Sodium lauryl sulphate is found in soaps, shampoos and toothpaste. This chemical provides the lather when the product is used. Sodium lauryl sulphate is also found in pesticides and some insecticides and can cause eye and skin irritation. To avoid contact with this chemical, you can make your own soaps at home for little money. These homemade sodium lauryl-free soaps are not only good for sensitive people, but can also be personalised to make a special gift.

 

For the soap you need: a soap mould, essential oils, fragrances and herbs of your choice, a water bath, a knife, glycerine base for soaps (without sodium lauryl sulphate) and rubbing alcohol or rubbing alcohol.

 

Cut the glycerine soap base into pieces and melt in a bain-marie. Bring the water to the boil, place the pieces of soap in a container in the boiling water and wait until it becomes liquid. It may take 10 to 15 minutes. Remove the soap from the heat. Mix in the desired essential oils, herbs or fragrances and stir well.

 

Allow the soap to cool slowly while continuing to stir. Pour the still liquid soap into the soap mould. Spray the surface of the soap mould with alcohol to prevent bubbles from forming. Soap moulds can either be bought in craft shops or alternatively you can use muffin baking tins or ice cube trays. Moulds made of plastic, wood or cardboard are best. Sheet metal and aluminium should be avoided.

 

Allow the soap to harden completely and remove from the mould. It can now be used or beautifully wrapped as a gift.

 

Tip: If the soap does not come out of the mould easily, you can put the mould in the freezer for an hour. The soap will shrink a little, making it easier to remove.