Why does cold-process soap need to cure for weeks?
Cold process soap must cure for several weeks, allowing excess water to evaporate. This process hardens the soap, develops a proper crystal structure, and makes it milder on the skin. Ultimately, curing results in a longer-lasting and higher-quality bar of soap. The curing process completes the saponification reaction and removes any remaining moisture that could otherwise cause the soap to dissolve too quickly when used. Key points about soap curing: Evaporation of water : Curing primarily lets excess water evaporate from the soap batter, making the soap harder and less likely to dissolve quickly in the shower. Improved lather : A well-cured soap produces a richer, more consistent lather than a fresh, uncured bar. Milder on skin : Curing allows for a more complete chemical reaction, potentially reducing the possibility of skin irritation from any remaining lye. Longer shelf life : A fully cured soap bar will last significantly longer than one that hasn’t been allowed to cure pro...