How we Craft Artisan Cold Processed Goat's Milk Soaps and Lotions the old fashioned way

Artisan goat's milk soap bars

The Story Behind Our Craftsmanship

In a world where mass production often overshadows craftsmanship, the art of creating artisan cold processed goat's milk soaps and lotions shines brightly. Our commitment to quality and tradition is not just a choice; it is a passion. This post will guide you through our time-honored process, showing how we meticulously craft these luxurious products, starting from ingredient selection to employing techniques that tell a story of dedication and care.

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

Our journey begins with sourcing high-quality ingredients. Goat's milk takes center stage, celebrated for its moisturizing benefits and rich vitamins. We only use Nigerian Dwarf Goats milk from our own herd for its high fat content. We raise our own healthy goats in humane conditions, ensuring that our goat's milk is fresh and nutrient-rich.

Alongside goat's milk, we use natural oils, essential oils, and botanicals. For instance, we prefer olive oil for its skin-nourishing properties. Coconut oil contributes to a fluffy lather, while shea butter enhances hydration. Each component is handpicked, ensuring that the final soap or lotion is gentle and effective.

Studies show that products made with high-quality ingredients can improve skin health. For example, using goat's milk can increase moisture content in the skin by 66%, making it an ideal choice for people with dry skin or eczema.

Fresh goat's milk in a rustic setting

The Cold Process Method

The cold process method is a traditional technique that preserves the natural qualities of our ingredients. This method involves blending oils with lye (sodium hydroxide) and goat's milk at a carefully controlled temperature.

First, we measure ingredients with precision, as even a slight variation can disrupt the outcome. After melting the oils, we slowly mix in the lye, taking care to handle it safely. Once the lye is fully blended, we gently incorporate the goat's milk. This step is done meticulously to prevent scorching the milk.

The mixture is then blended until it reaches "trace," a stage where it thickens and leaves a clear line when drizzled on the surface. This crucial step indicates the soap is ready for the next phase.

Adding Fragrance and Color

When the mixture hits the trace stage, we enhance it with essential oils for fragrance and natural colorants for added beauty. Essential oils are not just for scent; they also provide health benefits. For example, lavender essential oil can reduce anxiety by 30%, while tea tree oil effectively combats acne due to its antibacterial properties.

By using natural colorants such as micas, clays,and activated charcoal, we create unique tones in each batch. This customization allows us to design seasonal soaps, like pumpkin spice latte in the fall or refreshing peppermint in winter, bringing a touch of joy to our customers.

Facial soap bar with french green clay

Molding and Curing

Once we add the fragrance and color, the mixture is poured into molds made from silicone, wood, or plastic, which come in various shapes and sizes. After pouring, the soap is covered and allowed to saponify—a chemical reaction that changes the mixture into soap.

The curing process is vital, lasting 6-8 weeks. During this time, the soap hardens and fully reacts with the lye. This ensures that the final product is safe and boost its longevity and lathering ability, giving you more uses from each bar.

Packaging and Presentation

After curing, we remove the soap from molds and cut it into bars, with careful attention to detail. Each bar is inspected for quality, and we address any imperfections.

Packaging is equally important. Our artisan soaps and lotions are wrapped with labels, designed to be visually appealing, provide essential information about the product’s ingredients and benefits, making it easy for customers to understand what they are purchasing.

Embrace the Artisan Experience

Crafting artisan cold processed goat's milk soaps and lotions is a true labor of love. Through quality ingredients and traditional techniques, we ensure that each product is not only beautiful but also beneficial for your skin.

By choosing artisan products, you support small-scale producers who prioritize craftsmanship over mass production. The next time you indulge in a luxurious goat's milk soap or lotion, remember the care and dedication that goes into its creation. Embrace the old-fashioned way of crafting, and enjoy the benefits of nature's finest ingredients.