Soap making has been around for centuries, and with the advent of modern techniques and ingredients, it has become an art form. One of the most popular methods of soap making is the cold process, which involves mixing oils, water, and lye to create a soap that is gentle, moisturising, and nourishing to the skin. This time, we will take a closer look at the cold process soap making method and the importance of curing time.
What is Cold Process Soap making?
Cold process soap making is a method of making soap from scratch, using oils, water, and lye (sodium hydroxide) as the main ingredients. The process involves mixing the oils and lye together at a certain temperature, which causes a chemical reaction known as saponification. This reaction creates soap and glycerin, which is a natural moisturiser that is retained in the soap.
The process can take several hours, and the soap must be left to cure for a few weeks before it can be used. During the curing process, the soap undergoes a process known as "gel phase," which is where the soap heats up and then cools down, resulting in a more dense and creamy bar of soap.
The Importance of Curing Time
Curing time is an essential part of the cold process soap making method. During the curing process, the soap loses water and hardens, resulting in a longer-lasting bar of soap that is milder and more gentle to the skin. The soap also develops a richer lather and a smoother texture, which makes it more enjoyable to use.
The amount of time required for curing depends on several factors, including the type of oils used, the temperature at which the soap was made, and the humidity of the environment. As a general rule, most cold process soaps require a curing time of 4 to 6 weeks, although some may take longer. That is the main reason why it takes so long for your custom made and pre-order soap. You need to be patient to get the best quality products.
During the curing process, the soap should be kept in a cool, dry place and allowed to breathe. This allows any remaining water to evaporate, which helps to harden the soap and prevent it from becoming soft and mushy. The soap should also be turned over occasionally to ensure that it cures evenly.
Benefits of Cold Process Soap Making
Cold process soap making has several benefits over commercial soaps. Firstly, it allows the soap maker to control the ingredients and customise the soap to suit their needs. This means that they can also create soap that is free from toxic additives that can irritate the skin.
Secondly, cold process soap making produces a soap that is gentle and moisturising to the skin. This is because the soap retains glycerin, which is a natural moisturiser that is removed from commercial soaps. Glycerin helps to hydrate and soothe the skin, leaving it feeling soft and supple.
Finally, cold process soap making is a sustainable and eco-friendly method of soap making. It uses natural ingredients that are biodegradable, and it produces minimal waste. This makes it an excellent choice for those who are concerned about the environment.
As a conclusion, cold process soap making is a traditional method of soap making that has been used for centuries. It produces a soap that is gentle, moisturising, and nourishing to the skin. The importance of curing time cannot be overstated, as it allows the soap to harden and develop a smoother texture, resulting in a longer-lasting bar of soap. With its many benefits, cold process soap making is an excellent choice for those who want to make their soap at home and enjoy the many benefits of natural soap.