From Lemonade Stands to Sustainability Awards: A Conversation with Monique Kofsky, Founder of Butter & Lye

“What inspired you to create Butter & Lye?”

Monique Kofsky: My journey to Butter & Lye began out of necessity—both for my skin and my soul. For over a decade, I worked as a biochemist in cancer immunotherapy, which was incredibly rewarding but also very demanding. My sensitive skin and a relentless battle with adult acne led me to realize that the commercial products I was using were only making things worse. One day, I woke up to find my acne cream had bleached my pillowcase—I was mortified! I knew there had to be a better way. Drawing from my background in biochemistry, I started experimenting in my kitchen, blending natural oils, botanicals, and lye to craft a soap that was gentle and effective. When I saw the incredible transformation in my skin, I knew I was onto something. Butter & Lye grew out of that passion for creating clean, effective skincare.

“What makes Butter & Lye different from other soap brands?”

Monique: We marry tradition with science. Butter & Lye is an homage to the old-fashioned way of making soap, which is as simple as combining a fat—like shea butter—with lye. But what makes us unique is our commitment to sustainability and high-quality ingredients. Every product is free from artificial fragrances and harsh chemicals, which makes them perfect for sensitive skin. We also focus on reducing waste through eco-friendly packaging and ethically sourced materials. Plus, our ‘Bar for Bar’ program ensures that for every bar of soap purchased, we donate one to someone in need. Butter & Lye isn’t just about great skin; it’s about building a better world.

“Why is sustainability at the heart of your business?”

Monique: Growing up as the child of Haitian immigrants, I learned early on how to live resourcefully. Butter containers in our fridge weren’t just butter—they were leftover storage. We turned off lights when leaving a room and reused clothing. Those habits stuck with me. As an adult, I realized that sustainability isn’t just good for the planet; it’s a necessity for future generations. That’s why everything at Butter & Lye—from our ingredient sourcing to our packaging—is designed with minimal environmental impact in mind. I want my son, Theo, and his children to inherit a world that’s thriving, not struggling.

“Can you tell us about the Bar for Bar program?”

Monique: The Bar for Bar program is one of the things I’m most proud of. For every bar of soap purchased, we donate a travel-sized bar to a community in need, in partnership with organizations like the Food Bank for New York City. It’s about more than just hygiene; it’s about dignity and hope. This program is deeply personal for me—it’s rooted in my childhood memories of making peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for the less fortunate. Giving back has always been a core value, and now it’s baked into our business model.

“What’s the story behind your entrepreneurial spirit?”

Monique: My entrepreneurial journey started when I was just a kid. My parents often held yard sales, and my siblings and I ran an iced tea stand. One day, we decided to experiment, adding a squeeze of lemon and a splash of vanilla extract. It was a game changer—we completely sold out! That experience taught me the power of innovation and quality. Later, I started a jewelry business, transforming vintage pieces into one-of-a-kind creations. While that venture taught me a lot, it was my scientific training that truly set me up for success with Butter & Lye. Science and entrepreneurship are both about experimentation and perseverance.

“How does your scientific background influence Butter & Lye?”

Monique: My time in the biotech world gave me a deep appreciation for precision and effectiveness. Soap-making felt like a natural extension of the work I was doing in the lab. It’s a blend of chemistry and creativity. I’m meticulous about every ingredient we use, ensuring they’re not just safe but also beneficial for the skin. For example, we use natural oils and botanicals that nourish and hydrate without irritation. It’s science-driven skincare with a personal touch.

“What’s been your biggest challenge as a founder?”

Monique: Balancing motherhood, marriage, and entrepreneurship is no small feat! My husband, Rob, and our son, Theo, are my world. Running a business while chasing after a toddler requires a lot of support and a fair bit of humor. Thankfully, Rob is an incredible partner, and we’ve found ways to make it work. Another challenge has been scaling sustainably—ensuring that as we grow, we stay true to our values. It’s not easy, but it’s worth it.

“What’s next for Butter & Lye?”

Monique: The sky’s the limit! We’re exploring new products, expanding our community outreach, and finding even more ways to reduce waste. My dream is for Butter & Lye to be a household name, not just for its products but for its purpose. I want people to associate us with quality, care, and impact. As long as we’re making a difference—for our customers, our community, and the planet—I’ll know we’re on the right track.

“Any advice for aspiring entrepreneurs?”

Monique: Don’t be afraid to start small and experiment. Butter & Lye began in my kitchen, with a bar of soap and a lot of trial and error. Also, stay true to your values. It’s easy to get distracted by trends or pressures, but authenticity will always set you apart. Lastly, remember that success isn’t just about profit—it’s about purpose. When you build something that reflects who you are and what you stand for, the rest will follow.

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Butter & Lye is more than just soap; it’s a movement towards sustainability, community, and compassion. Monique Kofsky’s story is a testament to the power of combining passion, science, and heart. By choosing Butter & Lye, you’re not just nourishing your skin—you’re supporting a mission to create a brighter, greener future for all. Check out Butter & Lye’s fabulous Sustainable Soaps.