When it comes to soap, there are two main types: handmade soap and commercial soap. So which one is better for your skin? The answer may surprise you! Handmade soap is made with natural ingredients and does not contain any harsh chemicals. Commercial soap, on the other hand, is loaded with synthetic fragrances, detergents, and other harsh chemicals. These chemicals can be very damaging to your skin over time. If you want to keep your skin healthy and looking its best, then you should definitely switch to handmade soap! Not only is it better for your skin, but it also smells amazing and works just as well (if not better) than commercial soap.
Ingredients In Commercial Soap
Most commercial soaps contain a variety of harsh chemicals and artificial ingredients that can strip the skin of its natural oils, causing dryness, irritation, and even inflammation. In addition, many commercial soaps also contain fragrances and other additives that can further irritate the skin. For people with sensitive skin, or those who suffer from conditions like eczema or psoriasis, using these kinds of soaps can be extremely painful and may even trigger a flare-up. In contrast, natural soaps that are made with ingredients like olive oil and glycerin can actually help to soothe and protect the skin. As a result, people with sensitive skin should avoid commercial soaps and opt for gentler, more natural alternatives.
Ingredients In Natural Handmade Soap
When it comes to natural soap, one of the most important ingredients is natural oils. Some of the most common natural oils used in soapmaking include olive oil, coconut oil, and palm oil. These oils are all-natural and gentle on the skin, making them perfect for soapmaking. They also produce a nice, creamy lather that's perfect for bathing. In addition to natural oils, natural soap also often contains natural herbs and spices. These herbs and spices can add a variety of therapeutic benefits to the soap, such as reducing inflammation, treating acne, and fighting against bacteria. They can also add a wonderful scent to the soap.
How Natural Handcrafted Artisanal Soap Is Made
Handmade soap is typically made through a process called cold process saponification. This process involves combining fats and oils with an alkali to create soap. The most common fats and oils used in this process are olive oil, coconut oil, and shea butter.
After the fats and oils are combined with the alkali, they're heated until they turn into soap. Once the soap is made, it's often cooled and then cut into bars. Cold process soapmaking is a bit more time-consuming than commercial soapmaking, but it's worth it because the finished product is much gentler on the skin.
Making handmade soap is a fun and rewarding hobby that anyone can do. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create beautiful and unique soaps that are perfect for gifts or personal use. The first step in making handmade soap is to choose the right ingredients. You will need a combination of oils and fats, as well as lye.
Once you have gathered your ingredients, you will need to measure them out carefully. Don’t forget safety. Goggle to protect your eyes and gloves for your skin are a must! Next, you will need to heat the oils and fats to melt them. Once they are melted, you can add the lye and stir until it is fully dissolved. After that, you can add any colorants or fragrances that you like. Finally, pour the mixture into molds and allow it to cool and harden. Once hardened cold process soap needs to cure for 6 - 8 weeks.
Why Cold Process Soap Needs Time To Cure
Cold process soap is made without any external heat source, which means that the chemical reaction between the oils and lye proceeds more slowly. This also means that the soap is softer and less stable when first made, and it needs time to harden and cure. During the cure, the soap continues to saponify or turn into soap, and this process helps to make the bar harder and longer-lasting. In addition, curing allows excess water to evaporate from the soap, which makes it less likely to dissolve in use. Lastly, curing helps to mellow the scent of the essential oils, giving the soap a richer fragrance. For all these reasons, cold process soap must be cured for at least six weeks before being used.
Why Oatmeal Soap Is Good For Dry Skin
Oatmeal soap is one of the most gentle and effective cleansing agents available. It has been used for centuries to cleanse and soothe dry, irritated skin. The oats in oatmeal soap contain avenanthramides, which are natural anti-inflammatory compounds. This makes oatmeal soap ideal for people with conditions like eczema or psoriasis. Oatmeal soap also contains a high level of fatty acids, which helps to lock in moisture and keep skin hydrated. In addition, the oats exfoliate the skin, removing dead cells and revealing softer, smoother skin. For these reasons, oatmeal soap is an excellent choice for people with dry skin.
How Activated Charcoal Soap Helps Balance Acne-Prone Skin
Acne is a common skin condition that affects people of all ages. While there are many different treatments available, some people find that using activated charcoal soap can help to balance their acne-prone skin. Activated charcoal is a highly absorbent material that can bind to dirt and oil, helping to remove impurities from the skin. Additionally, it can help to absorb excess sebum, which can clog pores and lead to breakouts. When used in soap, activated charcoal can help to cleanse the skin and leave it feeling refreshed. For best results, look for a soap that contains other acne-fighting ingredients like tea tree oil or salicylic acid. Used regularly, activated charcoal soap can help to control acne and keep the skin looking healthy and balanced.
Plant Butter And Oils Used In Handmade Soap
The most common fats and oils used in handmade soap are olive oil, coconut oil, and shea butter. Shea butter is a natural fat that's derived from the seed of the shea tree. It's popular in soapmaking because it contains a high percentage of saturated fatty acids, which makes it a great natural moisturizer. In addition, shea butter also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to soothe and protect the skin.
Benefits Of Coconut Oil In Handmade Soap
Coconut oil is a natural fat that's derived from the seed of the coconut tree. Coconut oil is a popular choice for handmade soap because it produces a hard, long-lasting bar with a rich lather. Coconut oil is also known for its moisturizing properties and its ability to cleanse without stripping the skin's natural oils. In addition, coconut oil has anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties, which can help to keep soap from spoiling. For these reasons, coconut oil is often used as the base oil in handmade soap recipes. However, it is important to note that coconut oil can be drying to the skin if used at too high of a concentration. As a result, many soapmakers choose to use a blend of oils in their recipes to provide the best balance of cleansing and moisturizing properties.
Benefits Of Olive Oil In Handmade Soap
Olive oil is a natural fat that's derived from the fruit of the olive tree. It's popular in soap making because it contains a high percentage of unsaturated fatty acids, which makes it a great natural moisturizer. There are many benefits of olive oil in handmade soap. For starters, olive oil is a natural source of antioxidants, which can help to protect your skin from damage caused by free radicals. Additionally, olive oil is a natural emollient, meaning it helps to keep your skin soft and hydrated. In addition, olive oil contains several vitamins and minerals that are essential for healthy skin, including vitamins A, E, and K. Finally, olive oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe irritated or inflamed skin. All of these factors make olive oil an ideal ingredient in handmade soap.
Benefits Of Cocoa Butter In Handmade Soap
Cocoa butter is a type of vegetable fat that is derived from cocoa beans. It is solid at room temperature but melts easily when heated. Cocoa butter has a rich, chocolatey aroma and is commonly used in cosmetics and as a cooking ingredient. In addition to its delicious scent, cocoa butter is prized for its moisturizing properties. It is often used in handmade soap recipes because it helps to nourish and protect the skin. When used in soap, cocoa butter creates a creamy, luxurious lather that leaves the skin feeling soft and hydrated. In addition to its moisturizing benefits, cocoa butter also contains antioxidants that can help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. Because of its exceptional properties, cocoa butter is an excellent choice for those who are looking to create a high-quality, handmade soap.
Benefits Of Almond Oil In Handmade Soap
Almond oil is a natural fat that's derived from the almond. Almond oil is a popular ingredient in handmade soap. It is rich in vitamins and minerals, and it has a variety of benefits for the skin. Almond oil helps to moisturize the skin, and it can also help to relieve dryness and itching. Additionally, almond oil can help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Furthermore, almond oil is non-greasy and does not clog pores, making it an ideal choice for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin. In addition to its benefits for the skin, almond oil also has a pleasant, nutty scent that many people find appealing. When used in handmade soap, almond oil can help to create a luxuriously creamy and conditioning bar of soap that leaves the skin feeling soft and smooth.
Benefits Of Avocado Oil In Handmade Soap
Avocado oil is a powerhouse ingredient in handmade soap. It is full of skin-loving vitamins A, D, and E, as well as essential fatty acids that help to condition and moisturize the skin. Avocado oil is also relatively low in saponification value, which means that it produces a milder, less drying soap. In addition, avocado oil has a high level of peroxide decomposition, making it an excellent choice for soaps that need to retain their color and scent over time. When used in soap-making, avocado oil helps to create a creamy, luxurious lather that leaves the skin feeling clean and soft. As an added bonus, the rich green color of avocado oil can also add a beautiful natural tint to handmade soap. Thanks to its many benefits, avocado oil is an ingredient that every soap-maker should have in their repertoire.
Benefits Of Coconut Milk In Soap
Coconut milk soap has many benefits that make it popular with those who are looking for a natural, holistic way to care for their skin. Coconut milk contains vitamins C, E, and B, as well as fatty acids that can help to moisturize and protect the skin. In addition, the lauric acid in coconut milk has antimicrobial properties that can help to keep the skin clean and free of bacteria. Coconut milk soap is also said to be helpful for treating eczema and psoriasis. The fats in coconut milk can help to soothe inflammation and redness, while Vitamin E helps to promote healing. For those who are looking for an alternative to commercial soaps, coconut milk soap is a great option that offers many benefits.
Benefits Of Goat Milk In Soap
There are many benefits of goat milk in soap. One of the most important benefits is that it is great for people with sensitive skin. Goat milk contains lactic acid, which can help to break down the bonds between dead skin cells, making it easier to slough them off. As a result, goat milk soap can leave your skin feeling soft and smooth. In addition, goat milk soap can help to soothe inflammation and relieve dryness. The fat content in goat milk also helps to create a rich, creamy lather that can leave your skin feeling clean and moisturized. If you are looking for a natural soap that is gentle on your skin, then you should consider trying goat milk soap. You may just find that it is the perfect solution for your skincare needs.
Fragrances Used In Handmade Soap
There are many different fragrances that can be used in handmade soap. Some of the most popular fragrances include lavender, rose, and jasmine. These fragrances are added to the soap during the saponification process. Fragrance oils can also be added to handmade soap after it's been made. This is done by adding a few drops of fragrance oil to each bar of soap. The amount of fragrance oil that's used will depend on the strength of the scent and how long you want the scent to last.
Benefits Of Using Essential Oils In Soap
Essential oils are natural oils that are derived from plants. Many people enjoy using essential oils in their soap because of the benefits they offer. Essential oils can help to improve the quality of your skin by helping to kill bacteria and heal wounds. They can also help to relieve stress and tension, and they can boost your mood and energy levels. In addition, essential oils can provide a pleasant scent for your soap that can last for hours. When choosing essential oils for your soap, be sure to select ones that are safe for use on your skin type. You should also consider the strength of the scent when selecting an oil, as some people prefer a light scent while others prefer a stronger one. Experiment with different oils to find the ones that work best for you.
Benefits Of Different Kinds Of Clays For Skincare
There are many different types of clay that can be used in skincare products. Some of the most popular clays include bentonite clay, kaolin clay, and rhassoul clay. Each type of clay has its own set of benefits for the skin.
Bentonite clay is a type of clay that's popular for its detoxifying properties. It helps to remove impurities from the skin and can also help to reduce the appearance of acne scars. Kaolin clay is a natural absorbent that helps to draw out excess oil and dirt from the skin. It's also gentle on the skin and can be used on people with sensitive skin. Rhassoul clay is a natural mineral clay that's rich in magnesium, potassium, and calcium. It helps to exfoliate the skin and can also help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
Bonus Tip!
If you're looking for a natural way to detoxify and rejuvenate your skin, try using a clay mask! Clay masks are a great way to give your skin a deep cleanse while also providing it with the nutrients that it needs. Try different types of clay masks until you find one that works best for your skin type. You'll be amazed at the difference it makes!
Natural Colorants In Handmade Soap
Natural colorants are derived from plants, minerals, or other natural sources. They're popular in handmade soap because they provide a natural way to add color to the soap without using synthetic dyes. Natural colorants can also provide additional benefits for the skin, such as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
Some of the most popular natural colorants include alkanet root, madder root, and spirulina. Alkanet root is a natural red colorant that's derived from the roots of the alkanet plant. It's known for its ability to add a beautiful crimson color to soap. Madder root is a natural red colorant that's derived from the roots of the madder plant. It adds a beautiful pinkish-red color to soap. Spirulina is a blue-green algae that's rich in chlorophyll and phycocyanin. It adds a beautiful greenish-blue color to soap.
How To Store Handmade Soap
Handmade soap is a natural product that contains no harsh chemicals or artificial ingredients. Because of this, it's important to take some precautions when storing it. Ideally, handmade soap should be stored in a cool, dry place. This will help prolong its life and keep it from drying out or becoming brittle. It's also a good idea to keep it out of direct sunlight, as this can cause the natural colors in the soap to fade.
If you're going to be storing your soap for an extended period of time, it's a good idea to wrap it in a breathable material like cheesecloth. This will help keep the soap from drying out and becoming hard.
With proper care, your handmade soap will last for a long time. Enjoy it! Natural soaps are made with only the finest natural oils and herbs, and they're perfect for people with sensitive skin.
As you can see, there are many reasons why handmade soap is better for your skin than commercial soap. If you're looking for a natural, gentle soap that will keep your skin healthy and looking its best, then handmade soap is the way to go. Give it a try today and see the difference for yourself. You won't be disappointed.
Looking for a natural, handmade soap that's gentle on your skin? Look no further than Calendula Bath and Home! Our natural soaps are made with only the finest natural oils and herbs, and they're perfect for people with sensitive skin. We have a wide variety of fragrances to choose from, and each one is perfect for people with sensitive skin. Give us a try today and see the difference for yourself! You won't be disappointed!
Want to make your own natural soap at home? Check out Mountain Rose Herbs for natural soap making supplies and one of our favorite books to get you started The Natural Soap Making Book for Beginners: Do-It-Yourself Soaps Using All-Natural Herbs, Spices, and Essential Oils Paperback by Kelly Cable.CBH is reader-supported. We may earn an affiliate commission when you buy through links on our site.