Lemon turning bright red in olive oil soap mix

by Sandy Castle
(US)

I have added lemon zest to my soap base made from caustic soda, water and olive oil. The mixture has now turned bright red. Is this an indication that it is too acidic or is it ok?

Answer:

Wow!! That sounds kind of cool actually. Wish I could answer you but unfortunately I don't know why it would go red.

I wonder if it will stay red or if it will continue to change colour?

My mother and I once made a soap and when we added the fragrance oil to the soap it turned blue, then green, then brown and when we poured the soap it was pumpkin coloured. After the insulation period it was a dark purple. It was really strange but quite fun to watch at the same time.

Keep us updated and good luck,
Cathy