For sensitive skin, handmade soap is generally better than commercial soap because it retains natural glycerin, uses gentler ingredients, and often has a balanced pH, while commercial bars may strip moisture and contain harsh detergents and synthetic fragrances. However, not all handmade soaps are equal, and some commercial options can be suitable if carefully formulated. Always patch test first and look for simple, skin-friendly ingredients. What Makes Handmade Soap Different from Commercial Soap Handmade soap is created through the saponification process, where natural oils and fats react with an alkali, such as sodium hydroxide, to produce soap and glycerin. In traditional cold-process soapmaking, the glycerin—a natural humectant that draws moisture into the skin—is left intact. This is a key…