The Role of Lye in Handmade Soap: What You Need to Know
At Feathered Whimzy, we believe in transparency and education about our products. One key ingredient in our handmade soap is lye, or sodium hydroxide. Here’s a clear explanation of what lye is, how it works, and why it benefits our soaps.
What is Lye?
Lye is a strong alkaline substance essential for the soap-making process. It reacts with natural fats and oils to create soap through a process called saponification. While lye is caustic in its raw form, it’s completely safe once it’s combined with oils and allowed to cure.
How Does Lye Work?
Saponification: When lye is mixed with oils, it undergoes a chemical reaction called saponification. This process transforms the ingredients into soap and produces glycerin, a natural moisturizer that enriches our bars.
Curing: After blending, our soap needs to cure for several weeks. This step ensures any remaining lye is fully neutralized, resulting in a gentle, skin-friendly final product.
Safety Commitment
Your safety and satisfaction are top priorities. While lye is necessary for soap making, it is handled with care and precision. By the time our soap reaches you, all lye is fully neutralized, leaving a luxurious, gentle product.
Conclusion
Understanding lye enhances the appreciation of our handmade soap's craftsmanship. We’re dedicated to providing you with high-quality, natural products that nourish your skin and are crafted with care. If you have any questions about our ingredients or the soap-making process, please feel free to contact us.
