How do I know how much lye to use in my soap?

How do you know if your soap has too much lye?

If the bar “zaps” you, it’s likely lye heavy. The feeling is hard to describe, but you’ll definitely notice it. Don’t do this test if the soap is seeping, as the liquid may be unsaponified lye that can burn your tongue. If the soap doesn’t zap you, it’s likely safe to use.

What is the best water lye ratio for soap making?

In general, the absolute highest ratio of water to lye is 1:1. This means there is equal parts lye and water in the mixture, or 50/50. At this ratio, the lye is still able to dissolve, but will be very concentrated and somewhat difficult to work with.

How do you calculate lye concentration?

Lye concentration is the grams (or ounces) of alkali contained in 100 grams (or ounces) of lye solution. Lye concentration of 33% means there are 33 grams of alkali in 100 grams of lye solution. Water makes up the rest of the 100 grams. In other words, the water weighs 100 – 33 = 67 grams.

Do you have to list lye as an ingredient in soap?

Technically, you do not have to list the ingredients. You just have to label it “soap,” say how much it weighs, and where to find your company. But, in order to make sales and drive a good business, you have to give people what they want to know—and they want to know what is in these types of products.

What happens if you have too much lye in your soap?

When soap is made with too much lye, it is called “lye-heavy.” This means there is extra, free floating lye that was not made into soap during the saponification process. Lye heavy soap can be irritating when applied to the skin and should not be used or sold. Lye heavy soap is often crumbly or dry feeling.

How do you fix too much lye in soap?

To correct a lye heavy batch, shred the soap as finely as possible, using gloves to protect your hands, and add to a slow cooker set on low. Add 1 tablespoon of distilled water and cover. Allow the soap to cook, stirring occasionally, until it has melted into a homogenous solution.

How do you calculate soap ingredients?

What is a lye discount?

An average superfat is usually between 1–7%. This means 1–7% of oils in the recipe are “free-floating” in the bar and were not turned into soap. A superfat is also referred to as a “lye discount.” This is because in order to turn fewer oils into soap, you reduce the amount of lye in the recipe.

How do you master batch lye water?

It can withstand heat up to 248 degrees Fahrenheit or 120 degrees Celsius for short periods of time.

What concentration of lye is safe?

In addition to protective gear, NIOSH recommends that the maximum exposure to sodium hydroxide should be no higher than 10mg.

What is the chemical formula of lye?

In addition to protective gear, NIOSH recommends that the maximum exposure to sodium hydroxide should be no higher than 10mg.

What is a lye calculator?

A lye calculator is a tool that helps simplify things by calculating the amount of lye you need according to the oils you choose for your recipe. To use a lye calculator, you input the oils you want to use, the amount of each oil you plan on using, and you can also specify if you want to superfat the soap or not.

Does homemade soap have to be FDA approved?

Neither the product nor its ingredients need approval by FDA, except for any color additives it contains. It is your responsibility to make sure your product is safe for consumers when it is used as intended, and to make sure it is properly labeled.

What should go on a soap label?

The label requires the name of the product, what it is, the net weight, the name and address of the manufacturer AND a declaration of the ingredients.

What should be on a soap label?