Marseille soaps

Green Marseille soap is made from olive oil, which gives it its typical green color. Slightly more moisturizing and soothing, it is generally recommended for skin care. White Marseille soap, on the other hand, is made from vegetable oils such as coconut or palm oil. Its neutral color and the fact that it foams more than its green counterpart mean that it is generally used more for laundry and household purposes. However, both soaps are effective in different situations.

Authentic Marseille soap is 100% natural and must contain only vegetable oils (no animal fats), lye, water, and salt, with no additives, dyes, or preservatives. It is made using a traditional hot saponification process in cauldrons in Provence.

Authentic soap has a firm texture and a natural scent that can sometimes be a bit strong (due to the olive oil). Certification by the Union of Marseille Soap Professionals ensures that all these criteria are met.

The main difference lies in the oils used. Green Marseille soap is traditionally made from olive oil, which gives it its natural color and skin-nourishing properties. White soap, on the other hand, is made from vegetable oils such as coconut or palm oil, without olive oil. It generally lathers more and is better suited for household uses and laundry. Green soap is therefore preferred for body care, while white soap is often chosen for its cleaning effectiveness.

Marseille soap in bar form is the most traditional product, with a very simple formula consisting of just five ingredients and containing no additives. In contrast, liquid Marseille soap is often made from diluted soap paste, to which water and sometimes preservatives and fragrance—particularly scents from Grasse—are added. Its texture makes it more convenient for daily use, but its composition is generally more complex. Marseille Soap in a bar therefore remains simpler, more natural, and more versatile, while liquid Marseille soap is more sensorial and practical for cosmetic use.