These nourishing goat milk soap recipes create creamy, moisturizing bars perfect for sensitive skin. Rich in vitamins and fatty acids, goat milk soap gently cleanses while maintaining skin's natural moisture barrier.
⏱ Prep Time
30-45 minutes
🕒 Cure Time
4-6 weeks
🧼 Batch Size
About 10-12 bars
⚗️ Difficulty
Intermediate
🌿 Skin Type
All types, especially dry/sensitive
🥛 Milk Form
Fresh, powdered, or canned
Basic Goat Milk Soap Recipe
Base Ingredients
- 32 oz olive oil
- 16 oz coconut oil
- 16 oz palm oil (sustainable)
- 8 oz shea butter
- 9.6 oz lye (sodium hydroxide)
- 20 oz goat milk (frozen)
Optional Additives
- 2 oz essential oils (lavender, etc.)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/2 cup oatmeal (for exfoliation)
- Natural colorants (clay, herbs)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Goat Milk
- Freeze goat milk in ice cube trays
- Work in well-ventilated area with safety gear
- Slowly add lye to frozen milk (outside recommended)
- Stir until dissolved (temperature should stay below 100°F)
2. Mix Oils and Lye Solution
- Melt solid oils in double boiler
- Combine with liquid oils, cool to 80-90°F
- When both mixtures are same temperature, slowly add lye to oils
- Stick blend until trace (pudding consistency)
3. Add Extras and Mold
- Mix in essential oils, honey, or additives
- Pour into lined molds
- Insulate mold with towels for 24 hours
- Unmold and cut after 24-48 hours
4. Cure the Soap
- Place bars on drying rack in cool, dry place
- Rotate every few days for even drying
- Cure for 4-6 weeks before use
- Test pH before using (should be 7-10)
Variation Recipes
Honey-Oatmeal Goat Milk Soap
- Add 1/4 cup finely ground oats
- 1 tbsp raw honey at trace
- 5 drops vanilla essential oil
- Great for dry, itchy skin
Lavender-Chamomile Soap
- 15 drops lavender EO
- 1 tbsp chamomile flowers
- 1 tsp French green clay
- Calming bedtime soap
Charcoal Detox Bars
- 1 tbsp activated charcoal
- Tea tree and peppermint EOs
- Great for acne-prone skin
- Deep cleansing formula
Expert Tips
Safety First
- Always wear gloves and goggles when handling lye
- Work in well-ventilated area
- Have vinegar nearby to neutralize spills
Perfect Results
- Use frozen milk to prevent scorching
- Soap at room temperature for slower trace
- Use silicone molds for easy release
Troubleshooting
- Orange spots? Milk overheated - still safe
- Soft soap? Needs longer cure time
- Ash on top? Normal - can be rinsed off
Packaging Ideas
Wrap in breathable paper or muslin bags. Label with ingredients and cure date. Add a twine bow with dried lavender for a rustic touch.
