Soap- it’s something we use without thinking twice as to whether or not it’s beneficial to our skin. The majority of people will tell you they have sensitive skin, when in fact they don’t. The harsh chemicals and additives in the soap we buy are actually the culprits to why our skin reacts so badly. Let’s take a simple bar of Dove; notice how it’s labeled “beauty bar”? That’s because the FDA will not allow them to categorize it as soap. It’s actually detergent that strips your skin of its natural balance and oils. The reason it’s so white is something called Titanium Dioxide. It’s a white powder that’s also used to make paint white! Glycerin is a natural forming moisturizer that is removed from over the counter soaps and sold off to make an extra profit. Our handmade soaps contain this wonderful ingredient naturally, which draws moisture to the skin.

Let’s take a minute to go over the basics of handmade soap. It consists of very simple ingredients: oils and butters, Sodium Hydroxide, and water. Sodium Hydroxide is very caustic. I add it to water, or sometimes tea, wine, beer, etc. When that mixture cools I add it to my melted butters and oils and blend it until something called Saponification happens. This is when the mixture can no longer be chemically separated. At this point we can have a little fun. We can add a fragrance, some colors, or even some botanicals. It’s then poured into a mold and covered for 24 hours. After 24 hours has passed, the sodium hydroxide has completed went away. Although it’s safe to use at this point, we cut it into bars and allow it to cure for 4 weeks or more. This time allows the water to evaporate, making the bar harder and longer lasting.

Each of my soaps contain different types of oil and butters. Coconut Oil, Mango Butter, and Shea Butter are my favorites. Every oil I put into my soaps are ultra-moisturizing and great for every type of skin. Some oils have different benefits, for example Rice Bran oil is excellent for aging skin. This is one of the best parts- creating a custom soap that serves multiple benefits yet being safe enough to eat… although I don’t think it will taste as great as it smells! I’ve spent countless hours researching and testing out my products to ensure the highest quality products available.

I’m an artist at heart. I received a scholarship to the Rhode Island School of Design when I was only in elementary school. I attended weekend classes that allowed my creativity to shine. In middle school, I attended the Art Institute where I perfected my drawing capabilities from the comfort of my home. I knew I had to follow my passion for art and combine my love for all things natural and that’s when my soap business was started.

With the amazing support of my boyfriend, I’ve been able to pursue my dreams. I enjoy every aspect of my job including the freedom to stay home and care for our daughter. Owning a business is never easy but if you’re born to do it, it will succeed.

For each and every customer I receive, there’s an unmatched level of quality that goes into making sure he or she is completely in love. Once you go handmade, you’ll never look back!