How Do You Make Glycerin Soap Bars?
Glycerin is a sweet, sticky by-product of saponification, a process whereby animal fat, lye, vegetable oil and water are blended to make soap. It is a natural emollient and acts as a humectant, meaning it softens and attracts water to the skin. Glycerin is removed from commercial soap because manufacturers prefer to add more lucrative softening agents. Glycerin remains in homemade soap since removing it requires an industrial steam and filter process, but also because many people prefer the natural soothing properties. To make glycerin bars at home, obtain glycerin at a craft store or online through a soap supplier, then melt and pour. Place two 1-lb. blocks of glycerin on the cutting board. Cut each block into small sections with a serrated knife. Liquefy the glycerin in a double broiler. Place at least 1 inch of water in the lower pot and place cubes in the top portion. Then heat at 155 degrees F until smooth, stirring occasionally. Prep a flexible, rectangular-shaped mold, such as T
