Base Oils in Soapmaking
These are the primary oils used in soap making and make up the bulk of the recipe. Our common base oils include olive oil, coconut oil, shea butter, soybean oil, and caster oil. Each base oil imparts unique properties to the soap, such as hardness, lather, and conditioning ability.
Olive Oil
Olive oil produces a mild and gentle soap that is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and delicate skin. It contains a high percentage of oleic acid, a monounsaturated fatty acid that forms a protective barrier on the skin’s surface, locking in moisture and preventing dehydration.
Coconut Oil
It can make soap hard and water retaining, which can increase yields. It's also more soluble in hard and salt water, so it lathers more easily.
Shea Butter
Shea Butter possesses both moisturizing and nourishing properties for the skin. It also imparts a pleasant creamy color and a light chocolatey aroma to your soap.
Soybean Oil
Soybean oil is a popular carrier oil in soap making and can serve as a base oil in soap bars. When combined with other base oils, it helps produce a hard, white bar of soap with a mild, stable lather.
Castor Oil
it contains a high amount of saturated fat, which is a key component of soap.