The Truth About False Trace
Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen
All the fundamentals of making cold process soap from scratch with lye and oil; make all natural sustainable soap from scratch for yourself of start a side hustle selling soap.
Anne-Marie Faiola
PodcastAI
PodcastAI

The Truth About False Trace

E68 • Jan 30, 2025 • 3 mins

In episode 68 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola delves into the concept of false trace in soapmaking. The episode begins with a welcome and an introduction to the definitions of trace and false trace, explaining how they differ. Anne-Marie focuses on the 'cool soap' type of false trace, providing a detailed example scenario and steps to effectively handle it. She shares valuable tips to prevent false trace, emphasizing the importance of regular pH testing to ensure soap quality. The episode wraps up with a mention of the sponsor, BrambleBerry.com, and closing remarks, offering listeners insights into managing false trace in their soapmaking projects.

Key Points

  • False trace in soapmaking occurs when hard oils or butters solidify prematurely due to temperature differences between lye water and oils, misleading you into thinking emulsification has occurred.
  • To manage false trace, continue stick blending until full emulsification is achieved, and be flexible with your soap design as the batter thickens.
  • Prevent false trace by soaping at higher temperatures, between one hundred to one hundred thirty degrees Fahrenheit, and incorporating more slow-moving soft oils like olive oil or sweet almond oil.
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