Lye (Sodium Hydroxide)
The essential alkali ingredient required to make bar soap from scratch. While lye is caustic and requires careful handling with gloves and eye protection, it's completely safe when used properly. During saponification (the reaction between lye and oils), lye transforms completely—properly made soap contains no lye in the finished product. Melt and pour and rebatch soap makers don't work with lye directly since saponification already occurred during base manufacturing.
Other Terms
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Salicylic Acid
A pore-clearing acid effective for acne-prone skin.
Salicylic Acid (Acne)
A pore-penetrating acid used to clear congestion and reduce breakouts.
Salt Scrub
A coarser exfoliant using mineral crystals for deeper scrubbing.
Saponification
A chemical reaction in which fats or oils combine with an alkali to form soap and glycerin.
Saponification Time
It’s the period during which oils and lye chemically react to fully transform into soap.
SAP Value (Saponification Value)
The specific amount of alkali required to completely convert a fat or oil into soap.
Satin/Silk Bonnet
A soft sleep cap that protects curls and reduces friction while you sleep.
Satin/Silk Pillowcase
A smoother sleep surface that reduces friction, frizz, and moisture loss overnight.
Scaling
Adjusting a recipe up or down while keeping the ratios the same.
Scalp
The skin-covered area where hair follicles are located.
Scalp Buildup
Accumulation of oils, products, and dead skin.
Scalp Exfoliation
The removal of dead skin cells to improve scalp health.
Scalp Massage
Manual stimulation used to increase circulation and relaxation.
Scalp Scrub
A granular product used to physically exfoliate the scalp.
Scalp Serum
A leave-on treatment formulated to support scalp health.
Scalp Stimulation
Techniques that increase blood flow and reduce buildup to support a healthier scalp environment.
Scalp Toner
A lightweight liquid used to balance and refresh the scalp.
Scar Treatment (Body)
A treatment focused on improving the appearance of healed skin.
Scent Throw (Bath Bombs)
How strongly fragrance is released into the bath water and surrounding air.
Scent Throw (Candle Making)
The overall strength and reach of fragrance both unlit and while burning.
Scent Throw (Soapmaking)
A scent’s ability to fill the space around the soap, both during use and while it’s sitting out.
Scrunching
Compressing hair upward to encourage curl formation and remove excess water or product.
Sea Buckthorn Oil
A vibrant, nutrient-rich oil packed with antioxidants and vitamins, promoting skin regeneration and hydration.
Sea Salt
Mineral-rich crystals added to soap for exfoliation, texture, and a firm bar feel.
Sea Salt (Fine)
Fine-grain mineral crystals added for texture and mild skin benefits without disrupting structure.