Table of Contents
Introduction
Have you ever wondered why some soaps feel more luxurious than others? The texture, the lather, the overall experience can greatly vary across different soaps, and one key ingredient that can elevate your cleansing routine is glycerin. This humble compound, often overlooked, plays a significant role in improving the quality of soaps, making them more moisturizing and beneficial for your skin.
At Moon and Skin, we believe in creating products that harmonize with nature, supporting your skin through every phase of life. With the increasing demand for clean and thoughtful skincare, understanding the benefits of glycerin is more relevant than ever. Not only does it enhance the quality of soap, but it also aligns perfectly with our mission to provide skincare that celebrates and nurtures your skin’s unique journey.
In this blog post, we will explore why adding glycerin to soap is a fantastic idea, how it works, its benefits, and how to incorporate it into your own soap-making or skincare routine. Let’s dive into the science and art of glycerin in soap together.
What is Glycerin?
Glycerin, or glycerol, is a colorless, odorless, and sweet-tasting liquid that is a byproduct of soap making. It’s a natural humectant, meaning it attracts moisture from the environment and helps retain it in the skin. Derived from both plant and animal sources, glycerin can be found in various forms in nature, but most commercial glycerin today is plant-based, making it suitable for a wide range of skincare applications.
The Role of Glycerin in Soap
During the soap-making process, glycerin is produced when fats or oils react with lye (sodium hydroxide) in a process called saponification. This reaction not only creates soap but also produces glycerin, which remains in the soap and contributes to its moisturizing properties. Interestingly, handmade soaps typically contain around 7% to 10% glycerin, which is significant for skin hydration.
Benefits of Adding Glycerin to Soap
1. Deep Hydration
One of the most compelling reasons to add glycerin to soap is its ability to draw moisture into the skin. By acting as a humectant, glycerin helps to keep your skin hydrated, reducing dryness and flakiness. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with dry or sensitive skin types, as it promotes a soft and supple complexion.
2. Enhanced Skin Barrier Function
Glycerin strengthens the skin barrier, which is crucial for maintaining overall skin health. A robust skin barrier protects against environmental stressors, such as pollution and harsh weather, that can lead to skin damage. By incorporating glycerin into soap, we can ensure that our skin remains resilient and healthy.
3. Improved Lather and Texture
Adding glycerin to soap can enhance its lathering ability, providing a richer and creamier foam. This not only improves the sensory experience during use but also allows for a more effective cleansing action. A luxurious lather can make washing your hands or body feel like a spa-like experience.
4. Soothing and Calming Properties
Glycerin has been shown to have soothing properties, making it ideal for sensitive or irritated skin. It can alleviate discomfort caused by dryness or environmental factors, providing a gentle cleansing experience. For those prone to skin sensitivity, glycerin-infused soap can be a game-changer.
5. Compatibility with Other Ingredients
Glycerin works well with a variety of other ingredients, allowing for endless possibilities in soap formulation. Whether mixed with essential oils, natural colorants, or exfoliants, glycerin enhances the overall effectiveness of the soap, making it a versatile addition to any formulation.
How to Incorporate Glycerin into Your Soap
If you're interested in making your own soap or enhancing existing formulations, consider these tips on incorporating glycerin:
Cold Process Soap
In cold process soap making, glycerin is naturally produced during saponification. However, you can add extra glycerin at trace (when the soap mixture thickens) to boost its moisturizing properties. A general guideline is to add 1 to 2 tablespoons of glycerin per pound of oils used in your recipe.
Melt and Pour Soap
For those using melt and pour soap bases, adding glycerin is simple. Mix 1 to 2 teaspoons of glycerin into the melted soap base before pouring it into molds. This will enhance the soap's hydration and improve its overall quality.
Liquid Soap
In liquid soap formulations, glycerin can be added after the soap has been diluted. Typically, 1-2% glycerin can be mixed into the liquid soap to enhance its moisturizing properties without altering the consistency.
Glycerin and Moon and Skin Products
At Moon and Skin, we prioritize clean and effective formulations. Our products, like the Hyaluronic Brightening Moisturizer and Superfood Cleanser, are designed with ingredients that support skin hydration and health, much like glycerin does in soap.
By using products that enhance moisture retention, we can ensure our skin remains nourished through every phase of life.
FAQs About Glycerin in Soap
1. Is glycerin safe for all skin types?
Absolutely! Glycerin is gentle and safe for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Its hydrating properties make it particularly beneficial for dry or irritated skin.
2. Can glycerin cause soap to be sticky?
When added in moderation, glycerin should not cause soap to be sticky. However, excessive amounts can lead to a sticky texture, so it’s important to use it judiciously.
3. How does glycerin compare to other humectants?
While there are several humectants available, such as hyaluronic acid and aloe vera, glycerin is one of the most effective and widely used. It’s also very versatile, working well with a variety of other ingredients.
4. Can I add glycerin to commercial soap?
Yes, you can add glycerin to commercial soap, especially if you find that it lacks hydration. Just be cautious not to add too much, as it can alter the soap’s texture.
5. Are there any downsides to glycerin?
Generally, glycerin is well-tolerated, but if used excessively, it may make soap too soft or sticky. It’s also important to store glycerin-containing products in a cool place to prevent sweating.
Conclusion
Understanding why we should add glycerin to soap opens up a world of benefits for our skin. As a natural humectant, glycerin not only enhances hydration but also improves the overall texture and lather of soap. At Moon and Skin, we celebrate the beauty of clean, thoughtful formulations that support your skin's unique journey through every phase of life.
We encourage you to explore the benefits of glycerin and consider incorporating it into your soap-making or skincare routine. If you're looking for a complete skincare routine, we invite you to check out our Bundle & Save collection, which includes our best-selling products. Together, we can ensure your skin remains nourished and radiant at every stage.
Let’s embrace the beauty of hydration and care for our skin together!
