For over six centuries, Marseille soap has been made in southern France using traditional methods that combine purity, patience, and precision. Each cube or bar is a tribute to an ancestral savoir-faire passed down through generations of master soap makers — transforming simple natural ingredients into a gentle, eco-friendly product loved around the world.
A Heritage of Artisanal Excellence
The art of Marseille soap-making dates back to the 14th century. Today, only a few authentic soap factories — including Le Sérail, our trusted partner — still produce soap in the traditional way, ensuring the authenticity and exceptional quality of each batch.
How Marseille Soap Is Made
1. Saponification — The Heart of the Process
Everything begins with vegetable oils (traditionally olive oil), mixed with water and soda. This blend is heated in large cauldrons and slowly stirred, allowing the saponification reaction to occur. It’s here that oil becomes soap.
2. Cooking & Washing
The soap paste is cooked for several days under the careful supervision of the master soap maker. It is then washed with salt water to remove impurities and excess soda, ensuring a gentle, pure soap suitable for all skin types.
3. Pouring & Molding
Once the mixture reaches the perfect consistency, it is poured into large molds where it slowly solidifies. After cooling, the soap is cut by hand and stamped with the famous “Savon de Marseille” seal — a mark of authenticity and pride.
4. Drying & Finishing
The soaps are then left to dry naturally for several days or even weeks in ventilated spaces. This slow drying process gives them their signature hardness and exceptional longevity.
What Makes Marseille Soap Authentic
- Composition: Made exclusively from 100% vegetable oils — no colorants, no fragrance, no preservatives.
- Method: Produced using the traditional hot saponification process.
- Origin: Crafted in Marseille or Provence, following the centuries-old recipes that define true authenticity.
Why Choose Authentic Marseille Soap
Choosing authentic Savon de Marseille means embracing a natural, biodegradable, and eco-conscious lifestyle. It’s gentle on the skin, safe for the planet, and supports local artisans preserving a historic craft. From daily skincare to household cleaning, this soap is as versatile as it is sustainable.
A Living Symbol of Provence
More than a simple soap, Marseille soap embodies the spirit of Provence — its sun-drenched landscapes, its olive trees, and its tradition of craftsmanship. By choosing authentic Marseille soap, you’re choosing a piece of French heritage that celebrates nature, authenticity, and timeless beauty.
Crains Dégun – From Marseille, with heart.