Some people hold onto their handmade soap much longer than they should. "They're too pretty to use!" I get it- they're the cat's meow. But handcrafted soaps are much too good for skin to just let them just loaf around, looking pretty. I promise you- I'll make more! Here's how to get the most out of your new handmade soap:
1. BEFORE USE: Keep 'em cool, baby.
Avoid storing handcrafted soaps in the bathroom closet, it's too hot & humid. Avoid setting them in direct sunlight or too close to a heat source. Think of them almost as food (but don't eat them!)
Handmade soap contains about 5% free-floating plant oils and no preservatives. These extra oils help keep your skin soft and moisturized, making handmade soap so wonderfully conditioning. But, just like food, natural oils can spoil if stored in the wrong conditions for too long, so proper storage is key!
While waiting to be used, it's best to keep them in a pretty basket or box-anywhere cool (normal room temp is fine) and dry, away from steam. Handmade soap is best enjoyed within 6 to 12 months, so why not store them on your dresser? They’ll make your room smell amazing while they wait their turn!
2. WHEN IN USE: In mass-produced soap, glycerin content is skimmed off for other purposes and replaced with chemical hardeners. Handmade soap retains 100% of it's glycerin. Read more about glycerin content, here.
Glycerin is a humectant your skin loves and a natural byproduct of the soapmaking process. However, because handmade soap has a high glycerin content and no chemical hardeners, it’s more water-soluble, meaning it can melt away faster than commercial bars. The simple fix? Keep it dry! A draining soap dish works perfectly, allowing your soap to dry between uses while looking great on your counter.
3. SHARE THE LOVE: Handmade soap makes a thoughtful last minute gift- so grab a few extra to share! It's a small luxury that's always appreciated, and gifting it means treating someone to a little everyday indulgence.
PRO TIP! Properly cared for, handmade soap will last a very long time. If you're impatient (like me) cut the bar in half before you take it into the shower, and you'll get to try a new scent, sooner!
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