Frequently asked questions

Natural soap is created through a chemical reaction between fatty acids (oils, butters, and fats) and sodium hydroxide. This process is called saponification. Well-formulated soap recipes are designed to use all of the lye during saponification, ensuring that no lye remains in the final product. High-quality soap formulations also aim to preserve the beneficial properties of the oils and butters, helping to gently cleanse and nourish the skin. Although the process may sound technical, soap has been made using this method for centuries. The earliest records of soap-like substances date back to around 3000 BC. According to The Open University,(https://www.open.edu/openlearn/history-the-arts/history/history-science-technology-and-medicine/history-science/the-history-soapmaking) the Sumerians used a mixture of ashes and water to remove grease from wool and cloth. They discovered that the alkali in ashes reacted with grease, making it easier to clean. Over time, they began mixing fats with ashes to create an early form of soap. Today, soap makers use sodium hydroxide instead of ash. Sodium hydroxide is also known as lye or caustic soda. While lye is produced through a controlled manufacturing process, it is derived primarily from natural ingredients such as salt. Unlike commercial soaps, natural handmade soap is made without harsh detergents, synthetic fragrances, or unnecessary additives. This makes it a gentler and more nourishing option for your skin. Many natural soaps, including ours, are made with 100% natural or naturally derived ingredients carefully selected to support healthy, balanced skin

Natural soap is often gentler on your skin because it contains nourishing oils and butters that help maintain your skin’s natural moisture. Ingredients like olive oil, shea butter, and avocado oil help cleanse without stripping your skin, leaving it feeling soft, hydrated, and balanced. Unlike commercial soaps or shower gels, a well-formulated natural soap doesn’t contain harsh and harmful chemicals, detergents or synthetic fragrances that strip natural oils and irritate skin or even may cause respiratory issues.

Many people switch to natural handmade soap to avoid harsh chemicals commonly found in commercial soaps. Natural soaps are typically made with plant-based ingredients, are gentler on the skin, and provide a more nourishing and enjoyable skincare experience. High-quality natural soaps are often formulated using only natural or naturally derived ingredients, including pure essential oils, clays, and botanical exfoliants such as ground coffee, olive stone, or almond shells. These ingredients can help gently cleanse, nourish, and improve the overall condition of the skin. As consumers become more mindful about what they put on their skin, more people are choosing natural handmade soap. Increasingly, customers want to understand the ingredients used in their skincare products and prefer simple, natural formulations they can trust.

A bar of handmade soap typically lasts between 3–4 weeks, depending on how often it’s used. To make your soap last longer, keep it dry between uses, ideally on a draining soap dish. Proper storage helps preserve your soap and extend its lifespan. Most handmade soaps have a shelf life of 24 months or more and are generally safe to use even after a couple of years if stored correctly. For more tips on how to enjoy your soap for longer, visit our Soap Care (https://www.apatelier.co.uk/soap-care)section.

Handmade soap is produced in small batches using high-quality natural ingredients such as avocado oil, organic extra virgin coconut oil, shea butter, cocoa butter, and pure essential oils. These carefully selected ingredients contribute to higher production costs. In addition, handmade soap requires several weeks to cure properly, making the process more time-intensive than mass-produced soap. This results in a premium, skin-friendly product that is crafted with care and attention to quality. Many soap makers also choose to avoid more cost-effective ingredients such as palm oil due to sustainability concerns, as well as synthetic fragrances, particularly when their goal is to create soaps using only natural ingredients.

Yes, lye is a necessary ingredient used in the soap-making process that allows oils to turn into soap. No true natural soap can be created without lye, which is the common name for sodium hydroxide. Well-formulated soap recipes are designed to use all of the lye during the saponification process, ensuring that none remains in the final product. Properly made handmade soap is gentle, safe, and suitable for everyday use. While lye is produced through a controlled manufacturing process, it is derived primarily from natural ingredients such as salt.