Exothermic – Characterized by a release of heat; often used to describe chemical
reactions in which heat is a byproduct.
Fatty Acids – Compounds found in fat molecules; primarily responsible for soap’s
lathering, hardness, and conditioning characteristics.
Fixatives – Substances used to slow the process of evaporation; commonly used in
conjunction with essential oils.
Fixed oil – An oil which can be raised to a high temperature without evaporating.
Flash point – The lowest temperature at which a substance, or its vapors, will ignite,
in the presence of a source of ignition.
Fragrance oils – Blends of synthetic aromatic chemicals, diluted with a carrier such as
alcohol, propylene glycol, vegetable oil or mineral oil.
Full-Boiled Method – Method of soap-making most commonly favored by
commercial soap-makers. All ingredients are combined at once, and cooked until
saponification is complete.
Gel Phase – An early stage of the saponification process, when the soap mixture
temporarily becomes a clear gel; the mixture later returns to its original opacity and
thickness. Not all soap recipes will have a gel phase.
Glycerin – A thick, sticky, clear substance that is a byproduct of the soap-making
process. Very moisturizing, and a great skin conditioner.
Hard Water – Water that has an overabundance of minerals. Commonly leaves
mineral deposits on surfaces, and reduces the effectiveness of surfactants.
Hot-Process Method – Method of soap-making in which the batter is “cooked” after
the lye, water and oils are mixed together. Saponification takes place after the trace
stage, while the mixture is heated.
Humectant – Moisturizer.
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