Are you interested in making your own soap? Cold processed soap is a popular choice for beginners due to its simplicity and versatility. In this blog post, we will explore the basics of cold processed soap making and provide you with some easy recipes to get started. So, let's dive in!
What is Cold Processed Soap?
Cold processed soap is made by mixing oils or fats with lye (sodium hydroxide) to create a chemical reaction called saponification. This reaction transforms the oils and lye into soap and glycerin. Unlike hot process soap making, cold processed soap is not heated during the saponification process, which allows for more control over the ingredients and results in a smoother and more luxurious bar of soap.
Why Choose Cold Processed Soap?
There are several reasons why cold processed soap is a great choice for beginners:
- Control over ingredients: With cold processed soap, you have complete control over the oils, fragrances, and additives used in your soap. This allows you to create personalized soaps tailored to your skin's needs.
- Endless customization: Cold processed soap offers endless possibilities for creativity. You can experiment with different colors, shapes, and scents to create unique and beautiful bars of soap.
- Health benefits: Cold processed soap retains the natural glycerin produced during saponification, which is a humectant that attracts moisture to the skin. This makes cold processed soap gentle and moisturizing, perfect for those with sensitive or dry skin.
Beginner Soap Recipes
Now that you understand the basics of cold processed soap making, let's explore some easy recipes to get you started:
1. Lavender Oatmeal Soap
This soothing soap is perfect for relaxing baths. The combination of lavender essential oil and oatmeal provides a calming and exfoliating experience.
Ingredients:
- 400g olive oil
- 200g coconut oil
- 100g shea butter
- 100g lye (sodium hydroxide)
- 250ml water
- 2 tablespoons dried lavender buds
- 2 tablespoons ground oatmeal
- 20 drops lavender essential oil
Instructions:
- Mix the olive oil, coconut oil, and shea butter in a heat-safe container and melt them together.
- In a separate container, carefully mix the lye and water. Be sure to follow proper safety precautions, such as wearing gloves and goggles.
- Allow both mixtures to cool to around 100°F (38°C).
- Slowly pour the lye mixture into the oils while stirring continuously.
- Add the dried lavender buds, ground oatmeal, and lavender essential oil to the soap mixture and stir well.
- Pour the soap mixture into a soap mold and cover with a towel or plastic wrap to insulate.
- Let the soap cure for 4-6 weeks before using.
2. Citrus Burst Soap
This refreshing soap is perfect for morning showers. The combination of citrus essential oils will awaken your senses and leave you feeling energized.
Ingredients:
- 300g olive oil
- 200g coconut oil
- 150g palm oil
- 100g lye (sodium hydroxide)
- 250ml water
- 20 drops sweet orange essential oil
- 10 drops lemon essential oil
- 10 drops grapefruit essential oil
Instructions:
- Mix the olive oil, coconut oil, and palm oil in a heat-safe container and melt them together.
- In a separate container, carefully mix the lye and water. Be sure to follow proper safety precautions, such as wearing gloves and goggles.
- Allow both mixtures to cool to around 100°F (38°C).
- Slowly pour the lye mixture into the oils while stirring continuously.
- Add the sweet orange, lemon, and grapefruit essential oils to the soap mixture and stir well.
- Pour the soap mixture into a soap mold and cover with a towel or plastic wrap to insulate.
- Let the soap cure for 4-6 weeks before using.
These beginner soap recipes are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to cold processed soap making. With practice and experimentation, you can create a wide variety of beautiful and nourishing soaps. So, gather your ingredients, put on your gloves, and start your soap making journey today!