This tool assists in formulating soap recipes using specific oils, including those infused with certain botanicals. It determines the precise amount of alkali, typically sodium hydroxide (NaOH) for hard soaps or potassium hydroxide (KOH) for liquid soaps, required to saponify a given combination of fats and oils. For instance, when creating soap with oils infused with a particular plant, such as one found in alpine regions, the tool calculates the lye needed based on the fatty acid profile of the oil blend.
Accurate calculation is paramount to ensure complete saponification, resulting in a balanced soap with appropriate cleansing properties and skin compatibility. Too much alkali can yield a harsh, irritating product, while insufficient alkali leaves unsaponified oils, leading to a greasy bar with poor lather. Traditionally, soapmakers relied on experience and trial-and-error. Modern calculators streamline this process, minimizing waste and optimizing the quality of the final product. The use of such tools is invaluable for both amateur and professional soap makers.
