Solid soap vs. shower gel: which to choose according to your skin type?

For the past few years, solid soap has been all the rage in bathrooms.

In contrast, shower gel , practical and well known to all, remains the most common product in homes.

So then… solid soap vs. shower gel , which wins the match for your skin? 🤔

The answer depends on your skin type, your needs, and your habits.

At Nolla , we help you take stock. 😋

🧴 Shower gel: liquid softness and modern comfort

The shower gel is appreciated for its creamy texture , ease of use and sensory appeal.

Often enriched with fragrances and moisturizing agents, it can suit those who like quick, sometimes 2-in-1, routines. 😎

✅ Advantages:

  • Easy to dose 🧴
  • Quick application 💪
  • A "soft" sensation on the skin 🎀
  • Wide variety of textures and scents 🥰

❌ Something to watch out for:

  • Often contains sulfated surfactants , which are drying for sensitive skin 😭
  • Contains synthetic fragrances or allergenic preservatives ☠️
  • Plastic packaging, often single-use 🚮

💡 For whom?

The shower gel can be suitable for normal to oily skin , for people looking for a quick pampering moment or for those used to a liquid texture.

shower gel that is poured into a person's hand in the shower

🧼 Solid soap: a return to basics

Solid soap , long considered "old school," is making a strong comeback in modern, gentle, and natural versions. 🫶

For example, our soaps are formulated to respect both skin and the planet. No palm oil, no plastic, and simple, effective active ingredients.

✅ Advantages:

  • Formulas are often shorter and more natural 🍃
  • Zero plastic, minimalist packaging ♻️
  • More economical in the long run ⏱️
  • Perfect for sensitive skin , so well formulated (no harsh fragrance) 🤭

❌ Something to watch out for:

  • Requires a good magnetic soap dish to dry properly between uses 🫠
  • Less sensory if you like very rich mousses or creamy textures 🫧
  • Some very basic solid soaps can be too alkaline (be mindful of the pH). Consider choosing a soap-free option . 🧼

💡 For whom?

Solid soap is ideal for dry, sensitive or reactive skin , or for those who want a more ecological, minimalist and gentle routine.

round solid soap in a person's hand in the shower

⚖️ Solid soap vs. shower gel: what you need to know depending on your skin type

Skin type The right choice (neutral & objective)
Normal skin 🧑🦲 Shower gel or solid soap: both are suitable
Dry/reactive skin ❤️🩹 ✔️ Gentle, allergen-free solid soap with fragrance
Oily or combination skin 🧈 ✔️ Light shower gel OR purifying soap
Sensitive skin 🤕 ✔️ Fragrance-free & sulfate-free solid soap
Children / babies 👶 ✔️ Ultra-soft, suitable products, solid or liquid

🌱 In summary: adapt your skincare routine to your skin (not to the trend)

Between solid soap and shower gel , there is no right or wrong answer.

There's just what suits your skin, your values, and your everyday life . 🤷

At Nolla , we chose solid soap because it's gentle, simple, well-formulated, and fits into a more eco-friendly routine. 💚

Discover our range of solid soaps

Round bar soap and clear shower gel liquid next to it in a minimalist bathroom setting

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