In this melt and pour soap tutorial, we’re combining bold neon pigments with the deep contrast of activated charcoal to create Black Neon Melt and Pour Soap—a visually striking design that glows with energy. If you’ve ever been hesitant to use neon colors because they seem too bold, this project will show you how to balance them with darker tones for a modern, elegant finish.
This technique is perfect for soap makers looking to experiment with color layering, mica blending, and temperature control for perfectly clean lines and a professional look.
2. Materials List
You’ll need the following ingredients and tools for this melt and pour soap recipe:
Soap Bases:
- 14–15 oz Crystal Clear Melt and Pour Soap Base
- 9 oz Shea Butter Melt and Pour Soap Base
Colorants:
- Popin’ Pink Neon Mica (Stardust Micas)
- Cosmic Blue Neon Mica (Stardust Micas)
- Activated Charcoal (for the black layer)
Fragrance:
- Fresh Linen Fragrance Oil (Bramble Berry or similar) – approx. 7 mL per 24 oz soap base
Tools:
- Funnel Cups
- Pipettes
- Scale (digital)
- Mixing Cups
- Rubbing Alcohol in Spray Bottle (for bubble removal and mica dispersion)
- Thermometer
- Silicone Square Mold (24 oz capacity)
- Silicone Mat
- Spatula or Stir Stick
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Phase 1: Melt and Prepare Soap Bases
- Weigh and melt approximately 14–15 oz of clear soap base and 9 oz of shea butter soap base in separate microwave-safe containers.
- Melt in 20–30 second intervals, stirring gently between each until fully liquefied. Avoid overheating.
Phase 2: Mix the Neon Colors
- Divide the melted soap into small cups.
- Add your chosen mica color to each cup (pink and blue).
- Disperse the mica using a small amount of rubbing alcohol before adding it to prevent clumping.
- Stir until color is fully incorporated.
Phase 3: Add Fragrance
- Allow the soap to cool below 140°F before adding fragrance oil.
- Add approximately 7 mL of fragrance to the entire 24 oz batch.
- Stir slowly to avoid creating bubbles.
Phase 4: Pour and Layer the Colors
- Pour your first layer using the opaque shea butter soap base. This layer cools slower, so it provides a good foundation.
- Once the layer starts to cool and forms a skin, pour the next layer of colored glycerin soap at around 130°F–135°F.
- Alternate between the blue and pink layers, using a light hand to avoid muddling the colors.
- Spray each layer with rubbing alcohol before pouring the next to help layers adhere cleanly.
Phase 5: Create the Black Contrast
- Mix activated charcoal with alcohol in a separate cup to form a slurry.
- Add the slurry to melted clear soap base (about 12 oz).
- When the soap temperature reaches 130°F–135°F, pour it gently over the colored layers.
- Allow it to cool completely before unmolding.
Phase 6: Unmold and Cut
- Once the soap is fully set, remove it from the mold carefully.
- Slice slowly in straight motions—avoid twisting the knife to prevent smearing.
- Admire your clean black base contrasted by glowing neon shades!
4. Pro Tips & Temperature Guidelines
- Always pour below 140°F to prevent colors from bleeding between layers.
- Ideal pouring range: 130°F–135°F for best results.
- Add fragrance only when the base has cooled to below 140°F to preserve scent and prevent sweating.
- Activated charcoal creates a rich, deep black when used in clear bases; in opaque bases, it turns gray.
- Use rubbing alcohol to prevent bubbles and promote layer adhesion.
- If layers begin to melt into each other, your soap is too hot—allow it to cool a few more degrees.
5. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Layers separating | Poured without alcohol or temperature too low | Spray rubbing alcohol between layers and pour around 130°F |
| Colors blending | Soap too hot during pour | Wait until base cools to 130°F–135°F |
| Dull or muted neon colors | Too little mica added | Mix mica with alcohol before adding and use 1–2 mini scoops per 4 oz soap |
| Air bubbles | Stirred too vigorously | Stir gently and spray surface with alcohol |
6. Variations
- Color Themes: Try neon green and orange for a tropical theme or purple and teal for a cosmic look.
- Add Glitter: A light dusting of cosmetic-grade glitter can enhance the shine—just avoid overdoing it.
- Scent Alternatives: Experiment with fruity or floral scents such as “Coconut Lime Verbena” or “Japanese Cherry Blossom.”
- Soap Shape: Use geometric molds or slice bars at an angle for artistic variation.
7. Final Results
The final Black Neon Melt and Pour Soap bars are visually stunning—vivid pink and blue hues pop against the sleek black base. The shea butter sections provide a creamy contrast that catches the light beautifully, while the fragrance delivers a fresh, clean aroma.
This soap not only looks incredible but also makes a fantastic gift bar or a statement piece for craft fairs and boutique displays.
8. Conclusion
If you’ve been hesitant to work with neon micas, this project proves that bold color can be sophisticated when balanced with dark tones. Experiment with your own color combinations, fragrance blends, and mold shapes to create one-of-a-kind soap designs.
For more melt and pour soap tutorials, color blending guides, and supply links, visit KoalaSoap.com.
