Activated charcoal is a highly porous substance that is made by heating carbon-rich materials such as coconut shells, sawdust, or bamboo to high temperatures. This process results in charcoal with a large surface area and many tiny pores, which gives it its remarkable ability to absorb impurities and toxins from the skin.
Due to its cleansing properties, activated charcoal has become a popular ingredient in many skincare products, including soaps. When added to soap, activated charcoal can help to draw out impurities from the skin, making it a great addition to your beauty routine.
In this recipe, I will guide you through the process of making Activated Charcoal Swirl Soap, which combines the cleansing power of activated charcoal with the moisturizing benefits of homemade soap. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a luxurious bar of soap that will leave your skin feeling clean, refreshed, and nourished. So let’s get started!
Ingredients:
2 lbs of melt-and-pour soap base (shea butter or goat’s milk work well)
1 tablespoon of activated charcoal powder
1 tablespoon of white kaolin clay
1 tablespoon of tea tree essential oil
Soap mold
Rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle
Directions:
Prepare your ingredients and equipment
Gather all of your ingredients and equipment before you start. You will need a large microwavable bowl, a spatula or spoon for mixing, a soap mold, and a spray bottle filled with rubbing alcohol.
Melt the soap base
Cut the soap base into small chunks and place them in a large microwavable bowl. Melt the soap base in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring in between until it is completely melted.
Add activated charcoal powder and clay
Once the soap base is melted, add 1 tablespoon of activated charcoal powder and 1 tablespoon of white kaolin clay. Mix well to ensure that the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the soap base.
Add essential oil
Next, add 1 tablespoon of tea tree essential oil to the mixture and stir until it is fully incorporated.
Pour the soap into the mold
Carefully pour the soap mixture into the soap mold. You can tap the mold gently to release any air bubbles.
Create the swirl effect
To create the swirl effect, use a toothpick or skewer to make swirling patterns in the soap. You can alternate directions to create a unique pattern.
Spray with rubbing alcohol
Spray the surface of the soap with rubbing alcohol to prevent any air bubbles from forming.
Let the soap cool and harden
Allow the soap to cool and harden for at least 1 hour.
Remove the soap from the mold
Once the soap has hardened, gently remove it from the mold. You may need to wiggle the mold back and forth to loosen the soap. If the soap is stuck, you can place the mold in the freezer for a few minutes to help release the soap.
Cut the soap into bars
Using a sharp knife, cut the soap into bars of your desired size. You can trim any rough edges with a vegetable peeler or knife.
Let the soap cure
Place the bars of soap on a drying rack or parchment paper and let them cure for at least 2 weeks. This allows the soap to harden and become milder for use.
Wrap and store the soap
Once the soap is fully cured, wrap it in parchment paper, tissue paper or plastic wrap. Store the soap in a cool, dry place until ready to use.
Tips:
Be careful when melting the soap base in the microwave as it can become very hot.
Experiment with different essential oils to create your desired scent.
You can add dried lavender or rose petals for a visual effect.
For a more rustic look, leave some of the activated charcoal visible in the soap.
If you want a more vibrant color, you can add a few drops of black soap dye to the melted soap base.
Making your own soap can be a fun and rewarding experience. Activated Charcoal Swirl Soap is a great way to incorporate the benefits of activated charcoal into your skincare routine, leaving you with clean and refreshed skin.
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