When it comes to soap making, there are two popular methods: cold process and melt and pour. But what are the differences between the two, and which one should you choose? Let's dive into the science behind cold process soap versus melt and pour soap.
What is Cold Process Soap?
Cold process soap is made by mixing oils and lye, which undergo a chemical reaction called saponification. This process creates glycerin, a natural byproduct that is great for moisturising the skin. Cold process soap requires curing for several weeks to allow the soap to harden and the excess water to evaporate.
What is Melt and Pour Soap?
Melt and pour soap is a pre-made soap base that you melt, customise with colour and fragrance, and pour into moulds. This method does not involve working with lye, making it a safer option for beginners. Melt and pour soap does not require curing time and is ready to use as soon as it hardens.
Key Differences
Cold process soap allows for complete control over ingredients, customisation, and creativity. On the other hand, melt and pour soap is quick and easy to make, perfect for those who want instant gratification. Cold process soap typically has a longer shelf life and produces a creamy lather, while melt and pour soap can be more transparent and colourful.
Which One Should You Choose?
If you enjoy the science and art of soap making, want to customise ingredients, and have the patience to wait for the curing process, cold process soap is the way to go. However, if you prefer a simple and quick method with endless possibilities for creativity, melt and pour soap might be the better option for you.
Whether you choose cold process soap or melt and pour soap, both methods have their unique benefits and can result in beautiful, handmade soaps. Experiment with both to see which one suits your preferences and needs best!
Have you ever considered adding botanicals to your homemade soaps? While it may seem like a natural and appealing idea, there are important factors to consider when incorporating botanicals into your soap-making process. In this blog post, we will explore why using botanicals in melt and pour soaps can be risky compared to cold process soaps.
What are Botanicals?
Botanicals are plant-based ingredients such as herbs, flowers, seeds, and roots that are often used in skincare products for their natural properties. They can add colour, texture, and fragrance to soaps, making them an attractive choice for DIY soap makers.
The Risks of Using Botanicals in Melt and Pour Soaps
When botanicals are added to melt and pour soap bases, there is a risk of them turning brown or black due to the high temperatures required to melt the soap. This discolouration can be unappealing and affect the overall aesthetic of the soap.
Furthermore, botanicals in melt and pour soaps may not retain their beneficial properties as effectively as in cold process soaps. The heat from melting the soap base can degrade the botanicals, reducing their effectiveness in skincare applications.
Why Cold Process Soaps are a Better Option for Botanicals
Cold process soaps allow for a lower temperature saponification process, which helps preserve the colour and properties of botanical ingredients. This results in soaps that not only look more visually appealing but also retain the potential skincare benefits of the botanicals.
In addition, cold process soaps offer more flexibility in formulating recipes to ensure that botanicals are properly incorporated and balanced for optimal results. This level of control is crucial for creating high-quality soaps with consistent performance.
Conclusion
While it may be tempting to add botanicals to melt and pour soaps for their natural appeal, the risks of discolouration and reduced efficacy make cold process soaps a better choice for incorporating botanical ingredients. By understanding the differences between these soap-making methods and their impact on botanicals, you can make informed decisions to create soaps that are both visually appealing and beneficial for the skin.