Why Spearmint for the Holidays?
Spearmint is not just refreshing; it's also a festive choice for the holiday season. Its crisp, refreshing scent captures the essence of winter cheer, making it a perfect addition to homemade gifts and holiday craft markets. Spearmint is an all-natural ingredient, making these soaps an excellent option for those seeking environmentally friendly and health-conscious gift alternatives.
Ingredients You'll Need
For this spearmint soap recipe, gather the following ingredients:
- Olive Oil: 12.0 oz (36%)
- Coconut Oil: 10.0 oz (30%)
- Palm Oil (melted): 8.4 oz (25%)
- Avocado Oil: 1.7 oz (5%)
- Castor Oil: 1.3 oz (4%)
- Spearmint Essential Oil: 1.6 oz (3.5%)
- Finely Ground Peppermint Leaves: 3/4 teaspoon
- Cold Distilled Water: 6.7 oz
- Sodium Hydroxide (Lye): 4.7 oz
- Sodium Lactate 60% (optional): 2 teaspoons
These ingredients blend to create a festive, moisturizing soap with a vibrant spearmint aroma and the gentle exfoliating properties of peppermint leaves.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Your Spearmint Soap
Step 1: Preparation
Ensure you are wearing protective gear and working in a well-ventilated area. Pre-measure all your ingredients to streamline the soap-making process.
Step 2: Lye Solution
Carefully mix the sodium hydroxide into the cold distilled water, stirring gently and avoiding fumes. Set aside to cool.
Step 3: Oil Solution
Melt the coconut oil, then add the other oils, including spearmint essential oil and peppermint leaves. Stir to combine thoroughly.
Step 4: Making the Soap
Monitor the temperatures of your oil and lye solutions to ensure they are between 85°-95°F before combining. Mix using a stick blender until you reach a medium trace.
Step 5: Molding
Pour the soap batter into a mold, tapping it down to release any air bubbles. If desired, texture the top with a spoon or chopstick.
Step 6: Curing
Optionally, gel the soap using a heating pad and insulation to enhance the soap's properties and appearance. Cure the soap in the mold for 48 hours before unmolding.
Step 7: Finishing Touches
Once unmolded, cut the soap into bars and allow them to cure for 4-6 weeks before using or gifting.
Spread the Holiday Cheer with Handmade Soap
Homemade spearmint soap is a thoughtful and refreshing gift for the holidays. Not only does it carry the delightful scent of spearmint, but it also offers the moisturizing benefits of natural oils. Ready to try more DIY mint soap projects? Check out our
whipped soap collection for luxurious, soft-textured soap options. Whether you're a seasoned soap maker or just starting, you'll find all the resources to spread a little more holiday cheer with each handmade bar.
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