Expert: Terry Knorr - 4/12/2005

Question
I MAKE GOAT'S MILK SOAPS AND LOTIONS. I HAVE BEEN TRYING TO FIND A PLACE TO TEST MY LOTIONS FOR SHELF LIFE AND FOR SKIN SAFE (ALLERGIES). I HAVE FOUND A COUPLE OF PLACES ON INTERNET. ONE LAB WANTS $36,000 AND ONE WANTED $2,000. TO ME THIS IS WAY TO MUCH. DO YOU KNOW WHO DOES THIS?  ANOTHER THING, CAN YOU USE FOOD COLORING TO COLOR COLD PROCESS SOAP? THANKS

Answer
Hi!

Yes, you can use food coloring to color your soaps.  Add it just before pouring your soap into the mold.

No, I don't know of anyone who is testing soaps.  I simply test my soaps on myself.  If I don't have any problems then I ask friends to try them.

Concerning shelf-life - you can accelerate its aging process by subjecting your soaps to extreame heat, cold, and light (the enemies of your soap) and observe its reactions.  But, I cannot tell you how to convert these observations into a numerical value.

I'm sorry I don't have more information for you.  This is the extent of my knowledge in this area.  Have a Great Day!

Happy soaping!
Terry