Too much Mica?

[Frenchy-C]

Hello fellow soapers,

So these bars started crumbling at the edges where the Micas are more saturated.

It is not Lye heavy.
There was a bit of Soda Ash, but this is different.
Anyone had this happen before.

 

[Arimara]

You might want to post your recipe and the measurements of the micas you used. It would make troubleshooting a little easier. Judging from the pic, the soap probably over heated a bit but I think a better experience soaper can confirm that. I am still learning micas.

 

[cerelife]

Yep, I've had that happen. When I first started using micas I got a little over enthusiastic with them because they are sooo pretty! Where the mica was too dense in my swirls it would get crumbly. It took me a while to find the right balance for vivid swirls without the oversaturation of mica.

 

[Frenchy-C]

Yep, I've had that happen. When I first started using micas I got a little over enthusiastic with them because they are sooo pretty! Where the mica was too dense in my swirls it would get crumbly. It took me a while to find the right balance for vivid swirls without the oversaturation of mica.

Thank you.
Lesson learned.

 

[Mobjack Bay]

Your soap is very pretty!

 

[SmockingRN]

Hello fellow soapers,

So these bars started crumbling at the edges where the Micas are more saturated.View attachment 44084

It is not Lye heavy.
There was a bit of Soda Ash, but this is different.
Anyone had this happen before.

Such beautiful colors.

 

[Kcryss]

I love the colors! They look great.

 

[Frenchy-C]

Your soap is very pretty!

If only the middle colors didnt crumble...
Will try it again...

 

[Megan]

It looks like stearic mottiling to me. What were your temps and what hard oils do you use? Usually I get it when I soap too cool for my recipe, or when I under blend. Your colors do not look that saturated that I would think there is too much mica in there. One thing you will notice if you use too much mica is that your lather will take on color.

 

[penelopejane]

I agree with Megan. I don’t think it’s the mica. it could be not mixing to a thick enough trace. The stearic spots and swirls require higher soaping temps to avoid.