Olive oil soap, often referred to as Castile soap, is made primarily from olive oil and is celebrated for its moisturizing qualities. Unlike commercial soaps that may contain harsh chemicals, olive oil soap is gentle on the skin, making it ideal for sensitive skin types and even for babies.

Benefits of Olive Oil Soap

Moisturizing: Olive oil is rich in antioxidants and vitamins, which help to nourish and hydrate the skin.
Gentle Cleansing: The soap produced from olive oil does not strip the skin of its natural oils, making it less drying than other soaps.
Sustainable: Making your own soap can reduce plastic waste and reliance on commercial products.

To make your own olive oil soap, you will need the following ingredients:

Olive Oil: 16.01 oz (454 g) of extra virgin or pomace olive oil.
Lye (Sodium Hydroxide): 2.05 oz (58 g).
Distilled Water: 3.67 oz (104 g).
Optional: 1 tsp sodium lactate (to help harden the soap) and essential oils for fragrance.

Safety gear (gloves and goggles)
Stainless steel pot for melting oils
Heat-proof container for mixing lye
Stick blender
Soap mold
Measuring scale

1. Prepare Your Workspace

Ensure your workspace is clean and well-ventilated. Wear gloves and goggles to protect yourself from lye, which is caustic.

2. Make the Lye Solution

In a well-ventilated area, carefully mix the lye with distilled water. Always add lye to water, never the other way around, to avoid dangerous reactions. Stir until fully dissolved and let it cool.

3. Warm the Olive Oil

In a stainless steel pot, gently warm the olive oil until it reaches about 100°F (38°C).

4. Combine Lye and Oil

Once the lye solution and olive oil are within 5 degrees of each other, slowly pour the lye solution into the olive oil while stirring gently.

5. Blend to Trace

Using a stick blender, blend the mixture until it reaches "trace," which is when it thickens to a custard-like consistency. You can check for trace by drizzling some of the mixture over the surface; it should leave a trail.

6. Pour into Molds

If you’re adding essential oils, mix them in now. Pour the soap mixture into your mold and cover it with a towel to insulate.

7. Curing Process

Let the soap sit for 48 hours before unmolding. After unmolding, cut the soap into bars and place them on a drying rack in a cool, dry area for at least 4-6 weeks to cure. This allows the soap to harden and become milder.

How Long Does Olive Oil Soap Last?

Homemade olive oil soap can last up to two years if stored properly. However, the best-by date is typically determined by the olive oil used in the soap.

Can I Customize My Olive Oil Soap?

Absolutely! You can add various essential oils for fragrance, natural colorants, or even exfoliating agents like oatmeal or dried herbs.

Is Making Soap Difficult?

While soap making involves handling lye, which requires caution, the process itself is straightforward. With the right preparation and safety measures, anyone can successfully make olive oil soap.

Making your own olive oil soap is a rewarding and sustainable endeavor that results in a gentle, moisturizing product for your skin. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create high-quality soap that is free from synthetic additives. Whether for personal use or as a thoughtful gift, homemade olive oil soap is sure to impress. Happy soap making!