Question 1

Do you use sodium hydroxide (lye) to make your soaps?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we do use sodium hydroxide, also known as lye or caustic soda, in the soap-making process. Lye is an essential ingredient that, when combined with fats or oils, undergoes a chemical reaction called saponification. This reaction transforms the lye and fats into soap molecules. During the saponification process, the lye is completely consumed, and no traces of it remain in the final soap product. The end result is a gentle and nourishing soap that provides effective cleansing while being safe for everyday use. A bar without lye is not actually soap but a syndet bar, made of different ingredients and possesses distinct properties.

Question 2

Where do you get your sodium hydroxide from?

Accepted Answer

Our sodium hydroxide is derived from common table salt, which is dissolved in water and subjected to electrolysis using electrodes. This process generates chloride, hydrogen, and lye.

Question 3

If you use sodium hydroxide to make soap, why is not listed as an ingredient on the soap label (are you lye-ing to me)?

Accepted Answer

A: The reason sodium hydroxide is not listed as an ingredient on the soap label is because of the saponification process. Although sodium hydroxide is one of the required ingredients to make soap,  it is no longer present in the final soap product due to the chemical transformation that occurs during saponification. In compliance with British and European Cosmetic Laws, you will not find sodium hydroxide listed on the label. The saponified oils or fats are the active ingredients in soap and are what provide its cleansing properties.

More information on labelling can be found [here](/faqs/labelling)

Question 4

How can I be sure that sodium hydroxide is not present in the soap?

Accepted Answer

The saponification process is a carefully controlled chemical reaction that ensures the complete conversion of sodium hydroxide and oils/fats into soap and glycerine. The curing process and our quality control measures help ensure the complete conversion of sodium hydroxide during saponification, minimizing any potential risk of residue in the final soap product.

Question 5

Can individuals with sodium hydroxide sensitivities use soap made with this ingredient?

Accepted Answer

Individuals with sensitivities to sodium hydroxide generally do not experience adverse reactions when using soap made with this ingredient. During the saponification process, sodium hydroxide undergoes a chemical transformation and becomes soap, which is generally well-tolerated by most individuals. However, as with any personal care product, it is always recommended to perform a patch test or consult with a healthcare professional if you have specific concerns or sensitivities.

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