Lisbon: Natural Soap and Shampoo Bar Making Workshops

If you’re visiting Lisbon and looking to add a personal, eco-friendly touch to your travel souvenirs, this soap and shampoo bar workshop might just be perfect. Hosted by Les Savonnettes, this 2.5-hour hands-on experience invites you to craft your own natural skincare products using Portuguese olive oil and other wholesome ingredients. It’s an engaging way to learn a new skill, enjoy some relaxed social time, and take home a batch of personalized soap bars.

What makes this experience stand out is its focus on natural, chemical-free ingredients, which aligns perfectly with the growing preference for sustainable beauty products. Plus, the workshop’s small group size (limited to 8 participants) ensures a friendly, personalized approach.

One thing to consider, though, is that it’s a tactile activity requiring comfortable clothing—so leaving your fancy outfit at home is a smart move. This workshop attracts those curious about natural skincare, eco-conscious travelers, or anyone eager for a creative, tactile experience in Lisbon’s vibrant setting.

Key Points

• Hands-on creation of natural soap and shampoo bars from scratch
• Use of Portuguese olive oil and nourishing vegetable oils ensures authentic local quality
• Personalized products that you can take home, weighing around half a kilogram
• Relaxed, small-group environment for better interaction and focus
• Includes all materials plus unlimited tea/infusions, making it a truly stress-free activity
• Ideal for eco-conscious travelers or anyone interested in natural skincare

An In-Depth Look at the Workshop Experience

Location and Atmosphere

The workshop takes place in a charming, cozy setting in Lisbon’s district, with the meeting point at a designated door that opens to a relaxed, inspiring environment. The atmosphere is informal yet focused, creating the perfect backdrop for learning a new craft without feeling rushed. The instructor, who speaks English, French, and Norwegian, clearly explains each step, ensuring everyone feels comfortable regardless of language background.

What’s Included and What to Expect

All the necessary materials are provided, so there’s no need to bring anything except yourself—just wear comfortable clothing since this is a hands-on activity. You’ll work with natural ingredients like Portuguese extra virgin olive oil and other beneficial vegetable oils, along with essential oils and infusions, to craft your personalized soap and shampoo bars.

Participants get to create approximately half a kilo of soap—a generous amount that’s enough for several uses or to gift friends. Throughout the session, you’ll learn about the benefits of natural ingredients and the cold process technique (also known as saponification). This process is key to making pure glycerin soap, which is moisturizing and gentle on the skin.

The Crafting Process

The process begins with a simple demonstration of the cold saponification method, which involves mixing oils with lye in a controlled way. You’ll then get your hands dirty (literally) as you measure, stir, and pour your mixture into molds. Throughout, the instructor shares tips on customizing your soap with different scents, infusions, and additives.

Many reviewers note that the activity is both educational and fun. For example, one reviewer recalls, “This was not just a workshop but a creative outlet. I loved selecting my own essential oils and seeing my soap take shape.” Another highlights the relaxing environment that makes the activity feel like a mini wellness retreat amid Lisbon’s hustle.

The Final Product and Takeaways

Once your soap has set (which might take some time after the workshop), you’re free to take home your self-made batch of natural soap. It’s a satisfying feeling to craft something truly personal and eco-friendly, especially knowing you used local ingredients. Plus, this experience encourages sustainable practices, reducing reliance on store-bought chemical-laden products.

Value for Money

At $77 per person, this workshop offers a comprehensive, tactile experience. Considering it includes all materials, unlimited tea/infusions, and a solid 2.5 hours of activity, it’s reasonable for anyone interested in natural skincare or wanting a unique, memorable activity in Lisbon. The small group size ensures personalized attention, which adds to the value.

Why Choose This Workshop?

This experience is especially appealing to travelers who prefer authentic, hands-on activities over typical sightseeing. It’s perfect for eco-conscious visitors, creative souls, or anyone curious about natural beauty products. The focus on Portuguese ingredients adds a local flavor that’s hard to find elsewhere, making your souvenirs from Lisbon both meaningful and eco-friendly.

What You Might Love

• The chance to create something functional and beautiful with your own hands
• Learning about cold process soap-making, a technique used for centuries
• The opportunity to sample herbal infusions and teas during the workshop
• Taking home a large, personalized batch of soap that’s free of harmful chemicals

Things to Keep in Mind

• It’s not suitable for children under 9 years old, so plan accordingly
• Wear comfortable clothing that can get a little messy
• The activity is alcohol-free, focusing on health-conscious, natural ingredients
• Reserve in advance as spots are limited to 8 participants

Final Thoughts

This natural soap and shampoo bar workshop in Lisbon offers a practical, creative, and environmentally friendly activity that adds real value to your trip. It’s not just about making soap; it’s about understanding the benefits of natural ingredients, connecting with local Portuguese products, and creating something that’s both beautiful and useful. The relaxed, small-group setting makes it an ideal choice for travelers seeking authenticity and a touch of wellness amidst their sightseeing.

Whether you’re a craft lover, eco-conscious traveler, or simply looking for a unique activity to remember Lisbon by, this workshop is worth considering. It balances hands-on fun with educational insight, culminating in a tangible product you can be proud of. Plus, it’s a chance to meet like-minded travelers and share a memorable experience in Portugal’s vibrant capital.

FAQ

Is this workshop suitable for children?
This experience is not suitable for children under 9 years old, as it involves handling ingredients and techniques that require a certain level of maturity and dexterity.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes are recommended since the activity is hands-on and may involve some mess. No specific dress code, but avoid anything you’d mind getting slightly stained.

Are materials included?
Yes, all materials needed to make your soap and shampoo bars are provided, including oils, essential oils, infusions, and molds.

Can I customize my soap?
Absolutely. You can choose your scents, infusions, and additives to personalize your soap and shampoo bars.

Will I learn a particular technique?
Yes, you’ll learn about the cold process or saponification method, which is key to making natural glycerin soap.

How much soap will I take home?
You’ll create about ½ kilo of soap, which is enough for multiple uses or to share with friends.

Is the workshop eco-friendly?
Yes. It emphasizes natural, chemical-free ingredients and promotes sustainable practices.

What languages are the instructions in?
The instructor speaks English, French, and Norwegian, ensuring clear communication for diverse participants.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How do I reserve a spot?
You can book through GetYourGuide and choose “reserve now & pay later” to keep your plans flexible. Payment is due closer to the date.

This workshop is a delightful way to bring a touch of Portugal’s natural bounty into your skincare routine while enjoying a creative and relaxing activity. Perfect for those seeking authenticity, sustainability, and a memorable story to tell from Lisbon.