Unlocking the Secrets: Handmade Soap vs Commercial Soap Explained

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. The Difference Between Handmade Soap and Commercial Soap 2.1 Handmade Soap Uses Skin-Loving Oils 2.2 Commercial Soap Contains Surfactants and Preservatives
3. Understanding Superfat in Handmade Soap 3.1 What is Superfat? 3.2 Calculating Superfat Percentage 3.3 Benefits of Superfat in Handmade Soap
4. Choosing the Right Superfat Percentage 4.1 Superfat Percentage for Body Soaps 4.2 Superfat Percentage for Facial Soaps 4.3 Superfat Percentage for Shampoo Bars 4.4 Superfat Percentage for Cleaning Bars 4.5 Factors Affecting Superfat Percentage
5. Additives for Conditioning in Handmade Soap 5.1 Salt 5.2 Sugar 5.3 Sodium Lactate 5.4 Clays 5.5 Milks 5.6 Aloe Vera 5.7 Fragrance Oils and Glycerin
6. Glycerin in Handmade Soap 6.1 Naturally Occurring Glycerin in Handmade Soap 6.2 Difference Between Handmade Soap and Commercial Soap
7. Conclusion

The Difference Between Handmade Soap and Commercial Soap

In the world of soap, there are two primary categories: handmade soap and commercial soap. While both serve the purpose of cleansing, there are significant differences between the two. Handmade soap is crafted using skin-loving oils, such as olive, coconut, and shea butter, which are known for their nourishing properties. Additionally, handmade soap incorporates additives like almond milk, oat milk, and coconut milk, as well as natural decorations like rose petals. On the other hand, commercial soap is often made with hardeners, waxes, and surfactants, such as sodium laureth sulfate, which can be harsh and irritating to the skin. The absence of skin-loving oils and the presence of synthetic additives make commercial soap less desirable compared to handmade soap.

Understanding Superfat in Handmade Soap

Superfatting is an essential aspect of soapmaking, especially when crafting handmade soap. Superfat refers to the percentage of oil that remains unconsumed during the saponification process. In simple terms, it is the amount of oil that is left in the soap, ensuring additional conditioning and moisturizing properties. Calculating the superfat percentage involves determining how much oil is not converted into soap. For example, in a soap recipe with 1000 grams of oil and a 5% superfat, 50 grams of oil will remain as free-floating oils in the soap. This excess oil contributes to a milder and more nourishing bar of soap.

Choosing the Right Superfat Percentage

The choice of superfat percentage depends on the purpose of the soap. For body soaps, a superfat percentage ranging from 5% to 8% is recommended. This range ensures that the soap is conditioning enough without leaving the skin feeling dry or tight. For facial soaps, a superfat percentage of 8% to 12% is ideal, as the face is more sensitive and requires extra nourishment. Shampoo bars, particularly for normal to dry hair, benefit from a superfat percentage of 5%, providing conditioning properties without weighing down the hair. However, for cleaning bars like dish or laundry soap, a superfat of 0% to 2% is preferred to avoid any oily residue. It is important to note that when using oils or butters with high unsaponifiable percentages, such as shea butter, the superfat percentage naturally increases, enhancing the conditioning properties of the soap.

Additives for Conditioning in Handmade Soap

In addition to superfat, various additives can enhance the conditioning properties of handmade soap. Adding salt to the soap recipe not only boosts lather but also adds conditioning benefits. Unrefined sea salt, pink salt, or dead sea salt, rich in minerals, nourish the skin while creating a harder bar of soap. Sugar is another additive that promotes conditioning and boosts lather. Sodium lactate, derived from fermenting vegetable materials, enhances leather and draws moisture to the skin. Clays, such as kaolin clay or bentonite clay, are rich in minerals and antioxidants, making them ideal for conditioning the skin. Milk, whether cow's milk, goat's milk, oat milk, or coconut milk, provides additional conditioning benefits. Finally, aloe vera, known for its soothing properties, adds moisture and nourishment to the skin.

Glycerin in Handmade Soap

One key difference between handmade soap and commercial soap is the presence of glycerin. Glycerin is a natural byproduct of the saponification process and is highly beneficial for the skin. It acts as a humectant, drawing moisture from the air to the skin while providing moisturizing properties. Handmade soap typically contains 5% to 10% naturally occurring glycerin, which contributes to its superior conditioning abilities. Commercial soap, on the other hand, often removes glycerin and sells it as a separate product. The absence of glycerin in commercial soap makes it less moisturizing and less desirable when compared to handmade soap.

Conclusion

Handmade soap offers numerous benefits over commercial soap. With the use of skin-loving oils, the inclusion of natural additives, and the presence of glycerin, handmade soap provides exceptional conditioning and moisturizing properties. The choice of superfat percentage, as well as the addition of additives like salt, sugar, clays, milk, and aloe vera, further enhances the benefits of handmade soap. Remember, when selecting soap, choose carefully, and opt for a skin-friendly and nourishing option that celebrates the art of soapmaking.