Why We Don’t Use Palm Oil – and What That Means for Your Skin - Usk Valley Herbs

Why We Don’t Use Palm Oil – and What That Means for Your Skin

When we set out to make honest, hardworking soap, we made a decision one firm decision: no palm oil.

Not because it’s trendy. But because we think it matters — to your skin, to the planet, and to the kind of business we want to be.

What Is Palm Oil, and Why Is It in So Much Soap?

Palm oil is a cheap, versatile ingredient used in everything from shampoo to chocolate. In soap, it gives a hard bar and a stable lather — but we believe it comes at too much of a cost.

The palm oil industry has been linked to deforestation, loss of wildlife habitats, and exploitation of workers in countries like Indonesia and Malaysia. Even "sustainable" palm oil can be murky when you dig into the supply chain.

So it's a big 'NO' from us.

We'd rather the Orangutans and other wildlife kept their lovely habitats.

What We Use Instead

Instead of palm oil, we make our bars the traditional way — using natural plant oils that are better for your body and better for the planet.

Every bar is packed with a hardworking blend of:

Olive oil – gentle, conditioning, and rich in antioxidants

Coconut oil – gives a proper clean and a satisfying lather

Shea butter & kokum butter – deeply moisturising and protective

Essential oils & clays – natural scent and skin-loving benefits

This isn’t just feel-good fluff. These ingredients are effective, natural, and chosen with care to suit hardworking, sweaty skin — whether you’re out on the farm, up a hill, or hitting the gym. Plus they're 

What It Means for Your Skin

Here’s why switching to palm oil free soap makes a difference:

No harsh residues – Our soaps rinse clean without the build-up some palm-based bars leave behind.

Kind to sensitive or overworked skin – No synthetic fillers or aggressive lather agents.

Deep hydration – Our formula keeps the natural glycerin that forms during the soapmaking process. That means moisture stays locked in, even after a tough day’s graft.

No fake scents or colours – Just natural essential oils and clays that won’t irritate or overwhelm.

If your skin sees mud, sweat, dirt, grease, or hard graft, you need soap that works with it — not against it.

Why It’s Better for the Planet

Choosing skincare without palm oil is one small but powerful way to reduce your impact.

We’re proud to be among the growing group of soap and skincare brands in the UK doing things differently.
No rainforest harm. No greenwashing. Just good, honest soap from the wild hills of Wales.

Ready to Make the Switch?

If you’re after a palm oil free soap — made for skin that trains, works, and gets grubby — you’re in the right place.

Our soaps are:
 100% natural
 Palm oil free
 Handmade in small batches
 Tough on sweat, kind on skin

Soap as it should be. For skin that doesn’t mess around.

 

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