A method of providing a topical base composition for use in the preparation of a topical skin care composition, comprising: (a) providing a cosmetic container; (b) providing in the container an effective amount of a fatty acid material having a melting point in the range of 40° C. to 80° C.; and other components necessary to form a fatty acid soap material which is substantially anhydrous (c) providing sufficient heated water to the container such that substantially all of the fatty acid material is solubilised to provide a fatty acid soap material; and(d) agitating the contents of the container The container comprising an anhydrous composition according to (b), the additional component being a base or a soap, is also claimed.