Expert: Terry Knorr - 4/13/2005

Question
What is an alternative ingredient I may be able to use in place of glycerin in homemade soap?


Answer
Hi!

Because of misunderstandings in the making of homemade glycerin soaps, I will begin with some information you might already know.

Many people are using the melt and pour glycerin soaps to make (in reality, reshape) glycerin soap.  First, "glycerin soap" is a misnomer.  It contains no more glycerin than opaque soaps do.  It is more correctly refered to as transparent soap.  When using these melt and pour systems, a person is simply melting soap and reshaping it, possibly adding some colorant in the process.  These kits do not contain glycerin; these are simply pieces of soap with a low melting point.

Now, if you are actually putting glycerin in your soap...
glycerin is a by-product of the soapmaking process.  All soaps contain glycerin (unless it is removed from the soap).  Glycerin is a substance which attracts moisture; this is why soaps sweat.  The naturally occuring glycerin in the soap attracts moisture from the air.  It is this same quality that is so desirable.  Because glycerin attracts moisture, it helps to keep the skin from drying out.  Therefore, any substance which would help to maintain the moisture level in the skin with give you a similar effect.  You might try any of the following:

calendula oil
castor oil
cocoa butter
evening primrose oil
hazelnut oil
jojoba oil
lanolin
lard
neem oil
olive oil
safflower oil
shae butter
wheat germ oil

I hope this is helpful.  Have a Great Day!

Happy soaping!
Terry