We are proud members of the Handcrafted Soapmakers Guild. We are continuosly advised on industry standards and exchange knowledge freely within our membership. You will recognize a higher standard of product excellence when you purchase from an HSMG member. Blue Dolphin is proud to be a member in good standing.
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| Blending select imported oils |
Adding Sodium Hydroxide ( LYE )
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Mixing oils and lye = saponafication |
OUR TYPICAL BASE INGREDIENTS (in alphabetic order).
Coconut oil – contains vitamins A and K and lauric acid. Pure coconut oil contains about 50 percent lauric acid. When lauric acid is present in the body, it is converted into monolaurin, a monoglyceride compound which exhibits antiviral, antimicrobial, antiprotozoal and antifungal properties. It acts by disrupting the lipid membranes in organisms like fungus, bacteria and viruses, thus destroying them.
Olive oil – vitamins A and K and is a natural humectant which attract external moisture, hold moisture close to the skin and form a breathable film to prevent loss of internal moisture. Olive oil does not block the natural functions of the skin: sweating, releasing sebum and shedding dead skin.
Palm oil – Give our soap hardness and contains vitamins A and K, and is a rich source of antioxidants. It is the richest vegetable oil source of tocotrienols - which are a potent form of vitamin E. Vitamin E strengthens the immune system, and protects skin cells from toxins and UV radiation. Palm oil is also a good source of beta-carotene. Beta-carotene is converted to retinol, which is essential for vision and is subsequently converted to retinoic acid, which is used for processes involving growth and cell differentiation.
Shea butter is also a humectant, naturally rich in vitamins A, E, and F, as well omega-3 and 6 fatty acids. Vitamins A and E help to soothe, hydrate, and balance the skin. They also provide skin collagen which assists with wrinkles and other signs of aging. Vitamin F contains essential fatty acids, and helps protect and revitalize damaged skin and hair. Shea butter promotes skin renewal, increases the circulation, and accelerates wound healing.
Distilled water – We use it because distilled water has virtually all of its impurities removed through distillation.
Sodium hydroxide – is an alkali used in soapmaking. Fats and oils are acidic and require a base to saponify (blend together). When distilled water and sodium hydroxide are mixed together (referred to as lye), the fats and oils dissolve the sodium hydroxide, producing soap and glycerin. The process is called saponification: they are saponifying, or making soap. Without a base, fats and oils cannot be converted into soap. Sodium hydroxide is the most common base, but others include potassium hydroxide, sodium carbonate, ammonia, and amines.
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| Remove soap from mold |
Cut into loaves |
Cut into individual bars |
Cure on rack 4-6 |
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| Finished product natural goodness for your skin |
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From cradle to sale it takes approximately 4-6 weeks for the soap to be ready for use. Bet you didn't know how much was involved in makling a simple bar of quality handmade soap.
