I'm a bit late back to this thread but... Yes, regular yogurt from the store. I use plain yogurt, vanilla flavored yogurt (because this is what I eat), or soy milk based yogurt. I don't really take any kinds of precautions like I would for fresh goat milk (or any other fresh milk). I add the yogurt to my oils, whisk to blend then pour my lye water in... I've never had to watch it. I've never had overheating. Yogurt brings a smooth, silky, creamy feeling to the soap. It's very gentle (soothing) feeling to my dry, itchy skin. hope this helps a little