How to Make Homemade Soap That Is More Hydrating to Mature Skin
- 1). Pour the distilled water in a ceramic bowl or stainless steel bowl. Make sure the bowl is heatproof before adding the lye, as the temperature rises and may crack the bowl. Add the lye to the water and stir slowly with a wooden spoon until the lye dissolves.
- 2). Place the stainless steel pot on low heat and add the lard. Slowly stir until the lard melts and add the olive oil and shea butter. Continue cooking for 15 minutes and remove the pot from the stove.
- 3). Wait at least five minutes for the mixture to cool, but not harden in the pot and then add the lye and water mixture. Stir as you pour the mixture into the pot. It should begin turning a lighter shade and becoming thicker.
- 4). Stir the mixture for 15 minutes. Test the solution by lifting up a small amount of the mixture and drizzling it over the top. If the mixture sits on the top for a moment before dropping back into the solution, then you have what's known as trace. Add 3 tbsp. of essential oil, specifically designed for soap making, if you prefer a scented soap.
- 5). Transfer the soap mixture to the soap molds. Pour an equal amount of the mixture into each mold and cover the molds with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Remove any remaining mixture from the pot and throw it away. Wash your utensils as soon as you're finished.
- 6). Remove the soap from the molds after 24 hours, which allows the soap to cure. Test the soap first by pressing down on the top of the soap in the middle. If your finger goes into the soap, it needs more time to cure or harden.
