Cold Process Soap

Cold process soap refers to a method of making soap from scratch using oils, lye (sodium hydroxide), and water. It is called "cold process" because no external heat is applied during the soapmaking process. Instead, the heat generated by the chemical reaction between the lye and oils is used to saponify the ingredients and create soap.

If you have never tried handmade, cold processed soap, you are in for a treat.  If you have, then you know what a difference there is between cold processed and store bought manufactured.  The biggest difference is that cold process soap retains glycerin, a natural byproduct of the saponification process. Glycerin is a humectant that helps to draw moisture to the skin, leaving it feeling hydrated and nourished. Commercial soaps often remove glycerin to be used in other products, but in cold process soap, it remains in the soap bar.