Three popular ways to make Soap
Melt and Pour
This beginner-friendly method uses a pre-made soap base that is melted down, customized, and re-solidified. Pour into molds and let it set for 1-2 hours.
Cold Process
This traditional method involves combining oils or fats with a lye solution (sodium hydroxide) to initiate saponification. Which allow you to have complete control over ingredients, customization and produces a firm, long-lasting bar with a creamy lather. Ideal for incorporating delicate additives like essential oils and natural exfoliants. This technique will require 4-6 weeks of curing time before the soap is ready to use.
Hot Process
Similar to cold process accept the soap mixture is cooked (usually in a slow cooker or double boiler) to speed up saponification. The advantage of hot process soap making is that there is a faster curing time usually a week to provide a harder bar, although it can be used immediately after unmolding the soap within 24 hours. The texture usually has a rustic look and works well for incorporating robust fragrances and additives that might react during cold process curing process.