Caustic Soda is an essential ingredient for traditional soap making, used to transform oils and fats into soap through a chemical process called saponification . Available in high-purity form as white flakes, pellets, or beads, it reacts with oils like coconut, olive, and shea butter to create handmade soap while naturally producing glycerin that moisturizes the skin . Important safety note: This is a highly caustic substance that must be handled with care, always wear gloves and goggles, add it slowly to cold water (never the reverse), and store in a cool, dry place away from children and pets .