Common Soap Making Mistakes

🎯 Learning Objectives:

• Identify frequent errors during the soap-making process.
• Troubleshoot and correct issues such as separation, ricing, and overheating.
• Develop a problem-solving mindset for soap failures.

📚 Content Outline:

1. Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them:

• Incorrect Lye Measurements:
  • Causes: Too much (soap burns skin) / too little (soap is soft and oily).
  • Solution: Double-check using a reliable lye calculator.
• Seizing and Ricing:
  • Seizing: Soap batter hardens instantly.
  • Ricing: Small lumps appear.
  • Solution: Blend lightly, avoid overheating fragrances, and soap at lower temperatures.
• Overheating and Cracking:
  • Causes: Insulating soap too much or using honey/sugar in high amounts.
  • Solution: Monitor gel phase carefully; ventilate if needed.
• Soda Ash Formation:
  • White powdery layer on top.
  • Solution: Spray top with rubbing alcohol (91%+) after pouring.
• Fragrance and Color Issues:
  • Some scents accelerate trace or discolor soap (e.g., vanilla turns soap brown).
  • Solution: Test new fragrances and add stabilizers when needed.