What’s in a Bath Bomb? Diving into The Ingredients

What’s in a Bath Bomb? Diving into The Ingredients

Mar 18, 2025

Bath bombs are nothing new, yet they’ve come a long way. Once upon a time, we had bubble baths (they’re still awesome), but the new thing is bath bombs.

Bath bombs are more than nice colors, a sweet scent, and a foamy experience. Bath bombs are built to elevate your mood and wellness. They can pack several good ingredients, from natural herbs to essential oils, all taking care of you differently. 

Yet, like with any other product, having a bigger choice of anything can be daunting. With so many bath bombs landing on the shelves, choosing healthy can become a head-scratcher.

What product are you looking at?
Which ingredients are you after?
And what do you actually need? 

To choose a bath bomb that does the trick, you need to understand its anatomy and specific purpose. Let’s discuss what goes in a bath bomb, what to consider before choosing, and tips on choosing a product that goes beyond branding and does the actual work.    

The Core Ingredients of Bath Bombs

At the heart of every bath bomb is a simple chemical reaction that creates the signature fizz.

  • Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is the alkaline base
  • Citric acid provides the necessary acidity.

When they come into contact with water, they react, releasing carbon dioxide bubbles that create an effervescent experience. Cornstarch is often added to slow down this reaction, making the fizz last longer while also softening bathwater.

This is not the ingredients list for our bath bombs, but Recipe's By Carina has a great video on how to make your own bath bombs and what goes inside of one.

  • 225g Baking Soda
  • 113g Citric Acid
  • 113g Corn Flour (cornstarch)
  • 113g Epsom Salts
  • 1 tsp Water
  • 2 tsp Essential Oil
  • 3 tsp Oil ( I used olive oil) Food Colouring

Complementary Ingredients in Bath Bombs

Beyond the fizz, high-quality bath bombs contain essential oils like lavender for relaxation or peppermint for an energizing boost. Carrier oils, such as almond, coconut, or jojoba oil, provide hydration, leaving skin feeling soft. For visual appeal, colorants and dyes are used—some brands opt for natural pigments, while others use synthetic dyes.

Potentially Harmful Additives to Watch Out For

Not all bath bombs are created equal. Synthetic fragrances can cause skin irritation, especially for those with sensitivities. Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), a foaming agent, enhances bubbles but can strip the skin of moisture. Some bath bombs also contain glitter and plastic beads, which may look beautiful but can be harmful to the environment.

Can Bath Bombs Cause Skin Issues?

For those with sensitive skin, not all bath bombs are a safe bet. Artificial dyes and synthetic fragrances can trigger allergic reactions, leading to irritation, redness, or itching. Some bath bombs also contain harsh detergents that strip moisture from the skin, making conditions like eczema worse.

If you have eczema, sensitive skin, or are buying for children, look for fragrance-free, dye-free bath bombs made with natural oils and skin-soothing ingredients like goat milk or oatmeal for extra hydration.

Can Bath Bombs Cause UTIs or Yeast Infections?

Yes, certain bath bombs can contribute to urinary tract infections (UTIs) or yeast infections, especially those loaded with synthetic fragrances and irritants. These can disrupt the natural pH balance of delicate areas, creating an environment for bacterial overgrowth.

To reduce risk, choose pH-balanced, fragrance-free bath bombs and avoid products with SLS or artificial dyes. Limiting soak time and rinsing off with fresh water afterward can also help maintain balance.

Are Bath Bombs Safe for Pregnant Women?

Pregnant women should be mindful of essential oils in bath bombs. Some oils, like clary sage and rosemary, are known to stimulate contractions and should be avoided. Opting for mild, unscented versions with natural moisturizers like shea butter or coconut oil is the safest choice.

Always check with a healthcare provider before using any strongly scented or herbal-infused bath products during pregnancy.

Why Do Some Bath Bombs Float While Others Sink?

A bath bomb that floats typically contains lightweight ingredients like cornstarch or baking soda, allowing for a slow, even fizz across the surface. A sinking bath bomb is often denser, packed with moisturizing oils, natural salts , or butters that provide extra hydration. Neither is bad—floating bombs create a more visual effect, while sinking ones may offer deeper skin benefits.

Do Artisan Bath Bombs Work Better?

When it comes to bath bombs, quality matters. Artisan and branded bath bombs are carefully formulated for a balanced fizz, long-lasting scent, and skin benefits, while DIY versions often crumble or dissolve too quickly due to inconsistent ingredient ratios. 

Trusted brands prioritize high-quality ingredients, avoiding harsh chemicals and ensuring proper pH balance. Choosing a reputable brand means better hydration, reliable performance, and safer ingredients for sensitive skin.

Choosing the Best Bath Bomb for You

A good bath bomb should hold its shape, fizz evenly, and nourish your skin. Look for natural moisturizers like shea butter or coconut oil, and avoid artificial dyes and overpowering fragrances. For kids, dry skin, or sensitive skin, fragrance-free and goat milk-infused bath bombs provide gentle hydration. If sustainability is a concern, opt for eco-friendly bath bombs that use biodegradable packaging and plant-based colorants to minimize environmental impact.

Legend’s Creek Farm’s Bath Bombs: Luxury, at Your Fingertips

Bath bombs with goat milk go hand in hand, delivering a unique skincare and wellness experience.  

Legend’s Creek Farm isn’t just about the fancy products. We want to create a line of skincare that works, uses nature’s finest ingredients, and isn’t too harsh on your wallet. Our bath bombs are clean, packed with nourishing compounds, and dedicated to meet diverse needs. 

We go beyond the boujee, ensuring our products actually do the work. Our customers love it:


Packed with moisturizing oils, soothing goat milk, and skin-loving ingredients, they help restore hydration, lock in moisture, and start the healing process the moment you step into the bath. Find everything your skin needs to feel great, and nothing it doesn’t—explore our store today!

Everything your skin needs to feel great and nothing it doesn't.

Our line of all-natural goat milk products will help you find the perfect body and skin care routine, leaving you looking and feeling your best.

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