{"id":159,"date":"2024-02-09T19:48:26","date_gmt":"2024-02-09T19:48:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.soapmakingfriend.com\/magazine\/?p=159"},"modified":"2024-02-09T19:48:26","modified_gmt":"2024-02-09T19:48:26","slug":"how-to-make-soap-using-lye-safely-and-effectively","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.soapmakingfriend.com\/magazine\/how-to-make-soap-using-lye-safely-and-effectively\/","title":{"rendered":"How to make soap using lye? Safely and effectively"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
Image from Lidiacgarcia<\/a><\/figcaption>\n\n\n\n

You’ve probably heard that lye is an essential ingredient in natural soap, allowing for the creation of a soft, smooth bar that is pleasant to use. But why and how does it actually work? You’ll find out in our article! We explain what lye is, the reactions that take place when making soap with it, and how to make soap using lye safely for the desired effect.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

What is lye?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Lye, is a powerful alkaline<\/strong> substance used in various applications, including soapmaking. In soapmaking, lye reacts with fats and oils through a process called saponification<\/strong>, resulting in the formation of soap. This chemical reaction neutralizes the caustic properties<\/strong> of lye, creating a safe and effective cleansing product. It\u2019s very important \u2013 lye is a caustic chemical that can cause chemical burns and must be handled with care! In soapmaking, there are two types of lye we use- sodium hydroxide<\/strong> (chemical name NaOH)<\/strong> and potassium hydroxide (chemical name KOH)<\/strong>. Sodium hydroxide is most commonly used in soapmaking as it forms a hard bar of soap. Potassium hydroxide is used for liquid soaps, and for some hybrid soaps like cream soaps. While Soapmakingfriend.com<\/a> <\/strong> supports both types of lye, in this article we will be discussing sodium hydroxide (NaOH) when we talk about lye and the chemical interaction. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

How does lye work in soap?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If you want to create soap and control each step of the process to get exactly the effect you have planned for each time, you need to know and understand how lye works.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Stage 1: Saponification Reaction<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When sodium hydroxide (NaOH) is mixed with water and then added to fats and oils, a chemical reaction occurs. This reaction is called saponification and involves \u2013 something that sounds very serious \u2013 the hydrolysis of triglycerides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For the curious: The chemical equation for saponification of triglyceride with sodium hydroxide is as follows: Triglyceride + 3 NaOH \u2192 Glycerol +3 Soap Molecules. Put simply, one triglyceride molecule reacts with three sodium hydroxide molecules to produce glycerol (a byproduct) and three soap molecules.<\/pre>\n\n\n\n
Stage 2: Neutralization<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
While sodium hydroxide is a caustic substance, it is neutralized during the saponification process. As the reaction progresses, the sodium hydroxide is consumed, and the final product, soap, is safe<\/strong> for use on the skin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Stage 3: Curing Process<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
After the soapmaking process is complete, the soap batter is poured into molds and left to harden for a day or two.  Then, it can be cut when firm and set in a cool dry place to cure.  During this time, any remaining traces of sodium hydroxide react with the oils in the soap and are completely converted<\/strong>, ensuring a mild and safe final product.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
How to make homemade soap with lye?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Making DIY soap with lye requires careful attention to safety and precision. You need not only the accessories necessary for soap preparation, such as containers, molds, and stirrers but also protective accessories such as gloves, goggles, and a mask.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udc49 You can read more about it in the article: Soap Making Kit \u2013 9 Essentials You Need<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
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Here’s a basic cold process soap recipe (with lye) to help you get started<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Ingredients:<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n