Sodium lactate decreases the hardening time for bar soap, beneficial for the manufacturer because it helps create the soap faster. It also reduces the amount of water lost with use and controls the pH balance of the bar of soap. Sodium lactate also appears in liquid soap as a moisturizing ingredient. Look for sodium lactate on the soap's ingredient list. Soap that contains sodium lactate is is used similarly to other types of soap.
How to Use
For bar soap, wet the bar or your hands with water and rub the soap between them until you create a lather. For washing your body, wet the area you are cleaning and rub with the bar or apply the soap to a washcloth and clean your body with it. Using liquid soap involves putting a small amount of the product in your hand or on a cloth, rubbing to form a lather, and scrubbing your hands or body with it. With either type of soap, rinse and dry your hands or body after use.
Contact Allergies
People with sensitive skin may experience symptoms of a contact allergy with use of soap that contains sodium lactate. Symptoms include redness, swelling and a rash in the area that came into contact with the soap. The irritant might be the sodium lactate, but could also be an additional ingredient. Stop using soap that contains sodium lactate to see if your symptoms clear up. If so, reintroduce the product and watch for a flare-up. If one occurs, the sodium lactate is likely the culprit. Contact your dermatologist for alternatives and treatment.
Homemade Soap
Soap making at home is simple and is an economical alternative to store-bought soap for many people. It also allows you to control the ingredients, ideal for people with skin problems. Sodium lactate is a clear liquid and is available online and at some cosmetics supply stores. It is typically used as an alternative to glycerin in soap making. Glycerin is used by many commercial soap manufacturers, but tends to be sticky, which is why many people choose to use sodium lactate in homemade soaps. To use sodium lactate, follow the directions that accompany the product in regard to how much is needed.
Tips
When using bar soap that contains sodium lactate, store the bar in a dry place. This allows it to dry, preventing it from disintegrating, which wastes the soap and your money. Liquid soap is often thick -- those that contain sodium lactate included. To dilute, add water until you reach the desired consistency and store in a pump bottle, which makes it easier to use.
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