Knowing that Cleopatra pampered her skin by bathing in soured milk, we decided to experiment by making soap with buttermilk.  As with goat's milk, buttermilk contains a naturally occuring alpha-hydroxy acid called lactic acid. Lactic acid aids in the exfoliation of dead skin cells similar to (but less powerful than) retinol, revealing a younger more glowing complexion.  In soap, buttermilk helps to soften, smooth and hydrate your skin and lends a rich, creaminess to the lather.  The fats in buttermilk also help boost the moisturizing qualities of the soap.  To further enhance the skin soothing properties of our buttermilk bars, we add a handful of ground oatmeal to each batch we make.