Alter/native Soaps by SUMA (sold in health shops)

Alter/native by Suma Soap Bars are made with natural ingredients, then packed in recycled paper. Containing olive and coconut oils, with shea butter and essential oils.

Many liquid and bar soaps strip skin of natural oils or cause irritation. Alter/native by SUMA soaps gently cleanse and leave a soft, comfortable feeling. The rich blend of coconut oil, olive oil and shea butter helps soothe dryness and works well for most skin types, even if you’re sensitive.

Choose unscented soaps for pregnancy/nursing and babies. Avoid shea butter for latex allergies. Don’t use ‘human’ soap on pets (due to different PH and ingredients – read more on giving dogs baths. 

SUMA is run by its workers as a co-operative. That means your money supports fair pay, strong working conditions and a business owned by its staff.

Why Choose Handmade Soaps?

Most soaps in shops are no longer made with animal tallow (sodium tallowate). But sodium palmate (palm oil) so no better, as its use is killing orangutans. Greenpeace says there is no such thing as ‘sustainable palm oil’ (a self-policed term from industry).

Real handmade soap (which retains glycerine, instead of selling it to industry) won’t dry your skin. Try using it and nothing else for a month, and see what happens!

Due to being more moisturising, store handmade soaps on a dry facecloth or slatted soap dish, to let water drain away, and help soaps last longer.