Before the neon colors, the popping candy, and the soothing essential oils, there was a simple problem: baths were a bit… boring.
Today, the bath bomb is a global phenomenon, but its story begins in 1989 in a garden shed in Dorset, England. At Lush, we don’t just make bath bombs; we invented them. Here is the story of how Mo Constantine, Lush Co-founder, changed the way the world soaks.
The "Effer-vescent" Beginning
The inspiration for the bath bomb didn’t come from a beauty lab, but from a pharmacy. Mo Constantine was fascinated by the fizzing action of Alka-Seltzer tablets. She wondered if she could recreate that satisfying, effervescent experience on a larger scale—one that could carry skin-softening ingredients and aromatherapy oils directly into bathwater.
Using a simple mixture of sodium bicarbonate and citric acid, Mo began hand-pressing the very first "Aqua Sizzlers" in her shed. This humble beginning eventually led to the patent of the world’s first bath bomb.
Why Lush Made It: More Than Just Bubbles
While traditional bubble baths rely on synthetic surfactants (like SLS) to create foam, Lush wanted to create something different for three specific reasons:
1. The Art of "Slow Bathing"
Lush wanted the bath to be an immersive experience. Unlike liquid soap that disappears into the water, a Bath Bomb creates a spectacle. From the multi-layered colors of Intergalactic to the floating flower petals of Tisty Tosty, it turns a daily chore into a 20-minute art installation.
2. Preserving Essential Oils
By keeping the ingredients in a dry, solid state, the essential oils remain potent and fresh until the moment they hit the water. This allows for a much more intense aromatherapy experience. Whether it's the calming lavender in deep sleep or the energizing citrus in Avo bath, the scent is "unlocked" only when you're ready to enjoy it.
3. Fighting Plastic Waste
One of the core reasons Lush continues to innovate with the bath bomb is its "Naked" packaging. Because bath bombs are solid, they don't require plastic bottles. Since their invention, Lush bath bombs have saved millions of plastic containers from ending up in landfills.
The Evolution: From Sizzlers to Masterpieces
Since 1989, the bath bomb has evolved significantly:
The 90s: Focused on simple scents and skin-softening minerals.
The 2010s: The birth of "Bath Art." Lush introduced multi-layered bombs that create intricate swirls of color.
2026 and Beyond: Today, we incorporate CBD, magnesium for muscle recovery, and biodegradable luster to ensure our bath bombs are as kind to the planet as they are to your skin.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Bath Bomb
To honor the history of this invention, we recommend the "Lush Way":
Fill your tub with warm water.
Gently drop your chosen bomb into the water.
Don't rush. Watch the colors unfold and breathe in the essential oils.
Step in and let the sodium bicarbonate soften your skin and the minerals relax your mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who actually invented the bath bomb?
The bath bomb was invented in 1989 by Lush co-founder Mo Constantine. Working in her garden shed in Dorset, UK, she was inspired by the fizzing action of Alka-Seltzer tablets and wanted to create a product that offered the same effervescent joy but with skin-softening benefit
What was the first-ever bath bomb called?
Before they were known as "bath bombs," Mo Constantine called her creations "Aqua Sizzlers." The very first one was a simple, disc-shaped fizzer infused with French lavender oil to promote relaxation.
Do Lush bath bombs expire?
Because we use fresh, natural ingredients and very few preservatives, we recommend using your bath bomb within 6 months of purchase. While they won't "go bad" in a way that's harmful, they will lose their fizzing power and the scent of the essential oils will begin to fade over time.
How should I store my bath bombs to keep them fresh?
Bath bombs are very sensitive to moisture in the air. To keep them "sizzling," store them in a cool, dry place away from your steamy bathroom. An airtight glass jar or a sealed container is perfect for preserving their color and fragrance
Can I use a bath bomb if I have sensitive skin?
Yes! In fact, Mo Constantine originally invented the bath bomb because she wanted a product that was gentle enough for her own children's skin. Look for bombs like butterball, which is packed with fair-trade cocoa butter to nourish and soothe dry, delicate skin
Is the glitter in Lush bath bombs safe for the environment?
Absolutely. We never use plastic-based glitters. Instead, we use plastic-free luster made from synthetic mica or natural minerals that sparkle in the water without harming our oceans or marine life.
