Young Scientists Pte. Ltd.: 4/1/12

Thursday, April 26, 2012

Superfatted Soap

What is superfatted soap? It is soap made with extra amount of fat. The excess fat is used to consume the alkali.The glycerine left in the soap acts as a moisturising agent. It also makes the soap softer and less resistant to becoming mushy if left wet.

Superfatted soap is more skin-friendly than one without extra fat. However, if too much fat is added, it can leave a greasy feel to their skin. Sometimes an emollient additive such as jojoba oil or shea butter (nut extract) is added to make the skin softer.

Superfatting can also be accomplished through a process known as lye discount in which the soap manufacturer uses less alkali than required instead of adding extra fats.

View the following video on soap-making.

Test Your Science

1. What is the advantage of adding glycerine in soap making?

Find out how soap was first discovered in the Young Scientists Issue 116 Level 2.

Allergies

Do you know that mild allergies such as hay fever are very common among humans? The symptoms to look out for are red eyes, itchiness, runny nose, eczema, hives, sneezing or an asthma attack. Allergies can play a major role in conditions such as asthma. In some people, severe allergies to environmental or dietary allergens or to medication may result in life-threatening reactions. Food allergies and reactions to the venom of stinging insects such as wasps and bees are often associated with these severe reactions.

A variety of tests can be used to diagnose allergic conditions. These include placing possible allergens on the skin and looking for a reaction such as swelling. Blood tests can also be done to look out for an allergen.

Treatment for allergies include avoiding known allergens and use of medications such as anti-histamines, steroids and decongestants. Many of these medications are taken orally.

View the following video on the symptoms of allergies.