Author: OrdinarilyExtra

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Ingredient Deep Dive: Mica

One of the benefits of handmade soap is the soap makers ability to chose the ingredients used in each bar. Here at Ordinarily Extra, we strive to use only natural, sustainably-sourced, and eco-friendly materials. When clays don’t offer the shade we want, we turn to mica. But what is mica and is it safe?

You may be surprised to learn that mica is commonly used in cosmetics to add a shimmer effect. It can be found in everything from nail polish to blush, lipstick, and body glitter. Mica is a silicate mineral whose natural color ranges from silver and white to pink and purple tones. But mica comes in many more colors than just the natural varieties. Once the mineral has been mined, it is coated with FD&C (Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act) colorants or pigments to achieve the wide range of available colors.

While most of the micas used at Ordinarily Extra only contain mica and iron oxides, both of which occur naturally, some colors do contain FD&C colorants. The FD&C colors are approved for product we eat, drink, or put on our bodies, but are not considered natural as they are synthetically derived. Any micas with FD&C colorants used are rated for eye application to ensure the safety of the end product.

There have been ethical concerns associated with the use of mica in cosmetic products. These concerns stem unethical manufacturing, either from putting the safety of workers at risk or the use of child labor. These are issues we do our best to be conscious of when choosing which products to use. Our micas are ethically and sustainably sourced and FDA and REACH certified.

Mica opens up a world of vibrant color possibilities. When used responsibly and sourced from reputable suppliers, mica can be safely incorporated into soap.

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How to Use Soap Scraps: DIY Ideas for Reducing Waste and Saving Money

Soap scraps are a common byproduct of using handmade soap, but what do you do with them once they’re too small to use effectively? Instead of throwing them away and creating waste, there are many creative ways to repurpose soap scraps an save money in the process. Here are some DIY ideas for using soap scraps:

  1. Use as a stain remover: Wet a soap scrap and rub it directly onto stains on clothing or fabric. Let it sit for a few minutes before washing the item as usual. The soap will help lift the stain and clean the fabric.

  2. Create a drawer sachet: Place soap scraps in a small muslin bag and tie it closed. Tuck the sachet into a drawer or closet to keep clothes smelling fresh and clean.

  3. Make a natural household cleaner: Add soap scraps to a spray bottle filled with water and a few drops of essential oil. Shake well and use as an all-purpose cleaner for countertops, sinks, and other surfaces.

  4. Use as a fire starter: Dry out soap scraps and use them as a fire starter for your next camping trip or backyard bonfire.

  5. Use as a needle threader: Thread a needle through a small soap scrap before sewing. The soap will help the thread glide through the needle and make it easier to thread.

These DIY ideas for using soap scraps are simple, easy, and cost-effective. They not only reduce waste but also provide practical and useful solutions for everyday household needs. So the next time you have soap scraps, don’t throw them away! Try one of these DIY ideas instead and see how you can repurpose our soap scraps creatively.

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The Art of Cold Process Soaps

Cold process soap making is an ancient art that has been used for centuries to create beautiful and effective soap bars. The process involves combining oils, lye, and water to create a chemical reaction called saponification, which turns the ingredients into soap. (Saponification has its own blog post coming soon!) While our bars have varying recipes, they all follow the same steps for creation. Here’s a closer look at how cold process soap is made:

Step 1: Gather Ingredients and Supplies

The first step in making cold process soap is to gather all the necessary ingredients and supplies. This includes oils, lye, water, a scale, a thermometer, a mixing bowl, a stick blender, soap molds, and any additives. It’s important to measure all the ingredients precisely, as the exact amount of lye and water needed will depend on the oils used.

Step 2: Prepare the Fats and Oils

Next, the fats and oils are measured and combined in a mixing bowl. This can include a variety of fats and oils such as lard, olive oil, coconut oil, and shea butter, depending on the desired properties of the soap. The oils are then heated gently to melt any solid fats and/or oils and to ensure they the are the correct temperature for mixing with the lye solution.

Step 3: Prepare the Lye Solution

While the oils are melting, the lye solution is prepared. Lye is a caustic substance that can be dangerous if not handled properly, so it’s important to wear gloves and protective eyewear and perform this step in a well ventilated space. For added safety, we wear half-face HEPA masks while mixing. The lye is slowly added to the water, never the other way around, while stirring constantly to prevent the solution from overheating.

Step 4: Combine the Oils and Lye Solution

Once the lye solution and oils are both at the correct temperature, they are combined in the mixing bowl. A stick blender is used to mix the ingredients together until they reach a thick, pudding-like consistency called “trace”. This is the point where the chemical reaction of saponification begins.

Step 5: Pour into Molds

Once the soap has reached trace, it is poured into soap molds. Our mold are silicone and come in a wide range of shapes and sizes. The soap is the left to sit for 24 to 48 hours, depending on the recipe.

Step 6: Cure the Soap

Once the 24 to 48 hours are up, the soap is remove from the molds and cut into bars. The bars are then left to cure for five weeks, during which time excess water evaporates and the soap becomes harder and milder. Once fully cured, the soap is ready to use and enjoy.

Cold process soap making is a time-honored method that produces high-quality, artisanal soap bars. Not only is it a fun and rewarding craft, but it allows for complete control over the ingredients used and the final product. This allows us to make soap that we know you’ll love.

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Sustainability and Eco-Friendliness of Cold Process Soap

As more and more people become aware of the impact their choices have on the environment, the demand for sustainable and eco-friendly products is growing. Cold process soaps is a great option for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint and make a positive impact on the planet. Here are some reasons why cold process soap is a sustainable and eco-friendly choice:

  1. Natural Ingredients

    Here at Ordinarily Extra, our cold process soap is made from natural ingredients such as oils, lye, and water. These ingredients are renewable and biodegrade, meaning that they break downs naturally without causing harm to the environment. Unlike some synthetic detergents and fragrances used in commercial soaps, natural ingredients are not harmful to aquatic life or the environment.

  2. Minimal Packaging

    Cold process soap comes in minimal packaging, making it a more sustainable option than liquid soap, which often comes in plastic bottles that contribute to landfill waste. Instead, bio-based, biodegradable, recyclable and compostable Brown Kraft paper is used for the labels.

  3. Long-Lasting

    Cold process soap is typically long-lasting, meaning that it needs to be replaced less frequently than other types of soap. This reduces the amount of waster that is generated and saves resources in the long run.

  4. Versatility

    Cold process soap can be used for a variety of purposes beyond washing hands including bathing and face cleansing. This versatility means that fewer products are needed, reducing the amount of waste and resources used.

  5. Local Production

    Ordinarily Extra uses locally-sourced oils and small, family business for their ingredient needs. This reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation and supports local economies and small businesses.

In conclusion, cold process soap is a sustainable and eco-friendly choice that can have a positive impact on the environment, and your skin! By choosing natural ingredients, minimal packaging, and supporting local producers, consumers can make a difference a reduce their environmental impact. By using cold process soap, we can make a small change that can have a big impact on the plant.