13 Best Unscented Soaps To Try If You’re Sensitive To Fragrance
Use organic, soothing, and hypoallergenic unscented soaps to cleanse sensitive skin gently.
Dr. Anna H. ChaconMD, FAAD
Expertise: Dermatology
Experience: 9 years
Dr. Anna Chacon is a board-certified dermatologist specializing in medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology with over 9 years of experience. She enjoys practicing all aspects of dermatology and is licensed to practice in 49 states. She i... more
Expertise: Skin & Hair Care
Experience: 3 years
Kirtana has a postgraduate degree in mass communication and journalism from St. Joseph’s College, Bengaluru, and has 3 years of experience. She developed a deep passion for writing after reading the... more
Image: Shutterstock
If you are someone who is all for a fragrance-free life, then go for the best-unscented bar soap. Soaps with beautiful scents and aromas can be intoxicating and make you smell amazing. On the flip side, those with sensitive skin know the struggle. Scented soaps contain harsh chemicals and preservatives that can leave your skin red, itchy, and inflamed. Every time you shop for a soap, you will probably think twice before buying one. No matter how natural they are, they can still cause an allergic reaction and leave your skin redder rather than clean. That’s why dermatologists recommend unscented bar soaps for sensitive skin.
To help you end your struggle once and for all, we have curated a list of the best unscented bar soaps that will give you soft and smooth skin. Scroll down to check them out!
In This Article
Top 13 Unscented Soaps And Fragrance-Free Soaps – Our Reviews In 2023
1. A LA MAISON Hypoallergenic Unscented Bar Soap
Image: A La Maison The A LA MAISON Hypoallergenic Unscented Bar Soap is an ideal example of organic and biodegradable soap made by the centuries-old french milling process. It is a traditional soap bar made with vegetable oil. It has a glycerin-rich, smooth, lathering formula that is sensitive to your body and hands. The shea butter and argan oil in the formula give the soap a purely hydrating feature that transforms it into a premium hypoallergenic product.
Pros
- Organic
- Moisturizing formula
- Long-lasting
- Hypoallergenic
- Cruelty-free
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- SLS-free
Cons
- Some may find it oily.
2. Neutrogena Original Formula The Transparent Facial Bar
Image: Neutrogena Trial and error with different soap bars, especially if you have sensitive skin, is an herculean task. Fret not. Try this glycerin-rich unscented soap that washes away dirt, impurities, bacteria, oil, and grime to leave your face clean and clear. The dermatologist-recommended product is formulated without any harsh chemicals or dyes, and hence, does not clog your pores. It promotes healthy-looking skin. Gentle on skin, this hypoallergenic soap is available in original and fragrance-free bars. Click this video to learn more about the product.
Pros
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Promotes healthier skin
- Hypoallergenic
- No harsh chemicals or dyes
- Rich in glycerin
- Does not clog pores
Cons
- Some may find its natural scent to be unpleasant
Pro Tip3. The Seaweed Bath Co. Exfoliating Detox Body Soap
After a long stressful day, the first thing you look for is a detox. Let go of all your worries and have a soothing bathing experience to calm your mind and body with this unscented bar soap. The hand-harvested ingredients of this moisturizing unscented soap contain over 65 vitamins and minerals that exfoliate your skin, providing great detoxification, and better skin elasticity. This soap is formulated sustainably with coffee, kuikui oil, coconut oil, cinnamon bark powder, seaweed, and sunflower seed oil to offer deep hydration to your skin as it washes away dirt, impurities, and toxins from your skin. It promotes healthier, smoother, and firmer-looking skin. Rich in antioxidants, it also improves the skin tone and texture. Learn more about the product in this video.
Pros
- Paraben and sulphate-free
- Gluten-free
- Cruelty-free and vegan
- Purifies and nourishes skin
- Improves texture of skin
- Boosts skin elasticity
- Gives smooth and moisturized skin
Cons
- Some may find the natural scent to be unpleasant
Pro Tip4. Dr. Bronner’s All-One Hemp Baby Unscented Pure-Castile Bar Soap
Dive into the bathtub after a long, exhausting day with this unscented bar soap. Suitable for all, Dr Bronner’s has been formulating environmental-friendly products since 1948 as it believes “We are all one or none!”. This cruelty-free, vegan and pure unscented soap has a rich lather that won’t leave your skin dry. The gentle and mild ingredients of this excellent skincare product that include coconut oil, palm oil, olive oil, hemp oil, jojoba oil, sea salt, and citric acid ensure to make your skin soft and smooth. It is safe for use on face, body, and hair as it does not contain any synthetic preservatives, detergents or foaming agents.
Pros
- Non-GMO
- Organic and biodegradable
- Cruelty-free and vegan
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Leaves skin soft and smooth
- Moisturizes your skin
Cons
- It is not tear-free.
5. Dove Sensitive Skin Beauty Bar
Image: Dove The Dove Sensitive Skin Beauty Bar gently cleanses and nourishes your skin. It comes with a hypoallergenic formula that does not make your skin dry. The soap bar helps boost your skin’s radiance, while keeping it well-hydrated. The bar is recommended for daily use on your face, body and hands.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Gentle formula
- Suitable for daily use
- Suitable for sensitive skin
Cons
- May not lather adequately
6. Grandma’s Pure Lye Soap
Pamper your skin with some unconditional love like that of a grandma with this unscented bar soap. The clinically-tested soap is free of any harsh chemicals that cause allergic reactions or lead to itchy skin. Suitable for all skin types, it works great, especially for those with dry and sensitive skin or those suffering from acne, eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea. Its gentle and mild recipe is created with glycerin, and can soothe rashes and bug bites without leaving your skin feeling dry. This pure unscented soap can do wonders if you prefer to spend most time outdoors in the hot sun as it helps mask body odor.
Pros
- Clinically-tested
- Soothes irritated skin
- No harsh chemicals
- Suitable for all skin types
- Masks body odor
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- May not be suitable to use for hair wash
7. The Soap Haven 100% All Natural Goat’s Milk Soap
Specifically formulated for sensitive skin, this soap is made with pure and fresh goat’s milk, non-GMO soybean oil, coconut oil, palm oil, and sea salt. This goat milk unscented soap offers deep moisturization to your dry, itchy skin and nourishes it. It has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties of honey, one of the key ingredients in this unscented bar soap. Though unscented, you may find a faint scent of natural milk and honey. It is free of any harsh chemicals, and hence, gentle to use on your sensitive skin. It soothes skin affected with eczema or any allergies. Handmade in the USA, it promotes healthy and rejuvenated skin.
Pros
- Paraben and sulphate-free
- Non-GMO
- Ultra gentle on skin
- Specifically made for sensitive skin
- Nourishing formula
- Anti-inflammatory and antiseptic
Cons
- It may not be suitable for extremely sensitive skin.
8. Carolina Castile Soap Gentle Unscented Castile Soap
You need not spend money every now and then for this excellent skincare product for your sensitive skin anymore! This moisturizing unscented soap is denser and lasts longer than an average soap. The French milled bars made with natural ingredients that include palm oil, cocoa butter, olive oil, coconut oil, and glycerine help moisturize your face, hands, body, and hair. This certified organic product gently dissolves excess oils, restores your skin tone, and rejuvenates your skin to give it a brighter and youthful appearance. It also nourishes your sensitive skin and prevents dryness, itchiness, and skin irritation.
Pros
- Long lasting
- Cruelty-free and vegan
- Dissolves excess oils
- Restores skin tone
- Prevents dry, itchy skin
- Moisturizes your skin
Cons
- Some may find it slightly slippery.
9. Simplici Charcoal No Added Scent Hand Cut Bars
Your skin will thank you for gliding this unscented soap with amazing skincare benefits all over your body. The handmade charcoal soap gently exfoliates your skin and leaves it feeling clean with an easy rinse. This unscented soap is made in the USA especially for acne-prone skin as it can be extremely soothing and calming for your irritated and dry skin. Its fine ingredients are sourced from across the world and cold pressed to transform hog lard and coconut oil into a soap bar. The other key ingredients in the recipe include activated charcoal, and powdered marshmallow root. It forms rich lather that makes it good enough to also shave with.
Pros
- Offers gentle exfoliation
- Soothes skin
- Suitable for acne-prone skin
- Washes away dirt, impurities
- Long-lasting
- Handmade
Cons
- Some may find the large pieces of marshmallow root in the soap undesirable.
10. Dr. Woods Naturally Unscented Baby Mild Castile Soap
Just like its motto says, indeed ‘all things are good’ when you have this organic unscented soap. The skin lightening soap bar’s natural formula contains vitamin E, shea butter, and organic jojoba oil sourced from across the world to support small farmers and their families. The safe, natural and cruelty-free blend of its powerful ingredients and fatty acids ensure to protect, heal, and moisturize your skin. The mild unscented soap balances out your skin tone and texture and soothes it after gently exfoliating to wash away dirt, impurities, and excess oils. Suitable for all skin types, it gives you a youthful glow and can make your skin look and feel younger.
Pros
- Gluten-free
- Cruelty-free and vegan
- Paraben and sulphate-free
- Soothes and balances skin
- Gently exfoliates skin
- Suitable for all skin types
- Heals and moisturizes skin
- Brightens skin tone
Cons
- Slightly expensive
11. The Yellow Bird Shea Butter Unscented Soap Bar
This hypoallergenic unscented soap is as beautiful to look at sitting on your bathroom cabinet as it is to smell as its natural scent drafts through your bath. Specifically formulated for sensitive skin, it is free of chemicals, dyes, and other harsh ingredients that can cause any allergic reactions or irritation. It is non-comedogenic and hence, does not clog your pores. The moisturizing unscented soap hydrates your skin and prevents dryness and itchiness while nourishing your skin. A natural soap, it is gentle to use and mild enough for your children too. It is made in the USA using the cold pressing method with minimal, yet effective ingredients that include palm oil, sunflower oil, coconut oil, shea butter, and olive oil.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Vegan
- Non-comedogenic
- Makes skin soft and smooth
- Delicate on skin
- Suitable for sensitive skin
Cons
- Some may find the natural scent overwhelming.
12. Alaffia Authentic African Black Soap
This unscented soap builds a foundation for maintaining healthy, glowing skin as it detoxifies and purifies your skin. The triple-milled soap provides deep moisturization to your skin to prevent dryness. It works well for all skin types as a natural and effective cleanser. The raw ingredients are handcrafted by women in West Africa and it is made in the USA with a milling machine by the social enterprise. The emollient and moisturizing formula of shea butter, palm oil, charcoal powder, oatmeal, and coconut oil soothe skin irritation and provide long-lasting benefits. Use this soap and let your skin breathe better all day long.
Pros
- Unisex
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben and sulphate-free
- Detoxifying
- Promotes healthy skin
- Prevent dryness
- Soothes irritation
Cons
- Some may find it slightly expensive.
13. Peet Bros. Shea Butter Unscented Moisturizing Bath Bar
A self care routine begins with taking care of your own body and skin. So, show your skin some love with this unscented bar soap as it contains impressive moisturizing ingredients like shea butter, olive oil, aloe vera, coconut oil, and hemp oil. It offers a truly luxurious bath experience with its rich blend of natural fragrance of coconut and vanilla. It leaves your skin clean, smooth, and moisturized. The oil-free unscented soap has a great lather which works amazing for shaving. This cruelty-free and vegan product which is also free of palm oil can give you a good reason for you to switch to bar soaps from body washes.
Pros
- Paraben and sulphate-free
- No artificial scents or dyes
- Cruelty-free and vegan
- Rich in antioxidants and vitamin E
- Gentle to use
- Moisturizes and soothes skin
Cons
- Some may find it slightly expensive.
How To Choose The Best Unscented Soaps If You’re Sensitive To Fragrance
Cosmetic products are famously known for their amazing fragrances, but watch out for synthetic or artificial fragrances that are harmful. Especially if you have olfactory sensitivity and experience discomfort. It can be quite the task to look for the best unscented soaps, if you are sensitive to fragrance. This buying guide will help you to choose the best for yourself.
- Ingredients
Avoid harmful chemicals or harsh ingredients like parabens, sulfate, silicones, phthalate, and mineral oils that can damage your skin. Also, look out for ingredients that you may be allergic to, like gluten or witch hazel. Choose products enriched with ingredients like olive oil, activated charcoal, coconut oil, oatmeal, shea butter, castor oil, and aloe vera which prevent dryness, and offers a gentle cleanse along with moisturization.
- Skin Type
It is ideal that you consider your skin type before you choose a fragrance-free soap. For instance, if you have sensitive skin, choose soaps which are low on additives and have soothing ingredients. If you have acne-prone oily skin, stay away from essential oils and emollients which can trigger acne breakouts.
- Types Of Soaps
Are you looking for an exfoliating soap, a deep cleansing bar, or a target treatment bar? There are several soaps in the market which act as exfoliators and deep cleansers like charcoal cleansing bars, and some contain excessive oil and hydrating ingredients for deep moisturization. If you are looking for a soap that gives targeted treatments for back acne, eczema or bacterial infections, make sure you choose a quality soap that is specifically formulated for these skin elements.
Infographic: Tips To Make Unscented Soaps Last Longer
When you find a soap you like, you want it to last as long as possible. Unfortunately, due to the additives in the soap or the moisture in the environment, it disintegrates faster. Making your soap last longer benefits the environment and saves your money. Check out the infographic below to find some suggestions to extend the life of unscented soaps. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
Save the high-quality PDF version on your device now.
Download Infographic
If you are sensitive to fragrances, you need the best unscented soap bars to enjoy a refreshing shower experience. Scented soaps contain harmful chemicals that might irritate your skin and trigger sensitive skin concerns. Therefore, dermatologists recommend unscented soap bars for people who are sensitive to fragrances. The soaps listed in our article are free of harmful chemicals and preservatives, and the gentle, organic formulas do not leave your skin red, itchy, and inflamed. However, make sure you opt for a triple-milled, non-comedogenic, and hypoallergenic product while picking unscented soap bars.
How Do I Choose Unscented Bar Soaps?
- Triple-milled
It is better to opt for a triple-milled soap as it means the soap would neither be too rigid nor too soft that it loses its shape. Triple-milled or French-milled soaps pass through a milling machine of stainless steel rollers thrice to shape into more uniform and proper bars.
- Fragrance
Though the soaps are unscented, they do carry natural scents of the ingredients. Even though these scents do not last long, you may still want to check the label for ingredients so that you can pick the ones with your personal favorite-smelling ingredients.
- Non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic
If you have extremely sensitive skin, it is recommended that you pick soap bars that are free of harsh chemicals and other ingredients that can cause allergic reactions. Also, if it is non-comedogenic, you need not worry about it clogging your pores.
It is tricky to pick skin care products, especially if you have sensitive skin. You may often be sceptical about the product that you are choosing, wondering if its added fragrance could lead to breakouts or will it actually live up to the expectations that it creates with its advertising. While shopping for unscented soaps, it is not always obvious which ingredients contain scents. Some natural products can contain fragrance as well that may irritate your sensitive skin. However, when you opt for an unscented soap, you get to stay away from the agents that may aggravate your sensitivity to intense and overpowering scents as well as artificial fragrances.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Kirtana Divakar, the author of this article, is a skin care fanatic. She has browsed multiple forums for user feedback and checked numerous reviews online to compile the list of the best unscented bar soaps. If you are sensitive to fragrances and looking for fragrance-free formulas, she recommends these products. These bar soaps are dermatologically tested and ideal for sensitive skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does unscented soap work?
Unscented soaps can work well, especially if you have a sensitive skin. They cleanse and moisturize your skin, leaving it healthier and more supple minus the strong scent that your olfactory sense may be sensitive to.
Is unscented soap good for acne?
It’s not proven if unscented soap is good for acne but it can help prevent redness and skin irritation which could be symptoms of acne.
Is fragrance-free better than unscented?
Fragrance-free soaps are free of masking scents. Unscented soaps may contain certain agents used to mask the smell of other ingredients in the soap. It all boils down to personal preference.
Why do people use unscented soap?
People use unscented soaps to avoid skin sensitivities. Unscented soaps have fewer chemicals or toxins, which is great for sensitive skin.
How do I know if a soap is unscented?
If a product has no obvious scent or aroma, it is unscented.
Does unscented soap smell?
No, unscented soaps do not smell. However, they may have a slight smell of the active ingredients.
Is unscented soap the same as fragrance-free?
Unscented soaps mean that the product will not have any obvious smell, but may contain chemical neutralizers to mask the smell of the ingredients. On the other hand, fragrance-free means no masking scents are used in the product.
Recommended Articles:
- Best Safe Vaginal Or Unscented Soaps
- Best Glycerin Soaps For Supple Skin
- Best Soaps For Eczema You Should Try
