Dermatologist Debunks Zote Soap for Skin: Myths and Risks Explained

Social media is full of DIY skincare hacks, and one of the most controversial claims is that Zote soap—a well-known laundry detergent bar—can be used as a facial cleanser. Many TikTok and Instagram users have suggested that it removes oil, dirt, and acne, making it a budget-friendly skincare solution.

However, dermatologist Javi Derma, known for his expertise in skincare, has debunked this myth, warning that using Zote soap on the skin can cause significant damage.

What Did Javi Derma Say About Zote Soap?

Javi Derma, a well-known dermatologist on TikTok, shared a video explaining the harsh effects of Zote soap on the skin.

His key points included:

• Zote is meant for laundry, not skin – It contains strong cleansing agents designed for removing fabric stains, not for facial cleansing.
• It can worsen skin conditions – People with dry skin, eczema, or sensitive skin may experience irritation, redness, and burning.
• It disrupts natural oil balance – While it may temporarily remove oil, it forces the skin to produce more sebum, leading to breakouts and excess oil production.

“For patients with atopic dermatitis, itchiness, or dry skin, using Zote soap is like causing a superficial burn—it will damage your skin significantly.”
— Javi Derma, Dermatologist

Why Zote Soap Should Not Be Used on Skin

1. It Has a High pH That Damages Skin Barrier

Healthy skin has a slightly acidic pH (around 5.5), which helps maintain moisture and protect against bacteria. Zote soap has a highly alkaline pH, disrupting the skin’s natural barrier and leading to dryness, irritation, and breakouts.

2. It Contains Harsh Ingredients

Zote soap is made with tallow and optical brighteners, which are effective for cleaning clothes but too aggressive for facial skin. These ingredients can strip away essential oils, causing tightness, flaking, and increased sensitivity.

3. It Causes Long-Term Skin Damage

While some users claim that Zote helps control oil, the temporary dryness actually triggers an overproduction of sebum, worsening acne and inflammation. In the long term, using such a harsh detergent can lead to premature aging and weakened skin defenses.

What Is Zote Soap Actually Good For?

Although Zote soap is not safe for skincare, it does have many beneficial uses:

• Laundry Detergent – It effectively removes stains and odors while being gentle on fabrics.
• Hand-Washing Clothes While Traveling – Its compact and long-lasting formula makes it ideal for washing clothes on the go.
• Household Cleaning – It can be used to clean upholstery, rugs, and even dishes.

The official manufacturer of Zote soap clearly states that it is designed exclusively for fabric use and not recommended for skin or hair.

What Are Safer Alternatives for Skincare?

Instead of using Zote soap on your face, dermatologists recommend:

• For Oily Skin: Use a salicylic acid cleanser to help control oil production without over-drying.
• For Dry Skin: Choose a gentle hydrating cleanser with ceramides and glycerin.
• For Sensitive Skin: Use fragrance-free cleansers with soothing ingredients like aloe vera or oat extract.

Final Verdict: Skip Zote Soap for Skincare

While Zote soap is a powerful laundry detergent, it is too harsh for the skin. Dermatologist Javi Derma warns that using it on the face or body can cause irritation, breakouts, and long-term damage.

For healthy, balanced skin, it is best to stick to dermatologist-approved skincare products rather than following viral TikTok trends that may do more harm than good.