I've had alot of people ask me over the years whether it's
worth it to make thier own soap. But the answer to that
is not simple. It really depends on what you are comparing.
Comparing Soap Prices
If you are comparing prices, you may or may not feel like
it's worth it to make your own soap. If you shop for deals
and aren't picky about what soap you are purchasing you
can generally save a signifigant amount of money. If you
compare soap making prices to that you probably won't save
any money. However, if you like quality soap that won't
dry your skin, you may be accustomed to paying a little
more for your soap. If this is the case you can almost certainly
save money, and probably end up with a better product. Another
factor in the evaluation of prices is how long the soap
lasts. If formulated with 5-8 percent extra fat an handcrafted
bar of soap will usually last longer than most commercial
soap, especially the brands that add exra moisturizing.
Comparing Quality
When I began making soap I was amazed at how I stopped
itching. My skin just wasn't as dry. Commercial detergent
soaps are generally detergent, which is a great option for
you laundry, but not so much for you skin. My carefully
formulated soap with its extra avacado oil or other moisturizing
oil kept me from drying out more than anything else I had
used. Adding oatmeal adds exfoliating properties to the
bar which I love even more. Not everyone does, but that's
the cool thing about making it yourself, you get to customize
how it feels, looks and smells. Nothing better than that.
Oh! And when you get tired of that fragrance you can try
a different one of your choice. People with sensitive skin
are usually able to use the handcrafted soap I make. If
they have trouble you can usually pin is down to an ingredient
that doesn't work for them and avoid that ingredient. In
the end, when comparing quality of handcrafted soap vs.
commercial, it is easy for handcrafted to come out on top.
Again...
Why do I make soap?
Because I can have a high quality product,
that is customized to me and my family, without spending
alot of money. (At least after the initial investment
of equipment.)
Because I love the process of creating.
It makes a great gift.
Learn more about soapmaking at the various SkinTastic links
below.
