Fall Pumpkin Spice Bar Soap

Fall Pumpkin Spice Bar Soap

🧪 What Is Sodium Hydroxide (Lye)?

Sodium hydroxide, commonly known as lye, is a key ingredient used to balance the pH of skincare products and to create soap through a process called saponification. When combined with animal fats or vegetable oils, it triggers a chemical reaction that transforms those oils into cleansing, skin-friendly soap.

✨ How It Works in Soapmaking

• Lye is first diluted with water and then added to base oils.

• This mixture thickens and is poured into molds to set for about 24 hours.

• The soap then cures for 4–6 weeks, during which excess water evaporates and the sodium hydroxide is fully neutralized.

🧼 The Final Product

While lye is essential for the soapmaking process, it’s not present in the finished bar of soap. During curing, it is completely dissolved and reacts with the oils, leaving behind only gentle, effective soap enriched with herbal or natural additives.