Castor Oil
Sodium Castorate is saponified castor oil.
Castor oil is a plant-based oil extracted from the seeds of the castor plant.
What it does in soap
Sodium castorate stabilizes lather and helps bubbles last longer. It supports a creamy, consistent foam rather than creating large bubbles on its own.
What it feels like on skin
Soaps containing sodium castorate feel smooth and conditioning. The lather has a dense, lotion-like quality rather than a light or fluffy feel.
Why it’s used
Castor oil is rich in ricinoleic acid, which behaves differently from most other fatty acids in soap. In small amounts, it improves lather quality and helps prevent bubbles from collapsing too quickly.
Common questions
Does this make soap oily or sticky? No. At typical usage rates, it improves lather without leaving residue.
Does this come from castor beans? Yes. Castor oil is a plant-derived oil extracted from castor beans and refined for cosmetic use.
Is this vegan? Yes. Sodium castorate is plant-derived.