  We review a recently developed micellization theory, which is based on a
free-energy approach and offers several advantages over the conventional one,
based on mass action and rate equations. As all the results are derived from a
single free-energy expression, one can adapt the theory to different scenarios
by merely modifying the initial expression. We present results concerning
various features of micellization out of equilibrium, such as the existence of
metastable aggregates (premicelles), micellar nucleation and growth, transient
aggregates, and final relaxation toward equilibrium. Several predictions that
await experimental investigation are discussed.
