Teach Soap

Genny was kind enough to explain to me why preservatives are needed in items containing water. So if I made a lotion with no water, I wouldn't technically need it.

But think I think of where I use my lotion - in the bathroom mostly and right when I get out of the shower!

So if one made something like the whipped shea butter recipe that she shared (shea butter, coconut oil and fragrance), would it be prudent to add a preservative especially if I gave some away to family?

Right now I am using coconut oil out of the container it came in - should I worry about that as well?

As much as I don't want to add anything and the reason I am doing this is to keep chemicals out of my system, getting myself or a loved one sick is not attractive either!

I tried to search but lotion and preservative are too common and can't be searched on.

Thanks!

Here's a whole sticky about preservatives: viewtopic.php?f=5&t=5032

My rule of thumb is if it's going to be used near water or may get water in it (shower, wet fingers, etc.), it needs a preservative, even if it's all oils/butters.

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Linda
I know the voices in my head aren't real, but they sure have some great ideas!

If there is ANY chance that the product would get moisture or water in it, I would use a preservative.

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

ummm jumping in here late as I am just now exploring this part of the forum....but wanted to say...if I read your post correctly, using just coconut oil in heavy use or extended periods can begin to dry the skin out.