Scented handmade soaps

Market Insights on Scented Handmade Soaps

Market Size: The global bar soap market, which includes a significant segment for scented handmade soaps, is projected to achieve a value of $45.8 billion by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.2% from 2023 to 2030. In 2022, the market experienced a substantial volume increase, reaching over 16 billion units sold, reflecting a growth of 7.0%. The demand for natural and organic formulations is surging, with the natural segment expected to command approximately 20% of the market share by 2030, highlighting a shift towards cleaner, eco-friendly options.

Consumer Insights: The primary consumers of scented handmade soaps are health-conscious individuals, particularly Millennials and Gen Z, who prioritize efficacy, ingredient transparency, and sustainability. The rise in the popularity of organic certifications, such as USDA Organic, resonates with consumers concerned about harmful chemicals. Furthermore, there is a growing demand for products catering to specific skin concerns, such as sensitivity or hydration, indicating an unmet need for tailored skincare solutions.

Distribution Channel Dynamics: In 2022, supermarkets and hypermarkets dominated the distribution landscape, accounting for the largest revenue share due to their extensive product range and promotional visibility. However, e-commerce is rapidly gaining traction, providing consumers with access to niche and artisanal scented handmade soaps that may not be available in physical stores. This shift underscores the importance of online presence for brands targeting modern consumers who value convenience and variety.

Types of scented handmade soaps

Scented handmade soaps are a great way to pamper oneself. They not only cleanse the skin but also offer an aromatic experience. Different types of scented handmade soaps are available depending on the ingredients used to make them.

• Glycerin Soaps

  Glycerin soaps are transparent and often have a glass-like appearance. They are made by combining glycerin, water, and lye. Sometimes, other oils like coconut oil or palm kernel oil are added. These scented handmade soaps retain the glycerin produced during the soap-making process. This helps to moisturize the skin. They are gentle on the skin and do not dry it out. They are also mild and do not have a strong soapy smell. The smell of the soap depends on the essential oils added during the soap-making process.

• Lye Soaps

  Lye is an essential ingredient in scented handmade soaps. It is a chemical that saponifies the oils used to make the soap. Without lye, the oils will remain as oils. The process of adding lye to oils is called saponification. It turns the oils into soap. Lye soaps have a strong soapy smell. The smell depends on the essential oils added to the soap. It is also the type of oil used to make the soap. Some manufacturers use coconut oil, palm oil, or olive oil.

• Coconut Oil Soaps

  Coconut oil makes an excellent base for scented handmade soaps. This is because it produces a lot of lather when it is made into soap. Coconut oil soaps are very cleansing. However, they can be very drying because the lather is too bubbly. Some manufacturers add other oils like shea butter or cocoa butter to moisturize the skin.

• Palm Oil Soaps

  Palm oil is similar to coconut oil. It also makes a great base for scented handmade soaps. Palm oil is derived from palm trees. It is used in a lot of commercial soaps. This is because it makes the soaps firm and easy to cut. Palm oil also provides a silky feeling when bathing. It is sometimes combined with other oils to make the soap.

• Glycerin Soaps

  Glycerin soaps are transparent and often have a glass-like appearance. They are made by combining glycerin, water, and lye. Sometimes, other oils like coconut oil or palm kernel oil are added. These scented handmade soaps retain the glycerin produced during the soap-making process. This helps to moisturize the skin. They are gentle on the skin and do not dry it out. They are also mild and do not have a strong soapy smell. The smell of the soap depends on the essential oils added during the soap-making process.

• Lye Soaps

  Lye is an essential ingredient in scented handmade soaps. It is a chemical that saponifies the oils used to make the soap. Without lye, the oils will remain as oils. The process of adding lye to oils is called saponification. It turns the oils into soap. Lye soaps have a strong soapy smell. The smell depends on the essential oils added to the soap. It is also the type of oil used to make the soap. Some manufacturers use coconut oil, palm oil, or olive oil.

• Coconut Oil Soaps

  Coconut oil makes an excellent base for scented handmade soaps. This is because it produces a lot of lather when it is made into soap. Coconut oil soaps are very cleansing. However, they can be very drying because the lather is too bubbly. Some manufacturers add other oils like shea butter or cocoa butter to moisturize the skin.

• Palm Oil Soaps

  Palm oil is similar to coconut oil. It also makes a great base for scented handmade soaps. Palm oil is derived from palm trees. It is used in a lot of commercial soaps. This is because it makes the soaps firm and easy to cut. Palm oil also provides a silky feeling when bathing. It is sometimes combined with other oils to make the soap.

How to choose scented handmade soaps

Many factors come into play when choosing scented handmade soaps for retail or wholesale business. Here are tips to help buyers make the right choice.

• Understand the Market

  Research the target customers to know their needs and preferences. Look for trends in the areas where the soap will be sold. Check what types of soaps are popular and what scents attract customers. This data will give insights into what kind of scented soap to stock.

• Know the Scents

  Familiarize oneself with the various scents available. Learn about the source of the scent and its uses. For instance, lavender has a relaxing effect, and citrus scents are uplifting. Find out which scents are popular and those that trigger allergic reactions. This knowledge will help to choose the right products for the market.

• Pick Unique Scents

  Opt for scented soaps that stand out from the regular ones. Choose those with unique scents or those that offer a new twist to familiar scents. Unique products are more likely to attract customers and increase sales. Look for seasonal scents that can be sold at certain times of the year, like gingerbread soap during the Christmas season.

• Consider Quality

  Choose scented soaps made from quality ingredients. The soap should lather, clean, and be gentle on the skin. Review the ingredients list and avoid those with harsh chemicals. The scent should arise from natural essential oils, not artificial additives. Quality soaps will please customers and keep them coming back.

• Check Variety

  Offer different types of scented soaps. Provide classic scents like lavender or vanilla and unique ones. Stock various soap bars, such as glycerin soap, herbal, and oatmeal bars. Consider different product forms, like travel-sized soap bars and bulk soap. Offering a wide choice will attract more customers.

• Consider Packaging

  Think about how the soap will be packed. Attractive packaging will catch the eyes of customers. It will also make the soap gift-ready. Find out if the packaging affects the scent. Choose packs that preserve the scent and enhance the soap's appeal. Also, consider sustainable packaging options that are eco-friendly.

• Test the Soaps

  Buy samples of the soaps and test them before choosing them. Check the scent, feel, and look of the soap. Ensure it looks great and smells good. Consider the lather and how it feels on the skin. Test different samples and pick those that appeal to the senses. Ask clients for their feedback on the soaps.

• Know the Price

  Consider the cost of the soap and the profit margin. Compare the price to those of other scented soaps. Determine the value the soap offers to clients and set a fair price. Avoid stocking overpriced soaps that are hard to sell.

How to use, install, and product safety

How to use

Using scented soap is pretty simple and brings an enjoyable experience. Here is how to use them:

• Prepare the soap

  Put the scented soap in a soap dish or the bathtub so it is easily reachable. If the soap has a wrapper, peel it off carefully so the soap does not break.

• Wet the body

  Use warm water to wet the whole body. Warm water opens up the pores for better cleansing and leaves a relaxing feeling.

• Lather the soap

  Pick the soap bar and wet it. Start to lather it gently with circular motions. If it is a liquid soap, pour a little on a washcloth and lather it. The lathering brings out the scent and makes it more enjoyable.

• Cleansing

  Use the soapy lather to cleanse the body. For bars, use a washcloth or sponge to work the lather. Focus on body parts that sweat more, like the armpits and feet. Enjoy the soothing scent as you cleanse.

• Rinse off

  When done, rinse the body with warm water. Wash off all the soap thoroughly so no residue is left. The scent will still linger in the air, creating a nice atmosphere.

• Dry off

  Get a clean towel and dry the body off. The skin will feel soft, clean, and refreshed. Put on a moisturizer to lock in the scent and hydrate the skin.

Product Safety

• Know the skin type

  Each soap has different ingredients that work on the skin in various ways. Understand the skin type to know how to select the right soap for the skin.

• Research the Ingredients

  Avoid scented soap with harmful chemicals. Research shows that some essential oils have harsh chemicals. Check the list of the ingredients and avoid those that can irritate the skin.

• Do a Patch Test

  Before using any new scented soap, do a patch test. Apply a little on the inner arm and wait a day to observe the reaction. If the skin turns red or feels itchy, do not use it.

• Keep away from sensitive areas

  Do not use on sensitive areas like the vagina or face. Those areas are delicate and need special treatment. Use only soap made for those areas.

• Store it properly

  Keep scented soap in a cool, dry place. Exposing it to sunlight can break down its ingredients. It will lose its scent and health benefits.

Functions, features, and designs of scented handmade soaps

Scented handmade soaps have many features and functions that make them attractive to people. Here are some of them:

• Organic

  Organic soaps are made from natural ingredients. They contain no artificial ingredients or chemicals. That is why they are gentle on the skin. They also have many health benefits. For example, olive oil is an organic ingredient in soap. It is known to hydrate the skin and keep it soft. Organic lavender oil also helps soothe the skin and relax the mind.

• Antibacterial

  Some scented handmade soaps have antibacterial properties. They contain ingredients that kill bacteria. These soaps are a good choice for people with acne. This is because they remove acne-causing bacteria from the skin. Tea tree oil and coconut oil are some antibacterial ingredients in soap.

• Aromatherapy

  Some scented soaps are made with aromatherapy essential oils. These oils have scent that provide a lot of benefits. For example, lavender oil has a calming effect. It is good for people who are stressed or anxious. Peppermint oil can help improve focus and clarity. It is a good choice for people who are feeling sluggish.

• Vegan

  Vegan soaps do not have any animal ingredients like honey or beeswax. They are made from plant-based ingredients. Vegans also use natural ingredients like shea butter and olive oil. They do not contain any chemicals or artificial scents. That makes vegan soap a great choice for people with sensitive skin.

• Moisturizing

  Many scented handmade soaps have moisturizing ingredients. These include shea butter, cocoa butter, and olive oil. These ingredients help prevent the skin from drying out. They also keep the skin soft and smooth.

• Exfoliating

  Some scented soaps are made with exfoliating ingredients. These ingredients help remove dead skin cells. They make the skin look youthful and glowing. Exfoliating the skin also improves blood circulation. It is a great choice for people who spend a lot of time in the sun.

Q&A

Q1. Are scented handmade soaps good for the skin?

A1. Yes, scented handmade soaps are generally better for the skin than commercial bars. They contain moisturizing oils like olive and coconut, which hydrate the skin. Natural scent from essential oils can boost your mood. Handmade soap also cleans gently without stripping the skin of its natural oils, leaving it feeling soft and smooth.

Q2. What is the shelf life of handmade scented soap?

A2. The average shelf life of scented handmade soap is 6 to 12 months, depending on the ingredients. Those with lots of natural oils and butters last longer. Essential oils used for fragrance can also affect how long the soap is good. For example, lavender oil preserves better than citrus. Soaps stored in a cool, dry place away from sunlight last best.

Q3. Can scented handmade soap be used on the face?

A3. Some scented handmade soaps are suitable for facial cleansing, while others are not. The key is knowing if the soap matches the needs of the more delicate facial skin. Soaps made with ingredients like goat milk, honey, mild essential oils, or oatmeal are gentle for the face. Avoid bars with very strong scents or harsh additives like alcohol if used on the rest of the body.

Q4. How should scented handmade soap be stored?

A4. Proper storage helps scented handmade soap maintain quality longer. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can fade colors and diminish the scent over time. Moisture damages soap, so avoid humid areas like bathrooms. A drawer or shelf is better. Leave air holes open on the packaging to prevent musty buildup but don't fully unwrap bars, which lets them lose properties. For long-term storage, wrap each bar in plastic or wax paper to seal it.

Q5. How can I tell if handmade soap is still good to use?

A5. Check visual and smell signs to know if handmade soap is still good. Look for white spots called "sodium lactate bloom" - it's harmless. The soap may also look duller than when first made, which is nothing to worry about. Gently sniff it. If the scent seems weak or musty, it isn't quality. But strong soaps should still work well, just less vibrantly. Trust your senses: sight and smell to judge soap's usability.