About Our Handmade Soap
Every bar of soap at Hickory Ridge Soaps is handcrafted in small batches using thoughtfully selected ingredients, time-honored soapmaking methods, and plenty of patience.
We believe the little details matter, from carefully choosing each ingredient to allowing every batch to cure for four weeks before it reaches your home. The result is a beautifully crafted bar that's made to be enjoyed every day.
Whether you're new to handmade soap or have loved it for years, here's what makes our soap different.
Crafted Using the Cold Process Method
Our soaps are made using the traditional cold process soapmaking method. During a process called saponification, nourishing oils and lye combine to create real soap and naturally occurring glycerin.
Unlike many commercial cleansing bars, cold process soap retains its naturally produced glycerin, which contributes to its luxurious feel.
If you'd like to learn more about how this process works, visit our article:
Made with Goat Milk
Goat milk has long been appreciated in handmade soap for the rich, creamy lather it helps create.
We include goat milk in many of our soap recipes because we love the luxurious bathing experience it provides. Combined with carefully selected oils and butters, it creates a wonderfully creamy bar you'll look forward to using.
Carefully Selected Ingredients
Great soap begins with great ingredients.
We thoughtfully choose quality oils, butters, clays, botanicals, and fragrances that come together to create beautiful bars with rich lather and wonderful scents.
Rather than chasing trends, we focus on creating recipes that are enjoyable to use day after day.
Small Batches Make a Difference
Every batch of soap is handcrafted in small quantities, allowing us to pay close attention throughout the entire process.
Each loaf is:
- Carefully mixed by hand
- Poured into molds
- Hand-textured
- Cut into individual bars
- Cured for at least four weeks
- Wrapped and labeled by hand
Small-batch production allows us to focus on quality from beginning to end.
Why We Cure Our Soap for Four Weeks
Handmade soap takes time.
After each loaf is made, it cures for a minimum of four weeks before it's ready to use.
During this time, excess water slowly evaporates, creating a harder, longer-lasting bar with a beautiful, creamy lather.
Good soap simply can't be rushed.
Every Bar Is One of a Kind
Because every bar is handcrafted, no two are exactly alike.
Small variations in color, swirl patterns, or texture are part of what makes handmade soap so special. These natural differences are a reflection of the artisan process behind every batch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does handmade soap contain lye?
Yes. Lye is an essential part of making real soap. During saponification, the lye reacts with the oils to create soap. When the process is complete, no lye remains in the finished bar when the recipe has been properly formulated.
Is handmade soap better than commercial soap?
Handmade soap and commercial cleansing bars are made differently. Many people enjoy handmade soap because it's crafted in small batches using quality oils and naturally retains its glycerin.
How long does a bar of handmade soap last?
The lifespan of a bar depends on how often it's used and how it's stored. Allowing your soap to dry between uses on a draining soap dish will help it last longer.
Can I use handmade soap on my face?
Many people enjoy using handmade soap as part of their facial cleansing routine, but everyone's skin is different. If you're trying any new skincare product, we recommend performing a patch test first.
Continue Learning
If you'd like to learn more about handcrafted soap, we invite you to explore these articles from The Hickory Ridge Journal:
- What Is Cold Process Soap?
- 10 Reasons to Switch to Handmade Soap
- How to Patch Test a New Bath or Body Product
Experience the Hickory Ridge Difference
At Hickory Ridge Soaps, we're passionate about creating handcrafted bath and body products that combine thoughtful craftsmanship, quality ingredients, and beautiful fragrances.
We hope every bar brings a little extra comfort and enjoyment to your everyday routine.
Want to learn more about the people and craftsmanship behind our products? Visit The Hickory Ridge Difference.
