How to Get More Juice out of a Lemon

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Fresh-squeezed lemon juice makes the perfect addition to many dishes, recipes, and cocktails. Unfortunately, getting a lot of juice out of a lemon can be difficult. To get the most out of a lemon, start by freezing it. Then, remove it and heat it up in the microwave or by soaking it in warm water. Then, cut it lengthwise instead of horizontally to expose as much of the membrane as possible. Squeeze the lemon over a large bowl before using a fork to tear up the membrane and get at more of the juice.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Heating the Lemon

1. Freeze your lemon before thawing and heating it. To get the maximum amount of juice from your lemon, freeze it before juicing. After freezing solid, take it out and let it thaw for 4-8 hours, until the rind reaches room temperature. When you heat it afterwards, the frozen juice will expand in the membrane of the fruit and break down. This will make the juicing process more efficient and give you the most juice possible.^[1]
   
   • It's actually a lot harder to juice a lemon when it's cold or at room temperature. Heating the lemon before cutting it is the best way to juice your fruit.
2. Put a whole lemon in the microwave for 10-20 seconds. Place the lemon onto a paper towel or plate. Set the lemon in the center of a microwave. Heat the lemon on medium power for 10-20 seconds.^[2]
   
   • This is faster than soaking the lemon in warm water, but it's a little riskier. If there are any tiny holes in the lemon's rind, you'll end up evaporating some of the juice.
   • If your lemon is at room temperature, heat it for 10 seconds. If it was in the refrigerator, microwave it for 20 seconds.
3. Soak the lemon in a bowl of warm water for 30-40 minutes. Grab a large bowl and fill it with hot water from your sink. Place your lemon in the bowl and let it sink to the bottom. Let the lemon soak for 30-40 minutes, replacing the water once every 10 minutes to ensure that it stays warm.^[3]
   
   
   • This is more time-consuming than microwaving your lemon, but you won't cause any of the juice to evaporate.
4. Roll the lemon around before cutting it to loosen the juices. Before you cut your lemon, roll it around on your countertop or cutting board. Set the lemon down so that it lays on its side. Place your palm on top and press down with moderate pressure. Then, roll the lemon back and forth between your palm and the hard surface. Do this for 30-45 seconds to soften the membrane inside the lemon.^[4]
   
   

[Edit]Cutting the Lemon

1. Wash your lemon and set it out on a cutting board. Wash your hands with soap and water before rinsing the lemon under cool water. Shake it over the sink and dry it with a paper towel to remove the excess water. Set your fruit out on a clean cutting board.^[5]
   
   
   
   • This process can get kind of messy, so wash your hands to keep the juice free of contaminants.
2. Cut the lemon lengthwise in half through the center for a clean cut. Grab a non-serrated chef's knife with a sharp edge. Brace the lemon with your nondominant hand and place your knife directly over the center of your lemon. Puncture the lemon with the blade of your knife and remove your nondominant hand to get it out of the way. Press all the way through the center to cut it in half.^[6]
   
   
   • The idea here is to expose as much of the membrane as possible. When people cut a lemon horizontally, they end up trapping a lot of the juice near the stems.
3. Peel the lemon over a strainer to extract the juice. Hold the uncut lemon upright on your cutting board. Brace the lemon with your nondominant hand. Starting at the top of the lemon, cut into the rind at an angle away from you. Carve through the rind by moving your knife back and forth between the skin and the membrane. Repeat this process by rotating the lemon to remove the skin.^[7]
   
   
   • Peeling your lemon is a little messy, but it's the only way to access the juice from every part of the lemon.
   • Always cut away from your nondominant hand as you brace the lemon. If your lemon is too small or your hands are too big, you can hold it in place by gripping it with tongs.

[Edit]Extracting the Juice

1. Squeeze the lemon hard while holding it over a large bowl. Take your lemon and hold it over a large bowl, just beneath the rim. Wrap your palm around the peeled lemon and point the exposed membrane down towards the bowl. Squeeze hard to remove the majority of the juice. With slices, hold the opposite ends between your index finger and thumb. Squeeze your fingers together to remove most of the juice.^[8]
   
   
   • Place a strainer over your bowl if you don't want any of the membrane to end up in the juice.
   • If your bowl is too small, you'll end up sending lemon juice all over the place. Get a bowl that is at least 4-5 times the size of your lemon.
2. Use the tines of a fork to poke the membrane before squeezing again. After you've given your lemon an initial squeeze, grab a fork. Use the tines of the fork to poke holes in the surface of your lemon. Poke each section 5-10 times to break the membrane apart. Then, squeeze the lemon again to extract even more juice.^[9]
   
   
   • You can use a knife instead of a fork if you'd like. The tines of a fork make it easy to puncture the lemon multiple times at once, though.
3. Use a hand juicer to extract the juice cleanly. A juicer is an excellent tool when it comes to extracting liquid from a fruit. Cut the lemon in half width-wise if you're going to use a juicer. After cutting your lemon, place one half on top of your juicer with the skin facing up. Press down while twisting the lemon into the blades. Do this for 45-60 seconds to extract the juice. Repeat this process with the other half of your lemon.^[10]
   
   
   • Twist the top of the hand juicer off by hand to access the juice that collects underneath.

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Tips

• The standard lemon you find at a grocery store is usually a Eureka or Lisbon lemon. Meyer lemons are smaller, but produce a lot more juice. You can typically find Meyer lemons in Asian supermarkets, since they're native to China.^[11]

[Edit]Warnings

• Lemon juice can sting if it gets in your eyes, so wash your hands after squeezing your lemons.

[Edit]Things You'll Need

[Edit]Heating the Lemon

• Microwave
• Plate or paper towel
• Bowl
• Water
• Rolling pin (optional)

[Edit]Cutting the Lemon

• Cutting board
• Chef's knife
• Paring knife

[Edit]Extracting the Juice

• Large bowl
• Strainer (optional)
• Fork
• Hand juicer

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ https://www.epicurious.com/expert-advice/trick-to-juice-lemons-article
2. ↑ https://food.ndtv.com/food-drinks/5-quick-and-sureshot-ways-to-get-more-juice-out-of-lemon-1740409
3. ↑ https://food.ndtv.com/food-drinks/5-quick-and-sureshot-ways-to-get-more-juice-out-of-lemon-1740409
4. ↑ https://food.ndtv.com/food-drinks/5-quick-and-sureshot-ways-to-get-more-juice-out-of-lemon-1740409
5. ↑ https://www.epicurious.com/expert-advice/trick-to-juice-lemons-article
6. ↑ https://www.epicurious.com/expert-advice/trick-to-juice-lemons-article
7. ↑ https://www.epicurious.com/expert-advice/trick-to-juice-lemons-article
8. ↑ https://www.tastingtable.com/cook/national/how-to-cut-lemon-lime-citrus-trick
9. ↑ https://food.ndtv.com/food-drinks/5-quick-and-sureshot-ways-to-get-more-juice-out-of-lemon-1740409
10. ↑ https://www.epicurious.com/expert-advice/trick-to-juice-lemons-article
11. ↑ https://food.ndtv.com/food-drinks/5-quick-and-sureshot-ways-to-get-more-juice-out-of-lemon-1740409

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How to Unclog Hair Follicles

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Clogged hair follicles, a condition often called folliculitis, can be unsightly, itchy, and painful. It usually occurs after hair removal on your face, groin, legs, and armpits, often because a bacterial or fungal infection, chemical irritation, or mechanical injury inflames the hair follicles. If you're experiencing this condition, allow your skin ample time to heal. Use warm compresses and washes to help the condition clear up. Then take steps to prevent the problem from coming back.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Treating Blocked Follicles

1. Stop your hair removal regimen for 30 days. Blocked or inflamed hair follicles usually result from hair removal, and can affect all areas that you shave, wax, or trim. If you continue your hair removal regimen while the follicles are inflamed, your skin will take much longer to heal. Allow 30 days before restarting your regimen to give your skin enough healing time.^[1]
   
   • If your work requires you to be clean-shaven, consult your dermatologist right away for suggestions on removing hair without aggravating your condition.
2. Apply a warm compress to the affected area 3 to 4 times a day. A warm compress opens up your pores and helps free hair follicles of blockages. Apply one for 15 to 20 minutes at a time. Repeat this treatment 3 or 4 times every day to keep your pores open and allow blockages to work themselves out.^[2]
   
   • There are many store-bought options for a warm compress, or your can make your own at home.
   • A washcloth soaked in warm water will also work, although it may not stay warm for very long.
   • Do not keep a warm compress applied for more than 20 minutes to prevent burning your skin.
3. Wash your hair with an apple cider vinegar mixture. Folliculitis can also affect your scalp. If the blocked hair follicles are on your scalp, several washing procedures can help clear the blockages. Apple cider vinegar can naturally remove clumps and residue of dead skin or oil, which helps unclog follicles.^[3]
   
   • Mix 1 part water with 1 part apple cider vinegar. For example, if you use 1 cup (.24 l) of water, use the same amount of apple cider vinegar.
   • Pour the mixture onto your hair after shampooing. Rinse out all the shampoo before applying the vinegar.
   • Massage the mixture into your scalp and let it sit for a few minutes. Then rinse it fully with water.
   • Don't apply conditioner.
4. Wear loose-fitting clothing until the inflammation clears. Folliculitis is often caused by tight, heavy clothes or skin rubbing together, especially if you have excess body weight. This is common in your armpits, groin, and upper thigh areas, and it occurs most often in hot, humid weather. If you're experiencing inflammation, avoid tight clothing while your skin heals. Otherwise, the friction from clothing will continue inflaming your skin and it will take longer to heal.^[4]
   
5. Apply a topical antibiotic to the area 3 times a day for 7-10 days. Dab a topical antibiotic onto the area affected by folliculitis 3 times daily to help treat the infection. Continue to apply the antibiotic for 7-10 days to help your skin heal.^[5]
   
   • For instance, use Mupirocin (Bactroban) topical cream to treat your folliculitis. You can find over-the-counter antibiotic creams at your local drug store or online.
   • If you don't see improvement after a few days of treatment, visit your doctor to find out if you need additional treatment.
6. Consult a dermatologist if the problem doesn't clear up in a few days. Home remedies don't always work for inflamed hair follicles. If you've been treating the condition on your own for a few days and see no improvement, make an appointment with your dermatologist for professional advice.^[6]
   
   • The dermatologist may try a variety of treatments for you, depending on what is causing your inflamed hair follicles. If it is a bacterial infection, for example, they may prescribe an oral antibiotic or antibiotic cream.
   • If you've developed any cysts or abscesses from the infection, the dermatologist will probably drain them for you.
   • Also ask your dermatologist what steps you can take to prevent the problem from coming back.

[Edit]Preventing Folliculitis

1. Maintain good hygiene to keep your skin clean. Bathe daily with soap and warm water to remove bacteria and fungi from your skin before they can cause folliculitis. Additionally, bathe after you get really sweaty or dirty. To protect your skin, apply a thin layer of moisturizer after you bathe.^[7]
   
   • Use a mild soap to remove dirt, oils, bacteria, and fungi.
2. Boost your immune system. Since bacterial or fungal infections usually cause folliculitis, boosting your immune system can help prevent the problem. This ensures your body can fight off potential infections before they happen.^[8]
   
   • Get 7-8 hours of sleep every night. Fatigue can suppress your immunity.
   • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
   • Add more fruits and vegetables to your diet.
   • Avoid processed and sugary foods.
3. Use only well-maintained pools or hot tubs. People often pick up the bacteria causing hair follicle infections from unsanitary pools or hot tubs. If you suspect a pool or hot tub isn't clean, play it safe and avoid bathing.^[9]
   
   • If you own a pool or hot tub, keep it chlorinated to prevent bacterial growth.
   • The water should not be cloudy. Make sure you can see clearly to the bottom of the pool before bathing.^[10]
   • If hot tub foam is still floating on the water's surface after the jets are turned off, it's an indication that the water is not well-filtrated.
   • Take a shower right after swimming if you suspect the water was unsanitary.
4. Wash your bathing suit after every use. The bacteria that causes hair follicle inflammation can live on your swimsuit after your get out of the water. This means you can re-infect yourself if you don't wash it. Wash your swimsuit after every use to prevent infections.^[11]
   
5. Shave properly. Improper shaving practices can cause ingrown hairs and infections. If you're prone to hair follicle inflammation, follow a few steps while shaving.^[12]
   
   • Wet your skin with warm water before shaving to soften the hair.
   • Shave in the direction that hair grows.
   • Store your razor in a dry area to prevent bacteria from growing on it.
   • Use only a sharp razor to prevent cuts and tearing.
6. Wear loose-fitting clothing when it's hot and humid. Sweat and friction from clothes rubbing on your skin can cause a flare-up of folliculitis. Prevent this problem by avoiding tight clothing in hot, humid weather.^[13]
   
   • Try applying some baby powder to your skin to prevent friction from causing a flare-up.
   • Avoid tight clothes while exercising too. If you do wear tight exercise clothes, remove the clothes immediately after working out and take a shower.
7. Use only a reputable waxing salon. Unsanitary waxing salons can spread the bacteria that causes folliculitis. Reduce your risk by only visiting reputable and sanitary waxing salons.^[14]
   
   • Do an internet search for the salon you're considering and see if there are negative reviews or news stories about it.
   • Ask your friends about their experiences at particular waxing salons.

[Edit]References

1. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/bumps-and-growths/folliculitis
2. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/bumps-and-growths/folliculitis
3. ↑ https://www.huffpost.com/entry/apple-cider-vinegar-beauty_b_1924171
4. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/folliculitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20361634
5. ↑ https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/skin-disorders/bacterial-skin-infections/folliculitis-and-skin-abscesses
6. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/folliculitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20361634
7. ↑ https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/skin-disorders/bacterial-skin-infections/folliculitis-and-skin-abscesses
8. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/bumps-and-growths/folliculitis
9. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/folliculitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20361634
10. ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/swimming/aquatics-professionals/operating-public-hot-tubs.html
11. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/bumps-and-growths/folliculitis
12. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/skin-hair-nails/skin-care/how-to-shave
13. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/bumps-and-growths/folliculitis
14. ↑ https://www.health.com/beauty/things-to-know-bikini-wax

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How to Heal a Lip Burn

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Burns on your lips can be painful and annoying to deal with, but there are ways you can treat minor ones at home. When you accidentally get a burn, start by cleaning and cooling it down to reduce the risk of infection. After the initial care, continue moisturizing your lips and relieving pain with over-the-counter medications and gels. As long as you treat the burn properly, it should go away within about 1 week. If you have a severe burn or your condition worsens, contact your doctor immediately.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Treating the Burn Immediately

1. See a doctor if there are blisters or the burn looks dark-colored. Check the burn so you can see how it looks. If it's red or slightly swollen, then you most likely have a first-degree burn that you can easily treat at home. However, if you have darkened skin, blisters, or numbness in your lips, it may be second-degree or third-degree burn and you need medical assistance. Go to the doctor as soon as you can so you can get proper treatment.^[1]
   
   • Don't try to pop any blisters at home since they're more likely to get infected.
   • You should also see a doctor if you burned the inside of your mouth.
2. Clean the burn with liquid soap or a saline solution to disinfect it. Immediately rinse the burn with lukewarm or cool water to relieve some of the pain. Gently lather liquid soap onto your lips to clean them. You can also spray the burn with a saline solution if it's painful to apply soap. Rinse off the soap or saline solution with lukewarm water.^[2]
   
   • Saline solution may sting slightly when you apply it.
   • Don't apply too much pressure when you lather the soap or else you could cause more pain.
3. Hold a cool, damp cloth on your lip to reduce inflammation. Wet a clean washcloth under cold water and wring out any excess. Hold the compress directly against your burned lips and keep it there for up to 20 minutes to relieve the pain. If the compress gets warm, rewet it with cool water again before putting it back on your lips.^[3]
   
   • Don't use a dirty cloth since it could increase your chances of getting an infection.
   • Try to keep your head upright as much as possible to prevent the burn from swelling.
4. Rub white petroleum jelly into your lips to keep them moisturized. White petroleum jelly locks in moisture and can help protect the burn from infection. Rub a thin layer of the petroleum jelly gently onto your lips so you cover the entire burn. Leave the petroleum jelly on your lips for as long as you need and reapply it up to 2–3 times per day.^[4]
   
   • You can buy white petroleum jelly from your local drugstore or pharmacy.
   • White petroleum jelly is safe to consume, so it's okay if you accidentally swallow some.
   • Avoid putting any creams or salves on severe burns since they could make your condition worse.

[Edit]Caring for Your Burned Lips

1. Don't touch your lips if you don't need to. Touching the burned area on your lips can make it more susceptible to infection and cause pain. Leave the burn alone so it has time to heal on its own. If you need to touch your lips, make sure you wash your hands thoroughly beforehand to get rid of any bacteria.
   
   • Don't smoke while your burns healing since it could cause more pain.
2. Take over-the-counter pain relievers to help soothe the burn. Try ibuprofen, naproxen sodium, or aspirin to help ease any pain you're feeling. Only use the recommended dose on the medication's package and wait about 30 minutes to feel the effects. If you still feel pain 6–8 hours later, take another dose of pain relievers.^[5]
   
   • Follow the dosing instructions on the medication's package since many only recommend taking 4–5 daily.
   • If you feel severe pain from your burn, contact your doctor so they can check the severity of the burn and possibly prescribe you stronger pain relievers.
3. Apply aloe gel to the burn to help relieve the burning sensation. Aloe gel has healing properties and can relieve pain from burns effectively. Spread a thin layer of aloe gel on your lips until you cover the entire burn. Allow the aloe to sit and absorb into your skin to treat the burn. Reapply the aloe 2–3 times each day if you're still feeling pain or warmth around your lips.^[6]
   
   • Don't use aloe gel on severe burns unless you get your doctor's approval first.
4. Visit your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or get worse. After about 1 week, check your burn in a mirror to see how much it's healed. If the burn looks smaller, continue treating it the same way you have been until it goes away. If it still looks the same or it feels worse than before, let your doctor know so they can check if there's anything else affecting your treatment.^[7]
   
   • Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or pain relievers depending on what they find during your appointment.
5. Use lip balm with SPF 50 if you plan on going out in the sun. If you go out in the sun, the heat may cause pain, make skin damage worse, or give you sunburn. Look for a lip balm that's labeled for sun protection and apply a thin layer over the burn. Reapply the lip balm after 1–2 hours in the sun so you have continuous protection.^[8]
   
   • Wear a hat or use an umbrella to keep your lips out of the sun if you still feel pain.
   • If you don't have an SPF lip balm, apply a natural sunscreen to your lips. Look for a zinc oxide-based sunscreen that's free of BPA, parabens, and fragrance. Some natural sunscreens also contain soothing plant-based ingredients, such as aloe vera and sunflower oil.

[Edit]Tips

• Try to eat mostly cold foods if you're able since heat will make the burn feel more painful.
• Many minor burns don't need additional treatment after initially caring for them.
• Avoid having spicy foods or alcohol while your burn's healing since these could cause more pain.^[9]
• Stay hydrated as much as possible to help promote healing and prevent skin damage.
• Prevent future lip burns by shading your face with a wide-brimmed hat and wearing a lip balm with an SPF of at least 30 while spending time in the sun. Be extra cautious when you're in overcast but windy conditions or at high altitudes, since these conditions can put you at greater risk of developing lip burns.

[Edit]Warnings

• Avoid putting any creams or salves on a severe burn unless you're instructed to by a doctor.
• If you have severe lip swelling or blisters on your lips, or if the burn looks dark-colored, see a doctor immediately since the burn may be severe.
• Don't put ice on the burn since it can cause more damage to your skin.^[10]

[Edit]Things You'll Need

• Liquid soap or saline solution
• Washcloth
• White petroleum jelly
• Pain relievers
• Aloe gel
• Lip balm with SPF 50

[Edit]References

1. ↑ https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/burns-and-scalds/treatment/
2. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/burns/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20370545
3. ↑ https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/burns-and-scalds/treatment/
4. ↑ https://healthengine.com.au/info/first-aid-oral-trauma-children#burns
5. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/burns/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20370545
6. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7561562
7. ↑ https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/burns-and-scalds/treatment/
8. ↑ https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/burns-and-scalds/recovery/
9. ↑ https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/burns-and-scalds/recovery/
10. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/burns/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20370545

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How to Make Bar Soap

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Making soap at home is a cost-effective and creative hobby. The simplest way to make bar soap at home is through the melt and pour method, which uses a melted soap base instead of active lye. To start from scratch, mix water, oils, and additives with lye. No matter which way you choose, you can enjoy custom soap bars with few chemical additives after the batter cures.

[Edit]Ingredients

[Edit]Lye-Free Pink Himalayan Grapefruit Soap

• goat's milk soap base
• pink Himalayan salt
• 20 drops grapefruit essential oil

[Edit]Basic Olive Oil Soap with Lye

• pomace olive oil^[1]
• distilled water
• sodium hydroxide

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Making Lye-Free Pink Himalayan Grapefruit Soap Batter

1. Cut a soap base into chunks that are easy to melt. Chop up about of soap or glycerine into cubes in size. These small pieces melt evenly so your finished batter is less likely to be chunky. Using small chunks also prevents the batter from burning while you stir it.^[2]
   
   • You can also try shredding the soap with a grater or vegetable peelers.
   • Glycerine is a common base available online or at craft supply stores. It is made with lye like any bar of soap but doesn't have any active lye in it, so it's safe to touch.
   • Choose white and clear-colored soaps if you plan on adding coloring later. Darker soaps aren't as great for customizing, although you can still add fragrances and thickeners to them.
2. Place the cut soap base into a heatproof pot or bowl. The container you need depends on how you plan on melting the soap. The easiest way to do it is on a stovetop. Simply place the soap in a stainless steel pot, crockpot, or double boiler. If the stove isn't an option, melt the soap in a microwave.^[3]
   
   • If you use a microwave, choose a microwave-safe. Look for a label on the bottom of the container or on its packaging.
3. Heat and stir the soap constantly until it melts. Heat the soap on a stovetop or in your microwave to about . Move the melting soap around with a rubber spatula to help it melt. Don't let it sit still for more than 30 seconds or else it may burn. Stir it until it reaches a smooth consistency.^[4]
   
   • If the soap batter looks thick and dry, mix a little bit of water into it. Add water gradually, stirring the batter to keep it at a liquid consistency.
   • Many soap bases reach a good consistency within a couple of minutes. Depending on the base you use, you may need to keep stirring for 15 minutes or more to make the batter smooth.
   • If you're using a microwave, heat the soap for 30 seconds at a time. Give it a good stir to distribute the heat.
   • Soap bases begin to burn around . Use a kitchen thermometer as needed to track the temperature.
4. Add tea, salt, and other ingredients to color the soap. Fresh-brewed coffee and tea change the batter's color but don't often leave much of a smell in the finished product. Mix in some blended fruits or vegetables to give your soap a deep, vibrant color. Soap dyes are another option for unusual colors. Also, use colored salt and spices for additional variety.^[5]
   
   • For example, add about of pink Himalayan sea salt to turn a batter pink, or mix in a little tumeric to give the batter an orange color.
   • Brew coffee and tea separately from the soap batter. Remove coffee grounds and tea bags before adding the liquid to the batter.
5. Mix in essential oils and other ingredients to make your soap fragrant. Stir a few drops of any essential oil into your batter to customize it. Flowers and herbs are some alternatives to essential oils. Try using ingredients like powdered beet root or sandalwood. Ingredients like vanilla, honey, and brown sugar can also give your soap a pleasant quality that makes it difficult to put down.^[6]
   
   • Whole flowers and herbs lose color over time and may discolor your soap. Try placing them on top of the batter after you pour it into the mold instead of mixing them in.
6. Use oils and other ingredients to change the soap's texture. For softer soap bars, heat cooking oil in a separate pan, then mix it into the batter. Olive oil, coconut oil, and vegetable oil are a few good options for softer, silkier soap bars. Some people melt glycerine cubes to add to the batter. To thicken the batter, add a scoop of oatmeal, honey, or beeswax.
   

[Edit]Making Basic Olive Oil Soap with Lye Batter

1. Choose vegetable oils to form a base for your soap. You can use all kinds of vegetable oil to create soap. The type of oil you choose determines the amount of other ingredients you need. For your first time making soap, keep it simple by sticking to 1 or 2 different types of oils. Pomace olive oil from a grocery store is a common base to start with. Measure out of oil on a kitchen scale by weight instead of volume.^[7]
   
   • For a recipe that is a little fancier than a basic olive oil soap, try pure hemp seed or palm oil. Mix the oil with equal parts olive oil.
   • For a creamier soap with more lather, try mixing 1 part coconut oil, 1 part palm oil, and 1 part olive oil. Add some sweet almond oil to give the soap a pleasant scent.
2. Use a lye calculator to determine how much lye you need to make soap. If you are following a specific soap recipe, use the amount of lye specified in the recipe. Otherwise, rely on a lye calculator. The amount of lye you need varies depending on the oil you use. Use the correct ratio of lye to oil to make solid bars of soap that don't sting your skin when you use them.^[8]
   
   • Search online to find your own lye calculator or use the one at http://www.pinemeadows.net/lyecalc.php.
   • Another lye calculator is available at https://www.thesage.com/calcs/LyeCalc.html.
   • Some calculators have an option for superfatting, which means using extra fat to make the soap softer. For a good default consistency, set the option at 5%.
3. Pour the water into a heat-proof mixing bowl. For a basic olive oil soap, you need about of water. Measure out the water into a heat-safe glass or plastic measuring cup placed on a kitchen scale. Transfer the water into a stainless steel pot or glass bowl. Keep in mind that lye does corrode glass and plastic a little bit over time, so stainless steel is usually your best bet when mixing lye and water.^[9]
   
   • If you're making a different type of soap, use the amount of water specified by the recipe or lye calculator.
   • Tap water often has minerals that affect how your soap turns out. To avoid this, purchase distilled water from a grocery store.
   • If you halved a recipe to make a small batch of soap, remember to halve every ingredient accordingly.
4. Measure out the lye into a separate container on a kitchen scale. Carefully pour about of lye into a heat-safe glass or plastic measuring cup. Weigh it on the scale. Make sure you have the amount specified by your recipe or lye calculator. Handle it with caution to avoid spills, and use stainless steel or glass containers you don't plan on cooking with in the future.^[10]
   
   • Lye is available online or at most hardware stores.
   • Lye is very caustic, so handle it carefully. Cover yourself with protective goggles, rubber gloves, and long-sleeved clothing. If you get any on your skin, wash it off immediately with cold water.
   • The most common type of lye is sodium hydroxide (NaOH). Potassium hydroxide (KOH), or potash, is also available and used in soap making. Read the label to figure out which type you have. They are similar but need to be added in different amounts.
5. Pour the lye into the water gradually while stirring it. Stir the ingredients together with a stainless steel or heat-safe plastic whisk. Let the mixture warm up and turn white before adding more lye. Continue stirring and pouring until you finish dissolving all of the lye. The mixture will be scalding hot.^[11]
   
   • Never pour the water into the lye or dump all of the lye into the water at once. This can lead to a lye explosion splattering everything with dangerous chemicals.
   • Lye and water release heat and fumes when mixed together. Make sure you're ready for this before continuing. Ventilate your area and consider wearing a dust mask.
6. Test the lye water with a thermometer until it reaches . Set the container aside while you wait. After the lye begins cooling, stick a stainless steel thermometer in it to keep track of its temperature. Let it cool to a temperature between .^[12]
   
   • Begin preparing your oils while you wait for the lye to cool. You will need the oils ready to mix into the lye.
7. Mix and heat the base oils to about . The goal is to get the oils to the same temperature as the lye water. Weigh the oils using a kitchen scale, then melt solid oils over low heat. Stir in the liquid oils and heat them until they are between .^[13]
   
   • Heat the oils to only if the recipe you're using specifies that the mixture can handle the higher temperature.
   • Hot oil mixtures are called "fixed oils" in some recipes.
8. Blend the oils with the lye water until the mixture thickens. Pour the hot oil into the lye water, stirring it with a stainless steel whisk or mixing spoon. Wooden spoons and stirrers also work but splinter with repeated uses. Stirring on average takes between 15 minutes to half an hour. You may need even more time to get the batter to the consistency of pudding or toothpaste.^[14]
   
   • The finished mixture is called a trace. When it is done, the stirrer leaves lingering trace lines in it. If you lift the stirrer, the batter will stay clumped on it.
   • Use an electric hand mixer or stick blender to speed up the stirring process. Put the soap batter in a deep container to prevent splattering.
   • If you use a stick blender, fully submerge it in the batter before turning it on. Tap it against the side of the container to release air bubbles. Start on a low setting at first, then turn it to medium or high as the mixture thickens.
9. Add fragrances or additives if you wish to customize your soap. Essential oils, herbs, and thickeners are a few ways to make your soap unique. Use different ingredients to color and scent your soap. After choosing your additives, stir them into the batter with a spoon, spatula, or whisk. Typically, a soap contains no more than 6% additives by volume.^[15]
   
   • Research the benefits of herbs and essential oils. For example, add lavender to scent the soap and nourish your skin.
   • Oatmeal, coffee grounds, and honey are a few common thickeners that make soap coarser for exfoliation.

[Edit]Molding and Curing the Soap

1. Clean and line your soap molds. Soap molds are basically boxes for the liquid batter to set in. Any dry plastic container works, or you can buy silicone molds specifically for soap. If you have a wooden container, cover the inside with a silicone liner or freezer paper.^[16]
   
   • Soap molds are available online and at some general stores. If you need a liner, freezer papers are available at most supermarkets.
2. Pour the soap batter into the mold. Fill each mold close to the top. Tap the mold against a hard surface a few times to break up air bubbles. Use a rubber spatula to scrape out excess batter to pour into a different mold or throw away.^[17]
   
   • Bump the mold against a hard surface a few times if it looks frothy. Try dropping it from a low height to knock out stubborn air bubbles.
   • Don't worry about breaking the soap into smaller bars yet. Wait until the soap solidifies for that.
3. Wrap the mold inside cardboard and a clean towel. Tape a piece of cardboard over the mold to cover the soap. Then, wrap a towel around the entire mold to insulate it. Doing this helps the mold set properly, leading to better soap.^[18]
   
   • If you don't have cardboard, place parchment paper over the mold.
4. Wait 24 hours before cutting into bars. The saponification process takes at least a day to happen. When you remove the soap from the mold, it will be hard and ready for cutting. Use a sharp kitchen knife to break the soap down into smaller bars. To smooth out the sides, scrape the soap with a vegetable peelers.^[19]
   
   • Keep your soap at room temperature and out of the reach of children and pets. If you used fresh lye, the soap is still dangerous to touch at this point.
   • If your soap is too soft to cut, let it rest for an extra day. This happens most often in large, single molds.
5. Dry the soap for several weeks before using it. Move the soap bars into a cool but well-ventilated area. Try placing them near a window in your basement or on a countertop. Put them on top of wax paper or another disposable material to prevent the oils from damaging the surface the soap is on. Soap takes about 4 weeks to finish curing.^[20]
   
   • Soap can take anywhere from 3 to 8 weeks to cure completely. The time it needs depends on the oils you used. Check your recipe for the recommended curing time.
   • Soap made using the melt and pour method typically solidifies within a few hours. At most, let it rest overnight before taking it out of the mold.

[Edit]Tips

• Almost any type of fat works well in a homemade bar of soap. Soap makers use palm oil, shea butter, cocoa butter, and even lard and shortening.
• If you cannot find lye, check the label on drain cleaners. Some products are 100% lye and can be used to make soap.
• Play around with different mixtures of oils and additives to create your own unique soap from scratch.
• For more advice and recipes, read a soap making book or visit an online soap making community.
• For safety, keep lye out of the reach of pets and small children. Separate your soap making gear from your kitchen equipment and let everyone in your home know how to avoid them.

[Edit]Warnings

• Soap is still dangerous when it is fresh. Don't handle it until it has had at least a month to fully cure.
• Lye is very dangerous when handled incorrectly. Always wear safety gear when making soap, including safety goggles and rubber gloves. Ventilate your area to eliminate lye fumes.
• Soap made with too much lye can burn your skin. Always use a lye calculator to ensure you add the proper amount of lye for the oils you have.

[Edit]Things You'll Need

[Edit]Making Lye-Free Soap Batter

• Pot or microwavable container
• Measuring cup
• Kitchen scale
• Rubber spatula
• Oven or microwave
• Essential oils or other additives
• Molds
• Plastic wrap
• Sharp knife

[Edit]Mixing Lye Soap Batter

• Lye
• Vegetable oils
• Safety goggles
• Long sleeve shirt or coveralls
• Long pants
• Rubber, plastic, or latex gloves
• Stainless steel, glass, or plastic mixing containers
• Measuring cups
• Kitchen scale
• Stainless steel, glass, plastic, or wooden mixing tools
• Stainless steel thermometers
• Stove
• Pot or pan for heating oil
• Silicone, plastic, or wooden soap molds
• Cardboard
• Towel
• Sharp knife

[Edit]Related wikiHows

• Make Foaming Hand Soap
• Mix Soap Making Additives to Make Homemade Lye Soap

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T4kPgD8esfE&feature=youtu.be&t=10
2. ↑ https://gluesticksblog.com/2011/12/candy-cane-soap.html
3. ↑ https://www.thecuriouslycreative.com/soap-making-guide-melt-pour-method/
4. ↑ https://www.thecuriouslycreative.com/soap-making-guide-melt-pour-method/
5. ↑ https://www.offthegridnews.com/current-events/top-headlines/how-to-color-homemade-soap/
6. ↑ https://www.soapqueen.com/bath-and-body-tutorials/tips-and-tricks/how-to-blend-essential-oils-safely/
7. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qevq073tjxg&feature=youtu.be&t=19
8. ↑ https://www.savvyhomemade.com/creating-homemade-lye-soap-recipes/
9. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xv9qmZt5grk&feature=youtu.be&t=382
10. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xv9qmZt5grk&feature=youtu.be&t=415
11. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xlUM_-7Nr_Y&feature=youtu.be&t=535
12. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qevq073tjxg&feature=youtu.be&t=267
13. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xlUM_-7Nr_Y&feature=youtu.be&t=584
14. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qGfXLznJJY0&feature=youtu.be&t=183
15. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3wqjfBsiViY&feature=youtu.be&t=207
16. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qevq073tjxg&feature=youtu.be&t=449
17. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xP7mvbAdYWc&feature=youtu.be&t=348
18. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vcCOruzFTgQ&feature=youtu.be&t=618
19. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vcCOruzFTgQ&feature=youtu.be&t=627
20. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vcCOruzFTgQ&feature=youtu.be&t=775

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How to Hollow Out a Coconut

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Whether you're cracking open a coconut for the juice, to make a yummy recipe, or even to use the shell for a craft, hollowing out a coconut is a simple process. Drain the coconut water out into a cup before gently hitting the circumference of the coconut to crack it open. After that, all that's left is removing the coconut meat from the shell. With the use of a few simple tools like a knife and hammer, you'll have a hollowed out coconut in no time!

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Draining the Coconut

1. Find the soft eye of the coconut. Similar to a bowling ball, the coconut will have three "eyes" located at one end. Use a knife to test each eye, pointing the tip of the knife into an eye to try to create a hole. Two of the eyes will be hard, while the third will be soft and let you poke through to the meat.^[1]
   
   • These eyes are also known as the coconut's germination pores.
2. Use a sharp tool to make a hole in the soft eye. This can be done using a knife, drill bit, screwdriver, or a pointed kitchen tool. Create a hole roughly the size of your pinky, poking through the shell until you get to the white meat of the coconut.^[2]
   
   
   • A meat thermometer is another useful tool.
   • Tap your screwdriver or drill bit gently using a hammer, if necessary.
   • This hole allows the water to drain from the coconut.
3. Drain the water into a bowl, jar or cup. Hold the coconut upside down over a cup and gently shake the coconut up and down. Let the coconut drain completely before trying to crack it open.^[3]
   
   
   • Save the coconut water for later, if desired—coconut water is great for smoothies, marinades, cocktails, and salad dressings.

[Edit]Cutting the Coconut in Half

1. Locate the coconut's equator. This is a thin line along the middle of the coconut, also known as its natural center point. This is where it will be easiest to break the coconut cleanly in half. Find this line before you begin tapping.^[4]
   
2. Tap along the equator gently until the coconut cracks in half. Using a hammer or mallet, go around the circumference of the coconut gently hitting the shell. Rotate the coconut as you tap, ensuring you hit each part of the coconut's equator. Keep going in this manner until you hear a cracking sound. Once it starts cracking, use less and less force to keep it in two large pieces.^[5]
   
   
   • Be careful not to hit the coconut too hard, or it will come apart in pieces instead of in natural halves.
   • Avoid using a sharp blade or knife to hit the coconut—this can be dangerous.
   • Don't worry if your coconut takes some time to crack open—some coconuts are simply easier to split than others.
3. Pry open the coconut if it doesn't separate naturally. If your coconut cracks but doesn't split open, pry open the coconut gently by placing a dull knife in the crack and applying leverage. Situate the knife into the largest crack to help ensure a nice split.^[6]
   
   • Aim for cracks all the way around the coconut before prying it open to make the process easier.

[Edit]Removing the Meat

1. Hold a coconut section in one hand with your cutting knife in the other. It's best if you hold the coconut in your non-dominant hand to leave your dominant hand for removing the meat. Choose a knife with a curved edge instead of a pointed tip to make the process easier.^[7]
   
   • A paring knife or steak knife works well.
2. Make a cut into the coconut, pressing down until you reach the shell. Use your knife to form a perpendicular line from the coconut's cracked edge. Cut deep enough into the flesh of the coconut so that you feel the hard inner shell.^[8]
   
   
   • The length of this cut is up to you and your knife, though the longer the cut the more flesh you'll likely be able to pry out at once.
3. Angle your next cut against the previous cut to form an upside-down V. Once your first cut is finished, form another cut angled out from the original one. This will create a triangular shape, or an upside-down V.^[9]
   
   
   • Make sure you press deep enough into this cut to touch the shell, just as you did with the first cut.
4. Pry the meat from this cut section using a dull knife. Situate your knife under the flesh in the center of your two cuts. Gently pry the meat from this cut section of the coconut, twisting your knife if necessary.^[10]
   
   
5. Cut the rest of the sections to remove all of the meat. Continue making upside-down V shapes with the meat, cutting deeply until you reach the shell before prying the meat out.^[11]
   
   • This may take some time, so use caution and be patient!
   • Use this process to remove the meat from the other half of the coconut as well.

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Tips

• You can also try scooping the meat of the coconut out with a spoon.
• Put your coconut in a plastic bag before hitting it with a hammer if you're worried about making a mess.
• Freeze the coconut overnight before cracking it open to make the meat easily fall out.^[12]
• Put the coconut in the oven at for 15 minutes to shrink the meat from the coconut's shell.^[13] If you do this process with a whole coconut, the breaks will likely be irregular, and it must be drained beforehand so that steam does not cause it to explode.
• Use a vegetable peeler to remove the brown part off of the meat, if desired.^[14]

[Edit]Warnings

• Exercise caution when using sharp instruments, such as knives.

[Edit]Things You'll Need

• Knife
• Cup or bowl
• Hammer or mallet
• Paring knife
• Vegetable peeler (optional)
• Screwdriver or drill bit (optional)

[Edit]Related wikiHows

• Blow Out Eggs
• Open a Coconut
• Make Healthy Trail Mix
• Carve Wooden Guns

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EuXnXYFwMRI#t=3s
2. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lpOxJ9EnP_w#t=50s
3. ↑ https://www.foodnetwork.com/grilling/summer-parties/photos/how-to-break-down-a-coconut
4. ↑ https://www.cooksillustrated.com/articles/156-a-better-way-to-extract-coconut-meat
5. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EuXnXYFwMRI#2m40s
6. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EuXnXYFwMRI#t=3m36s
7. ↑ http://www.thenaughtyvegan.com/how-to-remove-coconut-meat.htm
8. ↑ http://www.thenaughtyvegan.com/how-to-remove-coconut-meat.htm
9. ↑ http://www.thenaughtyvegan.com/how-to-remove-coconut-meat.htm
10. ↑ http://www.thenaughtyvegan.com/how-to-remove-coconut-meat.htm
11. ↑ http://www.thenaughtyvegan.com/how-to-remove-coconut-meat.htm
12. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gn-vbYtB4p4#t=4s
13. ↑ https://www.bbc.com/food/coconut
14. ↑ https://www.foodnetwork.com/grilling/summer-parties/photos/how-to-break-down-a-coconut

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