What Are Solid Lotion Bars & Why Are They So Unique?

Solid Lotion Bars:

Before we talk solid lotion bars, understand the basics of moisturizers. Most moisturizers serve the purpose of holding onto water in the outer layer of skin. In other words not allowing water to escape. In turn, keeps things looking and feeling more hydrated.

Some oils, butters, or added ingredients are based solely on smoothing the skin or acting as emollients, like jojoba oil. Others are high in ingredients such as glycerin and other humectants that draw water into the skin. 

The Rise of Solid Lotion Bars and Their Environmental Impact!

In today’s eco-conscious world, low-waste products are gaining immense popularity. From innovative toothpaste solutions to sustainable soaps, an array of low-waste products is available for those aiming to minimize their environmental impact and embrace a more sustainable lifestyle.

Low-waste products aren’t just about reducing our personal ecological footprint; they represent a movement influencing small businesses and, hopefully, inspiring larger cosmetic and bath & beauty manufacturers to adopt greener practices. The collective shift towards such products accelerates the transition to a more sustainable market.

Among these eco-friendly innovations are solid lotion bars. These bars are not only a trendy addition to the low-waste movement but also a blend of aesthetics and functionality. Available in a variety of designs, from understated elegance to bold and unique, they offer a range of scents to suit different preferences.

The advantages of low-waste lotion bars are plentiful. They’re typically made with all-natural ingredients, devoid of harsh chemicals, and are known for their delightful fragrances and exceptional moisturizing properties. Furthermore, these solid skincare options are compact and travel-friendly.

In addition to the product itself, some companies are taking sustainability a step further by adopting eco-friendly packaging solutions. This approach reinforces the commitment to environmental responsibility, right from the product to its packaging, making solid lotion bars an excellent choice for those who prioritize both skin health and environmental wellness.

What Are Solid Lotion Bars?

Solid lotion bars are essentially a block of solid lotion. Solid lotion bars produce less waste and can be used directly on the skin. Lotion bars typically stay solid at room temperature and come in a variety of scents and designs. 

Many of them may even resemble bars of soap. These are a fun play on your typical creamy (liquid-based), rub on lotions. In fact, many DIYers or sellers of solid lotion bars are integrating natural exfoliants into their recipes.

Typically the oils that produce these solid bars of lotion have lower melt points. Consequently, they will easily start to melt when they are exposed to your skin. The goal is to use oils and percentages of oils that will readily and more easily absorb into the skin. Thus, not leaving your skin with that “greasy” feel. 

Ingredients used in solid lotion is typically very small. Oftentimes, “less is more”. When it comes to stay on body lotions, this is the case! Who wants a bunch of synthetic ingredients sitting and absorbing into their skin?!

Read more about some of the typical oils & butters that produce these bars of solid lotion. For example, coconut oil, shea butter, sweet almond oil, jojoba oil and olive oil.

Why Are Solid Lotion Bars Great?

They Are Eco-Friendly:

Carrying a small lotion bottle for convenience, whether in your purse or vehicle, is a common practice. However, the environmental impact of these drugstore lotions is increasingly concerning. The reality is that most of the plastics used in these lotion bottles aren’t recycled but end up in landfills, where they pose a significant environmental problem due to their slow decomposition rate.

More importantly are “microplastics”. Commonly found in personal care and cosmetic formations. These are particle size and shapes, that help to get a certain “feel”. According to IVM Institute for Environmental Studies 2014, these plastics are emitted to the environment through waste water.

The issue extends beyond just packaging; the contents of the product can also be potentially harmful. In contrast, many lotion bars are now being designed with eco-friendly packaging. The absence of a container for the lotion itself significantly cuts down on the plastic waste that is typically associated with conventional lotion bottles.

Men & Women: Use Them Right After A Shower Or Shave!

In today’s world of skincare, it goes without saying the importance of moisturizing, but when? Probably the best times to moisturize is after a a shower, shave or even exfoliating session. “Hot showers may be relaxing, but they strip the oils out of your skin“.

It’s important to note that the proportions of oils and butters can differ in each lotion bar. Generally, these bars start to melt within approximately 30 seconds to 1 minute upon exposure to your body heat.

The warmth from simply holding them in your hands or the steam from a hot shower can effectively aid in melting the lotion bar for easier application.

Contains Far Fewer Toxins and Impurities:

One of the biggest benefits of solid lotion bars is their natural ingredients. The University of Tennessee Medical Center discusses the importance of choosing lotions, rich in Vitamins A, and B (for skin firmness), and Vitamin C and E (to protect the skin).
Many commercial lotions are filled to the brim with toxins and other chemicals. It is hard to even pronounce some of the ingredients listed in lotion bottles, right? 

This is less of a problem with lotion bars, as they are made from mostly natural oils and butters. 

Final Thoughts!

Understanding your skin type is a crucial aspect of this process, right?

• Do you have sensitive skin?
• Or perhaps, dry skin?
• Are you dealing with oily skin?
• Maybe a combination of different skin types?

Also, consider what you aim to achieve with your skincare. Are you looking for increased firmness, or maybe relief from allergies?

It’s essential to know your skin and be clear about your skincare goals. We encourage you to share with our community any all-natural solid lotion bars you’ve tried and your experiences with them.

References:

• https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-skin/in-depth/moisturizers/art-20044232
• https://www.ivm.vu.nl/en/Images/Plastic_ingredients_in_Cosmetics_072014_FINAL_tcm234-409859.pdf
• https://www.vetiversolutions.org/what-is-a-lotion-bar/
• https://bodylish.com/blog/three-reasons-why-lotion-bars-are-better-than-lotion/
• https://www.utmedicalcenter.org/the-importance-of-moisturizing/#:~:text=The%20most%20important%20times%20to,leaving%20it%20parched%20and%20dry.