Soap is the result of a chemical reaction between a fat and an alkaline agent, generally soda. This reaction, called saponification, produces a solid, cleansing soap. Among the many vegetable oils, neem oil is an excellent option for making a natural soap with purifying, soothing and protective properties. In this guide, we walk you step by step through creating a natural soap from this oil.
Why choose neem oil for making soap?
Neem oil is an oil extracted from the seeds of the margosa tree (Azadirachta indica); it has traditionally been used for its antiseptic virtues, antibacterial and natural antifungal. It is rich in essential fatty acids, vitamin E and azadirachtin (a compound renowned for its purifying properties). Neem oil also helps protect the skin against blemishes while soothing it.
Note that neem oil soap is particularly appreciated by skin prone to irritation, spots or light skin infections. It cleanses the skin deeply without stripping it and helps balance oily or problem skin.
Using neem oil also lets you formulate a soap with no palm oil, no artificial colorants and no synthetic fragrances. It is a genuine return to basics with a natural, effective ingredient: neem.
Making neem oil soap by the cold process method
The plays a very specific role in is a gentle method that preserves the valuable properties of neem oil. It consists of mixing the oil and the soda at room temperature.
The soap is then poured into a mold and must rest for several weeks so that saponification finishes naturally. This resting time, called cure, allows the soap to harden and to be gentler on the skin.
Ingredients and equipment needed to make neem oil soap
To make around 1 kg of neem oil soap, you will need:
Ingredients:
- 600 g of pure neem oil;
- 100 g of coconut oil (to harden the soap and improve the lather);
- 85 g of caustic soda;
- 220 ml of distilled water.
You can also add a few drops of essential oils (tea tree, lavender or eucalyptus), clay or or dried plants to personalize your soap.
Equipment:
- Accurate kitchen scales ;
- Two heat-resistant containers (stainless steel, glass or hard plastic);
- Mixeur plongeant ;
- Silicone spatula or wooden spoon ;
- Soap mold ;
- Gloves, mask and protective goggles ;
- Torchons propres.
Every utensil must be clean and sterilized before use.
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Step by step: making your neem oil soap
Here is how to make neem oil soap, step by step:
1 – Preparation and safety
Work in a well ventilated place. Wear a gloves, mask and natural and goggles. Prepare all your ingredients and equipment.
2 – Preparing the soda solution
Slowly pour the soda into the water (never the other way round). Stir gently until completely dissolved. Leave to cool to 38–40 °C.
3 – Heating the oils
Gently heat the neem oil and natural coconut oil together until they reach 38–40 °C.
4 – Mixing and saponification
Slowly pour the soda solution into the oil mixture. Blend with the immersion blender until you obtain a creamy texture (trace).
5 – Adding your chosen ingredients
At trace, add essential oils, clay or dried plants. Mix well.
6 – Molding and resting
Pour the paste into the mold. Smooth the surface and cover with a cloth. Leave to rest for 24 to 48 hours.
7 – Unmolding and curing
Unmold the soap and cut it if needed. Leave it to dry in the open air for 4 to 6 weeks to complete the saponification.
How do you personalize your neem oil soap naturally?
Making soap at home lets you create unique bars. Here are a few ideas:
- For a natural exfoliating effect, add coffee grounds, poppy seeds or oat flakes.
- Pour une a relaxing scented touch, add a few drops of lavender essential oil.
- Pour une a fresh sensation, peppermint essential oil is ideal.
- To color the soap naturally, use green or pink clay, or turmeric.
These additions must always be made after trace, just before pouring the soap into the mold.
Precautions to remember when making neem oil soap
Here are the essential points to remember when making neem oil soap:
- Always pour the soda into the water, never the other way round.
- Work in a well-ventilated place.
- Wear protective gear from the beginning to the end of the process.
- Respect the proportions given.
- Never use the soap before the cure has finished.
How to make neem oil soap: key takeaways
The neem oil soap is easy to make and perfect for purifying and soothing the skin. Follow each step carefully and take the necessary precautions for a successful soap.
Order here your neem oil now for making your neem oil soaps.