Living with psoriasis means I’m always on the lookout for skincare products that are gentle yet effective. Recently, I tried the Kenkoderm Psoriasis Dead Sea Mud Soap, a bar soap designed specifically for sensitive, psoriasis-prone skin. I wanted a product that could help manage symptoms without harsh chemicals or heavy fragrances. After consistent use, I gathered my thoughts to share an honest, straightforward review that could help others who might be considering it. As someone who has tried countless over-the-counter creams and soaps with mixed results, I was hopeful but cautious.
Packaging
The soap comes in a standard cardboard box, nothing fancy or overly luxurious. It’s functional and clearly intended for people seeking relief from skin conditions, not those shopping for boutique-style beauty products. The box lists important information like the key ingredients (such as Argan Oil and Shea Butter), size (4.25 oz), and instructions for use. It also mentions that it’s dermatologist-developed and fragrance and color-free, which immediately caught my attention. You can’t see the soap itself until you open the box; it’s a rich, dark brown bar, thanks to the natural Dead Sea Mud inside. The box highlights its dermatologist-developed background and its suitability for daily use, which made me feel more confident about its reliability.
Ingredients
When it comes to ingredients, Kenkoderm does a solid job keeping things natural and targeted. The soap features Dead Sea Mud, Argan Oil, Shea Butter, and Cinnamon Bark, blended with a base of saponified oils like Palm and Coconut. It’s free from artificial fragrances and colorants, which is a big win if you have sensitive skin. I appreciate that it includes moisturizing agents like Shea Butter and Glycerin, offering hydration without feeling greasy. Although it isn’t officially labeled as hypoallergenic, the formulation is clearly designed with sensitive skin in mind. It’s also important to note that Dead Sea Mud brings a natural mineral-rich component that helps in soothing and mild exfoliation.
Scent
One thing that stood out right away is that this soap is fragrance-free. If you’re someone who loves a strong floral or fruity scent in your skincare, you might miss that here. For me, though, the neutral, clean scent that comes naturally from the ingredients was perfect. It felt calming rather than overpowering, and more importantly, it didn’t irritate my skin. This makes the soap unisex and suitable for anyone who prefers or needs unscented products. The natural “clean” smell made my shower experience feel refreshing without any sensory overload.
Lather and Application
Despite being free of artificial additives, this soap produces a great lather. With just a little warm water and a few circular motions, I was able to work up a creamy, rich foam. It felt smooth on the skin, without any uncomfortable burning or tightness that some soaps can cause, especially on irritated patches. I used it by gently massaging it over the affected areas and then rinsing thoroughly. It rinses off easily, without any sticky residue, and my skin felt clean but not stripped. Kenkoderm recommends alternating use with their Mineral Salt Soap and following up with their Moisturizing Cream for best results. I found that sticking to a consistent routine made a noticeable difference in how my skin responded.
Effectiveness
In terms of performance, I was genuinely impressed. The soap did a great job of cleansing my skin without making it drier or more irritated. My plaques felt noticeably softer after use, and over several weeks, I saw a gradual reduction in redness and scaling. It seems to offer mild exfoliation due to the minerals from the Dead Sea Mud, which helped smooth out rough patches gently. However, it’s important to mention that this soap isn’t a miracle cure—it’s most effective when used consistently and as part of a broader skincare routine. I still needed to use moisturizers and, occasionally, prescription treatments. As Kenkoderm notes, it works best when used alongside prescription medications or moisturizers, and it’s clear they designed this soap to fit into a broader therapeutic plan rather than replace medical treatment.
Size and Lifespan
The standard size of the Kenkoderm Dead Sea Mud Soap is 4.25 oz (approximately 120 grams). I found that a single bar lasted me several weeks with daily use, as long as I kept it dry between uses. The solid texture of the soap helps it resist becoming mushy, although its dark color could leave a slight mark on lighter soap dishes if left wet. There isn’t a travel size available, but the regular bar isn’t overly bulky, so it’s manageable for short trips. For those who go through soap quickly, the 4-bar value pack is a smart way to stock up and save a little money.
Brand Reputation
Kenkoderm is a brand that has earned my respect. Founded by a dermatologist, the company focuses on providing gentle, effective alternatives for people with psoriasis and sensitive skin conditions. In 2023, it became part of Nexgel, but it has continued to honor its original mission. Kenkoderm’s partnership with the National Psoriasis Foundation adds credibility, and their transparency about ingredients and product development is reassuring. Their active engagement in the psoriasis community and the availability of customer support through their website reflect their commitment to helping users navigate chronic skin challenges.
Price and Value
At around $10 to $12 per bar, the soap is definitely more expensive than your average drugstore bar. However, considering its specialized formulation, dermatologist input, and US-based manufacturing, I feel the price is justified. Buying in four-bar packs brings the cost down slightly, which I’d recommend if you find it works well for you. Occasionally, Kenkoderm offers sales or bundled product deals through their website, making it easier to stock up without breaking the bank. In my opinion, it’s a worthwhile investment if you’re dealing with stubborn, irritated skin and want to avoid harsher chemicals.
Availability
Kenkoderm’s Dead Sea Mud Soap is primarily sold online, which can be convenient or frustrating, depending on your shopping preferences. It’s available through Kenkoderm’s website, Amazon, Walmart.com, and other health-focused retailers. Stock appears consistent, and bulk purchasing options are easily found. I haven’t seen it much in local stores, so online ordering is likely the best bet. I appreciated that ordering directly from Kenkoderm included an option for personalized customer service if there were any issues with the product.
- Gentle on sensitive, irritated skin.
- Free of fragrance and dyes.
- Effective at cleansing without drying.
- Contains natural ingredients like Dead Sea Mud, Argan Oil, and Shea Butter.
- Dermatologist-developed and Made in the USA.
- Supports sensitive skin needs like eczema and rosacea as well.
- A bit pricey compared to regular soaps.
- May leave marks if not stored properly.
- Not officially hypoallergenic.
- No travel size available.
- Exclusively fragrance-free; not ideal if you prefer scented products.
Overall Rating
On a scale of 1 to 10, I would give the Kenkoderm Psoriasis Dead Sea Mud Soap a solid 9. It has become a dependable part of my skincare routine. While it’s not a cure-all, it delivers what it promises: gentle cleansing, slight exfoliation, and soothing benefits for sensitive, psoriasis-prone skin. If you’re searching for a simple, effective, and skin-friendly soap, this one deserves a spot in your shower.
