There are so many different oils and butters soaps can be made from. So, why did I go with the blend I have? Well, after researching various oils - comparing their many benefits (and price points) I've decided on Olive oil, coconut oil, sweet almond oil, shea butter, aloe vera. 
Olive oil is great for soap because it makes a hard bar and softens skin. Olive oil is rich in fatty acids, including oleic acid, linoleic acid and stearic acid. These fatty acids help to keep the skin's natural moisture barrier to keep it hydrated. Olive oil is also rich in antioxidants which help to neutralize free radicals that come from skin irritations like pollution.
Coconut oil is not only super moisturizing, it is packed full of antioxidants, skin loving fats, and vitamins! This oil is a great choice for fighting acne and eczema and it's antimicrobial which helps to protect the skin from bacteria. Studies have shown that coconut oil also has the ability to treat chronic skin inflammation - believed to be it's high levels of polyphenols (naturally occurring micronutrients) and fatty acids. Perfect for anyone with sensitive skin.
Sweet almond oil is a newer ingredient to my soaps, but not new to my ingredient shelving. I chose to add sweet almond oil because it is packed full of vitamin E, which helps to keep your skin protected from UV radiation damage. The fatty acids in sweet almond oil helps the skin to retain moisture and can heal dry skin. Sweet almond oil also contains vitamin A, which helps to reduce acne because the oil penetrates the skin so easily to clear out dirt and oil, thus preventing blackheads and breakouts.
Shea butter is one of my favorite butters because it is high in vitamins and fatty acids to nourish and moisturize skin. Though shea butter is a tree nut, it isn't a typical tree nut - it's super low in the proteins that trigger allergic reactions in those with tree nut allergies. It's great for all skin types and it's non comedogenic which means it doesn't clog pores. It's also anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, antifungal, and helps to prevent acne. Shea butter also contains triterpenes, which are naturally occurring compounds thought to stop collagen breakdown. Due to it's moisturizing and antioxidant properties, it can also promote cell regeneration.
Aloe Vera is also a new addition to my soaps - I really wish I had added this sooner! Along with all the other moisturizing ingredients in my soap, aloe vera also packs a punch when it comes to skin nourishment! Ale is full of amino acids, enzymes, and minerals like calcium and magnesium that leave skin looking vibrant. Aloe is hydrating, but not greasy, which is perfect for balancing out the oils and butters already in the soap. Studies show that aloe has reduced the presence of wrinkles and improves skin elasticity, giving it a youthful glow without harmful chemicals! Also, ,because of how deep aloe vera can penetrate the skin and it's ability to promote elasticity, it may help to prevent and even reverse stretch marks! Lastly, aloe vera contains antioxidants, like vitamin C & E, to help fight free radicals caused by stress and pollution.
There are many other oils I could use in my soaps, but for now I'll stick with these. Sometime in the future, I may add avocado oil for it's added vitamins and castor oil for it's soft, bubbly lather.