Question 1

How much sodium hydroxide do I need to make soap?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the fat composition — every oil has a different saponification value. As a rough guide it works out at 120–145 g of NaOH per 1 kg of oils, but always calculate the exact amount with a soap calculator and leave 5–8% of the fats unsaponified (superfat) so the soap does not irritate the skin. Never carry a weight over from someone else's recipe to different oils.

Question 2

How should cosmetic oils and hydrosols be stored?

Accepted Answer

Keep oils in the dark and cool, well sealed — use up fragile oils (grapeseed, rosehip, raspberry) within 6–12 months, while stable ones (jojoba, fractionated coconut) last for years. Once opened, hydrosols belong in the fridge and are best used within a few months; if they turn cloudy or their scent changes, stop using them in cosmetics.

Question 3

What should I buy to start making cosmetics at home?

Accepted Answer

A first sensible set fits within €20: a soap base or a cosmetic base as the semi-finished starting point, plus 100 g of shea butter and 100 ml of almond oil. From these you can make poured soap, whipped body butter and a simple balm — with no hydroxide and no special equipment. Small packs from 50 ml are ideal for trying out formulations.

Question 4

What documents do I need if I want to sell cosmetics?

Accepted Answer

Before placing a product on the market you notify it in the European CPNP portal, and you need a product information file including a safety assessment. For that, the assessor will ask for the raw materials' documentation — the safety data sheet (SDS/MSDS) and the certificate of analysis (COA). We provide both for every raw material in the range, so you have the paperwork together right from purchase.

Question 5

What is the difference between virgin and refined oil?

Accepted Answer

A virgin cold-pressed oil keeps its vitamins, natural colour and scent — ideal for facial serums and products where the raw material is meant to do the work. A refined oil is neutral, lighter in colour and more stable, so it suits soaps, fragranced emulsions and anywhere the oil's own scent would get in the way. Refined oil also tends to be cheaper.

Question 6

Do you sell raw materials in large packs for manufacturers?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we hold most of the range in bulk packs too: oils in 1–5 l canisters, butters in 2.5–10 kg packs, hydroxide and salts in sacks of up to 25 kg. The unit price falls with volume and every batch comes with a certificate. For regular purchasing, take a look at the wholesale terms or write to us at info@handymade.store.

RAW MATERIALS