Teach Soap

Hi, I'm new around here. Just started this soapy adventure a few weeks ago. I'm really having a good time with it and my kids think I've lost my mind! I've made several batches of cold process and a couple crock pot batches. My cold process bars have mostly turned out ok although one has got some serious soda ash on it. I have a milk batch that I'm really unsure about. I was reading old posts and noticed everyone says they don't check ph??? Aren't you worried you'll burn someone's skin off? How do you know when it has cured long enough? Just for safety sake, can I just melt down the milk batch and cook it a while to make sure it's ok? I'm not sure the lye was completely dissolved in the milk.

Next questions involve me personally. Anytime I change anything in my bath, laundry routine, I itch. I've tried using other detergents besides Tide and I itch. I've tried using other commercial soaps besides Dove and again the itching shows up. So I stopped using bounce fabric softener and started using vinegar instead. I also started using one of my crock pot soaps in the shower and again, itching. Could I be allergic to essential oils or fragrance? I would think if that were the case, then Tide and Dove would cause the same problems. I don't know whether it's the vinegar or the soap. Any thoughts???
Thanks!!!
Rena

I don't check my soap's PH. I have a formula that's been used for many years. Curing evaporaters water to make the soap harder and to last longer. The reaction of the lye should be complete in about 24-48 hours; less if you hot process it.

If you think your milk soap has lye pockets, yes, you can rebatch.

As far as itching, anyone can become allergic to just about anything; including essential oils or fragrances. Try making a soap that's basic without any fancy ingredients and no scent at all.

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Irena
Closed minds are like faulty parachutes; they refuse to open.