Using Encapsulated Salicylic Acid and Squalane in Bar Soap

Regarding the use of Encapsulated Salicylic Acid (Liquid, Timed-Release, Wash-Off) and Squalane (Olive) in bar soap with a pH greater than 7:

• Encapsulated Salicylic Acid (Liquid, Timed-Release, Wash-Off): This type of salicylic acid is designed for wash-off products and is formulated to be gentle, with its timed release mechanism aiming for a pH closer to skin (~5.0) during its action. Traditional bar soap has a high pH (typically above 7). Salicylic acid is most effective at lower pH levels where it is in its free acid form, allowing it to exfoliate and penetrate pores. At high pH, it exists primarily as the less effective salt form (salicylate). Therefore, using Encapsulated Salicylic Acid in high pH bar soap is not recommended as the high pH environment will likely reduce its effectiveness and potentially compromise the timed-release mechanism and stability.

• Squalane (Olive): Squalane is an oil that can be added to soap formulations. In bar soap, adding oils is often done for superfatting, which helps to add moisturizing properties and reduce the harshness of the soap. While Squalane can be used in cosmetics at concentrations from 1% to 100%, using high percentages like 100% is for oil-based products, not bar soap. For superfatting in bar soap, a typical usage rate for oils like Squalane is generally in the range of 3-8%. Adding too much can negatively affect the soap's lather and hardness. It is important to incorporate it correctly into the soap-making process, often added towards the end (at trace) or after the main saponification is complete.

In summary, Encapsulated Salicylic Acid (Liquid, Timed-Release, Wash-Off) is not suitable for high pH bar soap due to efficacy and stability concerns. Squalane (Olive) can be used for superfatting in bar soap, typically at a percentage between 3-8% to enhance moisturizing properties.