Understanding Superfat and Its Importance in Skincare and Soap Making

Superfat is a term that often comes up in discussions about soap making and skincare, but many people don’t fully understand what it means or why it matters. Whether you are a hobbyist soap maker, a skincare enthusiast, or someone curious about natural products, knowing about superfats can help you make better choices and appreciate the benefits of well-crafted soaps and lotions.

Superfatting is a technique used to add extra oils or fats to soap beyond what the lye can saponify. This process leaves some free oils in the finished product, which can improve the soap’s moisturizing properties and gentleness on the skin. Let’s explore what superfat is, how it works, and why it plays a crucial role in both soap making and skincare.

Natural soap bars showing superfatted oils on the surface

What Is Superfat in Soap Making?

Superfat refers to the amount of extra fat or oil added to a soap recipe that remains unsaponified after the chemical reaction with lye. In simpler terms, it is the leftover oil that does not turn into soap but stays in the bar to provide extra nourishment and moisture.

When soap is made, oils react with lye (sodium hydroxide) to create soap molecules and glycerin. If the recipe is perfectly balanced, all the oils convert into soap. However, soap makers often add a small percentage of extra oils—usually between 3% and 8%—to ensure the soap is not too harsh or drying. This extra oil is the superfat.

Why Soap Makers Use Superfat

• Moisturizing effect: The leftover oils help keep skin hydrated by forming a protective barrier.

• Gentle cleansing: Superfat soaps are less likely to strip natural oils from the skin.

• Improved texture: Extra oils can make soap feel creamier and smoother.

• Customization: Different oils used for superfatting can add unique properties, like extra nourishment or scent.

  
  

How Superfat Affects Skincare

Superfatting is not just a soap-making trick; it directly impacts how the soap interacts with your skin. Soaps with a higher superfat level tend to be more moisturizing and less irritating, making them ideal for dry, sensitive, or mature skin types.

Benefits of Superfat in Skincare Products

• Hydration: Free oils help lock in moisture and prevent dryness.

• Skin barrier support: Oils can reinforce the skin’s natural barrier, protecting against environmental damage.

• Reduced irritation: Less lye residue means fewer chances of skin irritation or redness.

• Nourishment: Certain oils contain vitamins and antioxidants that benefit skin health.

  
  

For example, a soap superfatted with olive oil will be rich in antioxidants and gentle on the skin, while one superfatted with coconut oil might offer a more cleansing but still moisturizing effect.

How to Choose the Right Superfat Level

The ideal superfat level depends on your skin type and preferences. Here are some general guidelines:

• 3% superfat: Suitable for normal to oily skin, offers a balance between cleansing and moisturizing.

• 5% superfat: Good for dry or sensitive skin, provides extra hydration without feeling greasy.

• 7% or higher: Best for very dry or mature skin, delivers maximum moisturizing benefits but may reduce lather.

  
  

Keep in mind that too much superfat can make soap softer and reduce its shelf life, so soap makers must find the right balance.

Examples of Oils Used for Superfatting

Different oils bring different qualities to superfatted soaps. Here are some common choices:

• Olive oil: Nourishing, rich in antioxidants, gentle on skin.

• Shea butter: Deeply moisturizing, helps with skin elasticity.

• Coconut oil: Adds cleansing power and lather, but can be drying if used alone.

• Sweet almond oil: Lightweight, absorbs quickly, good for sensitive skin.

• Avocado oil: Rich in vitamins A and E, excellent for dry or damaged skin.

  
  

Soap makers often blend oils to create a balanced bar that suits specific skin needs.

Superfat in Other Skincare Products

While superfatting is mainly a soap-making term, the concept of adding extra oils or fats to skincare products is common in lotions, creams, and balms. These products often contain oils that remain on the skin to provide lasting moisture and protection.

For example, a body lotion might include jojoba oil or shea butter to create a moisturizing layer, similar to how superfatted soap leaves oils behind. Understanding superfat helps consumers recognize the value of these nourishing ingredients.

Tips for Using Superfatted Soaps

• Test for skin reaction: Even superfatted soaps can cause reactions if you have allergies to certain oils.

• Store properly: Keep soap bars dry between uses to extend their life.

• Use with water temperature in mind: Lukewarm water helps maintain the moisturizing benefits.

• Pair with complementary skincare: Follow up with a moisturizer for extra hydration if needed.