Sodium hydroxide, or lye, is a chemical used in making soap. It is a strong alkali that works to convert fat into soap. Lye is caustic--however, is burned off in the soap-making process and typically is not evident in the final product. If you are adverse to working with lye when making your shaving soap, make a glycerin-based shaving soap instead.

Shave 10 oz. of glycerin soap base, using a cheese grater, and melt the shavings in the microwave for 45 seconds to 1 minute.

Puncture five liquid vitamin E capsules and squeeze the liquid into the melted soap base. Vitamin E promotes skin health.

Add 1 tbsp. witch hazel, 1 tbsp. glycerin, 2 tbsp. coconut oil, 1 tbsp. papaya extract, 1 tbsp. bentonite clay and 15 drops peppermint essential oil. The witch hazel is a skin astringent; glycerin is for creating lather; and the coconut oil will make a richer lather. Like lye, papaya extract is a strong alkaline. Bentonite clay will provide extra lubrication to the razor blade, while the peppermint essential oil will leave your face with a fresh scent.

Stir the mixture well. Pour it into soap molds and allow it to harden.