This cold process recipe comes together quickly but requires 5-6 weeks of curing before use. Lye drives the saponification reaction, turning oils into soap—always wear gloves and eye protection to handle it safely and avoid burns.
A balanced blend of oils, enriched with bentonite clay, delivers razor-ready lather. Homemade shaving soap is simple to craft and provides a smooth, skin-nourishing shave.
The oils in this recipe work together to moisturize skin and create the thick, creamy lather ideal for shaving soap.
In a Pyrex container, combine lye and distilled water. Stir gently until fully dissolved—the temperature will rise to nearly 200 degrees. Let it cool to 110-120 degrees while you prepare the oils.
In a separate pot, combine palm oil, coconut oil, castor oil, shea butter, and olive oil. Heat gently to 120 degrees.
Once both are 110-120 degrees, slowly pour the lye solution into the oils in a Pyrex container.
Using a mixer, blend until the mixture turns opaque and leaves a trail on the surface when drizzled—this is the 'trace' stage.
Stir in a heaping tablespoon of bentonite clay until fully blended, with even color and smooth texture.
Shaving soap is often molded into discs for shaving cups. For simplicity, pour directly into dollar-store ceramic mugs.
Fill mugs one-fourth to one-third full with a wooden or stainless steel spoon. Smooth the surface and wipe excess. Or use soap molds or a plastic-lined box, then cut to size.
Store in a cool, dry place for 5-6 weeks before use.
