Soap making is an age-old craft that has evolved over time. Today, there are countless ingredients and techniques that soap makers can use to create unique and beneficial products. Two popular additives that have gained attention in recent years are clays and activated charcoal. These natural ingredients not only add visual interest to soap, but they also offer a range of benefits for the skin. In this blog post, we will explore the uses and benefits of clays and activated charcoal in soap making.
What are clays and activated charcoal?
Clays are naturally occurring minerals that are rich in various minerals and trace elements. They come in different colours, such as white, green, pink, and red, and each colour has its own unique properties. Activated charcoal, on the other hand, is a form of carbon that has been treated to increase its surface area. This treatment gives it a porous structure, allowing it to effectively absorb impurities.
Why are clays and activated charcoal used in soap making?
Clays and activated charcoal are used in soap making for their cleansing and purifying properties. They help to draw out impurities from the skin, leaving it clean and refreshed. Additionally, clays can provide gentle exfoliation, while activated charcoal can help to control excess oil and reduce the appearance of pores.
Benefits of clays in soap making
Clays offer a range of benefits when used in soap making:
- Exfoliation: Clays can gently exfoliate the skin, removing dead cells and promoting a smoother complexion.
- Detoxification: Clays have the ability to absorb toxins and impurities from the skin, helping to detoxify and purify.
- Oil control: Certain clays, like kaolin clay, can help to control excess oil production, making them ideal for oily or acne-prone skin.
- Soothing: Clays have a soothing effect on the skin, making them suitable for sensitive or irritated skin types.
Benefits of activated charcoal in soap making
Activated charcoal also offers several benefits when used in soap making:
- Deep cleansing: Activated charcoal has the ability to deeply cleanse the skin by drawing out impurities and toxins.
- Oil absorption: It can help to absorb excess oil from the skin, making it beneficial for oily or acne-prone skin.
- Pore minimizing: Activated charcoal can help to minimize the appearance of pores, giving the skin a smoother and more refined look.
- Antibacterial: It has antibacterial properties that can help to prevent and treat acne.
