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What are the benefits of cold process saponification?

The cold saponification method is an ancient artisanal technique, which is not scalable to large-scale production. These handmade soaps offer various benefits that industrial soaps lack. Here are four.

Summary

1. The integrity of raw materials
2. The natural presence of glycerin
3. The absence of added synthetic agents
4. Environmental Respect

Published March 25, 2021, updated on February 21, 2024, by Stéphanie, PhD, Doctorate in Life and Health Sciences — 2 min read

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1. The integrity of raw materials.

The soaps obtained through cold saponification provide comprehensive care. The fact that vegetable oils/butters are not exposed to high temperatures (around 120°C) helps to preserve their benefits. They thus bring nourishing properties to the soaps. Indeed, the cold saponification process takes place at room temperature (between 27°C and 45°C). Moreover, the vegetable oils and butters used naturally contain an unsaponifiable fraction, that is, compounds that will not react with the lye. This is a complex mixture including sterols, squalene, fatty alcohols, vitamins, terpenes, etc... It is this residual fraction that gives the soap interesting properties: antioxidant, protective, repairing, sebum-regulating, emollient, etc...

2. The natural presence of glycerin.

The glycerin found in soap naturally emerges from the cold saponification process. It provides softness and hydration, thus avoiding the unpleasant sensations of dryness or skin tightness after use. Indeed, glycerin has humectant properties, meaning it captures water molecules present in the atmosphere to hydrate the skin, making soaps very gentle and leaving the skin comfortable. It also helps to protect the hydrolipidic film. Conversely, for industrial soaps (hot saponified), the glycerin has been removed.

3. The absence of added synthetic agents.

The strength of cold-processed soaps (C.P.S.) also lies in the absence of synthetic ingredients, particularly synthetic fragrances or preservatives. Indeed, C.P.S. are naturally bactericidal and can therefore be stored for a long time without any bacteria developing in them. Moreover, this reduction in industrial products protects the skin from allergies and other problems related to these products. Therefore, this type of soap can be recommended for sensitive, atypical, or irritation-prone skin.

4. Environmental Respect.

Cold process saponification prevents the waste of raw materials and does not produce unnecessary by-products. Moreover, it is a low-energy-consuming method and requires little water. Finally, the environmental impact is almost negligible. Thus, cold process soaps are economical and eco-friendly.