How to Choose a Handmade Turmeric Soap: What to Check on the Label
A plain guide to choosing a handmade turmeric soap in the UK: what the label must show, what natural origin figures mean, and questions to ask.
In short: When you choose a handmade turmeric soap, read the label. In the UK it must show the full ingredient list, a batch number, the weight, a durability date or period after opening, any warnings, and the name and address of the person responsible for it. Look for a natural origin figure that says how it was calculated, and buy from a maker who tells you where and how the soap is made.
Turmeric soaps are everywhere, from market stalls to large retailers. This guide explains what to check so you know exactly what you are buying.
What must a UK soap label show?
- The full ingredient list, using standard ingredient (INCI) names.
- The nominal weight, for example 100g.
- A batch number.
- A best before date or a period after opening symbol.
- Any precautions for use.
- The name and address of the responsible person in the UK.
Is turmeric near the top of the ingredient list?
Ingredients are listed in order of quantity, down to 1%. Below that they can appear in any order. Check where turmeric appears, and whether fragrance (Parfum) is included.
What does a natural origin percentage mean?
A natural origin figure tells you how much of the product comes from natural sources. It is only meaningful if the label says how it was worked out. Turmeric & Patchouli (Curcuma) is 99% natural origin, calculated under ISO 16128 with water included, and contains fragrance, listed as Parfum. The full ingredient list is on the product page.
Who made the soap, and how?
Every Holy Lama soap is made by hand at our own factory in Kerala, India, by a family business that dates back to 1946, and more than 80% of the people at our factory are women. Our soaps are vegan, SLS free and made on a virgin coconut oil base, and our products are registered with the Vegan Society.
How do you look after a handmade soap?
Keep it on a draining dish so it dries between uses. See our guide on how to make a handmade soap bar last longer, or read more in our turmeric soap guide.
Frequently asked questions
Must soap labels list every ingredient?
Yes. UK cosmetic labels must list all ingredients, in descending order down to 1%.
What is ISO 16128?
An international standard that sets out how to calculate natural origin percentages for cosmetic ingredients and products.
Is Turmeric & Patchouli soap vegan?
Yes. It is vegan and our products are registered with the Vegan Society.
Does it contain SLS?
No. Our soaps are SLS free.
Where is it made?
By hand at our own factory in Kerala, India.