Colorful, Not Chemical: How I Safely Color My Soaps

Colorful, Not Chemical: How I Safely Color My Soaps

Bright, vibrant soap doesn’t have to mean harsh chemicals. At Spring Valley Soapery, color is part of the joy—but I never compromise on safety or sustainability to get there.

Why Color Matters

Color makes soap fun. It turns your everyday routine into a sensory experience, grabs attention at craft fairs, and sets the tone for each bar’s scent and story. But not all colorants are skin-safe, and many commercial soaps rely on synthetic dyes that do more harm than good.

What I Avoid

Some ingredients might make soap look flashy, but they’re not worth the risk. You won’t find any of these in my bars:

• FD&C dyes with questionable skin safety records
• Mica sourced through unethical practices
• Plastic-based glitters or colorants
• Ingredients that stain your skin or your tub

I believe in vibrant soaps that leave nothing behind but good vibes and a clean rinse.

What I Use Instead

I handpick colorants that are both beautiful and safe:

• Natural clays (like rose, kaolin, and French green) that nourish the skin
• Oxides and ultramarines that are stable, vegan, and lab-tested
• Ethically sourced micas for shimmer without guilt
• Plant-based colorants like spirulina, turmeric, and indigo for earthy tones

These ingredients let me create stunning designs that are safe for sensitive skin (including my eczema-prone skin!).

Science + Intuition

Every batch is tested for consistency, safety, and performance. I make sure colors stay true, don’t bleed or fade, and complement the scent and feel of each bar. Soapmaking is equal parts art and science, and I take both seriously.

Sustainable Beauty

Fun doesn’t have to hurt the planet. I steer clear of microplastics and environmentally harmful additives. My soaps are meant to be a treat for your senses—not a burden on the earth.

It’s More Than Aesthetic

Yes, my soaps are eye-catching. But every swirl and shade is chosen with intention. You get:

• Real, handmade soap
• Bold, layered scents
• Skin-safe, ethical colorants
• A whole lot of heart behind the scenes

Thank you for being here for the fun, the color, the science, and the soul. Got a question about ingredients or want to see how a certain bar is made? Let me know—I love sharing the process!