Iris Elm Soap

Iris Elm Soap makes handcrafted cold process soap as well as bath and body products. Everything is handmade from scratch in very small batches using high quality skin-loving plant-based oils and butters. Cold process soap means the oils are mixed with sodium hydroxide, otherwise known as lye, which causes a chemical reaction called saponification turning the oils to soap. Once the oils are saponifed, the lye is neutralized and no sodium hydroxide remains. The bars of soap are cut after 48 hours. After six weeks of curing they are very gentle and ready for use.

You can find all bath and body products in the Iris Elm Soap section of the website.

ARTISAN HANDMADE SOAP CARE

Now that you've decided on your favorite scent (or scents!), here are a few tips to getting the most enjoyment from your new handmade soap.

Handmade soaps naturally have a high glycerin content, which is great for your skin, but it also means that the soap requires a place to dry out between uses. If left in standing water, the soap will break down quickly and become mushy). To prolong the lifespan of your soap, do not allow it to sit in a bowl-shaped dish or container or any other dish that will allow water to collect and pool at the bottom. Store your soap on a draining soap dish. A slatted wood or bamboo soap dish is ideal because it wicks water away from the soap, allowing the soap to dry properly. Also, a soap saver (oval disk with raised nubs) can be placed in a regular soap dish and will allow your soap to dry.

Unused soaps should be stored in a cool, dry place - preferably NOT the bathroom. A linen closet is a great place or a drawer (plus, it could make your clothes smell great!).

Precautions:

  • If you have skin sensitivities or allergies to any of the ingredients used in my handmade soaps, I recommend you use caution and not purchase

  • read the list of ingredients prior to use

  • try a small area first to see if any allergic reactions or breakouts occur

  • discontinue use if irritation occurs

  • keep soap out of your eyes and mouth

  • soap is for external use only

Be aware that some soaps have ingredients in them that may bother sensitive skin and that exfoliants can be scratchy. As we all know, soap when wet is slippery, so take care not to step on a wet bar while in the shower or tub.