Your Questions, Answered: Handmade Soap Edition!

I get it - when you're used to grabbing soap from the supermarket shelf, switching to handmade can come with a lot of questions. So I thought I’d pull together some of the most common things people ask me about my soaps and soap-making process here at Wax & Lye.

Whether you're new to handmade soap or just curious about what makes it different, this one's for you!

“Is handmade soap better for your skin?”

Absolutely! Handmade soap is packed with skin-loving oils and butters (think olive oil, shea butter, almond oil - the good stuff). Unlike commercial soap, which is often stripped of its natural glycerine (a humectant that keeps your skin hydrated), handmade soap keeps all that goodness in. That means it's gentler, more nourishing, and less likely to dry your skin out, especially in winter!

“Why does handmade soap cost more?”

Short answer? Quality over quantity.

Every bar is made in small batches, using high-quality ingredients and loads of care. You're not just paying for soap - you're supporting a maker who’s spent years perfecting recipes, complying with Australian soap-making regulations (yes, that's a thing!), and handcrafting a product that’s safe, effective, and beautiful. Plus, no hidden nasties like phthalates, harsh detergents, or preservatives!

“Will it last as long as store-bought soap?”

Yes, if you treat it right! Handmade soap needs to dry between uses, so no soggy soap dishes, please! Use a well-draining soap dish and let it breathe. Some people even cut their bar in half to rotate between pieces. I’ve got a full blog on this if you want all the tips for getting the most out of your bar!

“Can I use it on my face?”

Most of my soaps are gentle enough for face and body, but everyone’s skin is different. If you’re on the sensitive side, opt for an unscented or lightly-scented bar with calming ingredients like oatmeal or calendula. I’m always happy to help you choose the right one - just shoot me a message!

“What’s the difference between natural and artisan soaps?”

Great question! While every soap maker defines "natural soap" in their own way, here at Wax & Lye, natural soaps are designed to be simple, gentle, and free of artificial colourants or fragrance oils - perfect for sensitive skin or minimalists.

Artisan soaps, on the other hand, are where I let my creativity run wild! Think swirls, colours, patterns, and more complex scents - but still skin-safe and carefully formulated. They’re just as nourishing, but with a little extra visual flair!

Got more questions?

I love chatting all things soap, so if there's something you've been wondering about - whether it’s about ingredients, how I make them, or what to try next - don’t be shy! Comment below, send me an email, or shoot me a message on social media - I’m always happy to help, and hey, if you’re curious about something that didn’t get answered here, maybe it'll pop up in the next Q&A!