F.A.Q

  • What is the shelf life of your product(s)?                         
    We recommend to use our bath and body products within one year of purchase to ensure quality and efficacy.  All of our products are not only handmade but in smaller, controlled batches, seasonally, to ensure control of quality and freshness.  That said, our bar soaps made through the cold process method, just get better with time and therefore don’t have a shelf life so long as they are stored in a cool, dry place until use - so feel free to stock up! 
  • How long does it take to make a bar of soap by the cold process method?  For a 6 lb. batch of soap, like the ones Apothecary produces, it may only take about thirty minutes or so to mix and pour, assuming temperatures are agreeable. Then, you cut the bars 24-48 hours after the soap has formed within the mold. Each bar is then meticulously laid out to dry, with adequate air circulation, for somewhere between 3-6 weeks, until the bar has dried out.  Then it is ready to sell! For anyone doing the math, that means that the bar you purchased was handcrafted and cared for at least a month before you were able to enjoy. That's a labor of love!!
  • Can I add my own essential oils to my products?
    We strongly recommend that no water, essential oils, or any other substances be added to our products as it would potentially compromise the efficacy and safety of the final product.  It is encouraged, however, to use your own essential oils with the unscented lotion stick when applying topically, should you have a blend that works for you.
  • Can I use the emulsified sugar scrub on my face?          
    We do not recommend using our sugar scrubs on the face as the granule exfoliation can be too abrasive.  In addition, the oil and emollient contents is high in a scrub and is intended to smooth and treat areas that are extra dry and rough.  We recommend to use it as a weekly all-over body exfoliant. Simply apply to wet skin and scrub in a circular motion until dissolved. Rinse & pat dry.  If you need a facial scrub, check into the options Apothecary has for face care.
  • Do you ship internationally?
    We do. Shipping costs are calculated by USPS per the final weight and destination of the package. Shipping internationally is obviously a bit more expensive than domestically.
  • Do you ship APO/FPO?                                      
    We ship everywhere via USPS unless otherwise requested.
  • When will my products ship?
    Orders are shipped via USPS unless otherwise specified. We try to ship the same day if the order is placed before 11 AM EST Monday through Saturday. All Sunday orders will ship on Monday morning.  In the event of high volume sales - like the holidays - notification will be given ahead of time on any deadlines to meet regarding placement of orders for an intended delivery date.                                                                                   
  • Why do you use plastics and other potential containers that are not readily compostable?                                                                             We do advocate for and try to provide compostable containers - such as the natural deodorant and the packing peanuts with ship with - but oftentimes are met with a lack of options for these containers or are not user friendly for certain products.  That said, we encourage and practice recycling of the plastic containers that we do use in packaging.