A Brief History of Soap and the Types You Can Choose for Your Skin

Soapmaking has ancient roots, and its methods have evolved across cultures and generations. While the ingredients and techniques have changed, the purpose has remained familiar: to cleanse. Today, the word “soap” covers products that differ by their ingredients, how they are made, and the form they take.

These categories can overlap. For example, a Castile soap can be made by the cold-process method, and a glycerin soap can also be handcrafted. Knowing the difference can help you understand what you are choosing.

Traditional soapmaking methods

Cold-process soap

In the cold process, oils or fats are combined with an alkali, which starts a chemical reaction called saponification. The mixture is poured into a mold and allowed to set. The bars then need time to cure and dry before use. Makers value this method because it offers flexibility in choosing oils, colors, and other ingredients.

Hot-process soap

Hot-process soap uses heat to help the saponification reaction progress while the soap is being made. The finished mixture is placed in a mold and can have a more rustic, textured appearance than many cold-process bars. It still needs time to cool and harden before use.

Castile soap

Castile soap traditionally refers to soap made primarily with olive oil, a style associated with the Castile region of Spain. Modern products sometimes use the name more broadly for plant-oil soaps, so it is a good idea to read the ingredient list to see what a particular formula contains. Castile describes an ingredient tradition, not one specific production method.

Melt-and-pour and glycerin soap

Melt-and-pour describes a soapmaking method: a prepared soap base is melted, customized, and poured into a mold. Glycerin is a humectant that helps attract and retain moisture at the skin’s surface. Glycerin can remain in handmade soap as part of the saponification process, and some formulas include additional glycerin. The final feel depends on the complete formula and your individual skin.

Other forms and formulas

• Bar soap: a solid, classic format for everyday cleansing.
• Liquid soap: a pourable format often made with a different alkali than bar soap.
• Syndet cleansing bars: these are not traditional soap. They use synthetic cleansing agents and can be formulated for different preferences.
• Ingredient variations: milk, herbs, clays, charcoal, and exfoliating ingredients can be added to different soap bases. These describe formula choices, not necessarily separate soapmaking methods.

Handmade glycerin soaps at The Artisan Sanctuary

Our handmade glycerin soaps offer a range of ingredient combinations, including coffee and cinnamon, goat milk, and spirulina. We select quality, naturally derived ingredients for our products. Formulas vary, so check each product page for its ingredient list and use directions, especially if you have allergies or sensitive skin.

Explore Invigorating Coffee & Cinnamon Glycerin Soap, Himalayan & Goat Milk Glycerin Soap, and Revitalizing Glycerin Soap with Spirulina & Goat Milk.

More handmade soaps to discover

Explore our Lavender Blossom Artisan Soap, Calendula Soap, Loofah Soap with Aloe Vera, Activated Charcoal Soap, and Turmeric & Kojic Acid Soap. Each product has its own formula, so visit its page to learn more about the ingredients.

Choosing a soap for your routine

Think about the format and ingredients you prefer, and how your skin responds. When trying a new product, start with a small amount and stop using it if irritation occurs. Store bar soaps in a dry place between uses to help them last longer.

There are many variations of soap, and no single type is right for everyone. Exploring the ingredients and methods can make it easier to find an option that suits your routine.