Cold Process vs Hot Process Soap: Which Is Best for Your Skin?
Table of Contents
What Is Artisan Soap?
Artisan soap is carefully crafted in small batches using traditional methods and natural ingredients. Unlike mass-market soap, it prioritizes skin health, ingredient integrity, and a luxurious self-care experience.
Overview of Soap-Making Methods
There are two main traditional methods to make soap:
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Cold Process: Natural oils and lye are mixed at lower temperatures, then poured into molds and cured for 4–6 weeks.
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Hot Process: The mixture is heated to speed up saponification and ready to use sooner, though texture and appearance differ.
Each has pros and cons. What matters most? Your skin’s needs and the ingredients used.
What Is Cold Process Soap?
Cold process soap is made by combining oils (like olive, coconut, and shea) with a lye solution. The mixture is blended until it reaches "trace," poured into molds, and left to cure slowly.
Benefits of Cold Process Soap:
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Retains natural glycerin (moisturizing)
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Gentle on dry, sensitive skin
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More artistic design and smooth texture
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Longer-lasting bar with better lather
Downside: Requires 4–6 weeks of curing before use.
Shop cold process soaps by Josspure
What Is Hot Process Soap?
Hot process soap uses the same ingredients, but heat is applied during saponification — often in a crockpot or soap oven. This speeds up the reaction so the soap can be used right away.
Benefits of Hot Process Soap:
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Ready to use immediately
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Rustic, handmade appearance
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Sometimes preferred for medicinal herbal infusions
Downside: Less smooth texture, more limited artistic designs.
Key Differences Between Cold and Hot Process
| Feature | Cold Process | Hot Process |
|---|---|---|
| Cure Time | 4–6 weeks | 1–2 days (usable immediately) |
| Texture | Smooth, creamy | Rustic, chunky |
| Appearance | Elegant, swirl designs possible | Earthy, handmade look |
| Aroma Retention | Stronger due to slow cure | Can fade if overheated |
| Ingredient Flexibility | More control over nutrients | Some herbs better infused here |
| Skin Benefit | High, especially for dry skin | Still good, but texture may vary |
Which Soap-Making Method Is Best for Dry Skin?
While both methods can produce great soap, cold process soap tends to be more gentle, hydrating, and consistent for those with dry or sensitive skin.
It retains more of the oils’ natural nutrients and glycerin, helping support the skin’s moisture barrier. Plus, essential oils hold their aroma better in cold process bars.
Explore our deeply hydrating cold process bars
How Josspure Makes Its Soap
At Josspure, every soap is made using the cold process method by a certified herbalist. Why?
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To protect delicate ingredients like chamomile, oat, or rosehip oil
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To maintain glycerin that hydrates the skin naturally
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To allow slow infusion of herbs and essential oils
Each bar is cured with care, hand-cut, and wrapped for a minimal, spa-like experience.
Learn more about our formulation philosophy
FAQs
Q: Is cold process soap better than hot process?
A: It depends on your needs. For dry skin and luxury feel, cold process is often best.
Q: Why does cold process soap take weeks to cure?
A: Curing allows water to evaporate, making a harder, longer-lasting bar.
Q: Can hot process soap be just as natural?
A: Yes, but heat may affect how well essential oils or herbs work.
Q: Does Josspure use both methods?
A: No — Josspure focuses on cold process only for its skin and sensory benefits.
Q: Can I use cold process soap on my face?
A: Absolutely! It's formulated to be gentle, nourishing, and safe for facial skin.
References
Summary
What’s the difference between cold and hot process soap?
Cold process soap is made without heat, allowing it to cure slowly and retain more moisturizing ingredients like glycerin — ideal for dry skin. Hot process soap uses heat for faster results but has a rougher texture and sometimes less aroma retention.
✨ Ready to feel the difference of cold process soap?
Shop the Harmony Bar collection now
"One bar. Countless moments of harmony."
Read More About Artisan Soaps
Artisan Soap Bar Vs. Shower Gel: Which Should You Use?
Artisan Soap vs Dove Beauty Bar: Which Is Better for Your Skin?
Discover the Benefits of Essential Oils in Artisan Soap
