How to make olive oil soap: properties and benefits for the skin

Olive oil soap is a natural and highly effective option for cleaning and caring for the skin, offering a wealth of benefits that have led more and more people to choose to have it in their shower.

A type of soap known for its softness and moisturizing properties, ideal for all skin types, including the most sensitive ones, although you can buy it pre-made, the ideal is to make homemade soap with olive oil, so you can control the ingredients and ensure you are using a product free of harsh chemicals. Additionally, it is an activity that is very entertaining and rewarding.

If you like the idea, at Olivarte we tell you how to make olive oil soap step by step, and we explain why it is so beneficial for your skin.

Properties and benefits of olive oil soap

Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is an ingredient rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and essential fatty acids, making it an ideal component for skin care, providing a series of benefits such as the following:

• Hydration: rich in oleic acid, AOVE helps to maintain moisture in the skin for a longer time, which is key for it to be soft and elastic.
• Antioxidant properties: the polyphenols and vitamin E present in AOVE protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, delaying premature aging and keeping your skin much younger.
• Softness and nutrition: olive oil soap is ideal for dry or sensitive skin, as it nourishes and soothes the skin without irritating it.
• Anti-inflammatory: thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, this soap is perfect for people with skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis.
• Gentle cleansing: unlike the commercial soaps you can find in the supermarket, olive oil soap does not alter the natural pH of the skin, keeping it healthy and protected.

How to make olive oil soap step by step?

Making olive oil soap at home is a simple process, but it requires caution, especially when handling caustic soda. Below, we explain how to make olive oil soap step by step yourself at home. And, although it is a very simple process, it requires caution, especially when handling caustic soda.

Necessary ingredients for the olive oil soap recipe:

• 500 ml of extra virgin olive oil (preferably high quality, like the ones you find at Olivarte).
• 64 grams of caustic soda (NaOH).
• 150 ml of distilled water.
• Soap molds (can be made of silicone, wood, or plastic).
• Utensils: wooden spoon, kitchen thermometer, gloves, and safety glasses.

Guide to Making Olive Oil Soap Step by Step

Prepare the work area:

Before you start, make sure that the area where you will be mixing is well-ventilated. Also, cover the surface with newspapers or plastic, and wear gloves and safety glasses to avoid contact with the caustic soda.

Mix the caustic soda with the water:

Take a heat-resistant container, such as a pot, and slowly add the caustic soda to the water (never the other way around, as it can cause a dangerous reaction). Stir well with a wooden spoon until the soda is completely dissolved. The mixture will be very hot, so let it cool until it reaches a temperature of approximately 40-45°C.

Heat the olive oil:

While the lye mixture cools, heat the olive oil in a pot over low heat until it reaches a similar temperature (40-45°C), without letting it boil.

Combine the lye and the oil:

Slowly pour the lye mixture into the olive oil, stirring constantly with the wooden spoon. It is important that both substances are at a similar temperature to avoid problems in the chemical reaction.

Mix until obtaining the trace:

Continue stirring the mixture until it reaches a thick consistency, similar to that of a pudding. This point is known as "trace" and is a sign that the soap is ready to be molded.

Put the mixture in the molds:

Once the trace is reached, pour the mixture into the previously prepared molds. Gently tap the molds on the surface to eliminate air bubbles.

Let the soap rest:

Cover the molds with a towel or plastic wrap and let them rest in a warm, dry place for 24-48 hours. Then, unmold the soap and cut into bars if necessary.

Cure the soap:

Place the soap bars in a cool, dry place, separated from each other, and let them cure for 4-6 weeks, as if they were an Iberian ham. This process will allow the soap to harden and the pH to stabilize, making its use completely safe.

Tips for making olive oil soap

With this information, following these steps, you are now ready to prepare your soap. But first, we recommend that you take note of these tips:

• Choose a quality olive oil: using a high-quality extra virgin olive oil ensures the production of a much more nourishing and beneficial soap for the skin.
• Add extra ingredients: If you want to customize your soap, you can add other additional ingredients to give it a special aroma such as essential oils (like lavender or tea tree), dried herbs, or natural colorants.
• Be patient: keep in mind that the healing process is essential to obtain a soft and long-lasting soap. So, arm yourself with patience and do not skip this step.

Why use olive oil soap?

Olive oil soap is an excellent choice if you are looking for a natural and skin-friendly product, which unlike commercial soaps, which often contain harsh chemicals and artificial fragrances, is gentle, nourishing, and free from harmful substances. Likewise, it is ideal for people with sensitive skin or skin issues, as it helps to soothe and regenerate the skin.

If you want to make your own soap, at Olivarte we have a wide catalog of premium quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil, with which you will ensure to create an artisanal and natural soap with the best ingredients. Your skin will thank you!