Why use confectioners sugar in a soap recipe?

by Linda
(Lebanon,Pa)

I saw this in your basic soap recipe and wondered why? I searched the internet and haven't found an answer. Thanks!

Answer:

Linda,

Sugar is often added to soap recipes, though usually in a syrup form, to increase the lather. It also speeds up saponification and helps to jumpstart the gel phase.

I like to use the powdered sugar because it's simpler...I don't have to make the syrup and I add it when the soap reaches a trace.

It is not a mandatory ingredient by any means and can be left out of any recipe I have listed it in.

A word of caution....do not add too much sugar or the soap may overheat.

Cathy