Handmade soap is still a popular trend because of the choice and creativity of favorite scents as well as helping to avoid chemicals like in other conventional products.
Accordingly, homemade soap also brings relaxation thanks to natural ingredients such as lavender essential oil combined with lemongrass scent.
To make lavender soap combined with lemongrass scent, housewives need to prepare the following ingredients: 250gr coconut oil; 200gr olive oil; 100gr shea butter (or cocoa butter); 100gr caustic soda (NaOH); 250ml distilled water; 20 drops lavender essential oil; 1 - 2 drops lemongrass essential oil; 1 teaspoon oatmeal; soap mold...
When preparing the lye solution, housewives should wear gloves and protective glasses to ensure safety. First, pour 250ml of distilled water into a stainless steel basin, then slowly add the lye to the water and stir well. Be careful not to reverse the process or it will create a strong reaction.
Once the caustic soda has dissolved, let the solution cool for about 30 minutes until the temperature drops to 40 - 45°C.
While the lye solution cools, add the coconut oil, olive oil, and shea butter to a small saucepan. Melt the mixture, stirring constantly until all the ingredients are combined. Then turn off the heat and let the mixture cool.
Once the lye solution and oil mixture have both cooled, gently pour the lye solution into the oil mixture. Use a whisk or electric mixer to beat until the mixture begins to thicken. Once the mixture has reached a certain thickness, it is time to add the essential oils and other ingredients.
Once the mixture has reached the right consistency, add about 20 drops of lavender essential oil and 1-2 drops of lemongrass essential oil and stir well. If you want to add more exfoliating effect to the soap, you can add 1 teaspoon of oatmeal and mix well.
Once finished, pour the mixture into the prepared soap mold. Use a spoon or spatula to smooth the surface. Leave the soap mold in a cool place, away from direct sunlight. After about 24 to 48 hours, the soap will harden and can be removed from the mold and cut into bite-sized pieces.
Once the soap has been cut into small pieces, let it dry in a cool place for about 4-6 weeks. This process will help the soap reduce its alkalinity, make the scent milder and less irritating when used.
