How to Use Grapefruit Seed Extract in Soap Making

Grapefruit seed extract is an excellent cleanser because of its antiviral and antibacterial properties. It also helps to reduce skin inflammation and purify the skin naturally, is nontoxic and safe to use on all skin types, and acts as a natural preservative. For all these reasons, grapefruit seed extract is a worthwhile addition to homemade soaps.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Oils
• Grapefruit seed extract
• Lye
• Water
• Soap-making recipe

1. Mix the oils together and heat them as directed in the soap-making recipe you are using. Once the oils are heated, add the grapefruit seed extract directly to the oils. You will need to use approximately 3 percent of grapefruit seed extract versus your total ingredients. For example, if you have 12 ounces of oils, you will need 0.4 ounces of grapefruit seed extract.

2. Mix together the lye and water as directed in the soap-making recipe.

3. Add the lye water to the oil and grapefruit mixture and stir vigorously until trace is formed. Trace is when the mixture has reached a certain thickness that indicates it is ready.

4. Pour the grapefruit seed extract soap into molds and allow it to harden for 24 hours.

5. Remove the soap from the molds after it has set. Place the soap onto a drying rack and allow it to cure for 4 to 6 weeks before using.

References

• Benefits of Grapefruit Seed Extract