@Alfa_Lazcares
@Iluminameluna
Yes, there are many prejudices against handcrafted soaps and soaps made with animal fats.
The issue, at least in my country, is that there are many people making "artisan" soap without calculations between fats and lye, they do inaccurate calculations because someone sold them a guide without explaining about theory or chemistry. The result is that customers complain that their skin itches or dries, or that it melts very quickly, and they end up thinking that all handmade soaps are the same.
It's a culture problem. Also, when you warn them that they can not use it near their eyes or avoid contact with that area, they think that it is not natural... it's very crazy!
Here the Soap artisans have to do education work with the clients.
About the use of animal fats I personally do not use them, But I am absolutely clear that it has many advantages in soap: hardness, foam and conditioning, all in one!
In the economic situation that my country is experiencing (where the national industry is almost non-existent) I believe that everything is valid as long as it is done correctly. There is audience for everything and, the more good quality offer, the more we win: producers, suppliers and customers.
I used a lot of Olive oil, I liked it a lot that because it allows to work more slowly and the final result: A gentle bar!! but here in Venezuela it is VERY expensive and it is also imported, so many times it is not achieved, so I had to stop using it (remember that I live in a socialist economy ...).
That's why I use much more coconut oil, but the handicap is that I have to work VERY quickly.
The rule that a lot of coconut oil results in a very aggressive bar is not entirely true, I balance with other moisturizing fats such as Castor oil and Cocoa butter, plus a higher superfat.
Regards to all, thank you very much for talking about your experiences with me, I no longer feel alone jiji