Preservatives in LS?

[cleangrip]

Has anyone had any issues with any microbial growth in there soap over the years? It is my understanding that you do not need to preserve soap, as with such a high PH level no bacteria is able to grow in it. Just curious if any of the experiences soap makers have had any issues over some batches they have had laying around for quite some time. Thanks!

 

[DeeAnna]

The problem is that microbial growth isn't always visible to the naked eye, so whether you see cooties growing or not isn't a perfectly reliable answer to your question. I'd say most people don't put preservatives in the paste, but a fair number add a preservative to their diluted LS, especially if they sell it or give it away.

The number of preservatives that will work in soap is limited -- see http://www.makingskincare.com/preservatives/ Here's a quote from this article:

"...PRESERVING PRODUCTS WITH PH BETWEEN 8 AND 10 e.g. LIQUID SOAP

"Cold process soap (made with sodium hydroxide) does not need a preservative. For other high pH products such as liquid soap, generally if the pH is above 10 a preservative may not be required. If the pH is below 10, an expert microbiologist advises liquid germall plus can be used (despite the supplier recommended use below pH8 ). Alternatively, Suttocide A (see below for downsides) or Glydant Plus can be used...."

 

[cleangrip]

Great article thanks for sharing! Just what I was looking for. I've never seen any fungus or mold growing in my soap, but was curious about potential contaminants.