Benefits of Olive Oil

Olive oil is renowned for its moisturizing properties. It is rich in antioxidants and vitamins, making it ideal for skin care. When used in soap, olive oil contributes to a gentle and nourishing bar that is suitable for all skin types.

Benefits of Coconut Oil

Coconut oil, on the other hand, is celebrated for its ability to create a rich lather. It has natural antibacterial properties and helps to cleanse the skin effectively. However, it can be drying if used in excess, which is why combining it with olive oil is advantageous.

This recipe is designed for both beginners and experienced soap makers. It can be made using either the cold process or hot process method.

Ingredients

Coconut Oil: 12 oz. (340 g)
Olive Oil: 20 oz. (567 g)
Lye (Sodium Hydroxide): 4.5 oz. (127 g)
Water: 12 oz. (340 g)
Optional: Essential oils for fragrance (up to 10 g)

Equipment Needed

Safety gear (gloves, goggles)
Digital scale
Stainless steel pot or crockpot
Heat-proof container for mixing lye
Stick blender
Soap mold (silicone molds work well)

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

Ensure your workspace is clean, well-ventilated, and free of distractions. Wear your safety gear to protect yourself from lye, which is caustic and can cause burns.

Step 2: Measure and Mix the Lye

Weigh the water in a heat-proof container.
Slowly add the lye to the water (never the other way around) while stirring gently. This mixture will heat up rapidly and become clear as the lye dissolves. Set it aside to cool.

Step 3: Melt the Oils

In a separate pot, combine the coconut oil and olive oil. Heat gently until the coconut oil is fully melted.

Step 4: Combine Lye and Oils

Once both the lye mixture and the oils are around the same temperature (between 85°F and 110°F), slowly pour the lye mixture into the oils while stirring continuously.

Step 5: Blend to Trace

Using a stick blender, mix the soap batter until it reaches "trace," which is the point where it thickens to a consistency similar to pudding. This can take a few minutes.

Step 6: Add Optional Ingredients

If you wish to add essential oils or other additives (like oatmeal or herbs), do so at this stage and mix thoroughly.

Step 7: Pour into Molds

Carefully pour the soap batter into your molds, smoothing the top if necessary. Cover the molds with a towel to insulate them.

Step 8: Curing

For cold process soap, allow it to sit undisturbed for 24-48 hours before unmolding. After unmolding, let the soap cure in a cool, dry place for at least 4 weeks. This curing time allows the soap to harden and the lye to fully saponify.

Hot Process Alternative

If you prefer the hot process method, you can cook the soap mixture in a crockpot after reaching trace, which will speed up the saponification process. This typically takes about 30-45 minutes of cooking.

Safety First: Always wear gloves and goggles when handling lye. Ensure that children and pets are not in the vicinity.
Patience is Key: Allow the soap to cure fully before using it. This ensures a milder and longer-lasting bar.
Experiment with Scents: Feel free to customize your soap with different essential oils for fragrance, but ensure they are skin-safe.

Creating your own olive oil and coconut oil soap is a fulfilling project that results in a luxurious, moisturizing product. By following this simple recipe and adhering to safety guidelines, you can enjoy the benefits of handmade soap tailored to your preferences. Whether you opt for the cold or hot process method, the end result will be a beautiful bar of soap that nourishes your skin and enhances your bathing experience. Happy soap-making!