How to Scent Handmade Cold-Process Soap

How to Scent Handmade Cold-Process Soap thumbnail
Adding scent to cold-process soap enhances the appeal of the finished product.

The cold-process method of soap making mixes sodium hydroxide with water to create a lye solution, then incorporates oils or fats. Unlike the hot-process method, you don't need access to heat with these soap recipes. Essential oils, herbs and other solid ingredients act as a fixative when you add them to the soap, creating a long-lasting fragrance. Aromatherapy practitioners believe the more expensive natural essential oils contain therapeutic properties associated with their scents. Synthetic fragrance oils cost less and come in a wider selection of fragrances. You can choose to use either type of oil to scent cold-process soap.

Things You'll Need

  • Base soap mixture in mixing container (made using cold-process soap recipe of choice)
  • Wooden spoon or emulsion blender
  • Glass container
  • Glass droppers
  • Essential oil or fragrance oil
  • Additives, optional
  • Soap mold
  • Towel or blanket
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Instructions

    • 1

      Lift the spoon or emulsion blender out of the base soap mixture after it thickens to a pudding-like consistency. Let the soap fall off the spoon or blender back into the container; if the drips sit on the surface momentarily before sinking into the soap mixture, early trace has occurred. You can now add scent to the soap.

    • 2

      Measure, using the glass droppers, 3 to 4 tbsp. of essential oil or fragrance oil for every pound of oils or fats called for in the cold-process soap recipe. Blend the essential oil or fragrance oil into the soap mixture gently using the spoon.

    • 3

      Mix any other additives or decorative elements, such as flower petals, called for in your recipe into the soap mixture and blend it well.

    • 4

      Pour the soap mixture into the prepared mold, put the lid on the mold, and insulate it with the towel or blanket.

Tips & Warnings

  • Use high-quality oils intended for soap making to scent soap. Low-quality fragrance oils containing alcohol can overreact when blended with the soap, causing it to trace too soon or become lumpy. High-quality oils produce a longer-lasting scent.

  • Always wear latex gloves, long sleeves and protective eye wear when making soap. Soap base contains active lye and should never come in contact with your eyes or skin.

  • Essential oils are highly concentrated and may irritate the skin or cause an allergic reaction. Always research ingredients to maintain safety and proper use.

  • If you come into contact with lye solution or oils, wash or flush the affected area with water and seek medical attention as required.

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  • Photo Credit Thomas Northcut/Photodisc/Getty Images

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