When it comes to unwinding and pampering ourselves, a long, luxurious soak in the tub is high on the list. But whilst a spa-like pamper involving us surrounded by bubbles and gorgeous scents to relax is definitely warranted after a long day, the products we opt for can be the difference between a pamper that is healing versus one that is instead pretty damaging. Which is why we’re going to delve into why this can be at the detriment of your skin health and more importantly ways we can enjoy a soak where our skin will thank us just as much as our minds.

What Do Bath Oils Actually Do?

Whilst we’re all pretty familiar with bubble baths, bath oils might not be as widely know Much like bubble baths, bath oils are used to enhance the bathing experience. Where they differ though is that bath oils typically consists of natural oils, such as mineral or vegetable oils, that are specifically formulated for use in the bath. Bath oils are known for their moisturizing properties and the ability to soothe and nourish the skin. When added to a bath, they disperse in the water, creating a fragrant, luxurious, and skin-softening experience. So, let’s delve a little deeper into the debate of bubbles vs oil, and why it’s a no brainer!

Bursting the Bubble 

Bubble baths are notorious for containing a cocktail of chemicals and artificial fragrances. These ingredients, like Sodium Laurel Sulphate (SLS) while contributing to those fluffy bubbles, can also lead to skin irritation and dryness. This is because foaming detergents like SLS are potent degreasers and when applied to the skin, it doesn’t discriminate between the oils you want to remove (like dirt and impurities) and the essential oils your skin needs to stay hydrated. So if you have sensitive or allergy-prone skin, bubble baths may exacerbate issues like dryness, itching, or even rashes. The harsh chemicals in some bubble bath products whilst intended to be soothing can be a source of discomfort for many. The same chemicals that create those persistent bubbles can also strip your skin of its natural oils – leaving your skin feeling tight and dehydrated. The truth is if you’re seeking a bath to replenish your skin’s moisture, bubble baths are far from the ideal choice. Fortunately, this doesn’t have to mean the end of a soothing soak at the end of the day. Bath oils are free from detergents, with the focus instead being on nourishing and hydrating oils to leave the skin feeling replenished, and will instead contain a form of emulsifier to allow the product to disperse into the water. In other words, it’s a treat for your mind and your skin.

Scent To Soothe The Mind (And Skin?)

Bubble bath products have long been lauded for their ability to create a fragrant escape. The captivating scents wafting from the bathwater can be delightful, and they often play a crucial role in establishing a soothing atmosphere for relaxation. However, these scents can and do come at a cost. Bubble baths are often loaded up with artificial fragrance, usually labelled simply as ‘parfum’ as allowed by industry trade laws. In other words, companies are not legally required to disclose the specific ingredient – many of which are known carcinogens – and can instead lump them all under the title of ‘parfum’ or ‘fragrance’. Green washing in the cosmetics industry has led to more use of essential oils in an attempt to shun the use of artificial fragrance, marketing essential oils as nature’s scent. And whilst this may be a form of naturally derived scent, this does not mean they are therefore good for the skin. Essential oils are actually very drying and damaging to the skin, causing irritation to the skin barrier. Instead, when choosing a bath oil that focuses on the health of your skin, naturally derived scent can still fill your bath with an aroma that leaves you to unwind in peace. This can come from various plant extracts that still give off delicate notes of scent, without an overwhelming, artificial side of it.

Diluted Detergent vs Waterless Oil

Another thing to consider when looking for a product to ignite that spa-like sensory without damaging our skin, is the water content. As with skincare, many bath products contain very little active ingredients, and are often diluted, with up to 70% of the product just being water. Not only does this cut costs for skincare companies by bulking up products, it leaves us with dryer, more easily irritated skin – so we definitely aren’t getting our money’s worth to say the least. Which is why opting for a pure, potent, waterless bath oil not only gives you the most for your money, bath oils are specifically formulated to nourish and moisturise your skin leaving your skin soft, supple, and rejuvenated.

A Bath Oil That Does It All

Having that little me-time at the end of the day can be just the thing we need to put down our mental load. And just like our minds have to face the challenges of day-to-day life, so too does our skin. From harsh and ever-changing climates, to polluted environments and even sun exposure throughout the day – our skin deals with it all. Which is why it is more than deserving of a product which works with the skin, and not against it. At Vemel we created our naturally scented Bath Oil; with the gorgeous aroma of winter spiced vanilla, derived only from raw ingredients, this product can transform your evening soak into a luxury spa at home. Completely waterless and filled with oils and extracts, from sweet Almond and Evening Primrose Oil, to Natural Dried Sweet Orange Slice and Juniper Berries co2 extract – this bath oil is filled with all the right ingredients to retain moisture in the skin, leaving it plump and healthy so you aren’t left with that tight, dry feeling post soak. Each purposeful and hand selected ingredient has been chosen to elevate your experience, take Juniper Berries for example, this powerful plant is known for its ability to soothe stuff joints and aching muscles. And we all know how important a calming scent can be to transform your bath experience by appeasing all your senses. Which is why this bath oil in particular has been the greatest scent breakthrough for Vemel as a brand. Our founder Agi describes this best when delving into the core values of the brand and how it shows through in the creation and curation of every product; ‘Vemel stands for meaningful & purposeful ingredients, take vanilla & juniper co2 extracts. In your everyday bath oils fragrance is used, which can cost as little as £0.05 per 1 gram – with no benefits to your skin. Our vanilla CO2 extract costs £1 per 1 gram and offers not only a calming experience for your mind but also soothing effects on the skin’. Ultimately, the health of your skin should never be compromised, which is why we believe there are no sacrifices needed when opting for the right product. So, the next time you’re preparing for a bath, consider indulging in the liquid luxury of waterless bath oil – your skin and your senses are sure to thank you.