“Superfatting” is a term used in soap making that refers to the practice of adding extra fats or oils to a soap recipe beyond what is needed to saponify (i.e. turn into soap) the alkali (usually lye) used. This is typically done to make the soap milder and more moisturizing for the skin.
When making soap, the goal is to use just enough alkali to fully react with all of the fats and oils in the recipe. If there is too much alkali, the soap will be harsh and drying. If there is not enough alkali, the soap will be greasy and not lather well.
However, by intentionally using more fats and oils than are needed to fully react with the alkali, the resulting soap will have a higher percentage of unreacted fats and oils. These extra fats and oils will act as a moisturizer for the skin, making the soap milder and more nourishing.
Additionally, superfatting can also help ensure that all of the alkali is used up in the saponification process, which can prevent the soap from being too alkaline and potentially irritating to the skin.
Superfatting is generally recommended for most soap recipes, especially those intended for use on the face or other sensitive areas. A typical superfatting rate is around 5-10%, but it can vary depending on the recipe and personal preference.
It’s important to note that superfatting can also affect the lather and shelf life of the soap, but these negative effects can be mitigated by using higher-quality oils and by storing the soap in a cool, dry place.
In conclusion, superfatting is a common practice in soap making that helps to create a milder and more moisturizing bar of soap. It is recommended for most soap recipes, but the exact superfatting rate will depend on the recipe and personal preference.
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