Glycerin is a sweet, sticky by-product of saponification, a process whereby animal fat, lye, vegetable oil and water are blended to make soap. It is a natural emollient and acts as a humectant, meaning it softens and attracts water to the skin. Glycerin is removed from commercial soap because manufacturers prefer to add more lucrative softening agents. Glycerin remains in homemade soap since removing it requires an industrial steam and filter process, but also because many people prefer the natural soothing properties. To make glycerin bars at home, obtain glycerin at a craft store or online through a soap supplier, then melt and pour.
Instructions
1. Place two 1-lb. blocks of glycerin on the cutting board. Cut each block into small sections with a serrated knife.
2. Liquefy the glycerin in a double broiler. Place at least 1 inch of water in the lower pot and place cubes in the top portion. Then heat at 155 degrees F until smooth, stirring occasionally.
3. Prep a flexible, rectangular-shaped mold. Use a bottle to spray a 9-by-6 5/8-by-2 3/4 inch food container with an even coat of alcohol to reduce potential air bubbles.
4. Pour the glycerin liquid into the mold and let it stand for 5 minutes while the air bubbles emerge. Again, spray alcohol over the surface.
5. Let the soap cool for 24 hours at room temperature to firm or to let the added fragrance, if any, settle (see Tips).
6. Release the glycerin soap from the mold by pulling the sides back and forth. Flip the container over on wax paper then press the center until the soap separates from the mold.
7. Cut the glycerin bars with a paring knife. Create clean lines by warming the knife blade in a cup of hot water and keeping the knife straight as opposed to tilted. Make one vertical cut down the center of the block and two evenly spaced horizontal cuts for 6 glycerin bars.
Tags: glycerin bars, from mold