A Brief History of Marseille Soap

If you've ever used a bar of Marseille soap, you know that it's unlike any other soap on the market. Marseille soap is made with olive oil, which gives it a unique texture and scent. But what's the story behind this iconic French product? Keep reading to find out!

Marseille soap gets its name from the city of Marseille in southern France. For centuries, Marseille has been known for its production of olive oil soap. The first recorded mention of Marseille soap dates back to 13th century Italy, where a document mentions the sale of "soap from Marseille." By the 17th century, Marseille soap was being exported all over Europe and was prized for its gentle cleansing properties.

How Marseille Soap Is Made
Traditionally, Marseille soap is made by combining olive oil, water, and sodium hydroxide (also known as lye). The mixture is then heated until it reaches a gel-like consistency. Once it reaches this point, it is poured into molds and left to cool and harden. After several weeks, the soaps are ready to be used!

What Sets Marseille Soap Apart?
One of the things that sets Marseille soap apart from other soaps is its high olive oil content. Most soaps on the market today contain very little olive oil (if any at all). However, olive oil has many benefits for the skin. It is packed with vitamins A and E, which are known for their anti-aging properties. Additionally, olive oil can help to soothe inflammation and irritations. That's why many people with sensitive skin prefer to use Marseille soap!

If you've never tried Marseille soap before, we highly recommend giving it a go. You may just fall in love with this traditional French product!