Soap making is an age-old craft that has evolved over time. There are various techniques that are used, each offering unique benefits and outcomes. The most popular methods include cold process, hot process, and melt and pour. We are going to dive into the difference between each process.
Cold Process Soap Making:
Cold process soap making involves mixing various oils and a lye solution together. This method allows for greater control over the ingredients that are used and creates a smooth, luxurious bar of soap. Here is a breakdown of some points for the cold process method:
- Ingredient Control: With cold process soap making, soap makers have complete control over the ingredients that are used. Oils and additives are tailored to meet their preference and skin needs.
- Gentle Formation: The cold process method retains the natural properties of the oils that are used. This results in a gentle and moisturizing bar of soap, especially when goat milk is used in lieu of water. The slower saponification from the lower heat allows for the preservation of the beneficial vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Artistic Expression: Cold process soap making offers ample opportunity for creativity. Experiment with different swirling techniques, colorants, fragrances, essential oils, and designs. The opportunities are endless. Soap that is beautiful and functional.
- Customization: One of the biggest advantages of the cold process method is the ability to customize the recipe to individual needs. The scent, texture, or skin-nourishing properties can be adjusted at any time to create new and unique formulations that cater to specific needs.
- Longevity and Quality: Cold process soap, when properly cured, will be harder and longer-lasting compared to other soap methods. Additionally, the slow cure allows for the development of a luxurious lather, providing an indulging bating experience.
Hot Process Soap Making:
Hot process soap making follows a process similar to cold process but with higher heat. This accelerates the saponification process.
- Accelerated Saponification: In hot process soap making, the soap mixture is heated to speed up the saponification process. This will result in a quicker turnaround time. Hot process only requires 1-2 weeks of cure time compared to 4-6 weeks for cold process. But with a shorter cure time, the soap may dissolve faster in water, not lasting as long as cold process soap.
- Texture and Appearance: Hot process soap tends to have a rustic look and feel. The texture might be slightly rough and less uniform. This can be a hard look to get with the cold process method.
- Additives and Fragrances: Similar to cold process soap making, hot process soap makers can use a wide range of additives and fragrances to customize their recipes. But some color techniques may be difficult to do with hot process.
Melt and Pour Soap Making:
Melt and pour is likely the simplest method of soap making. This is an ideal method for beginners and those looking for a quick and easy project.
- Pre-made Bases: Melt and pour soap bases are readily available for purchase. These bases consist of pre-saponified oils which means the maker does not have to work with any lye. Soap makers simply melt the base, add desired colorants and fragrances, and pour into a mold.
- Customization: While melt and pour soap offers less flexibility than other soap making methods, the soap maker can still customize their soaps with many colors, scents, and additives.
Why We Use The Cold Process Method:
We use the traditional cold process method for our Goat Milk Soap instead of the faster hot process or melt and pour methods. It boils down to wanting to provide the smoothest and most luxurious bar of soap to our customers.
The hot process method may be quicker and would allow us to restock quicker. However, cold process soap is more durable with a 6 week cure time. It also allows us to create fun and attractive soaps with endless customization options. We enjoy making a soap that is not just great for your skin but also puts a smile on your face every time you use it.
