From Cold to Hot: How Our Handmade Soaps Come to Life
In soap making there are four processes or methods that are used – cold process, melt and pour, hot process, and rebatch. I prefer to use the first three for my different types of soap. But if you are wondering what the differences are for each method, I have included a brief description below.
Cold Process Soap
Cold process soap is made without any external heat being applied to it. All the oils and lye are mixed together and this triggers the saponification process. Then, the colour and fragrance are quickly added so it can be poured into a mould.
The soap is heated from the inside out. Therefore we leave the soap to stand for at least 24 hours before taking it out of the mould.
Once it is taken out of the mould it is cured for about 5 weeks before it can be used. And the longer the soap is cured the milder it becomes.
Hot Process Soap
Hot process soap is one of the more traditional ways of making soap. As the name suggests, the soap making process involves cooking the oils. After mixing all the required oils together in a large pot, they are cooked for about three hours. So they need to be checked frequently.
Once the soap mixture is cooked, colour and fragrances are added and the mixture is poured into a mould. Because cooking the oils speeds up saponification, hot process soaps can be ready 3 – 4 days after being produced.
It is quite a rustic looking soap, but like everything we produce, only the best ingredients go into Pure RoK handmade soaps.
Glycerin Soap
Glycerin Soap is also called ‘Melt and Pour’ soap.
I use a non-sweat base, which is white in appearance and is a specific formulated base for humid conditions. It lathers well and produces a rich foam.
The last ingredients added to these soaps during our manufacturing process are colouring and essential oils. Because of the high glycerin content, these soaps have excellent moisturising properties that leave your skin feeling pleasantly soft. It is also vegan-friendly.
Benefits of using glycerin soap
One of the best things about glycerin is its ability to draw moisture into the skin. Unlike some commercial soaps that strip away natural oils, glycerin helps lock in hydration – making it perfect for dry or easily irritated skin. It penetrates deep, leaving your skin feeling soft, smooth, and nourished.
Thanks to its mild and non-irritating nature, glycerin soap is a great choice for those with sensitive or reactive skin. It’s free from harsh additives and artificial fragrances, and the natural fats used in the base can even have a calming, anti-inflammatory effect. If your skin tends to flare up or feels easily overwhelmed, this soap offers a gentle alternative.
Regular use of glycerin soap may help with common skin concerns like eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea. Its soothing qualities support the skin’s natural barrier, helping reduce redness, dryness, and irritation.
Glycerin soap has natural antimicrobial properties, which can help keep pores clean and clear. It gently cleanses without over-drying, which is essential for acne-prone skin. Less irritation = fewer breakouts = happier skin.
With regular use, glycerin soap may also improve skin texture and tone, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and support healthy blood flow to the skin’s surface. The result? A fresh, youthful glow without the need for harsh chemicals.
If you’re looking for a daily cleanser that’s simple but effective, glycerin soap does the job beautifully. It clears away dirt, oil, and buildup without upsetting your skin’s natural balance – perfect for those who like to keep their routine minimal but effective.
Like all natural soaps, glycerin soap has a few quirks:
It tends to dissolve more quickly than traditional bars – so keeping it dry between uses helps it last longer.
It may lather a little less than mainstream soaps, since we leave out synthetic foaming agents – but that’s part of what makes it so gentle.
And yes, it can be a bit more costly than regular soaps – but we think your skin is worth the upgrade.
This type of soap is extremely popular with hotels and guest house owners. I offer glycerin soap in 15g or 25g bars, wrapped in cellophane and finished off with natural raffia and a handwritten label.
Not surprisingly, it is also one of our best-selling wedding favour soaps, as the colour and fragrance can be specifically chosen to compliment the whole wedding theme.
Ask us anything
Get in touch if you would like more details about any of our soaps, to ask about wholesale prices or purchasing glycerin soaps for Guest soaps or wedding favours. Use the Contact form or email me direct at info@pureroksoap.com
I look forward to hearing from you.
