| Soap is water, lye and fats (oils). When a lye and water solution is mixed with fats the chemical reaction called “saponification” takes place – the reaction of hydrogen, oxygen, sodium and fatty acid molecules. The end result is made up of about three parts soap and one part glycerin.
Glycerin is a rich emollient prized for its ability to moisturize the skin is retained in handmade soap. However, in commercial soaps, glycerin is extracted as a valuable by-product, leaving the hard, drying bars of soap sold at most places.
Handmade soap on the other hand is rich, moisturizing, soothes and softens the skin. Olive oil makes the gentlest, mildest handmade soap and we use this wonderful oil in abundance. Coconut oil produces a rich creamy lather and enhances hardness. Palm oil makes for a mild soap with a long-lasting lather and also enhances the final hardness.
Not all handmade soaps are created equal. The percentages of oils used are extremely important to produce a mild and gentle soap.
Our Taiwanese soap maker has never scrimped on the more expensive ingredients as the quality of their handmade soaps is of utmost importance. Along with using only all natural ingredients, they also use organic herbs and flowers picked from their organic garden.
With 21 organic handmade soaps to choose from, we trust that you will find (at least) one that is good for your skin and senses. |