natural soap

In a world in which we’ve been bombarded with innovation in beauty products with a dizzying array of new formulations and chemicals, sometimes getting back to basics via natural ingredients concocted into centuries old, tried and true recipes is all your body really needs to look and feel great.

As an Italian gal who can’t get enough of olive oil beauty products, I’ve tried everything from hand and body soap to face oil, hair serums and even DIY’ed lipstick remover with a dab of EVOO (extra virgin olive oil) from my kitchen, you can say that I know a thing or two about the amazing beauty and health benefits of using this fabulous, antioxidant-rich fruit.

A brand that is certainly doing it right in this category is Michele Shamiyeh, founder of Zeetoon soap (which means “olive” in Arabic), who was inspired by the traditional soap makers found in Lebanon. After she researched, tested out, and scoured the  Mediterranean for the best options, Ms. Shamiyeh brought forth a 100% olive oil soap that is hard bar, thanks to a process that extracts the glycerin after curing the soap in small batches to make a sturdy, solid bar that will endure through dozens of uses as well as provide ultra moisturizing properties. As a result of her efforts, these first pressed extra virgin Lebanese olive oil soaps are easy to find in the USA and use, great for everything from the body to the face, appropriate for all skin types, even sensitive ones, and even safe for children.

The handmade soaps are fairly traded and come in a tightly edited variety of five Zeetoon soaps in two shapes (square or a rectangular bar) that include a select amount of scented extracts and oils. I tested out several of them this week, loving that the essence of rose found in the rose bar contains properties can treat skin concerns such as broken capillaries and eczema, while Zeetoon’s honey bar goes on smooth, with a clear layer that not only extra hydrates, but makes a great protective barrier for shaving.

Used in your shower or set on a soap dish in your guest bathroom, Zeetoon bars are sure to be put to good use time and time again, thanks to the ancient formulas that will have your body thanking you for all the natural goodness you’ll be receiving!

See Zeetoon.com for scent, size, and pricing options (approx. $7.58-$8.66 per soap).