Caring for Your Handmade Soap Bars

When you buy mass-produced soap, it is often loaded with synthetic hardeners that make the bar feel like plastic. My soaps are different. I make them using the traditional cold-process method, which relies on a balance of olive, coconut, and castor oils combined with shea butter. Because these are natural ingredients, the bars need a bit of special care to stay firm.

Here are a few ways to get the most out of your purchase:

• Use a draining soap dish: A dish with holes or slats is essential. It allows air to circulate underneath the bar, which helps it harden between uses.
• Keep it away from direct water: Try not to keep your soap directly under the shower stream when you are not using it. A splash here and there is fine, but a constant drip will wear it down.
• Use a washcloth: Using a washcloth or loofah creates a richer, creamier lather while using less soap. It is a win for both your skin and your budget.
• Try cooler water: Hot water dissolves oils faster. A lukewarm shower is not only better for your skin but helps your bar keep its shape for much longer.

Each of my bars is cured for 4 to 6 weeks in my home studio before it reaches you. This curing process is what ensures the bar is long-lasting, but these natural soaps will always appreciate a dry spot to rest between showers.