Australia's love affair with handmade soap probably started in the hippie era when you could always find a few bars at a market or in alternative shops. But with the prosperous times that followed, handmade soap became niche and not in a desirable way.
These days, finer things in life are blossoming again, with the new luxuries being products that don't harm the earth. Nestled in with the artisan cheeses and regional wines is a resurgence in – you guessed it – handmade soap. This everyday staple has emerged as a symbol of discerning taste; a testament to the beauty of natural ingredients and the value of traditional craftsmanship.
In this article, we explore the allure of handmade soap, its myriad benefits, and why it deserves a place in your self-care ritual.
The emergence of handmade soap in Australia
While supermarket soaps dominated shelves for the latter half of the last century, a curious reversal of the norm started to emerge as we broke into this one. Inspired by global movements and our own despair about the world around us, home-based cosmeticians began taking an interest in the authenticity and purity of handmade products. This resurgence has seen a revival of age-old soap-making techniques, often influenced by European traditions but adapted to incorporate unique Australian botanicals and ingredients.
The essence of handmade soap
Handmade soap is more than just a cleansing agent; it’s a crafted experience. It's distinguished from its commercial counterparts by the ingredients and meticulous process of its creation. Artisans carefully select natural oils like olive or coconut, or butters devived from plants, such as shea butter, and combine them with lye (sodium hydroxide) to create natural soap. The chemical reaction between these two results in soap and glycerine, a humectant that draws moisture to the skin.
Artisan soap vs. handmade soap
While the terms are often used interchangeably, there's a subtle distinction. All artisan soap is handmade, but not all handmade soap is necessarily artisan. Artisan soap often emphasises the quality and creative aspect, with makers seeking out organic ingredients, carefully tested recipes and bespoke blends of essential oils. Handmade soap, in its broader sense, emphasises the small-batch, crafted nature of the product, prioritising natural ingredients and traditional methods.
The superiority of handmade soap
The allure of handmade soap lies in its purity. Commercial soaps are often laden with artificial fragrances, synthetic detergent, and harsh chemicals that can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Handmade soap, on the other hand, prioritises natural ingredients, often free from these harsh additives. The small-batch production allows for greater control over the ingredients and process, ensuring a higher quality product.
Types of handmade soap
All handmade soaps are made by combining a fatty substance (for example, plant-based oil) with lye (sodium hydroxide). As the chemical reaction between these ingredients takes place, the lye and oil molecules combine to become soap and glycerine. This process is known as saponification.
- Cold Process: Made using a method that involves combining oils and lye at lower temperatures, resulting in a soap that requires a curing period of several weeks. Cold process soaps are known for their creamy lather and gentle cleansing properties.
- Hot Process: In this method, heat is applied to accelerate the saponification process. Hot process soaps can be used sooner than cold process soaps but might not look as polished as soap made by the cold process method.
People interested in handmade soap often seek out glycerine soap in the belief that it has better moisturising properties than other soap. Glycerine soap refers to a type of soap that is translucent or transparent (think Pears) and while it can be made by hand, it generally isn't. This type of soap goes through a different process of heating with sugar, alcohol, and extra glycerine to create the glassy soap that looks clear and pure.
The thing about glycerine is that it's produced naturally during saponification so all handmade soaps contain glycerine. But commercial producers often remove the glycerine from soap because it can be sold for more than it's worth to leave it in. Nitro-glycerine anyone?
The role of essential oils
Essential oils are the aromatic heart of good handmade soaps. Many believe they offer therapeutic benefits, and eucalyptus and tea tree oils are frequently used in Australian handmade soaps. Artisans carefully select essential oil blends to enhance the bathing experience and cater to specific skin needs.
Skin benefits of handmade soap
Handmade soap's natural ingredients offer a wealth of benefits for the skin. The high glycerine content helps to hydrate and soothe, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin or conditions like eczema. Many handmade soaps also incorporate exfoliants like oatmeal, poppy seeds or coffee grounds to gently buff away dead skin cells, promoting skin renewal.
Soap softness and shelf life
Handmade soap, due to its natural composition, can sometimes be softer than commercial soap. This is due to the absence of hardening agents. Proper storage is key to extending its shelf life. Keep your handmade soap in a well-drained soap dish to prevent it from becoming soggy. While handmade soap doesn't expire in the way that some cosmetic products do, its fragrance may fade over time.
Buying artisan soap in Australia
For those seeking the ultimate indulgence in handmade soap, Australia offers a thriving community of artisans and online retailers. Look for local markets and craft fairs to discover hidden gems. Online, explore reputable sellers like the makers themselves or O Gosh. Supporting these small businesses allows you to indulge in luxurious self-care while contributing to the growth of local craftsmanship. Embrace the beauty of handmade soap and transform your daily cleansing ritual into a moment of pure bliss.
