Long lasting soap

[Richard Perrine]

Interesting. My soaps have a 44% longevity percentage based on the information lsg provided. ??? My question is, SO? What in the world is a 44% longevity??? There are MANY factors that determine how long a bar lasts and I feel this strange percentage number means very little.

By the way, had no idea there was another soap-making calculator called Soapee. Thanks!

 

[DeeAnna]

...There are MANY factors that determine how long a bar lasts and I feel this strange percentage number means very little....

While I agree there are other factors that affect the lifespan of a bar of soap, the % of palmitic and stearic acids makes a big difference in longevity. The "long lasting" number is simply the combined percentage of palmitic and stearic acids.

Palmitic and stearic acids make soap that is relatively insoluble and relatively hard. Insoluble, firm soap will last longer compared to soap that is more soluble and physically softer.

You can look at the % of palmitic and stearic or you can calculate the "long lasting" number. Either way results in the same answer, and it's really not all that "strange" to be honest. But to each their own.

 

[Deborah Long]

@DeeAnna - I just noticed the links under your post and I'm not sure if they've always been there and I just never noticed(in the 2 weeks I've been here), but OMG - YOU are just the best source of information! I am in love with the SMF Fragrance Oil Review and will check out Soapy Stuff soonly. Thank you so much for always being funnier than all get out, while seemingly knowing instinctively all the answers to the multitude of question racing through my brain!

 

[cmzaha]

@DeeAnna - I just noticed the links under your post and I'm not sure if they've always been there and I just never noticed(in the 2 weeks I've been here), but OMG - YOU are just the best source of information! I am in love with the SMF Fragrance Oil Review and will check out Soapy Stuff soonly. Thank you so much for always being funnier than all get out, while seemingly knowing instinctively all the answers to the multitude of question racing through my brain!

DeeAnna is our resident chemist