In simple terms, soap is the result of a chemical reaction between one or more fats and lye. This chemical reaction is called saponification. Modern soapers may use a variety of fats from plants and/or animals. Commonly used animal fats include beef tallow and pork lard. Aroma Alchemist LLC's vegan formula only uses plant-derived fats, such as olive oil and coconut oil.
The type of lye that one uses determines whether the result is a solid or a liquid. We use sodium hydroxide (NaOH), which produces a solid "bar" soap, whereas potassium hydroxide (KOH) produces a liquid soap.
When the chemical reaction is complete, none of the initial compounds remain in their original form. As an example, think for a moment about common table salt--sodium chloride (NaCl), which is the result of combining sodium and chlorine. When you sprinkle table salt on your food, you're not consuming sodium and chlorine (which would be harmful), but a new substance--sodium chloride--which adds flavor to food (when used in moderation, of course). This concept applies to soap, which is no longer either fat or lye.
Once a soap batter is sufficiently mixed, it's poured into a mold and allowed to sit. The saponification reaction takes approximately 24 hours to finish. Typically within a week of pouring, the young soap is carefully removed from the mold, cut into bars, and allowed to cure in a ventilated area (such as on a cooling tray). Curing is the process by which water evaporates and results in a firmer bar. We allow our bars to cure for a minimum of four weeks before they are available for sale.
If you're wondering what "plain" soap looks, feels, and smells like, check out Aroma Alchemist LLC's Au Naturel variety, made simply from saponified organic extra virgin olive oil and organic virgin coconut oil.
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