth. It rinses off cleanly without leaving any residue. While it’s marketed for both face and body, the brand recommends limiting facial use to twice a week. I found this advice useful, as more frequent use on the face can lead to dryness, especially for sensitive skin.
Effectiveness
Now, the most important part—does it work? In terms of cleansing power, the Fair & White soap does an excellent job. It leaves the skin feeling squeaky clean, which is great for oily skin but might be a bit drying for those with naturally dry skin.
The exfoliating microbeads effectively scrub away dead skin cells, leaving the skin smoother after each use. However, some users might find the grit too abrasive for daily use, especially on the face. I found it best for body exfoliation, while limiting facial use to a couple of times a week.
The skin brightening effect is noticeable but gradual. It doesn’t work overnight, but with consistent use, I did see an improvement in skin tone and texture. It also seemed to help with body acne, likely due to its thorough cleansing properties. However, it’s important to moisturize after each use, as the soap can leave skin feeling a bit stripped of moisture.
Another thing worth mentioning is that exfoliation can increase sun sensitivity, which isn’t highlighted on the packaging. If you use this soap, it’s a good idea to apply sunscreen before heading outdoors to protect your skin.
Size and Lifespan
The Fair & White So White Exfoliating Soap typically comes in a 200-gram (7 oz) size. This is a generous amount for a bar soap, and if used primarily for the body, it can last a few weeks. Daily use, especially for the entire body, will naturally shorten its lifespan, but using it sparingly on the face helps stretch its use.
The soap itself is reasonably hard, which prevents it from melting away too quickly. However, the flower-shaped edges can wear down faster, especially if the soap isn’t stored properly. Keeping it in a dry soap dish between uses can help maintain its shape and longevity. I also found that the petal-shaped edges can break off after a few uses, especially if the soap is dropped.
Brand Reputation
Fair & White is a French skincare brand known for its focus on products that target hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, and skin brightening. While the brand has gained popularity, reviews about its products tend to be mixed. Some users swear by their effectiveness, while others express concerns about potential skin sensitivity.
Unfortunately, the brand does not provide detailed information about the ethical sourcing of ingredients, such as palm oil, nor does it explicitly state its animal testing policy. While it positions itself as a premium skincare brand, greater transparency would certainly build more trust among consumers.
Price and Value
In terms of price, the Fair & White So White Exfoliating Soap usually retails between $12 to $14 USD per bar. Given its specialized skincare claims and the inclusion of exfoliating ingredients like silica and synthetic wax, the price seems justifiable for those looking to target uneven skin tone and dullness.
However, its value depends on individual needs. If you’re seeking a daily exfoliating soap that brightens skin while keeping it soft, this product might be worth the investment. On the other hand, if you have sensitive skin or prefer fragrance-free products, you might find other options more suitable.
Availability
The Fair & White So White Exfoliating Soap is widely available online, through major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and specialized beauty stores. It can also be found in some local beauty supply stores, especially those that cater to international skincare brands.
While availability is generally good, shipping costs and delivery times will depend on the retailer. Some online platforms also offer bulk purchasing options, which can be more cost-effective if you plan to use the soap regularly.
- Effective exfoliation: Microbeads help remove dead skin cells.
- Brightening effect: Improves skin tone with consistent use.
- Pleasant lather: Rich, creamy foam enhances the washing experience.
- Attractive packaging: Unique flower shape and pink hue.
- Good size: 200g bar lasts for several weeks with proper use.
- Helps with body acne: Especially useful for those with back or chest acne.
- Drying for some skin types: Moisturizing after use is essential.
- Strong fragrance: Not ideal for sensitive noses.
- Can be harsh for daily facial use: Best limited to body or occasional face use.
- Lack of transparency: Ethical sourcing and animal testing policies are unclear.
- Fragile edges: Flower-shaped petals can break off with frequent use.
- Potential for staining: Colorants may stain light surfaces if soap is left wet.
Overall Rating
After using the Fair & White So White Exfoliating Soap, I’d give it a 4 out of 5. It performs well in terms of cleansing, exfoliating, and gradual brightening, but it falls short for those with sensitive skin or those who prefer fragrance-free products. The price is reasonable for its purpose, but the lack of clarity around ethical practices might be a concern for some users.
If you’re looking for a body exfoliating soap that can help with dull skin, uneven tone, and body acne, this soap might be worth a try. Just be sure to moisturize well after use, and if you’re using it on your face, limit it to a couple of times per week to avoid over-exfoliation. And don’t forget to apply sunscreen to protect your freshly exfoliated skin from sun damage.
