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The Art and Science of Soap Making: Hot Processed vs. Cold Processed

Soap making is a craft that combines creativity with science, offering endless possibilities for personalization and innovation. At LycanCo, we make full use of the diversity of soap making techniques and the unique benefits each method brings.

Hot Processed Soap Making

Science and Simplicity

Hot processed soap making is all about embracing the science behind the craft. This method involves cooking the soap mixture at high temperatures, typically between 90-100 degrees Celsius, which accelerates the saponification process—the chemical reaction that transforms fats and oils into soap. The result is a more practical and efficient approach to soap making.

Key Advantages:

  1. Temperature Control: The high temperatures simplify the cooking process, ensuring consistent results and reducing the risk of incomplete saponification.
  2. Speed and Efficiency: By speeding up the saponification process, hot processing allows you to produce soap more quickly, making it ideal for creating larger batches or operating on a more commercial scale.
  3. Versatility: This method accommodates a variety of ingredients, including butters and gels, allowing for experimentation with different textures and properties in your soap.
  4. Accessibility: Hot processed soap making is relatively easy to learn, making it a great starting point for beginners who are eager to dive into the world of soap crafting.

Charlie’s Take: "I like the science behind the process. I enjoy watching and learning about how the high temperatures transform the ingredients, and it's a practical way to produce soap consistently."

Cold Processed Soap Making

Artistry and Control

Cold processed soap making is revered for its ability to offer more control over the final product. This method foregoes the use of external heat, allowing the saponification process to occur more slowly at room temperature. The result is a soap that can be as complex and artistic as your imagination allows.

Key Advantages:

  1. Artistic Freedom: The slower saponification process provides ample time to create intricate designs, swirls, and layers, making cold processed soap a favorite among artisans and hobbyists.
  2. Minimal Equipment: Unlike hot processing, cold processing requires less specialized equipment. You don't need heavy-duty molds, personal protective equipment, or slow cookers, making it a more accessible option for home soap makers.
  3. Historical Tradition: Cold processed soap making is one of the oldest methods of soap crafting, connecting modern soap makers with a rich tradition that spans centuries.
  4. Ingredient Flexibility: This method allows for the inclusion of delicate ingredients that might be compromised by the high temperatures of hot processing. Essential oils, botanicals, and other sensitive additives retain their properties and scents better in cold processed soap.

Charlie’s Take: "Cold processing feels more creative. It allows me to include ingredients that I can’t use in hot processing, and I enjoy knowing I have more creative freedom around the scents and oils I can use."

Choosing Your Method

Deciding between hot processed and cold processed soap making ultimately depends on your ambitions and preferences. If you’re drawn to the efficiency and scientific aspects of soap making, hot processing might be your ideal choice. On the other hand, if you value artistic expression and have a passion for traditional methods, cold processing could be the perfect fit. Or, do what we do at LycanCo and use both!