Cedarwood and shea oil soap is a cold process soap made with shea oil, coconut oil, olive oil and cedarwood essential oil. It uses Baraka shea oil, made by hand at the Konjeihi Women's Enterprise Centre in Wa, Ghana.

Shea Oil

• Rich in vitamins A, E, and essential fatty acids, providing deep moisturization and nourishment.
• Ideal for dry, sensitive, or aging skin; traditionally used to smooth the skin and to calm inflamed skin.

Coconut Oil

• Contains fatty acids with deep moisturizing properties, and traditional use suggests an antibacterial effect.
• Suitable for all skin types, particularly dry or sensitive skin; many people report it eases dry, itchy patches such as eczema.

Olive Oil

• Offers antioxidants and vitamins A and E for nourishing and soothing the skin.
• Great for dry, sensitive, or aging skin; helps maintain skin's natural moisture barrier.

Cedarwood Essential Oil

• Known for its calming, grounding properties with antiseptic and astringent benefits.
• Ideal for oily or acne-prone skin; helps balance oil production and soothe irritation while providing a warm, woodsy scent.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz. shea oil
• 4 oz. coconut oil
• 4 oz. olive oil
• Lye (use the amount from the lye-water calculation below)
• Distilled water (use the amount from the water calculation below)
• 1 tbsp cedarwood essential oil
• Cedarwood shavings (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the lye solution: Combine lye and distilled water in a heat-resistant container. Stir until the lye is completely dissolved.
2. Melt the oils: Melt the shea oil, coconut oil, and olive oil together in a double boiler.
3. Combine: Carefully pour the lye solution into the melted oils and blend until the mixture reaches trace.
4. Add cedarwood: Stir in the cedarwood essential oil and cedarwood shavings (if using).
5. Pour into molds: Pour the soap batter into your chosen molds.
6. Cure: Allow the soap to cure for at least 4-6 weeks before use.