I heat mine for a few seconds at a time in the microwave, making SURE that the top is covered with Saran wrap, so that the moisture doesn't heat out of the soap. Stir every few seconds, then mix in color and scent, then pour slowly into mold. Then lightly, and I do mean lightly spritz the top of the mold with rubbing alcohol. It has never made my soaps drying, it immediately pops all the bubbles, and people love it. I always do Goat's milk soap.