Choosing the right oils is key when creating a soap recipe. The combination of oils has an impact on the cleansing, moisturizing and lathering properties of the finished product.
Following is a list of oils I find to use most in soap and skin care products. This list will be updated, as needed, should I add new oils in Starseed products.
Avocado Oil
Using avocado oil for soap making will increase the conditioning properties of your finished product and add creaminess to the soap's lather. Avocado oil also has wonderful skin care advantages such as a high content of vitamin A, D and E.
Castor Oil
This oil draws moisture to the skin and provides an excellent lather. It can serve as a natural moisturizer for your skin and hair, and its antioxidant properties may prevent free radicals from contributing to skin aging.
Coconut Oil
Coconut Oil is super cleansing and produces large bubbles when used in cold process soaps. Coconut oil helps support your skin's protective barrier layer, trapping moisture inside keeping skin supple, hydrated and can reduce inflammation. Coconut oil has anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for irritated, chafed skin.
Grapeseed Oil
This oil leaves your skin feeling silky smooth. It has a lightweight and thin texture, and it's high in linoleic acid and antioxidants.
Hemp Seed Oil
Hemp seed oil decreases inflammation and irritation and is said to provide relief for discomfort related to certain skin conditions. Some dermatologists recommend this oil as an alternative solution for acne, psoriasis, eczema, and atopic dermatitis as it promotes the growth of new healthy skin cells.
Jojoba Oil
Hydrates the skin, balances natural oil production, delivers antioxidant protection, has anti-inflammatory effects, may have some antibacterial properties.
Olive Oil
This is a thick oil that helps to moisturize the skin and offers a creamy lather in soap. Extra-virgin olive oil and olive oil can be applied to your skin to moisturize and cleanse regardless of skin type. It contains vitamin E, anti-oxidants, and compounds which may prevent aging and repair skin damage. Olive oil is non-toxic, anti-microbial, and hypoallergenic.
Rosehip Oil
This oil contains vitamins A and E and high in essential fatty acids, linoleic and linolenic acids. It is a powerful skin regenerator and rejuvenator. It helps prevent aging of the skin, minimizes scarring. It works well with chamomile to decrease inflammatory conditions and soothe the skin.
Sea Buckthorn Oil
Sea buckthorn is one of my absolute favorite ingredients for skin care due to its healing properties. Sea buckthorn contains vitamins B1, B2, K, C, A, and E, folic acid, an array of powerful antioxidants and minerals. It’s also a good source of linoleic acid (LA), an omega-6 fatty acid that’s the most abundant fatty acid in human skin. Together these powerful nutrients and fatty acids work together to transform the skin. Sea buckthorn is said to reduce inflammation in the skin, prevent future flare ups, help to fade scars and promote an overall more even and smoother skin texture. Research suggests that it may reduce acne and psoriasis, as well as protect against dry or scaly skin.
Sustainable Palm Oil
Palm oil in soap adds a creamy, stable lather. It also contains vitamins A and E which make it skin-friendly.
Sweet Almond Oil
Rich in Vitamin A, E, Fatty acid, Potassium, Zinc and Proteins. Almond Oil is loaded with antioxidants which rejuvenate the skin by trapping moisture and removes free radicals. The fatty acids help your skin retain moisture and helps to heal chapped and irritated skin.