A Brief History of Cold Process Natural Soap

Sumerians and Egyptians (2800 to 1500 BC) used a mixture of animal fats and ashes. Even in Roman times, it seems this mixture remained a must. This is where the word "soap" is said to come from, from the Latin saponem, accusative of sapo, saponis, "a mixture of tallow and ash used by the Gauls to redden their hair." "These Romans are crazy!" our friend Obelix would say.

In the Middle Ages, soap manufacturing processes improved, but production remained artisanal. Flowers, herbs, and alkalis were added to the composition. The animal fat used until then was goat tallow, and the ashes came from beech and kelp.

The 18th century brought an unparalleled revolution: animal fat was replaced by olive oil, making the soap firmer. This is how the famous Marseille soap was born.

Soap entered its industrial phase in the 19th century thanks to a magical ingredient: sodium hydroxide, or caustic soda, replacing the wood ashes used in traditional processes. From that point on, soap became a common consumer product due to industrialization.

With industrialization and the increased availability of soap, there was a growing awareness of the importance of personal hygiene and public health. Soap became a key element in public health campaigns aimed at reducing infectious diseases.

Our Natural Soaps with Remarkable Names from History

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What is Cold Process Saponification?

Fortunately today, we have become not always conscious humans of our well-being and that of our beautiful Earth. Many of us are once again choosing artisanal natural soaps.

Cold process saponification is a soap-making method that involves mixing oils or fats with caustic soda to form soap and glycerin. Unlike hot process saponification, this method does not require external heat to initiate the chemical reaction. This preserves the beneficial properties of the ingredients and allows for the creation of gentle and moisturizing soaps.

Why Wait 4 to 6 Weeks for Natural Soap to Be Ready?

A 4 to 6 week curing period is necessary for several essential reasons.

• Complete Saponification: Saponification is the chemical reaction between fats or oils and a strong base, such as caustic soda, which produces soap and glycerin. While most of this reaction occurs within the first 24 to 48 hours, it continues to proceed slowly for several weeks.
• Evaporation: During the curing period, excess water in the soap gradually evaporates. This allows the soap to harden and become denser, making it more durable and less likely to dissolve quickly when used.
• Maturation and Mildness: During curing, the pH of the soap stabilizes and slightly decreases, making it milder and more pleasant for the skin.
• Improvement: Curing also allows the soap to improve its texture and appearance. Soaps can become smoother and acquire a beautiful uniform color.

The Benefits of Cold Process Natural Soap

In a previous blog post, we mentioned all the benefits of opting for natural skincare and soaps. It's impossible to compare them to industrial and commercial soaps.

They are often made from natural and organic ingredients, which makes them gentler on the skin and less likely to cause allergic reactions. We, the artisans, are environmentally conscious and avoid harsh chemicals, making our soaps more environmentally friendly. Additionally, using artisan soaps often supports small local businesses and encourages sustainable production.

The chemicals used in some skincare products can be aggressive and irritating, which can cause undesirable reactions such as redness, itching, dryness, and even chemical burns in the most severe cases. In contrast, natural and artisanal products tend to be gentler on the skin and less likely to cause problems.

Finding Balance in Our Consumer Products

I repeat it every day: it's important to find balance in our consumer products. It's difficult to have a 100% "natural" journey, unless we are able to be self-sufficient. And even then. We must not forget that every small gesture is important for our health, our well-being, and for the environment.

A good natural soap is not that expensive and a perfect gift to give to yourself or someone else.