Is it OK to melt a glycerine soap more than once?

[kingfisher]

I ask because I made a Scream out of VDH Select and some AOS unscented, but now I am considering melting a bit of a different soap into it. Is that OK? Will important properties of the soap be ruined by melting over and over again?

Thanks in advance.

 

[copperhead]

I have not used AOS unscented but is it not a triple milled soap, as far as i know you can only melt the clear Glycerin soaps like Honeybee soaps or the VDH. Anyway i have melted and remelted my glycerin soap a few times without noticing any ill effects.

 

[krissy]

It really depends on the make up of the soap base. Some can be melted several times and others recommend just once. But I think VHD falls into the category of being able to melt down more than once, but try to limit it to as few of melts as possible to prevent damaging the soap.

 

[Leche]

I've melted down Conks and VDH a few times without issue. I wouldn't do the AOS though at all.

 

[dkell]

Its like Krissy says, it depends. You really shouldn't re-melt glycerin soaps too many times. It drives the water out of the soap and makes it harder. This makes it harder to build lather and may make the soap unusable for the most part. Boil it and its probably good for hand soap.

The easiest and best way to re-melt glycerin soaps is to cut it up into chunks, put it in a glass container, cover it in plastic wrap, to help keep the moisture in, and do 5 seconds shots in the microwave. Try to get the soap about 90% melted. Then stir it and let the residual heat in the soap finish melting it. Once its fully melted pour it into your new receptacle and let it solidify.

You can do your re-melt directly in your target receptacle if its microwave safe. Be aware that decals may be damaged or faded when hit with RF from the microwave. Especially decals with a metallic content. You may actually see them spark as the metals vaporize. Better to be safe than sorry if in doubt.

 

[David in Boston]

Done it with no problems.

When I have remains from a mug I remove it and "nuke it" to a mix it with a new one.

Didn't notice it degrading the soap.