If you’re someone who appreciates the charm of old-school products, Wright’s Coal Tar Soap might have caught your eye. This soap has been around since the 1860s, known for its distinctive scent and classic appeal. But what exactly can you expect from using it? In this review, I’ll share my honest thoughts on Wright’s Coal Tar Soap, from the packaging to its effectiveness, so you can decide if it’s worth adding to your skincare routine.
Packaging
The packaging of Wright’s Coal Tar Soap is simple and traditional. It comes wrapped in recyclable paper with an orange color scheme that makes it easily recognizable. The design isn’t particularly modern or luxurious, but it has a nostalgic, no-frills charm that suits the brand’s long history.
One downside to the packaging is that it’s opaque, so you can’t see the soap inside until you open it. While the paper wrap includes the necessary details like ingredients and size, it feels quite basic compared to more modern soaps with sleek, resealable packaging.
If you appreciate eco-friendly packaging and don’t mind a minimalist look, the packaging won’t disappoint. However, if premium aesthetics matter to you, it might feel a bit underwhelming.
Ingredients
Wright’s Coal Tar Soap is made in Turkey and contains a mix of both natural and synthetic ingredients. One of the key components is glycerin, a common moisturizing agent found in many soaps. However, it’s important to note that despite its name, the soap no longer contains actual coal tar, which was traditionally used to help with skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
Instead, the soap now relies on synthetic fragrances to mimic the classic scent. Unfortunately, the lack of transparency around the source of the ingredients might be a concern for those who prefer more natural and clearly labeled products.
If you’re looking for a hypoallergenic soap or one specifically marketed for sensitive skin, Wright’s Coal Tar Soap might not be your best bet. While it has moisturizing properties, it doesn’t contain exfoliants or other specialized additives.
Scent
The scent of this soap is what makes it stand out. It has a medicinal, tar-like fragrance that’s nostalgic for many users. For those familiar with the original coal tar soap, the scent brings back memories of traditional remedies and old-fashioned hygiene products.
The scent is quite strong and tends to linger both on the skin and in the bathroom after use. In my experience, the fragrance remained noticeable in the bathroom for several hours, and a friend even commented that it reminded them of their grandparents’ home, adding a nostalgic charm. While some people find this comforting and reminiscent of simpler times, others might find it a bit overpowering.
It’s also worth noting that the scent is derived from synthetic fragrances, which may not appeal to everyone. If you prefer more natural-smelling soaps, this might not be for you. However, if you enjoy unique, historical scents, you’ll likely appreciate Wright’s Coal Tar Soap.
Effectiveness
When it comes to cleansing power, Wright’s Coal Tar Soap performs well. It produces a rich lather and cleanses the skin effectively. Thanks to the inclusion of tea tree oil, it has some natural antibacterial properties, which makes it great for keeping your skin feeling fresh and clean.
However, it’s not without its drawbacks. The soap can be a bit drying for certain skin types, particularly if you have dry or sensitive skin. It rinses off easily, but it doesn’t offer any exfoliating benefits, and it’s not specifically marketed as non-comedogenic, so those with acne-prone skin might want to be cautious.
One thing to keep in mind is that this soap no longer contains coal tar, which means it’s not as effective for managing skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis as it once was. If you’re buying it for those purposes, you might be disappointed.
For general use, Wright’s Coal Tar Soap provides a thorough cleanse and deodorizing properties, making it suitable for daily hand and body washing. However, if you’re looking for a deeply moisturizing or therapeutic soap, you may want to explore other options.
Size and Lifespan
Wright’s Coal Tar Soap comes in a 125g bar (approximately 4.4 oz), which is a standard size for bar soaps. It’s a hard bar that lasts quite a long time, especially if you store it in a cool, dry place between uses. Compared to softer soaps that tend to dissolve quickly, this one holds up well and doesn’t break apart easily.
Since the soap is durable and long-lasting, it provides good value for money. It’s suitable for both handwashing and body washing, making it a versatile addition to your bathroom.
In my case, a single bar lasted me over a month with daily use, which is longer than most other soaps I’ve tried. This durability made it feel like a smart purchase for regular handwashing and body care.
However, there are no other size options available, which might be a drawback for those who prefer smaller or travel-sized bars. If you’re looking for a soap that will last a long time and withstand daily use, Wright’s Coal Tar Soap delivers.
Brand Reputation
Wright’s Coal Tar Soap has a rich history dating back to 1860. It’s known for its traditional soap-making practices and its long-standing place in the market. The brand is now manufactured by Simple Health and Beauty Ltd, part of Unilever UK Ltd, which gives it a reputable backing.
Customer reviews for the soap are generally positive, with many people appreciating its classic scent and effective cleansing properties. However, some long-time users have expressed disappointment that the soap no longer contains actual coal tar, which was one of its original selling points.
In terms of social responsibility, Unilever has various sustainability initiatives, but there’s limited information specifically about Wright’s Coal Tar Soap. The packaging is recyclable, which is a positive, but there’s little data on the environmental impact of the soap itself.
Overall, the brand has a solid reputation for producing reliable, no-nonsense products, though it hasn’t seen much innovation in recent years.
Price and Value
One of the best aspects of Wright’s Coal Tar Soap is its affordable price. It typically costs around $4 per bar, making it reasonably priced for a basic, long-lasting soap. You can also find multi-pack offers online that provide even better value.
Given its durability and effectiveness, the soap offers good long-term cost savings. In my case, a single bar lasted me over a month with daily use, which is longer than most other soaps I’ve tried. This durability made it feel like a smart purchase for regular handwashing and body care. It doesn’t break easily, has a long shelf life, and provides excellent cleansing power. However, it’s important to note that it’s not a luxury soap, so if you’re looking for high-end packaging or premium ingredients, this might not meet your expectations.
Shipping costs and time will vary depending on where you buy it, but it’s widely available from both local stores and online retailers like Amazon and eBay.
Availability
Wright’s Coal Tar Soap is readily available in many countries. You can find it in supermarkets, pharmacies, and specialty stores. It’s also widely sold online, making it easy to get your hands on a bar regardless of where you live.
One thing to keep in mind is that the soap is not locally sourced in most countries, as it’s made in Turkey. If local sourcing is important to you, this might be a drawback.
The soap is often sold in multi-packs, which can save you money in the long run. Stock availability is generally good, and you’re unlikely to have trouble finding it.
Pros & Cons
- Affordable and long-lasting
- Classic, nostalgic scent
- Effective cleanser with deodorizing properties
- Recyclable packaging
- Widely available online and in stores
- Can be drying for some skin types
- No longer contains actual coal tar
- Strong scent may not appeal to everyone
- Basic, old-fashioned packaging
- Limited size options
Overall Rating
After using Wright’s Coal Tar Soap, I’d give it a 4 out of 5 stars. It’s a reliable, affordable bar soap that delivers on its promise of effective cleansing and a classic scent. However, the fact that it no longer contains coal tar might be disappointing for some users, and its drying effects could be a drawback for those with sensitive skin.
If you’re looking for a nostalgic, no-frills soap that gets the job done, Wright’s Coal Tar Soap is a solid choice. But if you need a more moisturizing or specialized soap, you might want to explore other options.
