7 Reasons to Use Handmade Soap ...

Who wants a face that looks like it’s done hard time in a rinse and hold dishwasher cycle and then been sentenced for three days in the clothes dryer with coarse-grit sandpaper? Soap can be defined as the result of a chemical reaction that occurs when vegetable or animal oils are combined with a base of either sodium hydroxide (lye) or potassium hydroxide (potash), and a liquid. Commercial brands of soap often contain inexpensive beef fat (sodium tallowate) which is a great cleanser but, on its own, is downright harsh. Chemical hardeners, colorants and other irritating ingredients are also added. Glycerin, a moisturizing by-product of soap, is often extracted from commercial soap for use in various other products. Lower-quality ingredients, irritating chemicals, the lack of glycerin, or a combination thereof, lead to harsh soap. It’s no wonder soap has gotten a bad rap.

An experienced and educated soap maker is familiar with the fatty-acid components of the vegetable oils he or she uses and the properties they lend to the finished soap. For example, olive oil is a natural humectant and attracts moisture to the skin without leaving a greasy residue. An unscented 100% olive oil soap provides gentle, non-irritating cleansing and moisture to even the most sensitive or—how shall I say it?—experienced skin. Coconut oil produces abundant lather. Avocado oil is rich in vitamins and emollients. Let's not forget jojoba oil. Because it is so similar to the natural oils that the body produces on a regular basis, it is easily absorbed and effective on all skin types. These are just a few examples; there are so many other skin-friendly oils.

High-quality, natural, handmade soap is made with skin-nourishing, noncomedogenic vegetable oils and does not contain chemical hardeners, lather enhancers or dyes. Many soap makers choose to incorporate pure plant essential oils for scent. Soap makers «superfat» their batches for extra richness and moisture. This means that excess oils are intentionally added which will not saponify (turn to soap) so that their beneficial properties remain in the finished product. Also, the skin-loving by-product, glycerin, remains in handmade soap.

The inclusion of natural additives for specific purposes is an important added bonus. Some examples are: kaolin clay for gentle cleansing and smoothness; French green clay for unclogging pores; calendula flowers for anti-inflammatory relief; milk for skin-softening benefits; and oatmeal for mild exfoliation. Mineral-rich ancient salt from the Himalayan Mountains can be soothing for an array of skin issues, including eczema, acne and other problematic conditions.The list of skin-enhancing additives goes on and on.

One thing to keep in mind is that due to the lack of needless chemicals and other irritating additives, handmade soap needs to breathe on a well-draining soap dish in between uses so that it lasts longer and doesn't become soft. This is a small price to pay for supple skin. Those who use handmade soap would never dream of using another cleanser. However, for those who remain reluctant to give it a try, your own independent research on the benefits of the ingredients is sure to provide further enlightenment and appreciation.

There are an abundance of handmade soap varieties—even some with extra grit for specific purposes like dirty mechanic’s and gardener’s hands. The addition of clay makes a smooth shaving soap and shampoo bar. A cook’s favorite: soap infused with coffee to get rid of strong odors on your hands like onions and garlic. (For me, it’s the canned cat food smell or, worse yet, the husband’s dirty socks. Whew!).

Hopefully, your urge to hide under the bed from soap has diminished. There are so many skilled and knowledgeable soap makers located all over the world producing top-notch products. After experiencing the soothing effects of quality handmade soap, the thought of "soap" will evoke feelings of luxury and spa-like serenity. Promise! Plus, after enjoying the skin-pampering results, others will have no doubt when you announce it's your 29th birthday, yet again.

Do you currently cleanse with handmade soap? If so, what are your favorites? If not, what are you waiting for? If you give it a try, I bet your skin will send you candy and flowers as a token of its appreciation.