Ever wondered why that handcrafted, cold-process soap bar feels so luxurious and costs a bit more? The secret lies in cold-process soapmaking, a time-honoured tradition that creates not just a cleanser but a pampering experience for your skin. These bars may cost a bit more than commercial soap, but trust us, they’re worth every penny.
In our previous blog, we discovered why Cold-Process Soap is the best choice for your skin and the planet. In this blog, we will explore how to store it and why it’s an investment in your skin’s health and the planet’s well-being.
Get ready to uncover a soap that’s as gentle on your wallet as on your skin.
The Secret to Long-Lasting Soap Bars
Many of you have told us that your cold processed soaps vanish too quickly. There are a few reasons why this might be happening:
Water Exposure
If your soap sits in a puddle of water, it will dissolve faster
Butter & Oils
As they are made with oils and butter, they tend to be softer and melt faster.
Usage
How you use your soap can also play a role. Using it directly on the skin can lead to more wear and tear than using a washcloth or soap pouch.
Absence of Hardening Chemicals
Handmade soaps, especially those made with natural ingredients and without artificial hardeners, tend to be softer and can melt more quickly if not cared for properly.
But don’t worry! Here are a few simple ways to extend the life of your cold-process soap and make those luscious bars last longer…
Storage Tips
Keep It Dry Between Uses
Let the cold-process soap dry completely between uses. A well-draining soap dish is a must to prevent it from sitting in water.
Cut It Up
If you have a big bar, cut it into smaller pieces. This way, only one part gets wet at a time, making it last much longer.
Use a Washcloth or Soap Pouch
Using a washcloth or soap pouch can help reduce the amount of soap that comes into direct contact with water. Using a loofah can also help the soap last longer and give you gentle exfoliation.
By following these easy tips, you’ll get the most out of your cold-process soap and also make them last longer.
Why Cold-Process Soaps Cost More
Choosing cold-process soap is an investment in your skin’s health, ethical sourcing, and sustainability. Let’s see how.
Quality Ingredients
Commercial soap is like junk food for your skin – cheap and full of fillers. Cold-process soap, however, is a treat. It’s made with high-quality cold-pressed oils and butter, packed with fatty acids, vitamins and antioxidants that nurture and safeguard your skin
It’s made by prioritizing quality, using unrefined ingredients, and is organic and fair-trade, which ensures you get the purest, most beneficial ingredients possible.
The result is deep nourishment, gentle cleansing, and healthier, more radiant skin. Many soaps are also scented with pure essential oils, adding a relaxing aromatherapy benefit to your cleansing routine.
Natural Saponification Process
Unlike commercially produced soaps, cold-process soap requires a minimum curing time of 3-4 weeks to reach its full potential. It is made through an ancient, natural, and unique process called saponification. It’s a chemical reaction that happens when natural oils and lye (a natural ingredient) are mixed together.
Now, it requires a 3- 4 week curing period, after which the lye is completely used up, so there is no lye in the finished product. This process uses no heat, leaving behind a gentle, nourishing bar of soap that is perfect for your skin.
Earth-Friendly
Have you ever wondered what the plastic packs or those unpronounceable chemical ingredients of commercial soap do to the environment? They pollute our planet and harm it.
Cold-process soap is different. It’s made with biodegradable ingredients that break down easily and harmlessly in the environment. The cold-process soapmaking process produces very little waste. Most ingredients are used up in the saponification reaction, and any leftover scraps can be incorporated into new batches. Many cold-process soaps come in eco-friendly packaging options, such as recycled paper, cardboard, or even without packaging, reducing further waste.
By choosing cold-process soap, you support small-batch artisans who prioritise sustainable practices, source ingredients locally, use renewable energy, and minimise their environmental impact throughout production.
Labor-Intensive
Unlike mass-produced soap, cold-process soap is often made in small batches by hand.
This involves more labour and skill, which contributes to the higher price.
Glycerin Retention
Commercial soap manufacturers often remove glycerin, a natural byproduct of saponification, to sell it separately. Cold-process soap retains its glycerin, providing superior moisturizing properties.
Conclusion
Choosing cold-process soap is more than just a purchase; it’s an investment in your skin’s health, ethical sourcing, and sustainability. While the initial cost might be higher than mass-produced soap, the long-term benefits for your skin and the environment make it a worthwhile choice
Embrace the long-lasting benefits of cold-process soap and discover the true value of this conscious choice for your skincare routine.
