What Is Lye Soap Made of?

Lye soap has been around for centuries and is among the most natural types of soap you can make and buy. To create your own lye soap, you will need a few specific ingredients. There are several main components that are necessary for the creation of lye soap.

Soap Lye

The lye used in soap making is the most important ingredient. It creates a chemical reaction with the fats that makes the soap congeal and harden.

Oils

Oils used in soap making include coconut oil, olive oil, palm oil and vegetable oil. Coconut oil produces a soap that creates much lather.

Butters

Butters can be added to the soap, which can turn the soap into a moisturizing soap that can keep the skin soft. These include cocoa butter and shea butter.

Distilled Water

Distilled water is added to the lye in the early stages of soap making. It reacts with the lye, creating heat in the reaction.

Essential Oils

Essential oils are added to the mixture to enhance the aroma of the soap. The most popular essential oils used in lye soap are lavender, rose and peppermint.

Resources

• Soap Making Lye
• Essential Oils
• Soap Oils and Butters