What is Olive Oil Soap Good For?
Olive oil was one of the first oils used to make soap. Cosmetics made with olive oil help the skin by keeping a moisture balance. Olive oil soap also soothes the skin and absorbs quite easily into it. This soap contains therapeutic qualities for those who suffer from various skin conditions. Soap makers create an olive oil soap called castile soap. It is mostly olive oil, but other oils are added for balance. Does this Spark an idea?
Olive Oil
Olive oil is derived from the fruit of an olive. The leaves and stems are removed and the olives are cleaned. The life span of olive oil is about 5 years. Olives are taken to a mill within one day of picking to keep down the acidity. The olives are then slowly mixed with paste which allows the oil to separate from the fruit. The oil is then pressed and bottled.
How the Soap is Made
Fats and oils are put into the soap with the addition of lye. Lye is neutralized during the soap-making process. Glycerin is then mixed with olive oil, lye, colors and scents. It is also mixed with other moisturizers. Lower grades of olive oil are preferred because it is more cost effective.
Therapeutic Qualities
The moisturizing qualities of olive oil soap are beneficial to people who have skin rashes, allergies, eczema and psoriasis. Rich in vitamins and minerals, olive oil soap also contains protein. Olive oi is rich in Vitamin E. It also contains antioxidants which have healing properties. The soap replaces moisture and elasticity to the skin. High concentrations of olive oil can help cure dandruff. Olive oil soap also reduces buildup from synthetic haircare products.
Soap Combinations
There are several combinations of olive oil soap. Olive oil and chamomile is soothing to the skin. Honey and olive oil are combined to create an extra moisturizing soap. Lavender is added for its antiseptic properties and soothing scent. Olive oil and green tea are used for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory purposes. Verbena can be combined with olive oil soap because of its scent and creaminess.
Making Soap at Home
When making soap at home, remember to use lye. It is an important ingredient to create the chemical process in soap. It must be 100 percent and can be purchased at the hardware store. You also need olive oil and several tools. Some of the tools are a kitchen scale, percolator and a soap mold. There are kits available at craft stores. Brambleberry.com offers an easy to follow lye calculator to ensure you are using the correct amount.
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