The Soapmaker explains: Marseille, Castile, and Aleppo Soap

Three traditions. Three formulas. One love: real soap.

Hello botanical beings,I’m The Soapmaker, and today we’re diving into the world of ancient soap making — the kind of formulas that have stood the test of time for centuries. Let’s explore three legendary soaps: Castile, Marseille, and Aleppo. All natural, all historic, and each with its own personality.

Castile Soap – The Spanish Minimalist

Originating in the Castile region of Spain, this soap is known for its simplicity. Traditionally made with 100% olive oil, it’s as pure as soap gets. Gentle, moisturizing, and ideal for sensitive skin or minimalists who love a clean formula.

• Base: Pure olive oil

• Foam: Creamy and light

• Color: Ivory to pale green

• Best for: Face, body, babies, sensitive skin

• Texture: Rich and soft, without drying

Marseille Soap – The French All-Rounder

This soap evolved from Castile’s tradition, but became its own icon in the south of France. It’s made with a mix of olive oil and other plant-based oils like coconut or palm, then cooked in large cauldrons over several days. It’s known for its versatility and cleansing power.

• Base: Olive oil plus coconut and/or palm

• Foam: Thick and bubbly

• Color: Olive green, beige, or golden

• Best for: Skin, laundry, household cleaning

• Texture: Cleansing, with a slightly stronger finish than Castile

Aleppo Soap – The Ancient Syrian Healer

Aleppo soap is considered the oldest known soap in the world, crafted in Syria for over a thousand years. It combines olive oil with laurel berry oil and is aged for several months to a year. It’s especially suited for troubled or reactive skin thanks to its purifying properties.

• Base: Olive oil and laurel berry oil (2% to 40%)

• Foam: Soft with a subtle herbal scent

• Color: Green inside, brown outside (from natural curing)

• Best for: Acne, eczema, scalp care, and deep skin balancing

• Texture: Earthy, therapeutic, rooted in tradition

Each soap carries a different story, shaped by its place of origin and the needs of the people who created it. If you're curious to try them, or to craft your own version with a herbal twist, I’ll meet you inside the Apothery app.

I’m The Soapmaker, and I believe making soap is more than a recipe — it’s a ritual of care, history, and transformation.

Let’s keep these traditions alive.