Step 1

Infuse oil. Add the oil and dried cherry blossom into a small, heat-resistant glass jar. If necessary, use a spoon to push the flowers into the oil. Fill a small saucepan with 1/2 in / 1.5 cm water and bring to a mild simmer. Once simmering, remove from the heat and place the jar with the oil and cherry blossom into the saucepan. Let infuse for 20 to 30 minutes.

Step 2

Strain oil. After sitting for 30 minutes, pour the infused oil into a fine-mesh sieve to strain the oil. Discard the cherry blossom.

Step 3

Whip. Place the soap base, SLSA, infused oil, vitamin E, and mica powder into a large mixing bowl. Using a mixer, whip the mixture until light, fluffy, and doubled in volume. This process takes 5 to 7 minutes. The consistency should be similar to whipped cream. If desired, add more mica to create a richer color.Tip: SLSA is a fine, airborne powder that can irritate the airways if inhaled. I recommend covering your nose and mouth for the first few minutes of mixing. You can take the covering off once the SLSA is fully incorporated.

Step 4

Add scent and preservative. Add the cherry blossom essential oil and preservative. Mix until everything is well combined. Your cherry blossom soap is ready!

Step 5

Package. Transfer the whipped cherry blossom soap into a storage jar. You can spoon the mixture into the jar or pipe it into the storage vessel by using a pastry (piping) bag and piping tip. Optionally, apply a printable soap label.

Step 6

Store. When not in use, keep the jar sealed airtight and store the whipped soap recipe in a dark, cool place. The shelf life is 1 year. The soap itself will last longer than that, but the scent will lessen after a few months.

Step 7

Use. To use the cherry blossom soap, take a peanut-sized amount and place it on your hand. You can do this with clean hands, a small spoon, or a cosmetic spatula. Add a splash of water, and then massage the soap into your skin. Rinse off with plenty of water.