Olive Oil for Soapmaking | The Benefits
Olive oil for soapmaking has many benefits. Its ability to moisturize, clean gently, and its versatility in recipes make it a favorite among soap makers and enthusiasts alike. Olive oil has been a staple ingredient for centuries, and for good reason.
Today we will look at why Olive Oil is so popular for soap making!
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1. Moisturizing Properties
Olive oil is renowned for its moisturizing properties. When used in soap, it helps to soften and smooth the skin, making it an excellent choice for those with dry or sensitive skin. The high content of oleic acid in olive oil makes it deeply penetrating, providing long-lasting hydration.
Oleic acid is a type of monounsaturated fatty acid found in various animal and vegetable fats and oils. It is one of the main components of olive oil, along with other fatty acids such as linoleic acid and palmitic acid. Oleic acid is known for its moisturizing and emollient properties, making it beneficial for skincare.
2. Gentle Cleansing
Unlike some harsher soaps, olive oil-based soaps are gentle on the skin. They cleanse without stripping away natural oils, leaving the skin feeling clean and nourished. This makes olive oil soap suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
3. Antioxidant Benefits
Olive oil is rich in antioxidants, such as vitamin E, which help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. This can help to reduce signs of aging and maintain a youthful appearance. The antioxidants in olive oil also contribute to its long shelf life, making it a practical choice for soapmaking.
- Vitamin E: Olive oil is rich in tocopherols, a form of vitamin E. Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant that helps protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to premature aging and skin damage.
- Polyphenols: Olive oil contains various polyphenols, such as hydroxytyrosol and tyrosol, which have antioxidant properties. These compounds help to neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body.
- Phytosterols: Olive oil contains phytosterols, which are plant-derived compounds that have antioxidant properties. Phytosterols help to protect the skin from UV radiation and environmental damage.
- These antioxidants work together to protect the skin from oxidative damage, improve skin elasticity, and promote overall skin health.
4. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Olive oil contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory effects on the skin. This can help to soothe conditions such as eczema and psoriasis, making olive oil soap a gentle and effective option for those with these skin conditions.
- Oleocanthal: Oleocanthal is a natural compound found in olive oil that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties similar to ibuprofen. It helps to reduce inflammation by inhibiting the enzymes that cause it.
- Oleuropein: Oleuropein is another compound found in olive oil that has anti-inflammatory effects. It helps to reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
- Hydroxytyrosol: Hydroxytyrosol is a polyphenol found in olive oil that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps to reduce inflammation by neutralizing free radicals and reducing oxidative stress in the body.
- These compounds work together to help reduce inflammation in the body, which can benefit overall health and may also have positive effects on skin health.
5. Versatility in Soap Formulation
Olive oil is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various soap formulations. It can be combined with other oils and butters to create a soap that suits your skin’s specific needs. Whether you prefer a hard bar or a softer, more luxurious lather, olive oil can be adjusted to achieve the desired results.
Castile Soap: The Purest Form
Castile soap is a type of soap made exclusively from olive oil, water, and lye (sodium hydroxide). Originating from the Castile region of Spain, this soap is renowned for its mildness and gentle cleansing properties. It produces a creamy lather that leaves the skin feeling soft and moisturized.
Bastille Soap: 70% Olive Oil Soap
Bastille soap is a variation of Castile soap that includes a small percentage of other oils, such as coconut or palm oil, to increase the lather and hardness of the soap. While Castile soap is 100% olive oil, Bastille soap typically contains around 70% or more olive oil, with the remaining portion consisting of complementary oils.
Try My Liquid Soap Recipe with olive oil
Recipes with Olive Oil:
While Castile or Bastille soap have the most olive oil, you can also make soap containing a smaller percentage of olive oil and still have so many of the benefits. Here are a few of my soap recipes that contain olive oil:
Simple Basic Beginner Soap Recipe with Shea Butter | Cold Process
Soap Recipe with Mango Butter and Shea Butter
Cow’s Milk and Tallow Soap Recipe | Cold Process
Olive oil is a valuable ingredient in soapmaking, offering a range of benefits for the skin. It’s moisturizing, gentle cleansing, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties make it a popular choice among soap makers and consumers alike. Whether you’re looking to create a gentle soap for sensitive skin or a luxurious bar with a rich lather, olive oil is a versatile and beneficial ingredient to consider.
