Lavender Oatmeal Cold Process Soap Recipe

Create a spa-quality bar that combines the calming aroma of lavender with the gentle, natural exfoliation of finely ground oatmeal. This versatile soap recipe is perfect for all skin types, especially sensitive skin, as it combines soothing properties with mild exfoliation without harsh microbeads. The soft purple hue develops naturally from lavender colorant, and the soothing scent promotes relaxation during every shower or bath.

Ingredients

Oils & Butters

• 20.0 oz (567g) olive oil
• 13.0 oz (369g) coconut oil
• 12.0 oz (340g) palm oil
• 9.0 oz (255g) palm kernel oil

Lye Solution

• 4.7 oz (133g) sodium hydroxide (NaOH)
• 11.0 oz (312g) distilled water

Additives (Optional)

• 0.6 oz (17g) lavender essential oil
• 1 oz (28g) finely ground oatmeal (added at trace)
• 0.5 tsp (2ml) lavender mica or purple oxide colorant
• Optional: dried lavender buds (0.25 oz, sprinkled on top)

Equipment Needed

• Digital scale accurate to 0.1 oz
• Two stainless steel pots
• Stainless steel spoon for stirring
• Stick blender (immersion blender)
• Thermometer
• Soap mold (silicone or wood-lined with parchment)
• Safety goggles and gloves
• Mortar and pestle (for grinding oatmeal fine)
• Small bowl (for mixing colorant)
• Soap cutter or serrated knife
• Vinegar (for cleanup)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Safety Equipment

Don safety goggles and chemical-resistant gloves. Set up your workspace with all equipment within reach. Ensure proper ventilation. Keep vinegar nearby for emergency lye cleanup.

Step 2: Mix the Lye Solution

Pour 11 oz of distilled water into a heat-safe stainless steel pot. Slowly add 4.7 oz of sodium hydroxide while stirring constantly. The solution will heat to 160-180°F. Allow it to cool to 100-110°F before proceeding.

Step 3: Prepare All Oils

In a separate pot, combine:

• 20.0 oz (567g) olive oil
• 13.0 oz (369g) coconut oil
• 12.0 oz (340g) palm oil
• 9.0 oz (255g) palm kernel oil

Stir gently to incorporate oils evenly. Heat slowly to 100-110°F. The oils should be warm but not hot.

Step 4: Combine Oils and Lye Solution

Once both reach 100-110°F, slowly pour the cooled lye solution into the oils while stirring steadily. Continue stirring for about one minute to ensure complete incorporation.

Step 5: Blend to Light Trace

Using your stick blender, pulse for 30 seconds, then stir by hand for one minute. Continue alternating between pulsing and stirring for 8-12 minutes until you reach light trace. The mixture should resemble thin pudding.

Step 6: Prepare Oatmeal and Colorant

While the soap is blending, grind your oatmeal finely using a food processor or mortar and pestle. You want a fine powder, not chunky oatmeal, as this provides gentle exfoliation. In a small bowl, disperse 0.5 tsp of lavender mica colorant in a small amount of oil to prevent streaking.

Step 7: Add Lavender Essential Oil

At light trace, add the 0.6 oz of lavender essential oil. Stir thoroughly to incorporate. Lavender essential oil can sometimes accelerate trace, so work steadily but don't stop.

Step 8: Add Colorant and Oatmeal

Quickly add the colorant mixture and stir thoroughly to distribute color evenly. Then add 1 oz of finely ground oatmeal. Use a stick blender on low speed for just a few pulses to incorporate, then stir by hand. Don't overmix, as oatmeal can cause the soap to thicken rapidly.

Step 9: Pour Into Mold

Pour the soap batter into your prepared mold quickly, as oatmeal-containing soaps tend to accelerate. If desired, sprinkle dried lavender buds on the top for a beautiful finishing touch.

Step 10: Smooth and Finish

Use a spatula to smooth the top if time permits. If the soap is already at thick trace, you may not have much time—that's okay. The texture will still be beautiful.

Step 11: Insulate the Mold

Wrap the mold with blankets or towels to insulate and encourage gel phase. This helps develop a consistent color and ensures even curing.

Step 12: Wait 24-48 Hours

Leave the soap undisturbed for 24-48 hours. The soap will go through its saponification reaction naturally. The purple color will develop and set during this time.

Step 13: Unmold the Soap

After 24-48 hours, carefully remove the soap from the mold. The color should have developed into a beautiful soft purple. If the soap is still soft, wait another 6-12 hours.

Step 14: Cut Into Bars

Using a soap cutter or sharp serrated knife, cut the loaf into 24 equal bars. The oatmeal particles should be visible throughout the soap, creating a natural, rustic appearance. Work carefully to avoid crumbling edges.

Step 15: Air Cure

Place bars on a well-ventilated rack with space between each one. Cure in a cool, dry location (60-75°F) for 4-6 weeks. The lavender scent will deepen and mellow as the soap cures.

Tips for Success

• Use 40/60 mesh ground oatmeal or finer; coarser oatmeal can feel scratchy on skin
• High-quality lavender essential oil will have better staying power than cheaper versions
• Oatmeal accelerates trace significantly—have your mold ready before adding it
• Don't add more than 1 oz of oatmeal per batch, as too much can make soap crumbly
• Fresh lavender buds sprinkled on top will darken and lose scent over time but look beautiful initially
• Store finished soap in an airtight container to preserve the lavender scent
• This soap is particularly soothing when used with a washcloth for gentle exfoliation

Variations

• Lavender honey: Add 2 tbsp of honey at trace for extra moisturizing
• Lavender chamomile: Combine lavender with chamomile essential oil for enhanced calm
• Lavender milk: Add 1 tbsp of powdered goat or cow milk at trace for creaminess
• Unscented lavender oatmeal: Skip essential oil for those with scent sensitivities

Cost Breakdown

Estimated Cost per Bar: $0.56

Related Recipes

• Basic Cold Process Soap - Plain base without additions
• Coffee Exfoliating Soap - Alternative exfoliating option
• Goat Milk Honey Soap - Creamy alternative with additives

Aromatherapy Benefits: Lavender is one of the most versatile essential oils for wellness. Its calming properties can help reduce stress and anxiety, making this soap perfect for evening bathing routines. The gentle exfoliation removes dead skin cells while the lavender soothes and relaxes, creating a complete spa experience at home.