Making your own glycerin soap is simple and cost effective. They are more natural than most commercially produced soaps. Glycerin is made up of a naturally occurring biochemical compounds that is a component of oils and fats. It works especially well if you have sensitive skin. Glycerin soaps attract moisture to your skin and are less drying. The melt and pour method of soapmaking is one of the most basic methods, and is good for beginners.
Step 1
Cut 4 cups of clear glycerin base soap into cubes, using a dry knife. Put the cubes into a microwavable container and heat them in the microwave for 40 seconds, then for 6-second intervals until they melt. Never boil the glycerin base soap; this causes bubbles to develop and ruins the appearance of the final soap.
Step 2
Remove the glycerin soap base from the microwave and personalize your soap. Add ½ cup of shea butter and 5 tbsp. of olive oil if you want to make a moisturizing soap. If you prefer making an exfoliating soap, add ½ cup of dry oats and 5 tbsp. of fresh lemon juice instead. Add your choice of ingredients and stir. Place the mixture back in the microwave for 25 seconds if it hardens.
Step 3
Colorize your glycerin soap. Add natural colors by using vegetables such as beets (red), carrots (orange), turmeric (yellow) and so forth. Puree your choice of vegetables and add 2 tbsp. to the mixture. Make sure the soap mixture is still soft before adding the ground vegetables. Microwave the soap mixture for 25 seconds to soften.
Step 4
Rinse the cupcake mold pan and wipe dry with a clean cloth. Put the glycerin soap mixture back in the microwave and heat for another 40 seconds to melt it. Pour the soap mixture into each cupcake mold until it's half full. Cover the cupcake mold with a large enough cookie sheet and set aside to harden for two hours.
Step 5
Flip the cupcake mold pan upside down and place it on a cookie sheet. Tap the pan with a spoon to dislodge the glycerin soap bars. Put the soap bars in an airtight jar or container and store in a dry, cool area.
Tips and Warnings
- You can purchase glycerin soap base at beauty supply stores or large chain health food stores.
Things You'll Need
- Glycerin soap base
- Shea butter (optional)
- Olive oil (optional)
- Dry oats (optional)
- Lemon juice (optional)
- Vegetables (optional)
- Cupcake mold pan
- Spoon
References
- "Making Transparent Soap: The Art of Crafting, Molding, Scenting & Coloring"; Catherine Failor; 2000
- "Natural Beauty Recipe Book: How to Make Your Own Organic Cosmetics and Beauty Products"; Gill Farrer-Halls; 2006
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